VPNs

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a tool you can use to redirect your device network traffic through another network. VPNs are commonly used to remotely connect to a workplace’s local network or to just mask someone’s public IP address with the VPN server's.

How it works

When you start a VPN connection, the VPN establishes an encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server using a VPN protocol. Using this protocol, data sent from your device is encrypted and routed through the internet to the server's location. The server then decrypts said data and any data sent through the VPN will appear as if the device was on the same network as the VPN. Because of this, accessing websites through the VPN will make it appear as though your IP Address was the same as the VPN server's (this can help with access geo-restricted or censored content by using the server's location as your point of access, enhancing both your privacy and online freedom.

Some Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Bypass Geo-blocking

2. Increased Privacy (for IP addresses)

3. Access to separate network

Cons:

1. Decreased Internet Speeds

2. VPN servers generally costs money

3. A lot of Public VPN Providers spy on you