VPN stands for virtual private network and whether you realize it or not, it’s something you should be using. When you connect to a VPN, before connecting to the Internet, all of your Internet activity is encrypted and secured from eavesdropping and tracking.
When you connect to the Internet, your Internet Service Provider, or ISP, sees the following:
1. your IP address (It identifies you and your location)
2. names of the websites you visit
3. videos you watch
4. who you email
5. who you instant message
6. your downloads and uploads
But if you connect to a VPN first, all of your Internet activity is encrypted, and your ISP can’t see it.
Use a VPN to:
1. Replace your IP address with one from any country or state where your VPN provides service.
2. Protect the data on your iPhone, iPad, laptop, desktop etc…
3. Encrypt your Internet sessions when using public Wi-Fi hotspots.
4. Keep your passwords, emails, and browsing activity private.
5. Bypass location based blocks. Some websites are restricted due to your IP location.
The only downside I’ve found is that signing into a VPN usually reduces your Internet speed. There are lots and lots of VPN services out there, so my advice is to try several different ones until you find one that you can live with. Most of them offer a free trial so you can try out as many as you want.
Below is a very small selection of companies that provide VPN service:
1. Vyprvpn.com
2. Cactusvpn.com
3. Privateinternetaccess.com
4. Proxpn.com
5. Hideipvpn.com
6. Purevpn.com