VPN: What It Is, How It Works, and Which One Is Best for You?
You’ve probably heard that you should use a VPN, but what exactly is it? How does it work? And with hundreds of options available, how do you choose the right one? Let’s demystify VPNs and help you navigate this essential privacy tool.
What is a VPN, anyway?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. In simple terms, it creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. All your data passes through this tunnel, hidden from prying eyes.
When you connect to a VPN, your real IP address is masked. Websites see the VPN server’s address instead of yours. This provides anonymity and can also let you appear to be in a different location — useful for accessing content restricted to certain regions.
How does it actually work?
When you browse without a VPN, your internet traffic goes directly from your device to your ISP, then to the websites you visit. Your ISP can see everything you do, and websites know your real IP address.
With a VPN, your traffic first goes to the VPN server, encrypted. The VPN server then connects to websites on your behalf. Neither your ISP nor the websites you visit can see your true identity or activity.
The encryption is key. Even if someone intercepts your data — say, on a public WiFi network — they can’t read it. They just see scrambled nonsense.
Why should you use one?
Privacy is the main reason. Your ISP tracks every website you visit. Advertisers follow you across the web. A VPN makes this surveillance much harder.
Security on public WiFi is another big one. Coffee shop networks, hotel WiFi, airport connections — they’re all risky. A VPN protects you even on compromised networks.
Accessing geo-restricted content appeals to many users. Want to watch a show only available in another country? A VPN can make it appear you’re there.
Some people use VPNs to avoid price discrimination. Yes, some websites show different prices based on your location. A VPN lets you comparison shop from different virtual locations.
Top VPN recommendations
ExpressVPN consistently ranks among the best. It’s fast, secure, and works reliably for streaming. The apps are user-friendly across all platforms. It’s pricier than competitors, but you get what you pay for.
NordVPN offers excellent value with strong security features. Its double VPN option routes your traffic through two servers for extra protection. The server network is massive, giving you plenty of location options.
Surfshark is the budget champion. Unlimited simultaneous connections mean you can protect every device you own. Performance is solid, and the price is hard to beat.
For privacy purists, Mullvad stands out. You can sign up anonymously and even pay with cash. It doesn’t try to be everything — it focuses on privacy and does it exceptionally well.
ProtonVPN comes from the makers of ProtonMail and shares their privacy-focused DNA. The free tier is actually usable, unlike many competitors’ limited free versions.
What to look for in a VPN
No-logs policy is crucial. Your VPN shouldn’t keep records of what you do. Look for providers that have been independently audited to verify their claims.
Server locations matter if you want to access content from specific regions. More servers generally mean better performance and more options.
Speed is important. All VPNs add some overhead, but the best ones minimize the impact. If your VPN makes streaming unwatchable, you won’t use it.
Kill switch protection ensures that if the VPN connection drops, your traffic doesn’t leak through your regular connection. This should be non-negotiable.
Device compatibility should cover everything you use. Most good VPNs support Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and often Linux and routers too.
What VPNs can’t do
VPNs aren’t magic privacy cloaks. If you log into Facebook through a VPN, Facebook still knows who you are. VPNs protect your connection, not your behavior.
They won’t protect you from malware or phishing. You still need good security practices and probably antivirus software.
Some services actively block VPN traffic. Netflix, for example, plays cat and mouse with VPN providers. What works today might not work tomorrow.
Using a VPN is legal in most places, but using one to do illegal things is still illegal. The VPN just hides your traffic — it doesn’t change the law.
Making the choice
Start by identifying your main need. Privacy? Streaming? Security on public WiFi? Different VPNs excel at different things.
Take advantage of money-back guarantees. Most reputable VPNs offer 30-day refund periods. Test the service with your actual use cases before committing.
Avoid free VPNs (except for reputable ones like ProtonVPN’s free tier). If you’re not paying for the product, you probably are the product. Free VPNs often monetize by selling your data — the opposite of what you want.
A good VPN is a worthwhile investment in your online privacy and security. Choose wisely, and browse with confidence.