Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) encrypt your traffic and route it through a remote server, masking your IP and making it harder for eavesdroppers to see what you’re doing. They’re useful on untrusted networks and for bypassing geographic blocks, but they’re not a silver bullet.
Many VPN marketing claims are misleading. “Military‑grade encryption” is just AES‑256—a standard cipher used everywhere. A VPN can’t fix poor website security, stop malware, or make you anonymous if you’re logging into personal accounts. Free VPNs often monetise your data or inject ads.
Understanding protocols helps you choose wisely: OpenVPN and WireGuard are open‑source and audited; PPTP is obsolete and insecure; IKEv2 is fast but less flexible. Look for providers such as NordVPN that support modern protocols and have been independently audited.
Finally, remember that a VPN shifts trust from your ISP to the VPN provider. If the provider keeps logs, they can identify you. Always read the privacy policy and prefer services with a proven no‑logs record.
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