A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address. By routing your data through a secure server, it protects your online privacy and prevents unauthorized access. VPNs also allow you to bypass geographic restrictions and safely access content, whether you’re at home, traveling, or using public Wi-Fi.

VPN stands for "Virtual Private Network." It refers to a secure, private connection established over the internet. This network encrypts your online activities, making them unreadable to hackers, advertisers, or anyone monitoring your connection. VPNs also let you mask your IP address, which enhances your privacy and allows you to access geo-restricted content from anywhere in the world.

A VPN works by creating an encrypted “tunnel” between your device and a remote VPN server. Your data travels through this secure connection, preventing unauthorized access. The VPN server assigns you a new IP address, masking your location and identity. This process ensures your online activities remain private and safe, even when using unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi.

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What is a VPN?

What is a VPN and how does it work?

Q: What is the purpose of a VPN?

The primary purpose of a VPN is to protect your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic and concealing your IP address. This ensures your personal data is secure, even on public Wi-Fi. VPNs also help users bypass censorship, access geo-blocked content, and safeguard sensitive information, such as banking details, from cyber threats like hackers or data breaches.

Q: What is a VPN used for?

VPNs are versatile tools used to enhance privacy, secure data on public Wi-Fi, and bypass geo-restrictions on content. They protect sensitive information from hackers and prevent ISPs, advertisers, or governments from tracking your activities. VPNs are also popular for streaming region-locked shows, accessing censored websites, and ensuring anonymity while browsing the internet.

Q: What is a secure VPN?

A secure VPN prioritizes your privacy with advanced encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and additional features like multi-hop connections or RAM-only servers. These features ensure your data cannot be traced or stored. Secure VPNs also protect against DNS leaks and provide stable, fast connections for safe browsing, streaming, and downloading without sacrificing performance or security.

Q: What is a VPN connection?

A VPN connection is the secure, encrypted link established between your device and a VPN server. This connection protects your internet traffic from being intercepted or monitored. By routing your data through the VPN server, it masks your IP address and ensures your browsing remains private, even on insecure networks such as public Wi-Fi.

Q: What is the difference between a proxy and a VPN?

A proxy server reroutes your internet traffic, masking your IP address but without encrypting your data. In contrast, a VPN offers comprehensive security by encrypting all your traffic. While proxies are suitable for simple tasks like bypassing geo-restrictions, VPNs provide robust protection against cyber threats, making them ideal for privacy-conscious users and secure online activities.

Q: How much does a VPN cost?

VPN costs vary based on the provider and plan. Monthly subscriptions typically range from $5 to $15, with discounts for annual or multi-year plans, which can lower costs to $2–$5 per month. Some premium providers also offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test their services before committing to a subscription.

Q: What is a VPN number?

A VPN number often refers to the virtual IP address assigned to you when connected to a VPN. This number replaces your actual IP address, enhancing your online anonymity and making it appear as though you’re browsing from the VPN server’s location. This feature is crucial for accessing geo-restricted content and protecting your identity online.

A complete guide to virtual private networks

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a secure tunnel between your device and the internet. VPNs protect you from snooping, interference, and censorship.

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Diagram of what a VPN is and how a VPN protects you

Why do you need a VPN? Key reasons and use cases

While traveling

Exploring the world doesn’t mean you have to change how you use the internet. A VPN lets you stay connected to your favorite websites, apps, and services as if you were still in your home country.

While streaming

A VPN helps you enjoy secure, uninterrupted streaming on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, and HBO. Say goodbye to ISP throttling and securely stream your favorite shows and movies with ease.

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While on public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi hotspots in cafes, airports, and parks can expose your personal information to cyber threats. A VPN encrypts your connection, protecting your data from hackers and prying eyes.

While gaming

A VPN unlocks games, maps, skins, and other content that might be blocked on your network. It also protects against DDoS attacks, reduces ping, and minimizes lag for smoother gameplay.

While file-sharing

Peer-to-peer file sharing often reveals your IP address to strangers, exposing your downloads to potential tracking. A VPN keeps your IP address hidden, providing greater anonymity and peace of mind.

While shopping

Many online stores adjust prices based on your location. A VPN lets you shop smarter by helping you compare prices from different countries and find the best deals no matter where you are.

ExpressVPN app on iPhone showing VPN connection

What is the purpose of a VPN?

The primary purpose of a VPN is to create a secure, private connection between your device and the internet. By encrypting your data and masking your IP address, a VPN ensures your online activity stays hidden from hackers, ISPs, and other prying eyes. Whether you’re looking to protect your privacy, access restricted content, or browse securely on public Wi-Fi, a VPN empowers you to take control of your digital experience.

Who benefits the most from using a VPN?

A VPN isn’t just a tool for tech-savvy individuals—it’s a powerful solution for anyone who values online privacy, freedom, and security. Here are some groups that benefit the most:

Travelers

Use a VPN to access region-restricted content, stay connected to your favorite services, and protect your data on public Wi-Fi networks while on the go.

Remote workers

A VPN is essential for securely accessing company systems, protecting sensitive work data, and maintaining productivity from anywhere in the world.

Streaming

Avid streamers use VPNs to access content from their home country—even while traveling— and enjoy a seamless streaming experience without ISP throttling.

Gamers

VPNs can help reduce lag, access exclusive game content, and protect gamers against targeted attacks like distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks.

Privacy advocates

Anyone concerned about online surveillance, data tracking, or hackers benefits from a VPN’s encryption and the increased anonymity provided.

Online shoppers

Savvy shoppers use VPNs to unlock region-specific deals, avoid price discrimination, and secure their financial data during transactions.

Watch: What is a VPN? Explained in 90 seconds

How does a VPN work?

A VPN works by routing your internet connection through a secure server and encrypting your data. Instead of connecting directly to websites or services, your online activity passes through this encrypted tunnel, keeping your data safe from hackers, ISPs, and surveillance. By masking your IP address with that of the VPN server, a VPN also shields your location and identity, enhancing your privacy and empowering you to access content worldwide.

What is a VPN connection?

A VPN connection is the secure link established between your device and a VPN server. It ensures that all your internet traffic travels through an encrypted tunnel, protecting it from prying eyes such as hackers, internet service providers, or government surveillance. This connection hides your IP address and location, replacing them with the server’s details, allowing you to browse more privately and securely.

By encrypting your data and masking your identity, a VPN connection helps you stay safe on public Wi-Fi, bypass censorship, and access the internet freely anywhere.

Understanding VPN tunneling

VPN tunneling is the process of securely transporting your online data through an encrypted pathway between your device and a VPN server. This tunnel hides your internet activity from prying eyes, including hackers, internet service providers, and other third parties. By encapsulating and encrypting your data, tunneling ensures that even if intercepted, your information remains unreadable.

Tunneling also masks your IP address, giving you greater privacy and allowing you to bypass censorship or geo-restrictions. With modern VPNs like ExpressVPN, advanced tunneling protocols such as Lightway and OpenVPN optimize speed, security, and reliability, delivering a seamless and protected browsing experience

How encryption secures your data

Encryption is the backbone of VPN security, transforming your data into unreadable code during transit. This ensures the information remains indecipherable, even if intercepted, without the correct decryption key. VPNs use advanced encryption standards, such as AES-256, to protect everything from your browsing activity to sensitive personal details. Whether on public Wi-Fi or a private network, encryption shields your data from hackers, surveillance, and unauthorized access, providing peace of mind online.

VPN protocols and their role

VPN protocols determine how your device connects to a VPN server and the methods used to secure your connection. Popular protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway all balance speed, reliability, and security. They establish encrypted tunnels, manage data integrity, and authenticate users to prevent breaches. Using the right protocol can optimize VPN performance for streaming, gaming, or secure browsing, adapting to your specific needs.

The role of VPN servers

VPN servers act as intermediaries between your device and the internet, encrypting your data and replacing your IP address with their own. This provides anonymity by hiding your actual location and identity. VPN servers also enable you to browse the internet as if in another country. With robust security features and diverse global locations, they ensure a fast, private, and unrestricted online experience.

Without a VPN vs. with a VPN

When you connect to the internet with a VPN, the VPN app on your device (also called a VPN client) establishes a secure connection with a VPN server. Your traffic still passes through your ISP, but your ISP can no longer read it or see its final destination. The websites you visit can no longer see your original IP address—only the IP address of the VPN server, which many other users share and which changes regularly.

Not Connected

Connected

Laptop with an unsecured connection to the internet with an eye looking at traffic data between the laptop and the internet.

Types of VPNs

VPNs come in various types, each designed to meet specific use cases and user needs. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right VPN for your goals, whether protecting personal data, securing enterprise networks, or accessing cloud resources.

Personal VPN

A personal VPN is designed for individual users. It encrypts internet traffic, hides your IP address, and provides secure access to online content. This type of VPN is ideal for privacy-conscious users, frequent travelers, and anyone seeking online freedom and security on their devices.

Mobile VPN

A mobile VPN ensures a stable and secure connection on smartphones and tablets, even when switching between networks or experiencing intermittent connectivity. A mobile VPN prevents disruptions to secure connections during handovers between Wi-Fi and mobile data.

Remote-access VPN

Remote workers commonly use remote-access VPNs to connect securely to their company’s network. A trusted VPN provides encrypted access to corporate systems, ensuring data security and protecting sensitive business operations from a range of cyber threats.

Site-to-site VPN

Site-to-site VPNs connect multiple locations, such as branch offices and headquarters, over a secure tunnel. They enable seamless communication and data sharing across locations while protecting business data. Enterprises with multiple office locations often use site-to-site VPNs.

Cloud-based VPN

A cloud-based VPN offers secure access to cloud applications and services. These VPNs are managed by cloud providers, ideal for businesses that rely on cloud platforms. They provide scalability, simplified management, and strong encryption for cloud traffic.

VPN gateway

A VPN gateway is a dedicated network device or server that manages VPN connections between two networks. The gateway acts as a centralized point for managing and monitoring encrypted traffic, ensuring secure data exchange between corporate locations or external partners.

Pros and cons of VPNs on different devices

A VPN provides tailored protection for all your devices, ensuring privacy, security, and access to unrestricted content no matter what you’re using. From laptops to smartphones and routers, VPNs can adapt to your specific needs, allowing you to stay secure at home, at work, or on the move.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of using a VPN on different devices:


DEVICE	PROS	CONS
Smartphones	- Ideal for securing public Wi-Fi connections - Convenient for on-the-go protection	- Can drain the battery faster - Limited speed on older devices
Laptops	- Offers full-featured VPN apps - Great for streaming and secure browsing	- Heavier CPU usage may affect performance in older models
Routers	- Secures all devices connected to the network - No need for individual device setup	- May require technical setup - Limited server switching
Tablets	- Easy to use for streaming and light browsing - Great for travel	- May experience performance issues with heavy tasks
Smart TVs	- Access region-locked streaming content - Protects media streaming apps	- May need manual configuration - No direct VPN apps for some models
Gaming consoles	- Shields against DDoS attacks - Helps access geo-restricted games and DLC	- Requires setup through a router or virtual VPN connection
Desktop PCs	- Full-featured VPN options for maximum control - Ideal for multitasking securely	- Consumes more power than mobile devices

With ExpressVPN, setup is simple, and dedicated apps or guides are available for nearly all popular devices.

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A single ExpressVPN subscription lets you download a VPN for every popular platform. Set up ExpressVPN on multiple devices and use it on eight at the same time.

VPN for Windows

VPN for Mac

VPN for Android

VPN for iOS

VPN for Linux

VPN extension for Chrome

VPN extension for Firefox

VPN extension for Edge

VPN for game consoles

VPN for PlayStation

VPN for Xbox

VPN for routers

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What is the difference between a proxy and a VPN?

Both proxies and VPNs can help you mask your IP address and access region-restricted content. Still, they differ significantly in how they function and the level of security they offer. Understanding these differences will help you decide which tool is better suited to your needs.

Laptop screens demonstrating the before and after process of changing a user's IP address.

VPN vs. proxy: Which one should you use?

A proxy acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet, routing your traffic through a separate server to mask your IP address. While proxies are helpful for basic tasks like bypassing region locks, they typically don’t encrypt your data, leaving you vulnerable to surveillance and cyber threats.

In contrast, a VPN hides your IP address and encrypts all your internet traffic. This means your data is protected from hackers, ISPs, and other third parties, providing much more privacy and security.

Use a proxy if:

You need a quick, lightweight solution for bypassing minor restrictions.

Use a VPN if:

You want robust privacy, security, and the ability to protect sensitive data on any network.

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How a VPN provides better security and privacy

A VPN uses advanced encryption to safeguard your data, ensuring hackers, ISPs, or governments cannot intercept it. It also prevents DNS leaks, shields your IP address, and offers a kill switch to block internet access if the VPN connection drops.

By comparison, proxies don’t encrypt your traffic, making them less secure for sensitive activities like online banking or file sharing. VPNs are an all-encompassing solution for protecting your online identity, no matter where or how you connect to the internet.

For everyday users, businesses, and anyone concerned about their digital privacy, VPNs offer a comprehensive and reliable layer of security that far surpasses a proxy’s capabilities.

Benefits of using a VPN

A VPN offers a wide range of benefits, whether you’re focused on securing your data, accessing restricted content, or improving your overall online experience. Here’s a closer look at how a VPN enhances your digital life:

Protecting your privacy and security

A VPN safeguards your personal information by encrypting your internet connection, preventing hackers, advertisers, and even government surveillance from accessing your data. By masking your IP address, a VPN keeps your online activity private, ensuring that your browsing, messaging, and online transactions remain secure from prying eyes.

Avoiding ISP tracking and censorship

ISPs can track your browsing habits, throttle your connection, or even restrict access to certain websites. A VPN encrypts your traffic, preventing your ISP from monitoring your activity or limiting your speeds based on usage. It also helps users bypass censorship in restricted regions, allowing access to blocked content and ensuring an open internet experience.

Securing public Wi-Fi connections

Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafes, airports, and hotels, are often unsecured, making them prime targets for hackers. A VPN encrypts your connection, securing your data even on these unprotected networks. This is particularly important when accessing sensitive information like banking details or logging into personal accounts while on the go.

Securing remote work and file sharing

A VPN is an essential tool for remote workers and businesses. It provides a secure connection to corporate networks and ensures that sensitive communications and file transfers remain private. By encrypting data, a VPN helps prevent unauthorized access, protect confidential files from cyber threats, and ensure secure collaboration across teams.

Enhancing online gaming

For gamers, a VPN offers several benefits, such as preventing DDoS attacks, reducing lag, and enabling access to geo-restricted servers and content. Whether unlocking new content or looking for smoother gameplay, a VPN optimizes your connection.

Buffer-free streaming

Streaming enthusiasts can use a VPN to avoid ISP throttling and enjoy uninterrupted streaming of movies, TV shows, and live sports while protecting their privacy. A VPN shields your online activity from your ISP, so even during peak times you won’t be susceptible to content-based throttling.

Watch: Why you should use a VPN

How to choose the right VPN for your needs

Not all VPNs are created equal when it comes to safeguarding your online privacy. Choosing the right one requires understanding your needs and how different VPN providers compare. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a VPN provider, and why does it matter?

A VPN provider is the company that delivers your virtual private network service. They determine the quality, security, and reliability of your connection. The right provider prioritizes your privacy, offers robust security features, and ensures seamless performance—making them the backbone of your online safety.

Features to look for in a VPN

Encryption levels

Strong encryption is essential to protect your data. Opt for VPNs with advanced encryption protocols like AES-256, the industry gold standard.

Pricing and subscription options

Choose a VPN that offers transparent pricing with flexible subscription plans. Look for money-back guarantees so you can test the service risk-free.

Server coverage

The more servers a VPN offers across diverse locations, the easier it is to bypass geographic restrictions and ensure fast, stable connections. Look for providers with a vast global network.

Multi-hop and RAM-only servers

Multi-hop routes your traffic through multiple servers for an extra layer of protection, while RAM-only servers ensure no data is ever written to a hard drive, maximizing your privacy.

VPN configuration and compatibility

Whether using a smartphone, laptop, smart TV, or router, your VPN should be compatible with all your devices and support protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard for flexibility and security.

No-logs commitment

The best VPNs have a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t collect or store your activity data. Always review their privacy policy to ensure they’re genuinely protecting your information.

How to evaluate a VPN’s performance

A good VPN balances speed, security, and ease of use. Test for minimal impact on your internet speeds, intuitive apps, and reliable connections that don’t drop. Independent reviews and user feedback can also help gauge real-world performance.

Choosing the right VPN is about finding a provider that aligns with your security needs, lifestyle, and budget.

Advanced VPN features explained

A VPN is more than just a tool for online privacy—it’s a powerhouse of advanced technologies designed to secure your data and enhance your internet experience. Here’s a deep dive into the advanced features that make VPNs effective.

Types of VPN connections

Dedicated VPN connections

These offer a private, exclusive IP address, making them ideal for accessing restricted networks or avoiding shared IP issues.

Dynamic VPN connections

Dynamic connections assign a new IP address each time you connect, enhancing anonymity and making tracking your activity harder.

Peer-to-peer VPN connections

Perfect for file-sharing enthusiasts, P2P VPN connections provide optimized servers to ensure secure and efficient transfers.

Cloud-based VPN connections

A cloud-based VPN uses a virtual environment for scalable and reliable connections. Businesses often prefer this method for remote access.

VPN protocols: How they work

VPN protocols define how your data is encrypted and transmitted. Here are the most common ones:

OpenVPN

A trusted, open-source protocol offering a balance of speed and security, widely supported across platforms.

WireGuard®

A newer, lightweight protocol designed for top-tier performance and robust encryption.

IKEv2/IPSec

This protocol is known for stability during network changes and is great for mobile users needing reliable connectivity.

PPTP and L2TP/IPSec

While PPTP is fast and older, it lacks modern security. L2TP/IPSec offers more robust encryption but may be slower.

Lightway

ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is a lightweight, high-performance VPN protocol designed for speed, security, and reliability.

SSTP

Developed by Microsoft, SSTP is a reliable choice for bypassing firewalls and securing data, especially on Windows devices.

Shadowsocks

A proxy tool built to bypass censorship, Shadowsocks adds a layer of privacy for accessing restricted content.

What is a VPN client?

The VPN client is the software or app you use to connect to a VPN server. It handles encryption, authentication, and connection management.

What is a VPN concentrator?

A VPN concentrator is a high-performance device that manages and encrypts VPN connections for multiple users or devices. It is often used in business environments for secure remote access.

What is a VPN number?

A VPN number often refers to a unique identifier for your VPN connection, such as a virtual IP address, which is used for routing and securely identifying traffic.

What is a VPN gateway?

A VPN gateway acts as a secure access point that connects two networks, such as your local network and a remote VPN server.

What are obfuscated VPN servers?

Obfuscated servers mask your VPN traffic to look like regular internet traffic, helping you bypass strict censorship and VPN blocks.

How do multi-hop servers improve security?

Multi-hop servers route your traffic through multiple VPN servers in different locations, adding layers of encryption and making it nearly impossible to trace your online activity.

How do I get and use a VPN?

Step 1

Sign up for ExpressVPN

Visit the order page and select the plan that’s right for you. All our plans are covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee.

Step 2

Download a VPN app

You’ll be invited to download the VPN app for the device you’re using. Getting apps for all your other devices is just as easy.

Step 3

Connect to a server location

Hit the On button to instantly connect to the best location for your connection, or pick one from our global network.

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Why choose ExpressVPN?

Locations in 105 countries

Choose from VPN server locations in 105 countries all over the world.

Best-in-class encryption

Your data is protected by AES-256, the standard trusted by security experts.

24-hour live chat support

We're available anytime to help you with setup and troubleshooting.

TrustedServer technology

With our innovative server technology, no data is ever written to a hard drive.

Lightning-fast speeds

Enjoy smoother, throttle-free browsing and gaming with ultra-fast speeds.

Use on up to 8 devices simultaneously

Install ExpressVPN on all your devices and connect eight at once with a single subscription.

Independently audited

Third-party assessments verify our security claims through rigorous testing of our apps and systems.

No activity or connection logs

ExpressVPN does not and will never log traffic data, DNS queries, or anything that could be used to identify you.

Greater data protection with Identity Defender

ExpressVPN plans for U.S. users come with Identity Defender tools, designed to give you more control over your personal information.

Identity Defender services help you find suspicious activities surrounding your personal data, monitory our credit, remove your information from online sites, and protect you with identity theft insurance.

Note: The various ExpressVPN plans come with different Identity Defender tools. They are currently only available to U.S.-based ExpressVPN users who purchase plans after Oct. 28, 2024. However, we plan to extend access to other users very soon.