One of the most important cybersecurity tools that you can install on your device in 2022 is a VPN. Our world has become connected through the internet, but while you might think that this has given you more freedom, that is not the case. Some websites on the internet are impossible for you to access, and without a VPN, you’ll always be limited on the so-called “worldwide web”.
There are tons of benefits to having a VPN installed on your device, and if you’re a frequent flyer or someone who likes to work from your local coffee shop, it’s an essential tool that you can simply go without. That’s because connecting your devices to unsecured networks can put you at serious risk — you’ll find out why in a minute!
VPN subscriptions can sometimes be pricey, but it’s crucial to use premium VPNs even if there are free ones available. Luckily though, this is your chance to grab one of those premium VPNs at a discount. Make sure to keep an eye out because this year’s Cyber Monday deals for VPNs are going to be excellent. Keep reading to find out why you need to get a VPN installed on your device.
What is a VPN?
First of all, what is a VPN? VPNs are also known as virtual private networks, and their main purpose is to encrypt your internet connections. While your connection is encrypted with a VPN, no one can monitor your internet traffic or keep track of your internet history — not even the government or your internet service provider!
Public WiFi networks such as the ones found at airports, hotels, and restaurants often use unsecured connections. Cybercriminals use these hotspots to listen in on other devices using the same network as they send and receive data through the internet. This digital eavesdropping technique allows hackers to steal your personal data, login credentials, and banking information. But, if you’re using a VPN, your connection will be encrypted, keeping all of your data safe.
VPNs also allow you to connect to secure global servers in other countries or cities around the world. In doing so, your real IP address will be hidden from websites, and your device will adopt the IP address of the server that you have connected to. An IP address is a unique identifier that allows websites to pinpoint your device’s physical location. So, by changing this IP address you can trick websites into thinking that you are accessing them from elsewhere — this is the main feature that makes VPNs so popular, let’s look at the benefits you get from using this feature.
Unblock Websites
If you’re a frequent visitor of streaming sites like YouTube, Netflix, and even sports live streaming services, you’ll likely be familiar with geo-blocking. Geo-blocking is when websites block you from accessing certain content based on your geographic location. In the majority of cases, this is because of licensing restrictions. Using your VPN, you can connect to the relevant country’s secure server to unblock these restrictions.
Many countries around the world have started to implement internet censorship. This is when governments will block anyone within their borders from accessing specific websites and content on the internet, and it’s mainly done for religious or political reasons. As long as your VPN is active and connected to a server in another country, you can safely bypass internet censorship and regain access to your favorite websites while traveling.
Find Cheaper Travel Deals
Changing your device’s virtual location will give you access to cheaper flights and accommodation. Many websites that allow you to book flights and accommodation online will discriminate against internet users based on their geographical location. For example, if you’re accessing the site from the United States, the rates will likely be higher than usual. That’s because the US has a strong currency, and its citizens tend to have more disposable income available. This allows the website to push the prices up and still make sales.
On the other hand, if you connect to a third-world country or even the country you are planning on visiting, you’ll see the prices drop significantly. All you need to do is launch your VPN and connect to a server in another country that doesn’t have internet censorship.
Always Use a Premium VPN
While you’re looking for a VPN you will come across some free VPNs. It’s tempting to use one of these but it’s not worth taking shortcuts in this area. If you’re using a free VPN you will run into some disadvantages such as slower connection speeds, more ads, less security, fewer global servers to choose from, and daily data limits. These factors will affect your experience using the VPN and leave you frustrated. But, these are drawbacks that you won’t find with a premium VPN, so make sure to use this Cyber Monday to get hold of a premium VPN on the cheap and experience true freedom on the internet like never before!