What is a VPN? And how does it work?

Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology which allows users to disguise their identity online by encrypting their data. A VPN can protect users from online threats and is useful in situations where the user wishes to remain anonymous.

Common Question and Answer regarding the VPN

Is using a VPN service legal?

In many countries, the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) is legal. However, VPNs are prohibited in the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, China, Iran, North Korea, Saudi Arabia and Russia, as these countries consider any form of IP spoofing to be illegal.

Are you 100 percent anonymous when using a VPN?

Using a VPN cannot guarantee 100% anonymity. Even if some VPNs offer many additional security features like double VPN or kill switch to keep the connection as private and secure as possible.

There are many ways to intercept data. One example is browser fingerprinting. This is a technique for identifying individual web users by collecting information about their browser settings and system configurations. This includes screen resolution, supported fonts, time zone, browser version, plug-ins, etc. A VPN cannot completely remove the fingerprint.

Which operating systems support VPN access?

VPNs typically work on Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android (including Android TV), and Linux.

Some router systems also support VPNs. If the router does not support VPN out of the box, flashing a custom firmware such as DD-WRT or Tomato can help.

Related  ExpressVPN Review 2023: The all-rounder among VPN services?

Is a VPN Difficult to Use?

No, after installing the VPN software, you usually only have to enter your user name and password. Then select a server and off you go. Most VPN providers also offer detailed instructions.

Does a VPN slow down the internet connection?

Depending on the provider, a VPN can slow down the internet speed. With most reputable VPN services, however, a braking effect is usually not noticeable.

Basically, the farther away the VPN server you are connected to is, the greater the drop in speed.

How can I check if a VPN is working?

  1. Determine your actual IP address, which you received from your Internet provider. To do this, simply search Google for “What is my IP address?”.
  2. Make a note of the IP address you have without a VPN.
  3. Turn on your VPN and check the IP address again.
  4. You should now see a different IP address.
  5. You should then check your VPN connection for common VPN leaks on https://ipleak.net.
mr.kodi

mr.kodi

Leave a Replay

About Me

Mr Kodi is a tech writer covering IT-related subjects since 2014. A digital named who depends on the internet to make a living, he’s always seeking out the best value and highest quality products and services on the web.

Recent Posts

Sign up for our Newsletter

Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit