One of the best cybersecurity tools that you could ever install on your device is a virtual private network. You might know it better as a VPN, but this tool brings some incredible protection and other benefits to your device. But, the only problem is that these cybersecurity tools can be relatively expensive — and it’s often not something that we budget for.
However, this is your chance to grab one of the best VPNs on the market at a fraction of the price. This Black Friday, you have the chance to find some of the best VPN deals so you can get yourself one of the ultimate privacy and security tools without paying the full price for them.
If you’re not sure what a VPN is and why you need one, then make sure to keep reading as we break down the importance of privacy on your device and the ability to change your device’s virtual location. You’ll be heading over to grab one of the VPN Black Friday sales in no time.
What is a VPN?
First things first, what is a VPN? A VPN is a cybersecurity tool that has been designed to encrypt your internet connection. While your internet connection is encrypted with a CPN, no one can see what you’re doing on your device while using it and browsing the internet. For example, your internet service provider can’t keep track of your internet history, and even the government can’t monitor your internet traffic. In other words, a VPN is the ultimate tool for privacy and security on the web.
VPNs also allow you to connect to secure global servers in other cities and countries around the world. Once you’re connected to one of these servers, your real IP address will be masked, and your device will adopt the IP address of the server that you have connected to by routing your internet traffic through the server.
That sounds great, but what does it all mean? Websites use your IP address to pinpoint your device’s physical location. They don’t use your location for any malicious purpose, it’s mainly to send you targeted ads and marketing based on businesses near your location. So, when you’re using a VPN, you can change this IP address and trick websites into thinking that you’re accessing them from elsewhere. While the benefits of doing so might not be clear right now, we’ll go into more detail later on.
Why VPNs are Essential
It might be great to know that your ISP and the government can’t monitor your internet traffic, but there’s a more important reason why VPNs are so important in the modern world. If you’re a frequent traveler or if you enjoy working remotely from your local coffee shop, then you can’t overlook the importance of this cybersecurity tool.
Public WiFi hotspots such as the ones found at airports, hotels, and restaurants often use unsecured networks. While these are often cheap, convenient, and easy to access, they can put your device and your personal information at serious risk.
Skilled cybercriminals that are connected to the same unsecured network as you can listen in on your device as it sends and receives data through the internet. This allows them to steal critical information such as your login credentials, personal information, and even your banking details. If you’re not careful, you could fall victim to a serious cyberattack.
The best way to prevent one of these cyberattacks is by encrypting your internet connection with a VPN whenever you connect to an unsecured network. You never know who else is on the network and snooping around through the data of unsuspecting victims, so make sure to enable your auto-connect feature!
Other Important VPN Features
VPNs have additional features that are important to know about though. While they are excellent for keeping your devices private and secure, they also come with other benefits — which is the main reason why they have become so popular in our modern society.
Remember, how VPNs allow you to connect to secure servers in other countries and cities around the world? Well, this feature is about more than just hiding your device’s real location and tricking websites into thinking that you’re accessing them from elsewhere.
By using this feature, you can bypass frustrating geo-blocking restrictions and internet censorship. All you need to do is change your IP address to one in a different country and you can enjoy any content on the internet including YouTube videos, live sports streams, and Netflix shows that are only available in specific countries around the world.
You can also find cheaper flights and accommodation by using a VPN. Many websites that allow you to book flights and accommodation will discriminate against internet users based on their physical location. Try connecting to a server in a third-world country, or a server in the country you are planning on visiting, and see how the prices change!