Additional data security when surfing via WLAN hotspots

Public Wi-Fi hotspots are definitely a great advantage for surfing, as users can easily go online and surf with them. However, anyone who wants to access the internet using publicly available Wi-Fi networks from restaurants or bars should be aware that these networks are not encrypted and could become victims of data thieves or hackers. Instead, a “virtual private network” or “virtual private network” (VPN) should be installed, which securely encrypts the data on the user’s own digital device – such as a mobile phone or laptop – so that the hacker can’t read the transmitted data.

With the help of the VPN connection, surfers can surf the net completely anonymously. At the same time, it is possible to secure privacy on the Internet, as neither the user's IP address nor their current location can be determined. The tunnel-like, encrypted connection ensures that the device is much less likely to be attacked by hackers. There are different VPNs. The end-to-site VPN is usually used so that external workers can cooperate with the company. With the site-to-site VPN, several networks can be combined into one virtual network. The end-to-end VPN is the standard model with a tunnel connection, whereby one client accesses another client.

Reasons to use a VPN
Because of its wide range of functions and good quality, NordVPN is popular with users. When using any VPN, the data security of one’s own data is paramount, as the primary goal is to protect one’s own data from hackers and unauthorized access.

1. ACCESS TO THE HOME COMPUTER WHILE ON THE MOVE

Employees who are often on the move and frequently access the Internet via unencrypted WLANs should only use these networks with the VPN. Otherwise, the data used may well be hacked or misused, as security is no longer guaranteed.

2. USE OF OPEN WLANS TO ACCESS THE INTERNET

People who use their digital end devices - i.e. laptops, smartphones or tablets - to access the internet via unencrypted Wi-Fi often fall victim to data misuse. It is therefore necessary to prevent data misuse in many professional and private activities - for example by installing powerful, high-quality VPN software.

3. CONNECTION OF UP TO SIX DEVICES

With NordVPN, up to six devices can be equipped with the VPN at the same time so that they are protected accordingly. The installation is carried out via the owner's router, which would secure an entire network.

NordVPN's VPN software on all devices enables fast streaming. With the help of NordVPN and the 5,600 servers they operate, geo-blocks can be easily bypassed so that users can watch movies from abroad or domestic movies abroad at any time - without any loss of quality.

In what way does masking the IP address help?
There are several reasons why people want to conceal the unique IP address of their smartphones. Some want to hide their local location, others want their online activities to remain secret. Some are bothered by the fact that they leave IT forensic footprints through browsing over public networks that could be traced back to them.

In total, there are three measures that help to conceal the IP address of a digital device:

• With the help of the Tor browser, it is relatively quick to disguise the IP address and thus move anonymously on the Internet.
• Another method is the use of VPNs. The configuration of the company also plays a role here, which should be geared towards the use of a VPN.
• The proxy server as a classic variant can also lead to the IP address being changed. With the right settings, it can also be used for private surfing.