A VPN, or virtual private network, is a useful tool that can keep prying eyes from accessing your browsing data and unlocking restricted content in your region. If you want to find out more about what is VPN, you’ll find that it can enhance your online experience no matter where you are.
Here’s a short list of the pros and cons of a home or business VPN.
Pros
Keep Your Data Safe
The digital footprint we leave behind as we browse, watch videos, and shop are taken by marketers, websites, and data brokers and turned into more advertising. VPNs are similar to anti-virus and anti-malware apps and software in that they keep you out of harm’s way. Instead of connecting to public wi-fi, you should instead opt for a VPN so your personal and financial information is safe.
Unlock Georestricted Websites and Content
Sometimes your internet service provider will block content that’s not allowed in your country or region (which is called geoblocking). This is prevalent on YouTube, sports games, and even websites that only cater to a specific demographic. In the same vein, there are platforms that change their prices on goods depending on cookies and locations, all of which you can avoid when you use a VPN.
Safer Anonymous Browsing Experience
If you’ve used an antivirus before then you’ll know how invaluable they are whenever you browse or do your daily activities. The same applies to a VPN- you and your family members or employees will have a safer experience, with a masked IP address and hidden browsing history. Advanced VPNs also work on apps and online games so people can’t track your location or dig up personal data for their own use or profit.
The Best VPNs are Fast and Have No Throttle
A good VPN service will have additional benefits, such as no speed throttling and unlimited bandwidth. You’ll feel as if you’re browsing normally when in fact you’d be protected and safe from marketing entities and spying attempts. When choosing a VPN for your home or business, shop around and look for the features you want. Shield your devices from trackers and unwanted marketing by opting for a VPN service.
Cons
Monthly Cost
While it’s true that you can get a free VPN app or service, chances are that they offer only basic VPN functions such as changing your IP address or slow down your internet connection. The monthly cost associated with a VPN service will be offset with the benefits outlined above- you can actually save more when shopping or buying plane tickets, for example.
Extra Steps
Whenever you want to browse with a VPN, you’ll need to connect via app or manually first before you can visit your favorite websites. For some people this can be a bit disorienting as they’re probably used to browsing on their phones or computers straight. The upside is that you can set up a VPN service on your router to protect your business or household and all compatible devices.
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.