A VPN is a way for people to connect their personal devices to each other and the Internet in a secure manner. Through encryption, it keeps your information safe from hackers and eavesdroppers while having the added benefit of hiding your IP address and allowing you to browse anonymously.

The setup process for a VPN can take several routes. Most newer operating systems now offer a VPN option in their network sharing centers. For a hosted VPN, subscribe to their service, download their software, and then follow their setup directions. It is a fairly simple process either way.

A VPN enables you to avoid geo-blocks, surf anonymously, securely transfer files, and bypass internet censorship. Perhaps most importantly, it adds a much greater level of security to your computer. The top of the line antivirus software is only about 75% effective.

The simplest way to connect to a VPN is to install the host’s software on each of your devices. To directly connect your entire network to a VPN, you will need to have a VPN compatible router and perform the installation on it, which can become complicated. Seek professional advice.

Slow speeds are the number one VPN complaint. To maximize your VPN speed: use a server as close to your geographical location as possible, lower your encryption protocol, shut down unneeded applications and reboot, avoid slow ISP connections, try a different VPN service.

Getting a free VPN service is as simple as selecting a free provider, downloading and installing their software, and logging in. Be aware though that you may risk annoying ads, crawling speeds, dangerous malware, or possibly even having your data stolen. You get what you pay for, even if it’s free.

Without a VPN, everything you do online is vulnerable. Hackers can steal your personal information. Eavesdroppers can read your emails and your browsing history is open to the entire world, including your ISP and government agencies. A VPN preserves your privacy, assures your anonymity, and safeguards you and your devices from attacks.

The security of a VPN depends on the hosting service and where they are located in the world. If they use quality encryption software, secure servers, and don’t log your activities, they are fairly secure and anonymous. Some counties require VPN providers to keep logs that can be accessed under certain conditions.

There are several reasons you might have trouble connecting to your VPN. Your ISP, router, or wireless service may not allow PPTP VPN connections. You may have mistyped your password or username. You may need to reboot your device and try connecting without other apps running. Your host may be having technical issues.

Security still matters as does freedom of navigation, but the most commonly cited reason for wanting a personal VPN is privacy. ISPs can collect and sell your information. Government agencies can access your records. Snoopers can peak over your electronic shoulder at the coffee house. Need we say more?

Assuming you have an account, simply turn on your computer, activate the VPN app, and supply your login information. Open your Internet browser and surf. With some VPNs, you will need to open your browser, type in the VPN address and this will take you to a login page.

There are steps you can take to help preserve your personal data without a VPN, such as only visiting HTTPS sites, using a firewall, and keeping your antivirus software updated, but they will only go so far. A VPN is your best bet for preserving your data and protecting your privacy.

According to the most recent data, ExpressVPN is the speed winner among VPN providers. Keep in mind though that there are a number of factors including geographical location and types of equipment utilized that can affect a network’s speed, and fastest may not always be best for your needs.

When using a hotspot, you are in essence linking your device with someone else’s. This can make you more vulnerable as you will also share any security weaknesses they may have. Securing your privacy and personal information becomes even more important at these times.

A lot of factors can affect your choice of VPN, and the best choice for one person may not be best for another. Some factors to consider are the geographical location of servers, platforms served, number of connections allowed, speed, reliability, price, encryption level, do they log client data, etc. The list goes on.

The best VPN depends on your needs and desires. With over 300 VPN providers to choose from, there is a fit for almost everyone, and they each have strengths and weaknesses. As an alternative, you can build your own and customize it to suit your needs.

Setting up a VPN in Windows 10 is straightforward. Go to your network sharing center (NSC) and click on adaptor settings. Right-click on VPN adapter and select Properties. Here you will need to enter the network IP and configure the security settings. Go back to the NSC and enable VPN.

The only tools required for setting up a VPN are an Internet connection, a device for accessing the internet, and a minimal amount of technical know-how. For a basic VPN, choose a provider, open an account, download and install their software and activate your VPN. It’s that easy.

Accessing your VPN from a mobile device is no different than from a PC. You will need the appropriate app installed on your device and then you just log in. The exception is when you have a VPN router or server, in which case you just link-up as you normally would.

This is a problem that existed with iOS 10, disappeared with iOS 11-12 and came back with the Apple iOS 13 operating system. Unfortunately, the only solution seems to be to downgrade the OS on your iPhone to iOS 12 or wait for Apple to make future changes.

Two of the biggest selling points for VPNs is the security and anonymity that they provide. When you submit your information over a VPN it is encrypted, meaning it can’t be deciphered without the matching software. Your personal information is very safe when submitted through a VPN.

The prices for a VPN can vary greatly, but you can generally expect to pay from $5-12 per month unless you prepay a longer subscription. There are free services available but like most things, you get what you pay for. Free services are notorious for logging activity, slower speeds, and advertiser overload.

Removing a VPN from a PC is not a particularly difficult task, but it should be done carefully to avoid future conflicts. The standard uninstall process can leave TAP drivers and kernels behind. The simplest method for a clean uninstall is to use aftermarket software like Revo Uninstaller.

There are a number of reasons why you might not be able to access a VPN from your personal computer but have it work fine from your corporate laptop. You might not have the correct client software. Your PC might not be recognized by the network or have the proper security credentials.

Is it better to set up your own OpenVPN server or to subscribe to a VPN service? Establishing your own server does save you money over the long term but requires an investment in time and skill. With a VPN service, the work is done for you.