5 common VPN myths busted
Now, if getting around locked content is not your main purpose for using a VPN, simply look for one that offers a bypass feature, otherwise known as a split tunnel. This basically tells your VPN that certain apps get a pass and can connect without being encrypted, thus “splitting” the tunnel into TWO–one that is private and one that is not.
11 Common VPN Myths Explained
In today’s fast-paced digital era, safeguarding our online presence has become a paramount concern. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the adoption of VPNs has soared, promising to enhance our privacy, security, and overall internet experience. To assist you in finding the best VPN that suits your needs and budget, BestVPN.co comes to the rescue.
However, amidst the buzz surrounding VPNs, it’s not uncommon to come across a deluge of myths and misconceptions about this technology, making it challenging to choose the right option to cater to your specific requirements.
In this article we will explore 11 Common VPN Myths. So, without any further delays let’s dive in!
11 Common VPN Myths
VPNs Make You Completely Anonymous Online
One common misconception about VPNs is that they offer complete anonymity online. Although NordVPN does hide your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic, they do not render you entirely untraceable. It’s essential to understand that your VPN provider can still access your real IP address, and the extent of information stored may vary based on their logging practices.
Using a VPN Guarantees Complete Security
VPNs add an extra level of security, but they shouldn’t be mistaken for foolproof shields against all online dangers. While they do encrypt your data, they do not provide immunity from phishing attacks, malware, or other cybersecurity hazards. For robust protection, it’s best to combine a VPN with other reliable security measures.
Free VPNs are Just as Effective as Paid Ones
A common misconception among users is that free VPN services are as secure as paid ones. However, free VPNs often come with drawbacks and potential risks, including data logging, sluggish speeds, and the possibility of selling your data to third parties. In contrast, paid VPNs typically offer superior security features and more consistent performance, making them a better choice for ensuring online privacy and protection.
VPNs are Only for Cybercriminals and Hackers
There’s a misconception held by some that VPNs are exclusively favored by cybercriminals and hackers. In truth, VPNs serve as valuable tools for anyone who values their online privacy and security. These networks act as safeguards, shielding your data from hackers, preventing ISPs from monitoring your online activities, and providing a secure browsing experience on public Wi-Fi networks.
VPNs Slow Down Internet Speed
Indeed, it is true that employing a VPN might lead to a slight decrease in internet speed due to the encryption process. However, this impact is usually minimal. The extent of speed loss fluctuates depending on certain factors, for example, the location of the VPN server, server load, and the speed of your original internet connection.
VPNs are Illegal
VPNs are generally considered legal in the majority of countries however, their legality can differ based on local regulations. In certain nations, there might be restrictions or bans on VPN usage, particularly for specific purposes like accessing censored content or engaging in illegal activities. It’s essential to be aware of your country’s laws concerning VPN usage to ensure compliance and avoid any legal issues.
VPNs Protect You from All Online Tracking
VPNs are created to safeguard your internet traffic from potential interception or monitoring by your ISP and other prying individuals. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to understand that VPNs alone cannot prevent websites from tracking your online activities using cookies or other techniques. To enhance your protection against tracking, it’s advisable to complement your VPN with browser extensions and additional privacy tools.
VPNs are Complicated to Set Up and Use
While setting up a VPN may have been complicated in the past, modern VPN providers now offer user-friendly apps and straightforward instructions. Connecting to a VPN server and safeguarding your online activities typically requires just a few simple clicks, making the process much more accessible and hassle-free for users.
VPNs Protect You from All Types of Cyber Attacks
The main purpose of VPNs is to encrypt your internet traffic and ensure the security of your data while it’s being transmitted. Though they provide an extra layer of protection, it’s essential to note that VPNs cannot shield you from all types of cyber attacks, such as DDoS attacks. These attacks require additional security measures beyond what a VPN can provide.
All VPNs Offer the Same Level of Security
VPN services are not uniform in their offerings. The level of security and privacy provided by different VPN providers can vary significantly. Therefore, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and opt for a trustworthy VPN service like ExpressVPN that has a proven track record of prioritizing and safeguarding user privacy.
VPNs are Only Necessary for Desktop Computers
VPNs offer more than just desktop computer protection; they extend their security benefits to smartphones, tablets, and various other devices. This way, you can safeguard your internet connections and keep your data safe even while you’re on the move.
Final Thoughts
Gaining a clear understanding of the truth behind prevalent VPN myths is essential when it comes to making informed choices about your online privacy and security. Although VPNs are undoubtedly valuable tools, they aren’t a universal remedy for all digital concerns.
By dispelling these misconceptions, you’ll come to appreciate the actual role VPNs play in safeguarding your online life and enhancing your internet experience. Always bear in mind the importance of selecting a dependable and trustworthy VPN provider to ensure utmost protection and peace of mind.
5 common VPN myths busted
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are popular but often misunderstood. There are many misconceptions about them—misconceptions that may be stopping people from adding a useful layer to their security and privacy defenses. So, let’s do some myth busting.
1. VPNs are for illegal activity
Some people think that VPNs are only useful for doing things like torrenting, accessing geo-locked content, or getting around work/school/government firewalls. While they certainly are used for those activities, that doesn’t mean that’s all they’re good for or that everyone who uses a VPN is planning to do something illegal or immoral with it. As awareness of corporate surveillance and criminal hacking has grown, so have concerns about personal privacy. Many people believe that it should be their choice when and how they give up some of their privacy, and don’t want prying eyes on their normal, legitimate behavior. A VPN gives them more control over what they share and with who, and a little less to worry about.
2. I don’t need a mobile VPN
- When you log on and off
- The websites you visit
- How much time you spend on those sites.
- and more… depending on your habits and the apps you use
Using a VPN shifts your trust from your ISP to your VPN provider, so you can choose to use your carrier’s secure telecom infrastructure without giving your carrier access to your browsing data.
3. VPNs will slow down my internet connection
Since a VPN sends your network traffic on a bit of detour it has to travel further than it would without a VPN. Technically that means your traffic is slower, but that doesn’t necessary mean it has to be noticeably slower. Most VPN providers offer you the choice to choose a server near you, which makes the detour smaller.
Also, encrypting and decrypting data takes time. However, there is a benefit to using a next-gen VPN with modern encryption compared to older VPNs. The technology has improved over the years and VPNs have become faster and more efficient.
4. My VPN won’t let me watch Netflix
Many streaming sites and apps don’t like it when you use a VPN to watch their content and some just outright ban it (because they have an obligation to lock certain content based on region), which leaves some people believing they have to choose between privacy or entertainment.
Now, if getting around locked content is not your main purpose for using a VPN, simply look for one that offers a bypass feature, otherwise known as a split tunnel. This basically tells your VPN that certain apps get a pass and can connect without being encrypted, thus “splitting” the tunnel into TWO–one that is private and one that is not.
So, you can have your banking app running, shielded by your VPN, and watch Netflix.
5. VPNs are for geeks and power users
While this may have been true in the past, VPNs have become easier to use over the years. With the introduction of paid VPNs, vendors have taken it upon themselves to lower prices and improve quality, and to make their products easier to use.
You should expect a straightforward installation process and intuitive functionality that makes using a VPN just as easy as checking your mail or browsing social media (safely).
Stay safe, everyone!
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