How do I use a VPN?
Most VPNs are fairly simple to use, even if you’re new to the cyber security game. For starters, you’d need to choose a service. We’re not talking about corporate VPNs here – those are unique to each company. There are several B2C VPN services on the market. NordVPN, Express VPN and a couple of others are clear market leaders, though. This is because their interface is super user-friendly (both for desktop and mobile), they let you stream video content, and have a lot of servers to choose from.
Once you choose your VPN provider and download the program on your device/devices, launch it and choose a server to connect to. Usually those are displayed in a list or a map mode.
Your choice of a server would depend on what you need the VPN for. If you want to stream Netflix USA content, you’d need a US server.
If you want access to a source disabled in your home country, you’d need to choose a server in a country where it’s free to access. And so on.
Most VPNs come with a kill switch – a feature that breaks your connection if you get cut off from the VPN and continues to protect your location. Enabling this feature would add an additional layer of security.
Once you get the hang of the VPN, turning it on would be second nature – not least because most services come with a “launch automatically” feature.
The VPN phenomenon might initially seem daunting and intimidating, but it’s an invaluable tool in this day and age.
Whether you’re doing online shopping on the go, rushing to a WiFi-enabled coffee shop to meet a deadline, or streaming a TV series not yet available where you are, you want to make sure that your activities are protected.
A VPN is a sure way to do that. However, it’s important to note that even the most secure VPNs aren’t foolproof. Please make sure you read the terms and conditions before making a decision as to your VPN provider – especially their privacy policy and information sharing policy.
And always avoid free VPN apps – there’s nothing stopping them from selling your data to advertisers or other third parties.
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