Surfing securely in a private tunnel: how a VPN works

In today's connected world, where more and more activities are carried out over the internet, it is more important than ever to take care of cyber security. Firewalls and Antivirus programs are already part of most people's standard equipment against malware and the like on the Internet, but by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) you can significantly increase your data security on the Internet. But that's not all, because a VPN also helps you to bypass all restrictions and use the entire Internet without restrictions. We explain how a VPN works and why the service would also be beneficial for you.

What is a VPN?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It is a security program that helps you to stay secure on the Internet. How does it work? A VPN acts as an extra layer of security between your device and the server of the website you are visiting. Instead of connecting you directly to the host, the VPN routes you through a remote server, which can be located anywhere in the world. This connection is made through a private tunnel that encrypts your data and hides your true location. With most VPN services, you can choose from dozens or even more locations around the planet to connect to the network. This tricks the website you are visiting into thinking you are in a different location. As you use it, your IP addressor your "digital fingerprint" is changed so that your location cannot be tracked.  

What are the advantages of a VPN?

The advantages of using a VPN service are manifold and can be useful in a wide variety of surfing situations. Advantage number one is the increased security on the net. Since your data is completely encrypted by a VPN and your location is hidden, it is impossible for third parties to gain unauthorized access to your connection. Even if someone were to manage to hack your connection, the encryption would render all data unreadable. Your personal information and identity remain secure and private with the help of a VPN.

However, a VPN not only protects you from unauthorized access by malicious people, but also protects you from any potential surveillance by your ISP or a website provider. Websites usually collect a lot of information about the users who visit them and may even sell it to third parties. However, if you use a VPN, your private information will remain protected. Finally, by changing your virtual location, you can even bypass geo-restrictions and visit any website on the internet regardless of your location.

When should I use a VPN?

There are a number of situations in which it is worth using a VPN. This is particularly the case when you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, for example at a train station or in a café. As every visitor has access to the network, private data is particularly at risk of being intercepted by third parties. However, if you connect to the internet in a café using a VPN, your data remains protected from prying eyes.

VPNs are also particularly popular when it comes to using services that are either inaccessible in certain regions or include different content depending on the location. This is the case with streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, for example. For example, if you want to access your familiar library of series and films abroad, a VPN can help you to access the German version of the service. A VPN can also help if you are currently in a country where certain services do not work. For example, if you are currently outside of Europe and are watching a sporting event of your favorite team, you can still access the German version of the service with the help of a VPN. Sports betting sites in Europe to place bets on them. The top-rated European providers not only cover the most important sporting events from Europe, but also allow a secure betting experience with trustworthy licenses. Even if you are in Asia, betting with a VPN is possible without any problems. The use of a VPN therefore offers many advantages in numerous situations.

Nowadays, the Internet is simply part of everyday life and most of us can hardly imagine life without it. A VPN is therefore an important companion, especially nowadays, which not only increases the security of your data on the Internet, but also helps you to easily bypass any restrictions on the Internet.