The latest VPN solutions; Ah, the magical VPN. Perhaps the most popular internet and information security tool that has taken hold of tech-savvy consumers (and general public alike) in this decade. You’ve seen them on everything from ads on websites to sponsoring YouTube users, to events,
There are many reasons for the rise in popularity of VPN software that would be deemed “nerdy” only five years ago, and we’ll take a glance at these reasons. Also, what’s essential for you as a security and privacy-conscious technology user is this; thanks to the amount of collaboration, interaction, and legitimate review portals online, it is not difficult to decide on and pick up a great VPN via the latest VPN software tests.
Find your pick among the latest VPN solutions
Why are VPNs so popular nowadays?
Over the last decade, virtual private networks (VPNs) have become increasingly popular. In fact, the popularity of VPNs has boomed, which isn’t an exaggeration. This boom coincides with several factors that concern the general state of information security, surveillance, and privacy in the world.
Unfortunately, this situation has been going downhill for quite some time; as has distrust towards the government and how our data is handled by “Big Data.”
Also, most of us now know that cybercrime has become very rampant and very sophisticated, so traditional “perimeter defense” like firewalls and antimalware programs no longer suffice when it comes to our computer systems and devices. Even traditional passwords are being slowly replaced by more complex multi-factor authentication systems to curb cybercrime. And, even that can be sabotaged by hackers who use social engineering tactics. Worse yet, hackers have found ways to compromise internet routers, let alone your computer or devices. This means that it can sniff your connection (intercepted.)
Why are VPNs so popular nowadays?
VPN solutions
Then there is the practical side of VPNs. And loved by people who like to unblock their digital streaming services and also loved by those in countries where the internet can censor (or may censor certain apps).
Businesses worldwide have also started using VPNs en masse this decade, encouraging their employees to use VPNs and running their systems through enterprise-grade VPN systems for additional privacy and security.
Of course, let’s not forget that VPNs are popular; because they can also be used for shady or “embarrassing” purposes by people looking to hide their tracks; such as cybercriminals and fraudsters. Furthermore, VPNs can offer peace of mind for people who like to access adult material online.
The humble VPN is a wizard of all trades. People have been looking for an all-in-one solution to security and privacy woes for a long time. Unfortunately, until recently. This was only possible via specialized internet connections (with static IP, in a way) and unstable and challenging proxy chains.
Now, we all have access to the shiny new advancement. A VPN that came from ancient PPTP technology and trickled down to the masses from research and military roots. But did you know that the internet itself was an academic and military project before it became public? This is how it is in technology as most new technologies are secret. So, end up reaching the public as they slowly commercialize.
So, let’s look at what a VPN is exactly and what you should look for in a VPN.
VPN solutions: What is a VPN?
So, at its most basic level, a VPN is a network tunneling software that encrypts a connection from end to end. So, it does this by rerouting your internet connection through its proprietary servers. Which premium VPNs do with AES 256-bit modern encryption. This way, you can relocate your computer or device’s IP address. This way, your ISP, the government. The rest of the internet will see your VPN provider’s IP and DNS, not your own.
This is why VPNs can unblock digital streaming content if you are outside of the country. This is also why a VPN can unblock censorship and hide your tracks. By anonymizing them from data collection organizations (web marketers and publishers.)
You have no way of tracking, monitoring, and identifying your location after being through a VPN. Bear in mind not all VPNs can do this, so don’t go around downloading just any random VPN. Free VPNs you should avoid because, as a general rule. Even if they are legitimate, you will encounter many limitations that will hamper your browsing experience.
What should you look for in a VPN solution?
So, You need to consider a few critical factors when choosing a quality VPN; such as security and reliability, privacy, and logging, number of servers, speed, cost, user-friendliness, and customer support. There are also more technical factors to consider; such as the level of encryption, optional security or miscellaneous features, and the reputation of the VPN brand.
As far as VPNs go, the top dogs are well-known. However, the BMWs, Audi’s and Mercedes’s, and such of the VPN world do indeed exist. These are generally categorized as (in no specific order); NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, and Surfshark. These VPNs are highly commercial and include all the bells and whistles you will need (and some you may not ever use.)
So, most importantly, you can be sure that will not save your information; and that you will enjoy user-friendly software that does what it says on the label. On top of that, you will have customer support backing you up, which is always an essential factor. To boot, none of these services are expensive to subscribe to, compared to what you get in return.
Of course, aside from just using a VPN, you should back that VPN up with common sense while using your devices and the internet. For example, remember to practice password hygiene on all your devices and routers and read up on phishing scams. Also, you could benefit from downloading a specialized browser created for security and privacy to complement your VPN. Finally, don’t overshare personal information about yourself, your family, or your friends online, and avoid shady websites altogether.