A VPN is often described as something you need to stay safe online. But many explanations make it sound more complicated than it really is, and people decide not to use it because of the complexity it adds to their internet connection.
Let’s keep it simple and first understand what a VPN means.
What Does “VPN” Mean?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network.
In basic terms, a VPN creates a secure connection between your device’s internet connection (phone, laptop, tablet) and the internet.
Instead of your device connecting directly to a website, it first connects to the VPN, which then connects to the website for you.
The dynamic nature of this network connection makes it “Virtual”, meaning that you can establish a secure connection when you need it. Because it is only for your device, it becomes “Private”, and because it is a secure network connection, it is a “Network”.
Now lets see what it can do for you.
What Does a VPN Actually Do?
When you use a VPN, three main things happen:
- Your internet traffic is encrypted
This means people on the same network can’t easily see what you’re doing online. - Your IP address is hidden from websites
Websites see the VPN’s IP address instead of yours. - Your connection appears to come from a different location
Depending on the VPN server you choose, your traffic may look as if it’s coming from another city or country.
That’s the core of what a VPN does.