Understanding VPNs: A Digital Armor for Your Smartphone and More

Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, have emerged as formidable tools in the battle for online security. At their core, VPNs create a secure connection between your smartphone and the internet by encrypting the data that passes through. This encrypted tunnel acts as a protective shield, safeguarding your sensitive information from prying eyes. As cyber threats continue to evolve, VPNs have become an essential layer of defense against malicious entities seeking to exploit vulnerabilities in your digital presence.

The primary function of a VPN on your smartphone is to establish a secure connection, especially when connected to public Wi-Fi networks. Public hotspots, often found in cafes, airports, and hotels, are breeding grounds for hackers looking to intercept data. According to a recent study by Norton, a staggering 68% of users admit to connecting to public Wi-Fi without taking any security measures. This is where a VPN for iPhone steps in, providing an encrypted channel that adds an extra layer of protection against potential cybersecurity attacks.

Preserving Privacy: The VPN Advantage Expands

One of the key reasons individuals turn to VPNs for their smartphones is to preserve their privacy in an age where digital footprints are increasingly scrutinized. ISPs (Internet Service Providers), advertisers, and even government agencies can track your online activities. The use of a VPN ensures that your internet traffic remains confidential, shielding your online identity from prying eyes.

Statistics reveal a growing concern for online privacy. A recent survey conducted by Pew Research Center indicates that 79% of Americans are concerned about the way their personal data is being used by companies. VPNs play a pivotal role in alleviating these concerns by masking your IP address, making it difficult for anyone to trace your online activities back to your smartphone. This level of anonymity not only protects your privacy but also prevents targeted advertisements and data profiling.

Breaking Down Geographical Barriers: VPNs and Content Accessibility for Your Mac

The global nature of the internet often results in geographical restrictions on certain content. Streaming services, for instance, may limit access to specific shows or movies based on your location. This is where VPNs come to the rescue, allowing users to virtually relocate their smartphones or Macs to a different region.

According to a study by GlobalWebIndex, 35% of internet users utilize VPNs to access better entertainment content. An unlimited VPN for Mac, in particular, becomes a powerful tool for users who want to break free from content restrictions, providing unrestricted access to a vast digital library. Whether you’re a globetrotter wanting to catch up on your favorite shows or a privacy-conscious individual seeking unrestricted access, a VPN provides the key to breaking down these digital borders.

The Caveats of VPN Usage: Balancing Act for Smartphone Security and Routers

While VPNs undoubtedly offer a robust security solution, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential downsides. One significant drawback is the impact on internet speed. The encryption and rerouting of data through a VPN server can result in a slower connection. According to a study by AV-TEST, the average speed reduction when using a VPN is around 20%.

Moreover, for those seeking comprehensive protection for their entire network, including devices like routers, choosing a VPN for router becomes paramount. Extending the VPN coverage to your router ensures that all devices connected to your network, from smartphones to laptops and smart home devices, benefit from the added layer of security.

Additionally, not all VPN services are created equal. Some free VPNs may compromise on security, logging your online activities or selling your data to third parties. Choosing a reputable and trustworthy VPN provider is paramount to reaping the full benefits of enhanced smartphone security without sacrificing speed or privacy.

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, the decision to use a VPN for your smartphone is a nuanced one, balancing the need for enhanced security with potential drawbacks. As our digital lives become increasingly interconnected, investing in a reliable VPN can be a strategic move to safeguard your sensitive information, preserve your privacy, and unlock a world of digital content.

In this article, our main goal is to explain how a VPNaaS solution works, why you need it in a world filled with remote users and growing security threats, and finally compare it with traditional VPNs. This should give you everything you need to understand why every business needs this modern tool instead of its outdated counterparts. Let’s jump into the article and learn all about VPN as a Service.

The Evolving Cybersecurity Landscape in 2024

2023 is a pivotal year in the constantly changing field of cybersecurity. Businesses are facing an increasing number of dangers as they continue to digitalize their operations and data. The threat environment has grown to encompass not just more established issues like ransomware, supply chain assaults, and cyber espionage but also more recent problems like malware and data breaches. The threat landscape doubles when you consider factors such as remote workers and the overwhelming network traffic you need to continue your operations.

In this dynamic environment, it is crucial for businesses to stay ahead of potential risks. Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, enforcing a proactive and adaptive approach to cyber security. As technology advances, so do the methods employed by threat actors, making it crucial for organizations to reinforce their organization’s networks.

We need to highlight the importance of a remote workforce again, as it is one of the most important reasons why modern businesses face more threats than ever. Remote workers are accessing resources and cloud environments from around the world, which puts their privacy online at risk. This new front needs its own security practices that align with the needs of remote offices and cloud resources.

What is VPN as a Service (VPNaaS)?

VPN as a Service is a modern approach to virtual servers to secure access to resources and help people communicate privately from a range of devices. Essentially, it provides a simplified and extremely safe method for creating virtual private networks (VPNs) via the cloud as a service instead of using hardware like a traditional VPN does.

It has emerged as a simpler way to initiate a secure connection through a VPN gateway, as it doesn’t require businesses to host their own servers or maintain the VPN solution themselves. Everything is handled by the third party providing the VPNaaS. The client doesn’t need to have expertise on anything; they can simply contact support for any question they may have.

VPNaaS typically operates on a subscription-based model, providing businesses with the flexibility to scale their VPN services as needed. This scalability is a significant advantage, as it allows companies to adjust their network capacity to accommodate the evolving needs of their workforce without investing in hardware or incurring high upfront costs.

They also offer additional features such as multi-factor authentication or threat detection systems, further bolstering the security posture of a business. You can simply get a VPNaaS service and benefit from it as more than just a simple VPN tool.

Remote Work and VPNaaS Importance

In the post-2020 world, remote work has become a reality for all of us. It is simply more profitable, and employees are more productive most of the time. However, it does have unique challenges, mainly regarding security. With remote users accessing resources from different locations, they significantly increase the risk of data exposure and other security risks.

VPNaaS steps in to provide secure access to business information as it creates a virtual tunnel between the corporate network and the end user device. The VPN encrypts all the communication to ensure that even if users are connected to the public internet, the data stays safe.

VPNaaS offers more than security for remote offices, though. By guaranteeing that remote workers have seamless, continuous access to the resources they require to do their jobs, it also increases productivity. This in turn makes it possible for staff members to collaborate and contribute to projects from almost anywhere, which supports the flexibility and efficiency that many firms have grown to rely on. So you can have a mobile workforce available from everywhere.

Key Benefits of VPNaaS for Businesses

Enhanced Security

VPNaaS makes it difficult for criminals to intercept your communications as it hides the real IP addresses and instead routes the traffic through private internet access. This enhanced data transmission security is typically provided by top VPN providers, ensuring reliable and secure.This is achieved through tunnels which enhances data transmission security drastically.

Cost-Efficiency

VPNaaS is a plug-and-play solution that doesn’t require any hardware or previous experience. You can simply choose a provider and pay the monthly subscription fee, download their software, and get the VPN service. They might even offer a free version for you to test.

Ease of Management

VPNaaS is typically managed by a third-party provider, which means your internal IT team can focus on strategic initiatives rather than managing VPN infrastructure. This streamlines network management and maintenance.

Scalability

Since you don’t control the hardware or server locations of the VPN technology, you rely on a bigger company that specializes in this field. This means that you can have unlimited devices as long as you pay the fee per user as you scale the business.

VPNaaS vs. Traditional VPN Solutions: A Comparative Analysis

There are a lot of aspects where VPNaaS is better than traditional VPNs. The first thing is the cost of implementation. Traditional tools need specific high-end hardware that most small businesses fail to get. VPN as a Service only asks for a small subscription fee, usually based on the number of users.

The second issue is scalability. As you grow your business, you will have more employees who need access to VPN connections. If you have a traditional VPN, you’ll likely have to replace the setup as you go. But in a VPNaaS, the provider will already have the infrastructure to scale your account and offer unlimited simultaneous connections.

Finally, you won’t need an in-house IT team for this VPN tool. Everything you need to know is usually on the provider’s help desk, or you can simply go to their customer support. If anything is broken, they’ll make sure to fix it and you can continue using it without any interruptions.  Additionally, creating an infographic to visualize these advantages can make it even easier for your team to understand.

Cost Efficiency and Scalability with VPNaaS

Two main benefits of VPNaaS are scalability and cost-effectiveness. VPNaaS uses a subscription-based business model that provides predictable costs, reduces upfront costs, and lowers IT overhead. Furthermore, because VPNaaS is so scalable, enterprises may easily modify their network capacity in response to changing demands. VPNaaS gives you the freedom to grow or shrink your VPN services to meet the changing needs of your company, regardless of how big or small you are.

Enhancing Data Protection and Compliance Through VPNaaS

VPN as a Service (VPNaaS) greatly improves data security and compliance. This is done by encrypting data transfers, which guarantees that private data is protected from outside dangers. In addition to protecting data, this encryption helps organizations comply with data protection laws like GDPR and HIPAA.

VPNaaS makes sure that information is accessed and transmitted securely, assisting businesses in protecting the integrity and confidentiality of their digital assets. In today’s data-sensitive and regulated corporate environment, VPNaaS is a useful tool because it offers a safe and legal platform for data transport.

Case Studies: Success Stories of Businesses Adopting VPNaaS

You can think of several scenarios where using a VPNaaS greatly increases the ability of privacy protection. Let’s mention a few and understand how it applies to the real world.

One such instance involves a multinational company that, with the help of VPNaaS, managed a smooth shift to remote work during a pandemic. Their staff members safely accessed private information from a variety of places, preserving business operations and safeguarding data.

In a different case, a medium-sized e-commerce business adopted VPNaaS to improve security and guarantee adherence to industry rules. This action improved consumer trust and protected customer data, which raised sales and improved the reputation of the brand.

Introduction to VPNs

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the internet. It acts as a tunnel, ensuring that your online activities are shielded from prying eyes. VPNs are widely used for various purposes, including enhancing security, bypassing geo-restrictions, and maintaining anonymity.

The Importance of Online Privacy

In an era when our personal and financial information is shared online, maintaining privacy is essential. Free VPNs offer a convenient solution to keep your data secure, but they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

What Is a Free VPN?

Free VPNs, as the name suggests, are VPN services that are available at no cost. These services allow users to connect to the internet through servers in different locations, effectively hiding their IP addresses and encrypting their data.

Pros and Cons of Using a Free VPN

Pros:

• Cost-effective
• Enhanced online privacy
• Access to geo-restricted content
• Anonymity

Cons:

• Limited server options
• Slower connection speeds
• Advertisements and data collection
• Security concerns

Risks Associated with Free VPNs

While free VPNs offer advantages, they also come with potential risks. Some free VPN providers may log your data or expose you to security vulnerabilities. Choosing a reliable service is crucial to avoid these pitfalls.

How to Choose a Reliable Free VPN

When selecting a free VPN, consider factors such as server locations, encryption protocols, and no-logs policies. Opt for a service that values your privacy and doesn’t compromise your security.

Setting Up and Using a Free VPN

Using a free VPN is relatively straightforward. Download the VPN client, create an account, and connect to a server. This will reroute your internet traffic through the VPN server, ensuring your online activities remain private.

Comparison of Free and Paid VPNs

To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand the differences between free and paid VPNs. Paid VPNs often offer more server locations, faster speeds, and dedicated customer support.

Benefits of Upgrading to a Paid VPN

While free VPNs have their advantages, upgrading to a paid VPN can offer superior security, faster connections, and better customer support. It’s a worthwhile investment for those serious about online privacy.

Using a VPN on Different Devices

You can use a VPN on various devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Most VPN providers offer cross-platform compatibility, ensuring your data remains protected regardless of the device you use.

Free VPNs and Streaming Services

Free VPNs can help you access geo-restricted streaming content, but they may not be as effective as their paid counterparts. Be aware of the limitations when using free VPNs for streaming purposes.

Staying Safe with a VPN

Remember that a VPN is a tool to enhance your online security, but it’s not a guarantee against all threats. Practise good online hygiene, such as using strong passwords and keeping your software up to date.

Conclusion: 

In the world of VPNs, the choice between a free and paid service depends on your priorities. If you value online privacy and are willing to invest in a secure and faster experience, a paid VPN is the way to go. However, for those on a tight budget, free VPNs offer a viable option.

FAQs

1. Are free VPNs safe to use?

• While some free VPNs are safe, others may pose risks. It’s essential to research and choose a reputable provider.

2. Can I use a free VPN for streaming?

• Yes, but be prepared for potential limitations, such as slower speeds and access restrictions.

3. Are there data limitations with free VPNs?

• Some free VPNs impose data caps, so be aware of your usage.

4. What is the best free VPN for online privacy?

• The best free VPN for you depends on your specific needs. Research and compare options to find the right fit.

5. Should I upgrade to a paid VPN?

• If you prioritise online privacy and faster speeds, upgrading to a paid VPN is recommended.

In conclusion, free VPNs can be valuable tools for safeguarding your online activities. However, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. It’s essential to make an informed choice based on your priorities and needs, whether that means sticking with a free VPN or upgrading to a paid service.

Not surprisingly, this issue was resolved by the development of VPN technology. VPN is an acronym for “Virtual Private Networks”. This technology was first introduced in its rawest form in the late 1990s. In recent years, VPN technology has successfully cleared the way for internet users all over the world to access websites that were historically blocked.

Related: Surfshark vs PIA: An Impartial Evaluation of Two Top VPN Providers

How VPN Technology Works?

While some VPNs are available for free (with limited access), a large portion of the VPNs being made available to consumers are available for a small subscription fee. Once a VPN platform has been downloaded, it gives users the ability to access most websites that are normally geo-restricted. They also give users the ability to hide their identities and locations from destination websites. That matters a lot when someone is transferring sensitive data or interacting with sensitive websites.

In the simplest terms, the technology works as follows:

VPN companies will maintain massive servers in key locations throughout the world. When a user switches on their VPN, their data/signals will not go directly to the destination website. Instead, the data/signal will get routed through one of the servers being maintained by the VPN company. From there, it will then be anonymously forwarded to its final destination. Website responses will likewise get routed in a similar fashion.

Technically, the data/signal will go through a three-step process.

• Step one: The information gets tunneled through a hidden network
• Step two: The information gets encrypted with Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption technology.
• Step three: The information gets authenticated, and passed on to the destination website

Related: Top 9 things to consider before choosing VPN

Is It Legal To Use a VPN for By-passing Geo-restricted Content?

In most countries, it’s perfectly legal for internet users to use VPNs. That’s certainly the case in free nations like the U.S., Canada, South Africa, and many parts of Europe and Asia. It’s noteworthy that some countries actually recommend the use of VPNs if internet users are typically dealing with sensitive data.

Unfortunately, the use of VPNs is illegal in some countries, As one could probably guess, the countries that have banned VPNs are the usual suspects as it relates to government control of citizens. That would include countries like China, Russia, North Korea, Belarus, and some parts of the Middle East (Iran, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, etc.).

The Benefits of Using a VPN

Given there is usually a small cost associated with using a VPN, it’s something that should provide subscribers with benefits. In fact, that is the case. Here are a few of the benefits that can be derived from using a VPN: And if you are looking for a specific VPN, Click What is iTop VPN? to explore.

• Provides online anonymity
• Provides a layer of security while using a public Wi-Fi system
• Through encryption, it hides data from unwanted eyes (hackers, government officials/agencies, etc.)
• Improves connection speed and blocks throttling
• Gives users the confidence they can freely navigate the internet without unwanted detection

A Case Study: VPNs and Online Casinos

To better understand how VPNS can improve a user’s internet experience, a case study would seem to be in order.

In Canada, it’s perfectly legal for Canadian residents to gamble through online casinos. However, the Canadian government does not permit Canadians to use online casino operators that are actually licensed and operating in Canada. That means actual Canadians have to miss out on having access to no deposit bonus codes in Canada. If Canadian casino enthusiasts want to play online casino games of chance for real cash, they will have to go abroad to do so.

To be clear, there are lots of online casino operators in other countries that are very welcoming toward Canadian customers. However, many of these casino operators are licensed in counties that do not permit direct internet interaction with foreigners. Switzerland would be one such country.

When blocked from accessing a casino site that does not permit direct access from foreigners, VPNs serve as the best way to bypass such restrictions. As long as the host country is okay with its online casino operators allowing VPN access, all is good for the Canadian gambler.

Conclusion

The use of VPNs is legal in a lot of counties across the globe. If you like the idea of remaining anonymous while interacting on the internet, it’s incumbent on you to figure out if it’s legal in your country. You’ll also want to verify that your VPN contact is acceptable by the websites with which you wish to interact. If your VPN access is denied, you’ll pretty much have that answer.

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Irrespective of their grade levels and ages, students need to do a lot of research to finish their assignments. And such research might many-a-times need access to restricted content, documentaries, and cybersecurity to keep their research and assignments safe from cheaters, hackers, and other cyber criminals.

Learn why every student should use a what is VPN on iPhone at school and explore how to set up and use a VPN on iPhone for enhanced security and privacy

What is a VPN and What Does it Do?

A VPN is an internet tool that encrypts your internet traffic, passes it through a secret tunnel, and processes the encrypted traffic on a remote server in order to provide you with anonymity and security.

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When you connect to a remote server located in a different country, you pretend to be located in that remote location, your IP address and online identity get changed, and your internet activities get encrypted and are thus hidden from the cyber criminals trying to snoop into your system and online activities.

Thus, you not only get protected against cyber threats but also get access to the geo-restricted websites and social media of the country where your server is located.

6 Reasons Why Every Student Should Use a VPN at School

The global educational environment has changed a lot over the last 5-10 years for good. Innovation is required at every step, in every grade. So no matter what grade they are in, students need to refer to the internet to complete their projects and assignments and get ahead of their peers in every possible way.

In such scenarios, using public wi-fi to conduct their research or refer to geo-restricted or censored social media, documentaries, and research papers might be important but extremely unsafe for your security and privacy.

This is where the encryption methodologies of a VPN come in handy. Here are six reasons to demonstrate why it is important to use a VPN at school.

1. Safeguard your personal information and data

When on the internet, you might be multitasking between paying bills, accessing research papers, browsing a search engine, listening to music, checking your email, and so on. However, you do not want an online snooper to access your credit card details, login credentials, your research references, or even your choice of music.

Moreover, it is highly unsafe to use the wi-fi of your school or any other public place. This would simply mean exposing your data to a host of cyber threats which obviously you don’t want. Further, your school is also required to follow the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.

Thus, the only way to protect your privacy and all your activities is by using a reliable VPN that can encrypt all your traffic and mask your identity so no malicious actors can steal your information.

2. Circumvent censorship and firewalls

Several schools and colleges censor websites, social media, and content based on words and phrases, for obvious reasons. However, it is highly likely that certain inoffensive words or phrases also get filtered out in this type of censorship.

Moreover, sometimes, some sort of research needs references from content that is otherwise objectionable to the school authorities. For example, accessing social media, like Instagram or Twitter, to conduct research for digital marketing.

In such cases, VPNs help you bypass all these firewalls effectively and access websites that are important for you to visit.

3. Access geo-restricted content

There might be a need to access research papers, videos, or documentaries that are restricted in your country. This means you’ll have to pretend to the internet to be located somewhere else to access these content pieces.

VPN gives you the freedom to connect to a remote server situated in a remote country so you can change your virtual location and IP address to that country and access all the information that you want from the websites available there.

4. Online gaming

For courses such as software testing, coding, game designing, graphics designing, and more, online gaming is a necessary learning tool. So if your school is the one where online gaming is banned, you can use a VPN and practice your coding, testing, or designing skills by using a VPN in your school so you can bypass the firewalls.

5. Avoid ISP throttling

Many internet service providers throttle your internet traffic when you stream or play online games. This leads to glitches in terms of connection speeds and thus leads to buffering.

When you use a VPN, though, your internet service provider doesn’t get to know about your online activities. Thus, you can easily stream, download, or play online games without any limitations and without any throttling.

6. Save money

We know just how broke you are and how important it is to save money. Well, VPN is at your service!

There are several streaming platforms, services, or other paid content that is sometimes expensive in your country but cheaper in others. So you can use a VPN, get a new IP address, change your virtual location, and pretend to access the required service from some other country.

This way, you’ll be able to access the same content or file at a budget-friendly price.

Related: Is It Legal To Use a VPN for By-Passing Geo-Restricted Content?

Is It Legal to Use a VPN at School?

Technically, it’s not illegal to use a VPN in most countries. However, there are a few exceptions where you cannot freely use a VPN, such as in Russia, China, and a few more.

But, if you are residing in a country that provides digital freedom to its citizens, you won’t land in trouble unless you use the VPN for an illegal task, such as cybercrime.

Nevertheless, your school and college might have their own set of rules to abide by and VPN usage might be one of them. Therefore, we suggest discussing using a VPN with a school administrator or an authoritative person.

Conclusion

But, generally speaking, everyone, irrespective of age or level, needs a VPN if they are using public wi-fi in order to protect their data, research, personal information, and online privacy. A VPN is also helpful in accessing a censored or geo-restricted website or content.

But there’s much more you can do with proxies. Currently, they are utilized by regular Internet users to gain access to a more open and secure Internet and protect their privacy, and marketing specialists and data analysts use them for data scraping.

This article explains what web proxies are and how you can benefit from them. And if you want to know the difference between Proxies and Scraper API? Read the blog to learn more!

What Is a Web Proxy?

A proxy is a device that functions as an intermediary between the user and the Internet. In a standard online communication model, the Internet user (called a client) makes a request to a specific website (called a server) to get some information (like videos, images, websites.) A client has a unique IP address (it’s like your device’s ‘home address’ on the Internet), and the website knows it must return specific information to that IP.

When using a proxy, your device sends requests to the proxy, which then forwards them to the target destination. Instead of seeing your IP address, the server sees the proxy’s IP address and sends the information there; the proxy then channels it to the user. Obfuscating IP addresses significantly strengthens online safety, neutralizing numerous IP tracking and online surveillance methods.

Although the concept is relatively simple, IP address obfuscation and traffic routing through an additional server have multiple use cases. Here are the most popular ones.

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1. Bypassing Geographical Restrictions

Much online content is geographically restricted to specific regions. For example, depending on where you browse from, Netflix offers very different libraries. This doesn’t sound fair because you pay the full subscription but don’t get the full package.

You can utilize proxies to bypass geographical restrictions and unlock more streaming options. For example, you can connect to a proxy server in the US or Japan to unlock their exclusive content. The same applies to other services that use geo-blocking, like HBO, Disney+, ABC, etc.

Remember that streaming content is not the only thing you can unlock via proxies. You can also access local news sites, online shops, and video game servers.

2. Web Scraping

The Internet is an endless repository of useful data, but accessing it can be tricky. Furthermore, manually gathering online information is a lengthy process and can be automated via web scraping. Web scraping refers to using additional tools to target specific websites like Amazon and extract valuable information like prices, reviews, shipping costs, etc.

Businesses tend to limit access to specific data because they deem it uncompetitive. However, the same businesses scrape other websites to get a competitive advantage.

Business websites monitor visitors’ IP addresses, and if they notice many data requests from the same IP address, they can restrict access.

Then, instead of using your own unique IP to crawl these sites, you can use proxies. Each proxy server issues a new IP address and avoids website detection. This way, you can target multiple sites simultaneously without being exposed.

3. Datacenter or Residential Proxies

Proxies come in various types, but the two most important are Residential and Datacenter proxies.

Residential proxies come from genuine users and physical devices. It can be a smartphone or a PC that willingly shares its Internet connection and IP address with you. Your device sends traffic to a residential proxy, which then forwards it, receives the information, and sends it back to the user. Residential proxies are the best for data scraping and content streaming because they are nearly undetectable.

On the other hand, datacenter proxies are easily detectable but provide better speed, availability, and lower prices. They often come from data centers with hundreds of proxy servers and sell their traffic to businesses and casual Internet users. However, websites can effortlessly detect that a visitor comes from a data center, so that’s no good if you want to bypass geo-blocks or remain private online.

Datacenter proxies excel at operations with a Cloud, large-file downloads, and information caching. Businesses use datacenter proxies to make their websites load quicker and transfer huge files much faster than with the regular Internet connection speed.

Conclusion

There are more proxy use cases, like network traffic control, market research, price comparison, and cybersecurity. However, most of them are for advanced users. Proxies take some time to master, but most proxy service providers offer useful online guides and self-help material. If you learn how to use proxies effectively, you will significantly improve your online safety and browsing experience.

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Among the numerous VPN service providers accessible, Surfshark and Private Internet Access (PIA) have emerged as two of the most widely used and popular options. This technical blog aims to impartially evaluate Surfshark vs PIA, delineating their key similarities and differences as top VPN providers.

Our objective is to furnish readers with valuable information to enable informed decision-making in selecting the appropriate VPN service that meets their needs.

Surfshark: A Premier VPN Solution for Privacy & Accessibility

Surfshark, established in 2018, is a virtual private network (VPN) service provider based in the British Virgin Islands that offers its services to users worldwide.

By routing internet users’ online traffic through servers located in different countries, Surfshark provides a secure and encrypted connection, helping protect users’ online privacy, bypass geographical restrictions, and access content that may not be available in their region.

With features such as unlimited simultaneous connections, 24/7 customer support, and compatibility with multiple platforms and devices, Surf shark’s VPN network, consisting of over 3200 servers in 65 countries, has been recognized for its affordability and user-friendly interface, making it a popular choice among individuals and businesses, particularly when compared to other VPN providers such as PIA in a Surfshark vs PIA comparison.

PIA: Reliable VPN for Secure and Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a virtual private network (VPN) service that offers its users a secure and encrypted connection to the internet. The company was established with the aim of providing internet users with a reliable and private means of accessing the internet and protecting their online data and privacy.

PIA operates a large network of servers in multiple countries, allowing users to choose from a range of locations and enhance their online privacy.

The company uses strong encryption protocols to secure users’ online traffic, and it does not keep any logs of their online activities. PIA also provides a user-friendly interface and 24/7 customer support, making it accessible to a wide range of users, including those with limited technical knowledge.

Surfshark vs PIA: A Technical Comparison of Virtual Private Network Providers

Both Surfshark and Private Internet Access (PIA) are virtual private network (VPN) service providers that aim to offer secure and encrypted connections to the internet. However, there are some differences in the features and services they offer. When comparing Surfshark vs PIA, it is important to consider their network size, encryption protocols, user-friendly interface, and privacy policies.

Surfshark has a larger network of servers, with over 3200 servers in 65 countries, compared to PIA’s network of servers in multiple countries. Surfshark also allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, while PIA allows for multiple devices but with limits on the number of simultaneous connections.

In terms of encryption protocols, both Surfshark and PIA use strong encryption to secure users’ online traffic. However, Surfshark has a more diverse range of protocols, including IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard, compared to PIA’s use of OpenVPN and WireGuard.

Both companies have a user-friendly interface and provide 24/7 customer support. However, PIA has a reputation for being more accessible to users with limited technical knowledge, while Surfshark’s interface may be more geared toward advanced users.

Regarding logging policies, both companies claim to not keep any logs of their user’s online activities. However, Surfshark is based in the British Virgin Islands, which has stronger privacy laws, compared to PIA’s jurisdiction in the United States.

At last, both Surfshark and PIA are solid VPN providers that offer secure and encrypted connections. The choice between Surfshark vs PIA will ultimately depend on a user’s specific needs and preferences, such as network size, encryption protocols, and privacy laws.

Pros and cons of Surfshark and PIA

Surfshark:

Pros:

1. Wide network coverage with over 3200 servers in 65 countries
2. Unlimited simultaneous connections
3. Strong encryption protocols with IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard
4. User-friendly interface
5. Based in British Virgin Islands with strong privacy laws

Cons:

1. May be less accessible for users with limited technical knowledge

PIA:

Pros:

• Reputation for being user-friendly for those with limited technical knowledge
• Strong encryption protocols with OpenVPN and WireGuard
• No logs kept of users’ online activities
• 24/7 customer support

Cons:

1. A limited number of simultaneous connections
2. Smaller network of servers in multiple countries compared to Surfshark.

Both VPN providers offer secure and encrypted connections, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences, such as network size, encryption protocols, privacy laws, and accessibility.

Conclusion

Both Surfshark and Private Internet Access (PIA) are viable options for individuals and businesses seeking to enhance their online privacy and security through the use of virtual private network (VPN) services. While both providers offer strong encryption protocols, a user-friendly interface, and 24/7 customer support, there are some differences in the features and services they provide.

Surfshark boasts a larger network of servers, unlimited simultaneous connections, and a more diverse range of encryption protocols, while PIA has a reputation for being more accessible to users with limited technical knowledge and operates under stronger privacy laws. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on a user’s specific needs and preferences, such as network size, encryption protocols, privacy laws, and accessibility.

What Is a VPN?

Is iTop VPN Worth It? This is a difficult question to answer, however, we can attempt to do so. First of all, remember that this is a free VPN. In fact, the company claims it is the best free VPN on the market! This is a tall order, no doubt.

First of all, let’s look at what VPN technology is. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network to give it its full technical name, is a new type of proxy network security software. The concept is not new, and hails from Microsoft’s 1990s PPTP (Point-to-Point-Tunneling) protocol. Essentially, what you do is route your internet connection through a VPN provider’s software. These come in the form of an app these days and are straightforward to use.

Modern VPNs are a far cry from earlier iterations such as PPTP, with advanced encryption and multiple other features usually available with the premium versions like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, PIA, Mullvad, and Surfshark (and several others). The threat landscape (viruses, hackers, etc) is so much more comprehensive and advanced these days, as is the internet itself. Hence, modern problems need modern solutions! Enter the VPN.

A VPN is a network security software that “encrypts” the internet connection leaving your smartphone, laptop, or whatever device you have installed it on. This is usually done with a proprietary encryption protocol that randomizes your data into unreadable junk (like your internet browsing) for anyone trying to snoop in. Otherwise, a VPN also flips your IP (internet protocol) address to one of its own (depending on the server you choose in the app). This means you are both secure and anonymous with a VPN.

About iTop VPN

Since 2016, iTop has been offering VPN services. With a few significant drawbacks, it’s a reliable mid-tier VPN. Also, its security configuration appears to be adequate, and its no-logging policy is also sound. It also has a built-in ad blocker and a few more security features. 

The 1,800+ servers that iTop VPN has worldwide are sufficient to guarantee the respectable speed and little lag. However, it functions a lot better on adjacent servers. It offers servers designed for torrenting and can unblock geo-restricted streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. Remember, VPNs can change your IP address which means that you can get around geographical broadcasting limitations and blockages. People love to use free VPNs for this reason!

On the other hand, there are problems such as DNS leaks, an ambiguous approach to VPN protocols, and the price structure that needs improvement. Additionally, there is no live chat, which is necessary for prompt customer service. Then again, it is a tall order to expect customer service from free software.

After all of that, uploads were rather astounding which is another big plus! Due to this, iTop VPN is a fantastic solution for secure video conferencing and content streaming on Twitch. 

Except for Brazil, Japan, and Australia, the pings (the delay in connection) were satisfactory. Therefore, it is advisable to stick to nearby servers if you intend to use iTop as a gaming VPN. Surfshark is a great premium alternative that provides faster bandwidth and lower latency on faraway servers. 

iTop was not exactly ideal because the connection times varied from 14 seconds to more than a minute. Again, to prevent speed drops and protracted connection periods, stick to nearby servers.

Is iTop secure? Perhaps this is the question of the day when it comes to testing free VPNs. The answer to that may not satisfy you. The security of this app has been rated as exactly average. This is because, even though its encryption is all right, iTop VPN leaks data about you while being unclear about the technology behind its VPN protocols. The big issue is that the proper VPN protocols like WireGuard and IKEv2 are missing from the feature list. 

The fact that iTop VPN is a Hong Kong-based service is not exactly positive news at the moment. Hong Kong is no longer the VPN sanctuary it once was because of persistent pressure from China. 

Additionally, the business applies US law to its US-based clientele. Given that the US is a part of the 5 Eyes surveillance alliance, there are risks associated with this. The only way iTop VPN can guarantee the security of its users is by enforcing a strict no-logging policy. Despite not being a true zero-log VPN, iTop does a fair job of staying away from risky logging procedures.

The final question is: is iTop worth it? For one, anyone that is a security or privacy-conscious person should not be using iTop. There are much better free VPNs out there like Proton. If you value your privacy and security, you want the top of the class. This would be a VPN like NordVPN which has just recently proven it knows nothing about its customers’ browsing information. However, for something simple with a few features, it is fine. Just don’t give it any details and use the free version if you must!

Our desktop computers are usually powerful beasts that transfer a lot of internet traffic back and forth. Many gamers, for instance, have powerful desktop computers where they transfer several gigabytes of data per day. This also counts if you are a heavy video editor, or use Netflix a lot on your desktop PC. Whatever the case may be, without a solid VPN, you are at risk of cyber attacks from hackers, malicious code infections, email scams, and much more on your main home computer (or the desktop PC at work). The good news is that you do not have to necessarily pay for a VPN to encrypt your internet connection and anonymize yourself (although it is a good idea to do so). You can simply pick up one of the best free VPNs for PCs out there that are community and cybersecurity expert-approved.

Keep in mind, however, that free VPNs come with several limitations as is expected with any type of free software. There are also major risks if you download a third-party VPN that has not been community-approved, so stick to the ones in the link in the above paragraph!

Let’s take a look at what VPNs are and dive into the best free VPNs for your PC next!

What Is a VPN?

Think of a VPN as a secure tunnel through which you can safely send all of your internet traffic through. It effectively obscures you from threats and invasive privacy-breaching internet algorithms. 

The logic of this is that your internet service provider (ISP) as well as any apps and websites that communicate with your PC over the internet might create a risk on an unencrypted connection (that is, a connection that does not run through a VPN tunnel). Simply put, if you do not have tight security all the way from your router to your PC, and you do not use a VPN, the chance of getting hacked or infected is much higher. 

With a VPN activated, no one can read your incoming or outgoing internet traffic. This is possible thanks to modern advancements in encryption that allow VPNs to encipher data up to AES 256-bit. This is effectively military-grade transmission obfuscation. Anyone looking at compromising you by sniffing your connection would have nothing to play with except a ton of random characters and symbols. Without a VPN, the websites you are browsing would be visible, as well as IP addresses and ports.

On top of that, not having a VPN on your PC compromises your privacy and your anonymity. This happens because, first of all, your IP address points to your approximate physical location. This way, you can be profiled by websites and have your data collected. Secondly, the fact that there are enormous data harvesting algorithms prowling the internet for information is reason enough to run your internet traffic through a VPN. This effectively throws off any logging or IP address collection.

Third, being anonymous is great cyber hygiene. A VPN allows you to connect to one of its servers (how many of them there are depends on the quality of your VPN) and effectively replace your own IP and DNS address with the VPN vendor’s own. This way, websites will be tricked into thinking you are somewhere else. Also, a good VPN will even disguise any hardware or browser information your device may be broadcasting.

For these reasons, VPNs are a great all-in-one tool for both cybersecurity and privacy. Whether you are a journalist, activist, company owner, regular citizen, or the parent of a child that you want protection for, a VPN is an essential piece of kit.

The Best Free PC VPNs You Can Install Right Now

Before we get into free VPNs that do what they say, let’s be aware that premium software is always the better option. A premium VPN will have many more features and solid policies compared to a free VPN, there’s no question about it! For instance, NordVPN has brilliant customer support in its premium version but can also scan the dark web for stolen information belonging to you or make you invisible on your local LAN connection! New features and innovations are constantly added to proper VPNs, which is all the more reason to purchase one (at a modest fee of a few dollars per month, no less). Most premium VPNs are a bargain for what you are getting. After all, what is more important than staying safe and away from prying eyes?

Now, when it comes to free VPNs there are a few caveats to list first. Some of these are that you may experience data caps, speed issues, as well as fewer servers to choose from. Proper customer service is also hard to come by with a completely free VPN. Then again, the software is free, of course! So, without further ado, here are the top community-reviewed VPNs for your PC in 2022 that often come up on any review site worth its salt!

• ProtonVPN
• Hotspot Shield
• Windscribe
• Hide.me
• TunnelBear

Among these, there is one VPN brand that consistently hits the mark and is trusted by millions of users, and that is ProtonVPN! Of course, there are several reasons why ProtonVPN usually places first among other free VPNs. 

Primarily, Proton is a security brand that specializes in its email service, cloud storage, and VPN service (its premium VPN is great, too!). Secondly, no other VPN on the list above offers unlimited data while providing class-leading security. On top of that, you get a satisfying amount of servers to connect to.

Finally, it is important to note that the other VPNs in the list should not be thrown to the side just yet. The other VPNs are all legitimate and work well, however, don’t expect features like unlimited data for free!

The web is full of malicious entities seeking to take advantage of naïve users. And whether done for laughs or monetary gain, these people are getting artful. We’re talking about socially engineered attacks like phishing, pretexting, scareware, etc. Some are so well-crafted even veteran netizens sometimes fall for them.

Becoming a victim could potentially ruin your life and affect others. Because of this, it’s crucial to be aware of the lurking dangers and how to avoid them.

Most common dangers

So, what are the potential threats the average user might face online? Bad actors will likely target you in these ways:

• Email scams. Masquerading as legitimate organizations and people, these usually ask you to enter your personal or banking information. Some even include links or files. Signs of phishing emails include grammar & spelling errors, urgent demands, and mock links.
• Fake websites. These are also created in hopes you’ll mistake the counterfeit for the real one and enter your credentials. Generally, cybercriminals create duplicates of government or banking websites and charge money for technically free services.
• Malicious software. All kinds of malware can be spread via links, file attachments, torrents, and more. Depending on the purpose, they can steal your info, take control of your device, and even infect other machines.

General internet safety tips

While you can never make yourself 100% foolproof, at least there are ways to minimize the chances of becoming another statistic. It involves following general security advice and utilizing tools created to combat these threats.

Use strong, different passwords

This point bears repeating since many people still refuse to create proper, unique passwords. Some even jeopardize themselves further by using the same one (or couple) anytime they create an account. It’s incredibly unsafe and makes it easier for bad actors to brute force their way in.

Here are some password creation rules to abide by:

• Never use personal information and common words;
• The password should be at least 12 characters long;
• Use a mix of lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols;
• Avoid keyboard patterns like QWERTY, ASDFG, and such.

Remembering complex passwords is, understandably, hard. Do not write them down anywhere – this is another security hazard. You’ll be better off with a password manager. These tools can generate login credentials for you and store them in a secure vault.

Keep everything updated

Outdated software is dangerous for a reason. Developers are constantly working on new versions to fix not only various bugs or glitches but potential and known security holes. And these flaws can be exploited by users who understand what to look for.

Update your OS and programs whenever a fresh patch comes out. Or better yet, enable automatic updates, so you don’t have to keep track of everything. A critical fix downloaded on time can save your devices from being taken advantage of.

Utilize an antivirus

You could land on malware and get infected without even knowing it. What happens to your device hinges on the type of malicious software. These include but are not limited to:

• Viruses. They prevent systems and/or programs from working correcly, which can result general operation disruptions and even data loss.
• Spyware. Instead of disrupting operations, these secretly log sensitive data and send it back to the entities that created them. The most commonly known type is keyloggers which track your keystrokes.
• Adware. While not all of it is malicious, most are dangerous because clicking on them could infect you with viruses, trojans, and spyware.
• Ransomware. Usually a part of phishing attacks, they encrypt private data stored in your device and demand money to regain access to it.

Getting a reputable antivirus program is the best way to prevent damage caused by such software. They are designed to scan and root out malware before they do anything. Some include additional features that block adverts and stop user trackers.

Take advantage of VPNs

Virtual Private Networks, commonly referred to as VPNs, elevate your security and privacy to another level. It’s achieved by hiding your actual IP address and encrypting all internet traffic with industry-leading AES-256 encryption. The most secure VPN services offer plenty of other benefits as well.

Depending on the provider, you can get:

• Traffic obfuscation. It bypasses Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) by hiding all tracks of VPN usage, allowing you to utilize this technology in internet-restrictive countries like China.
• MultiHop. This feature routes traffic through two (or more) VPN servers instead of one, resulting in maximum untraceability.
• Ad & malware blockers. Lightweight versions of antivirus software, these block intrusive advertisements, user trackers, and a good amount of malware.
• Data breach monitors. They scan the web for past and current data leaks and inform users whenever their credentials are compromised.

Don’t share private information

Only some realize how even a little bit of personal data shared online can be used against them. The more you reveal about yourself, the more you are at risk of identity theft and harassment. Worst case scenario, bad actors gain access to your private records, financial details, medical information, etc.

Avoid giving away your name, age, address, phone number, pet names, where you’re going, what you’re doing, and things like that. Even sharing photos on social media is dangerous since their metadata includes GPS coordinates which can be used to track your whereabouts.

Wrap up

While the internet might seem like the Wild West sometimes with all these pitfalls, you can avoid falling victim to them. All it takes is a bit of precaution from your side – knowing & recognizing the threats, following internet safety advice, and arming yourself with the right tools.