What is Virtual Private Network?
A technology that creates a secure, encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the public internet. VPNs mask your IP address, encrypt your internet traffic, and can make it appear as though you're browsing from a different location.
Also known as: VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a VPN server, hiding your online activity from your ISP, network administrators, and potential eavesdroppers.
What a VPN Does
- Hides your IP address: Websites see the VPN server's IP, not yours
- Encrypts your traffic: Your ISP can't see what you're doing online
- Bypasses geo-restrictions: Access content as if you're in another country
- Protects on public WiFi: Prevents snooping on unsecured networks
What a VPN Doesn't Do
- Make you anonymous: The VPN provider can see your traffic
- Protect against malware: You still need security software
- Hide all metadata: Timing analysis can still reveal patterns
- Prevent fingerprinting: Websites can still identify your browser
Choosing a Privacy-Respecting VPN
Look for:
- No-logs policy: Independently audited
- Anonymous payment: Accepts crypto or cash
- Open-source clients: Code can be verified
- Jurisdiction: Based in privacy-friendly country
- Kill switch: Blocks internet if VPN disconnects
- DNS leak protection: Prevents DNS queries from bypassing VPN
Red Flags
Avoid VPNs that:
- Keep connection or activity logs
- Are based in 14 Eyes countries (without strong privacy laws)
- Offer "lifetime" subscriptions
- Have unclear ownership
- Make unrealistic claims about "military-grade" encryption
Related Terms
Encryption
The process of converting information into a code to prevent unauthorized access. Encryption transforms readable data (plaintext) into an unreadable format (ciphertext) using a cryptographic algorithm and key. Only those with the correct key can decrypt and read the original data.
IP Address
A unique numerical identifier assigned to every device connected to a computer network. Your IP address reveals your approximate geographic location and can be used to track your online activity, link your actions across websites, and identify your internet service provider.
Tor Network
A free, open-source software and network that enables anonymous communication by directing Internet traffic through a worldwide volunteer overlay network of thousands of relays. Tor conceals users' locations and usage from surveillance and traffic analysis.
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