Using a VPN: 7 Solid Reasons For Consideration
Posted by aonenetworks On December 4, 2013
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) has two main focuses: 1) to cloak and encrypt your digital signal, making your online activity indecipherable to anyone, and 2) deflecting your IP address to appear it originates from a different machine/location/country. Increasing interest in internet privacy, and frustration of digital tracking has made use of VPN’s all the more desirable. Here are seven reasons you may want to consider a VPN.
- The coffee shop Wi-Fi and the Hotel free internet are neither safe nor confidential. Signals are broadcast for anyone savvy enough to eavesdrop. Junior hackers can intercept the information you are sharing. A VPN is a great investment if you are a frequent traveler or like to work in the coffee shop or bookstore. Public Wi-Fi could then safely be used for net banking and online shopping.
- Traveling overseas you will find that access to popular sites will be blocked. Services such as Pandora, Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon Prime cannot be viewed with the foreign IP address because of copyright agreements. Using a VPN, you can use your US IP address and have these services on your trip.
- Sidestep restrictive networks. An Acceptable Use Policy will impose restrictions on viewing certain sites, even accessing mail. A VPN connection will allow you to connect with this content, and will encrypt and keep your browsing data private.
- Download and upload files privately. A VPN will encrypt and keep all your files and document secure and safe from unauthorized observers. A useful tool for proprietary information and customer files.
- Use search engines without having your searches logged. Search choices are logged to your computer’s IP address, for customized advertising and future search ease. VPN is essential to keep your private searches private.
- Secure your VOIP calls. Voice-Over-IP conversations are fairly simple to listen in on. Services such as Skype, Lync, or other online chatting can be kept private with a VPN. This may be especially helpful if your business calls are VOIP, and you would like to secure these customer conversations.
- Keep private information private. If you are a firm believer in personal privacy, and the right to keep your online activity away from surveillance then this may be the only reason you need a VPN.
One downfall of VPN is that it will reduce your connection speed up to 40% depending on configuration. With rising identity theft and hacking, a VPN could be a solid step in protecting your business and may be worth any decreased speeds.
