Virtual private networks are generally used by corporations and organizations to provide security for data transmission when the worker is working from a remote location. The company or organization installs a virtual private network that allows users to work securely through the use of their Web browser.
Although a virtual private network is utilized by corporations and organizations, there are virtual private network service providers that are becoming more common for the private computer user who like to connect to WiFi in the local coffee shop or while they are waiting for their plane at the airport.
Public WiFi networks are popping up all over the place and often the WiFi networks that are provided for the public are unsecured. Any data that you send or receive over the unsecured network can be captured by hackers, the network owner, or the administrator. So what about security when you connect to the WiFi public networks? This is where the virtual private network service providers can provide you with the security you need on public access networks.
How a VPN Service Works
When you use a virtual private network, your actions on the Internet cannot be tracked by others outside of the virtual private network. All of your Internet activities are secured through a direct link with the virtual private network server. The link that you establish with the server is encrypted, so if a hacker does happen to pick up your virtual private network connection, the data cannot be viewed since the link is encrypted. Your IP address is also protected while surfing the Internet so your location cannot be determined.
How to Access a VPN Service
A virtual private network service provides VPN tunneling through a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and is available through paid services or free services. If you perform a Google search for virtual private network services or free virtual private network services you can access a list of different service providers that can provide you with secure Web browsing.
As you do your research, it is important to note that there may be some restrictions on the amount of traffic that is allowed on a monthly basis, Web page request sizes, and certain games that cannot be accessed due to the amount of memory that is required for some of these applications.
Also, if your activities involve downloading a lot of music files or other types of files, there may be certain restriction on these activities. The free virtual private network services are not completely void of ads but when you upgrade to a premium account, the services will be ad-free.
Keep in mind that with a virtual private network service, your browsing experience may be slower due to the added layer between you and the websites that you are visiting, and the traffic restrictions that are placed on your account which will vary depending on the service that you choose.
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