VPN is What? A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a service that establishes a secure connection between your device and the internet. It achieves this by changing your real IP address and encrypting your internet traffic, making it difficult for others to track your online activities or identify your location.

Furthermore, a VPN allows you to bypass censorship and geographical restrictions by connecting to servers in different locations, thereby accessing blocked content. Think of a VPN as a private tunnel that can protect your online activities and ensure the security of your sensitive data.

Using a VPN can encrypt your internet connection and hide your information from potential snoopers or trackers who might attempt to monitor your online behavior. In this article, you will learn in detail what a VPN is, how to use it to protect your online activities, and how to bypass geographical restrictions enforced by online services.

We highly recommend NordVPN, a leading provider in the industry, as the best VPN for both beginners and experienced users. NordVPN is user-friendly, offers state-of-the-art encryption, lightning-fast speeds, and can bypass restrictions on popular streaming platforms like Netflix. With NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee, you can use it risk-free. If you don’t like it, you can easily get a refund.

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If you need a VPN for a short period of time while traveling abroad, get our top-ranked VPN for free. NordVPN offers a 30-day money back guarantee, which is real. You’ll need to pay upfront to use the subscription, but the subscription allows full access for 30 days. If you don’t like it you can cancel at any time and get a full refund, so you can try it with confidence.

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VPN is What?

What is a VPN? VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. When you use the internet, your device continuously exchanges data with other parties on the network. Often without realizing it, you expose your real IP address, which reveals your actual location, browsing history, operating system information, device identifiers, and more to websites. An exceptional VPN service like NordVPN assigns you a new anonymous IP address. It reroutes your internet connection through web servers in its network, and encrypts your data.

VPNs create a secure tunnel between your device, such as a smartphone or laptop, and the internet. They also hide your identity and online traffic from your Internet Service Provider (ISP), government agencies, and hackers.

What Are VPNs Used For, and How Do They Work?

What are VPNs used for? VPNs create secure encrypted connections between your device and remote servers you connect to. This is called a VPN tunnel. When you establish a VPN connection, your data is transmitted securely through the following steps:

The VPN software on your computer encrypts your data traffic and sends it to the VPN server via a secure connection.
The encrypted data in your computer is decrypted by the virtual private network server.
Your data is then sent to the internet and replies are received based on your requests.
These responses are encrypted once more by the VPN server and sent back to you.
The VPN software on your device decrypts the data for your understanding and use.

Further reading:
➤ How to iOS VPN Settings on your iPhone
➤ Top 3 VPN iOS Best for iPhone（iOS 16 & Older）
➤ The Best VPN Korea server
➤ Best Japan VPN for Watching Japanese Netflix
➤ Top 3 Best VPN in Hong Kong｜fast and secure

Why would you need to use it?

Using a VPN offers numerous benefits. While some VPNs are more secure and privacy-focused than others, many VPNs are generally useful and can help you achieve some cool tricks, such as unlocking the entire international catalogs of streaming services or accessing international shopping websites with discounts. Below are some of the primary advantages of using a VPN.

1. Complete Online Anonymity:

Without a VPN, your location and identity can be easily traced through your IP address, which is unique to your internet connection. It’s like a digital address. Websites, ISPs, trackers, and hackers can determine whether you’re at home or elsewhere and associate your online behavior and activities with you. A VPN hides your IP address, concealing your true location.

When you use a Virtual Private Network, your internet traffic is rerouted through an encrypted virtual tunnel, making it traceable only to the VPN server’s IP, not you and your real IP address. Reliable VPN providers have strict no-log policies, which means they do not keep records of your activities or browsing history.

It’s as if your session never existed. By using a robust Virtual Private Network like NordVPN, you can ensure that websites, marketers, streaming services, governments, and cybercriminals can no longer identify your identity or determine your real location.

2. Prevent Companies from Tracking You:

Ad networks continuously collect information about you through your online traffic, and you might be surprised at how well Facebook, Google, Twitter, and others know you. With this data, they can display personalized ads. More importantly, they can freely sell this information to third parties. By encrypting your data with a VPN, these networks find it harder to collect information about you. This means they have less influence on the content you see online.

3. Protect Yourself from Hackers and Government Surveillance:

Virtual Private Networks disrupt your data traffic with robust encryption protocols, making it almost impossible to intercept and read your information. Many groups are interested in your internet traffic, including governments, advertisers, and cybercriminals. The security offered by a Virtual Private Network makes it much more challenging for them to view your data.

However, we must note that a VPN is not the ultimate solution to all internet-related crime. We always recommend combining a VPN with a robust antivirus solution to offer comprehensive protection. For instance, a VPN cannot shield your device from malicious links injected with malware.

4. Secure Browsing on Public Networks:

Using public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in airports, hotels, or cafes, carries risks. Other users on the same network (including the aforementioned hackers and cybercriminals) can easily exploit your data and personal information. It’s wise to use a VPN connection when you’re on these hotspots. A Virtual Private Network like NordVPN encrypts all your data when you’re using public Wi-Fi networks. Hackers can only see encrypted content and cannot access or use your personal information.

#5 Secure Access to Company Networks

We’re seeing an increasing number of companies offering people the opportunity to work from home or any place they prefer. In such cases, remote access via a Virtual Private Network can be incredibly useful, allowing employees to securely and efficiently connect to the company’s internal network from anywhere. There are numerous VPNs available, particularly designed for business purposes.

While they might not be able to unlock foreign streaming services, they are certainly valuable in safeguarding private and sensitive company data, especially for those working in smaller companies that may not operate under robust network security protocols. Connecting to a company’s internal systems via a VPN provides an essential layer of protection against malicious actors accessing sensitive company data.

#6 Bypassing Internet Censorship Systems

Many countries have strict government-mandated internet censorship systems in place. For example, mainland China and Russia enforce rigid internet censorship, which includes blocking access to specific internet services and websites. Frequently banned applications and websites include WhatsApp, Google, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Skype, Spotify, and Facebook. Additionally, news websites and platforms for journalists are often blocked as they are seen as a threat to the current government.

In these countries, such censorship systems severely impact citizens’ freedom of speech. NordVPN is a top VPN provider that allows you to connect to servers in different countries/regions, enabling you to bypass censorship and restrictions. By doing so, you can browse the internet as if you were in a different location, allowing you to access websites, services, and applications that are unavailable in your current country/region.

#7 Bypassing Geographical Restrictions

Internet restrictions are not solely imposed by countries; some online services restrict access to their content in specific regions. This occurs with streaming services like Netflix or Peacock TV, which have broadcasting or licensing rights in some countries/regions and not in others. When you’re on vacation or move to a different country/region, you may find yourself unable to access your usual live content. A VPN allows you to connect to the internet through servers in your home country/region, enabling you to watch your favorite shows or access blocked websites, just as if you never left.

Conversely, if you wish to access websites or streaming services from other countries/regions (e.g., to watch different versions of Netflix), you can achieve this using a Virtual Private Network.

#8 Anonymous Torrent Downloads

In certain countries/regions, downloading torrents is illegal, and downloaders can be traced, sometimes even prosecuted. Of course, we do not advocate any illegal activities. However, we do understand that people desire online privacy and anonymity not only while browsing the internet but also when uploading and downloading files.

You can use a Virtual Private Network (such as NordVPN) to ensure that no one knows what content you’re downloading. Due to encrypted traffic and a rerouted IP address, NordVPN will help you anonymously download the content you need.

How to Set Up and Use a VPN

After installing a VPN on your device, besides finding a server and connecting to it, there isn’t much more to do. However, it’s important to understand how to find the right server based on your needs. You can also customize security settings to enhance your experience, but this is generally not necessary as most VPNs come with pre-configured settings that automatically protect your connection.

Start by Creating a VPN Account

Visit the official NordVPN website, where you’ll find a menu on the right side of the screen.
Click on it and select “Pricing.” The site will redirect you to NordVPN’s subscription plans page.
Choose a subscription plan based on your needs.
Register your details on the popup portal, including your email address and password.
Choose your preferred payment method.
NordVPN will send a confirmation email to your email address. Confirm it and enjoy your NordVPN subscription.

How to Get a VPN on Computers and Laptops (Windows and macOS)

Choose a VPN; all the VPNs I listed below are excellent choices for any online activity, but be sure to select one that suits your needs.

Download the application and ensure that you select the correct operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux). Follow the installation prompts. You will need to log in with the same credentials you used during registration. Choose your preferences, and the installation should be complete.
Start using your VPN. Load the application and connect to a server to protect your privacy, securely access geographically restricted content, and torrent. You can also install our top VPN on various Linux distributions. In most cases, you will need to use the command line to install and run the VPN.

How to Get a VPN on Smartphones (Android and iOS)

Choose a VPN; I recommend a product with lightweight applications and security features to prolong battery life. NordVPN is the top choice.
Register a subscription. It’s best to do this directly through the VPN website. Registering through Google Play or the Apple App Store may disqualify you from the money-back guarantee, and you must adhere to Google/Apple’s refund policies.
Visit the app store, search for the VPN name on your mobile App Store, and download the app.
Install the VPN. This usually happens automatically, but you may need to click through a few prompts to allow the VPN to make changes to your network settings.
Use your VPN. Open the app, log in with the credentials you acquired during registration, and connect to a server to protect your iPhone or Android device.

How to Set Up VPN on a Home Router

When you set up a VPN on your home router, all devices connected to that network will also connect to the VPN. Interestingly, this includes devices that do not have VPN software installed, such as smart TVs, streaming devices, and gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox.

If you intend to do this, make sure your router is compatible with the VPN. Most ASUS, Linksys, and Netgear models are compatible, but there are other models you can use. Each VPN and router combination has different installation instructions, but you can typically find detailed information on their websites. Here’s a general guide:

Get a VPN and a router compatible with VPN. If you are sure you want to install a VPN on the router, choose a VPN with a native application. Setting up a VPN with an application will make it easier to navigate and configure.
Download the router firmware for your VPN. This is usually available on the dashboard of your VPN account page. Each VPN provides detailed guides on how to download and install the firmware.
Install the firmware. Ensure your router is connected to the internet. Open your router’s configuration page by entering “192.168.1.1” in your browser’s address bar. There should be an option to “Upgrade Firmware.” Just upload the firmware you downloaded and follow the prompts.

Most VPNs also offer pre-installed VPN software routers, so if you want to skip the setup (and have some extra cash), you can purchase one. Additionally, some VPNs are easier to use on routers than others.

NordVPN has a native app for routers that allows easy server and configuration changes. Many other VPNs require manual setup and server switching, often with fewer features than the VPN app.

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1. NordVPN – The most secure VPN available

NordVPN’s privacy policy has been independently audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) twice, confirming the validity of their no-logs claim. In December 2023, Deloitte verified this in a third audit. NordVPN proactively requests these audits, demonstrating their commitment to user privacy.

NordVPN‘s privacy policy ensures they never store any identifiable user information, such as IP addresses, device information, or connection timestamps. The only data they retain is your email address and payment details, used solely for processing purchases and refunds.

For added privacy, you can use a disposable email address and choose to pay with cryptocurrency. NordVPN’s threat protection features block ads, trackers, and malicious websites. It scans downloaded files for malware, ensuring your devices’ safety.

NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, where the internet is not subject to government surveillance. Being outside the 14 Eyes jurisdiction means that no one has the authority to monitor your online activities.

NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs I’ve tested, with speeds dropping by no more than 16% even on long-distance connections. NordVPN provides obfuscated servers that can run on restrictive networks and features a Double VPN function, adding an extra layer of security by routing your traffic through two servers, encrypting your data twice.

One of NordVPN‘s best features is the automatic kill switch. If your VPN connection is ever interrupted, the kill switch automatically stops all internet traffic, ensuring your privacy and anonymity are never at risk. NordVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your activities are never stored or monitored.

With DNS leak protection, you can ensure your real location is never revealed, and your connection is never hijacked. NordVPN also offers the Onion Over VPN feature, encrypting your traffic and routing it through the Tor network, providing an additional layer of security and privacy.

For those looking for a fast, reliable, and secure VPN service, NordVPN is an excellent choice. It’s one of the most affordable VPNs on the market and offers many features. NordVPN starts at $3.29 per month, with a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee.

I’ve tested this to make sure you can indeed get your money back. Initially, the support team tried to extend my trial period, but when I told them I wasn’t interested in an extension, they promptly initiated the refund process. I got my money back within 4 business days. Make sure you buy NordVPN and get another 3 months free >>

How to use NordVPN VPN

To use NordVPN, perform the following simple steps:

Go to the NordVPN website and sign up for a subscription.
Download the NordVPN app for the device you want to use.
Enter your login password in the app.
Enable the Obfuscation Server by going to: Settings > Show Advanced Settings > Obfuscation Server (toggle it on).
Now, connect to one of the obfuscation servers by clicking on the “Servers” tab, and then click to automatically connect to the fastest VPN server, or manually select the server location.
Use NordVPN and unlock all online content.

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2. Surfshark – Recommend the cheapest VPN

Surfshark is affordable but doesn’t skimp on privacy and security. In 2023, Surfshark‘s no-logs policy was independently audited by Deloitte, rigorously reviewing server configurations, deployment processes, and more. The audit confirmed the provider’s commitment to a no-logs VPN.

I like to protect all my devices with one subscription, and Surfshark offers unlimited device connections. No matter how many devices I set up, my connection remains stable and smooth.

Surfshark features NoBorders, an intuitive feature that provides you with a list of servers suitable for bypassing strict network restrictions. Camouflage mode, Surfshark’s obfuscation feature, makes your VPN connection appear as regular traffic to help you overcome VPN blocks.

Security is strong, including leak protection, an integrated malware blocker, and a kill switch. The dynamic multi-hop feature routes traffic through two servers, enhancing security. You can choose from 100+ server locations.

The IP rotation feature automatically changes your IP address without altering your VPN location. Enabling this feature enhances your security by ensuring your IP address constantly changes.

Surfshark boasts an impressive server network, with 1,000+ servers in 61 countries/regions. It includes split tunneling and multi-hop features, allowing you to route certain traffic through different servers, useful for bypassing censorship or avoiding location restrictions.

Another significant feature of Surfshark is its whitelist option. This lets you specifically whitelist certain websites and services to always use your VPN connection, ideal for ensuring your banking information remains secure or accessing region-locked content.

One of the most popular VPN services is Surfshark VPN. With its budget-friendly pricing and unlimited simultaneous connections, it’s an attractive VPN choice for all types of consumers. Surfshark is the most economical choice, starting at just $2.30 per month for their long-term plan. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there’s no financial risk.

You can personally try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and its plans start as low as $2.30. Requesting a refund is easy using Surfshark’s live chat feature. While the support team asked me why I wanted to cancel initially, they promptly processed my request, and I had my money back in under 4 days! Make sure you buy Surfshark and get 3 months of service for free>>

How to Download and Install Surfshark

To use Surfshark VPN, perform the following simple steps:

Go to the Surfshark website and sign up for a subscription.
Download the Surfshark app for the device you want to use.
Enter your login credentials in the VPN app.
Enable the NoBorders feature by going to: Settings > Advanced > NoBorders (toggle on).
After activating the NoBorders feature, you can use the VPN as normal.
Enjoy using Surfshark VPN now.

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3. ExpressVPN – The fastest VPN in the world.

ExpressVPN is known for its high-speed servers, making it an excellent choice for those who want to unlock content from around the world. With a vast network of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, it provides top-tier speeds, ideal for seamless streaming and downloading. This makes ExpressVPN an excellent option for anyone looking to use a VPN for streaming or gaming.

ExpressVPN also boasts strong privacy features, outstanding performance, and extensive P2P support. It has been rigorously tested and consistently proven that it never logs user data. Their privacy policy explicitly states that they will never store your identity information, and they have a proven track record of zero data logging.

To further protect user privacy, ExpressVPN utilizes RAM-based servers, which clear user data with every reboot. The service offers robust leak protection to prevent the exposure of sensitive information.

While ExpressVPN provides WireGuard, it also has its own protocol called Lightway, which is effective for P2P file sharing. Additionally, ExpressVPN allows split tunneling and offers P2P-friendly servers.

ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit military-grade encryption to protect your devices and employs an automatic kill switch to cut off your internet if your VPN connection is unexpectedly interrupted, preventing unnecessary data leaks. The service uses automatic obfuscation technology across all servers to obfuscate your metadata and hide your VPN usage, allowing you to bypass strict firewalls and VPN blocks.

Based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-focused jurisdiction with no data retention laws, ExpressVPN can uphold its commitment to protecting user data, with no legal obligations to share user data with government authorities.

ExpressVPN’s downsides include its relatively high price and a limit of five simultaneous connections. However, you can pay with various methods like credit cards, PayPal, or Bitcoin, offering an extra layer of anonymity. Other payment options include Alipay, UnionPay, IDEAL, Klarna, and more. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s easy to get a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

When I personally tested ExpressVPN’s refund process, the support representative responded to my request in less than a minute via 24/7 live chat. I wasn’t even asked to reconsider or troubleshoot the issue. In fact, my request was processed immediately, and most importantly, I had my money back in less than 5 days! Make sure you get another 3 months free with your ExpressVPN purchase>>

How to set up ExpressVPN VPN

To use ExpressVPN, simply perform the following steps:

Go to the ExpressVPN website and sign up for a subscription.
Log in to your account and download the software for the device you want to use the VPN for.
Open the ExpressVPN app and enter the activation code (from your account page).
Now, connect to one of the nearest servers and use the internet normally.
Instantly use ExpressVPN and unlock all your online content.

Why Is Online Privacy So Important?

From the beginning, the online community viewed the internet as a private space, aiming to maintain it as free, accessible, and open to all. Many users consider it the last refuge for freedom of speech, where anonymity should be guaranteed for those who seek it.

Some argue that in countries where freedom of speech might result in imprisonment or more severe penalties, it holds value as a platform for political resistance. Some even express concerns about U.S. government surveillance through the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes alliances. For those who have these concerns, VPNs offer crucial protection for freedom and privacy.

Why Is Your IP Address Important?

An IP address is a piece of information that absolutely identifies your device, and all your online activities can be tracked through your IP address. Suppose you’re not using a VPN. In that case, your home ISP or public Wi-Fi provider has likely assigned you that address.

It’s not about who assigns it; the important thing is that law enforcement agencies can always trace it back to you and you alone. However, when you connect to a VPN server, the server issues you a new, anonymous, and untraceable address.

How Do Free VPNs Compare to Paid VPNs?

Free VPNs need to make money somehow, and depending on their level of legitimacy, they might:

Even with the most reputable free VPNs, you may still encounter the following limitations:

In summary, before using a free VPN, make sure you’ve thoroughly researched the company and understand their privacy policy.

Conclusion

You need a VPN because it hides your identity and online activities from your internet service provider, the government, and the websites you visit. This ensures better online privacy and security. Additionally, virtual private networks help bypass censorship and geo-restrictions, ensuring greater internet freedom worldwide.

In most cases, using a VPN is safe and legal. However, some websites and apps may not be accessible through a VPN connection. Moreover, some countries prohibit the use of virtual private networks, and using one could get you into trouble.

When choosing a VPN, exercise caution, as there are many unscrupulous companies posing as service providers that can compromise your privacy. Therefore, thorough research is essential before registering with any virtual private network.

If you want comprehensive protection for your online activities, we recommend trying NordVPN. It offers excellent security features, is very user-friendly, and can unblock popular streaming platforms. Regardless of where you are, NordVPN will provide you with lightning-fast speeds and anonymous internet browsing.

NordVPN has over 5,600 servers in more than 60 countries/regions, making it ideal for unlocking geographically restricted content and websites. Most importantly, NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test it with no financial risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can VPN Protect My Security and Privacy?

VPN should protect your online security and privacy, but it’s not always the case. Many VPNs have vulnerabilities and other issues that make them unsuitable for privacy and security purposes. Therefore, thorough research is crucial before using a VPN.

Can I Use a Free VPN?

As you explore various VPN services, you’ll undoubtedly encounter numerous free options, which may seem attractive as they don’t require payment. However, it’s essential to be aware that free VPNs often have more drawbacks than benefits. While these companies don’t charge you directly, they still find ways to profit from you.

Many free VPNs track your activities and create profiles to sell to advertisers. Some overstate their security, and some VPN applications may carry malicious software. Privacy and security are often lacking with these services. If these reasons aren’t enough to disappoint you, there are also issues with the user experience.

We mentioned selling your data to advertisers. Some services simply inject ads and cookies into websites you visit while browsing or place them directly in the VPN client itself. Furthermore, free VPN services usually have many users sharing a limited number of servers.

This can result in long wait times in queue systems. Once connected, you’re likely to encounter slow, unreliable connections and may be unable to access the websites you want. Considering all these factors, we generally recommend avoiding the use of free VPN services unless you’re in a pinch.

Is VPN Difficult to Use?

Although VPNs are powerful tools, they are straightforward to use, even for beginners. All you need to do is follow the steps outlined in the above section, and you’ll be on your way. The VPNs listed above all provide intuitive applications.

How Do I Know If My VPN Is Working?

Your VPN application should clearly indicate when a connection to the VPN server is established. However, if you want to check whether you’re connected and located correctly, you can look up your IP address. A simple way to do this is to visit whatismyipaddress.com.

What Should I Do If My VPN Isn’t Working?

Just like any software, you might encounter issues while using a VPN. Fortunately, the VPN industry is highly competitive, meaning services regularly strive to outdo each other in terms of support. Most reputable providers offer a wealth of tutorials and FAQs on their websites and respond to email inquiries within a day or two.

The best VPNs, including those listed above, offer real-time chat support, typically available 24/7. If you’ve exhausted all these options and still can’t get your VPN to work properly, many VPNs offer money-back guarantees.

What If My Provider Doesn’t Have Apps for My Device?

VPN providers are expanding their app offerings, with many extending their app coverage beyond the most popular operating systems like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Some offer Linux applications, while others provide Amazon Fire TV apps.

However, with so many internet-connected devices in your home, you may want to connect unsupported devices. In such cases, here are some possible options (please note that you should visit the VPN provider’s website to see if these options are available and how to set them up):

What’s the Difference Between VPN and Proxy?

If your primary goal is to bypass content restrictions, you may have encountered claims from DNS proxy providers that they can do the job. However, Netflix can easily block these services, and you may not have much luck using them, as they are actively combating the use of proxies.

The primary difference between VPN and DNS proxies is encryption. The latter doesn’t encrypt your traffic, so your activities are exposed. This means that your ISP, network administrators, hackers, or any other prying eyes can see what you’re doing online. Furthermore, DNS proxies are somewhat similar to free VPNs, often using similar tactics, including selling your information, injecting ads, and other unethical practices.

Can You Connect One VPN to Another?

Yes, you can use multiple VPNs simultaneously, but it’s a complex process. Unless you’re a tech-savvy individual, you shouldn’t attempt this. However, it should be noted that while it’s possible to run two VPNs at the same time, it’s not usually necessary and doesn’t provide many benefits, especially when you consider what it needs to work.

When you use two VPNs, one may connect while the second shows a routing error. Then, the two will compete with each other until one takes the lead, leaving only one VPN running. The best way to make two VPNs work together is to set one up on your operating system and the other on a virtual machine. To do this, you’d need to install a virtual machine and add OpenVPN.

You can then use the virtual machine system to connect to both tunnels. This will route your IP address through the first computer before going through the virtual machine. It’s essential to note that this will significantly decrease your speed. If you’re looking to double down on security, it’s better to use the TOR network when connecting to a VPN.

Is Using a VPN Legal?

The good news is that VPNs are legal in most countries. While some countries actively block VPN connections, such as mainland China and Russia, using them is not inherently illegal. However, you should always exercise caution when using a VPN, especially in countries or regions with strict censorship.

What Is Split Tunneling, and How Does It Benefit Me?

Split tunneling allows you to determine which programs on your computer will use the VPN to transmit traffic and which ones will use another connection. This allows you to specify which network traffic goes through the VPN while the rest can use your regular IP address.

This means you can ensure the security of your most sensitive information while still being able to access content without routing it through the VPN. Another benefit of split tunneling is that it can improve your connection’s speed and performance by reducing the use of the VPN for some traffic.

VPN is What? How Does It Work? Explained 2023 Oct