VPN stands for a virtual private network that provides the option for online users to surf the Internet through a private network. The software is an effective online security tool that helps to protect your digital footprint from prying eyes.
Growing concerns have people taking a serious look at the online security of their private information, particularly by third parties. Third parties are individuals who make use of invasive software to profile the user.
A VPN encryption method can provide data privacy protection along with many privacy-related benefits.
The Different Types of VPNs & Their Features
A VPN process consists of a set of VPN protocols which dictates how information flows from a device to the VPN server. This is typically done through tunnelling protocol which encrypts information passing through and thus allows for secure VPN interactions.
Remote access VPN will connect the user to a secure remote server. Commercial and easy to install, you can utilise their network, with encryption technology.
The second type is the intranet-based site-to-site VPN where collaborators from different locations can share the same information through a secure server. On the other hand, the third, extranet-based site-to-site VPN is a connection of intranets over a secure network yet unable to share the information.
The latter two types are best suited for business engagements and require the most complex tech to set them up.
How Do VPNs Protect You from Data Breaches & Hackers?
A vital component of a VPN is its ability to encrypt data and it never appears in its true form. Your digital footprints are invisible, meaning your IP address and location are locked from prying eyes. This not only allows for anonymity but also the opportunity for the user to protect digital privacy.
Personal data is an online commodity resulting in hackers, third parties and servers alike seeking to capitalise. This data breach and the commercialisation of personal information necessitate that you take steps to secure your browsing against cyber security issues. In instances where breaches have already occurred, and the removal of data is prudent, external help becomes a useful tool.
The Benefits of Using a VPN for Online Shopping & Banking
Digital privacy is essential when a site requires you to disclose your financial information while doing online shopping or banking. A valuable feature of using a VPN is that your information is never stored, particularly financial information.
The added security of banking with an enabled VPN is that your information will not be tracked or stored on the server. A good VPN will not store private user data. Since banks use a verifications process, this enables secure online transactions.
With your financial information made secure, online shopping is also possible. Since there is no saved data, third parties can’t track your online purchases.
Conclusion
Data protection is more than just a personal choice but protection by online users to protect themselves against invasive intrusion by third parties. While regulations on digital privacy are in their development stage, a good VPN is readily available for use while the debates rage on among big tech giants.
