Technology
Understanding VPNs and Why They Are Important in Modern Life

The internet is a place full of new rules and regulations. Where once it was the new frontier where one could go wherever they pleased, now there are hard limits in place which are, to an extent, understandable. Some countries will block certain sites for many reasons, and if you need to access that site, you will need to perform a VPN download.
Yes, a VPN is your best friend in times like this where it is uncertain what you can or can’t access on the internet. So, if you were considering getting yourself one but found yourself on the fence, this is the article for you. But, first, we break down how it all works for you!
The VPN Explained
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. As it says, it creates a new network for you by shielding your IP address and letting you access sites you wouldn’t usually be able to access otherwise.
Every time you connect to the internet, your device starts to exchange data with other nodes connected to the internet at the same time. A VPN connects you to the internet through encrypted means. Then, your data can be transmitted to an external server through this secure encryption, bypassing prying eyes.
Multiple benefits come with redirecting your internet traffic through a Virtual Private Network server. To begin, it allows you to conceal your identity when you’re online. Second, it secures your data. And finally, it gives you greater flexibility in how you use the internet.
How Does a VPN Work?
With the VPN explained, let’s focus on what it does.
Encryption allows the software to turn normal text into an unreadable code. The text is decrypted and made legible again using a key or decryptor. The decryption key is kept secretly only by your VPN device and the VPN service provider when you use a VPN. Anyone else snooping on you would see nothing but a jumble of symbols.
No matter the method you choose, your data will be rendered useless if it ever falls into the wrong hands. Depending on the VPN service provider, the level of encryption strength can vary greatly. How do you know which software is best suited for you? We will look into that next.
Choosing the Right VPN
How does a VPN work? We know that now. But there are a lot of different kinds of VPNs. Let’s understand them all in turn.
- SSL VPN
SSL VPNs are used by most popular web browsers to offer secure, remote access VPN capability because they allow users to securely access their private network from any location in the globe using only a web browser on their device.
All traffic between the client software running on the user’s endpoint device and the SSL VPN server is secured using end-to-end encryption when the user creates a secure connection to the internet using an SSL VPN.
- Site-to-Site VPN
Site-to-site VPNs allow users in fixed locations to access each other’s resources. Your site-to-site VPN connects your LANs to the same WAN, so you can securely share information and resources. This is an intranet-based site-to-site VPN. The other option, extranet-based, connects two intranets without allowing direct access. Two companies collaborating is an example.
Site-to-site VPNs are widespread in large businesses where secure global communication is needed. However, they require specific equipment and resources to implement. This VPN technology is purpose-built and lacks the flexibility of commercial VPN services.
- Client-to-Server VPN
Client-based VPN apps make it easy for users to connect from anywhere. When you’re traveling, you could use a VPN app on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This lets you administer your network remotely across the VPN channel between your device and the headquarters firewall.
These VPNs give more security than simple connectivity. One clear advantage is inspecting a user’s device before letting them on the network.
Conclusion
The changing world of internet security necessitates a strong and secure VPN. Internet privacy rights are a hot button issue all across the world, and many governments are increasingly taking to data supervision in order to better surveil and control their citizens. In times like these, it is up to the individual to control their own privacy and take ownership of their rights. A VPN is the most potent tool that the general public has to achieve this result.
You now know “how VPN works” and how to find a good one. As long as you keep these points in mind, you will not have a problem protecting the privacy of your internet use!
