VPN is a connection service that can provide access to a site where all data is encrypted, making browsing more private and secure. That being said, a VPN is a type of computer network that is widely used by the general public.
VPN, or Virtual Private Network, may appear complicated to those who are unfamiliar with it. Let's learn more about what a VPN is in the following article!
VPN Fundamentals
What exactly are VPNs? A VPN, or virtual private network, is a method of adding security and privacy to private and public networks, such as WiFi Hotspots and the Internet.
VPN is the most popular connection service used by businesses to protect sensitive data. However, the use of private VPNs is becoming more popular as more interactions require the user to interact face-to-face with the Internet.
VPN is a connection service that can improve privacy by replacing the user's initial IP (Internet Protocol) address with one provided by the VPN provider.
Customers can obtain an IP address from any of the VPN provider's gateway areas. For instance, suppose you live in Jakarta. However, with a VPN, you can appear to be in Malang, Surabaya, or any of a number of other gateway cities.
VPN use
After learning what a VPN is, we can conclude that it is a popular method among businesses. A VPN can be used to allow employees to access the office network from their laptops.
The following are some of the other VPN functions summarized by Jagoan Hosting.
1. Encryption that is secure
A VPN's first function is to secure encryption. When you use a VPN, your data is usually secured or encrypted. Encryption is defined as the process of transforming data into random numbers and letters so that it cannot be read directly. Certain parties are usually required to read encrypted data.
2. Secure data transfer
Many activities, including data transmission, must be carried out online during the pandemic, which began in 2020. One of the functions of a VPN is to securely transfer sensitive data from the corporate network. VPN transfers data by connecting the service to a private server and encrypting the connection to reduce the risk of data leakage.
3. Reducing connection outages
The third benefit of using a VPN is that you will not have connection interruptions. Because VPN is a private network, no one else can use it, lowering the possibility of connection problems.
4. Hide the location
The next VPN function is that it acts as an internet proxy. As a result, demographic data from other countries cannot be found. This means that all VPN users' data, including their location, is kept private.
5. Gain access to regional content
The ability to access regional content is the next use of a VPN. You can use a VPN to change your location in order to access regional content. Netflix, for example, offers different TV shows and films in each country.
VPN protocol
The types of VPNs will be discussed next. There are several types of VPN; here are the main types of VPN that you should be aware of.
1.VPN over SSL
The first type of VPN is SSL-VPN, which is typically implemented through the use of a hardware box. The browser must have HTML-5 capabilities in order to use this type of VPN.
2. VPN site-to-site
This type of VPN is useful and required for multiple corporate locations. Each has its own local area network (LAN), which is usually linked to a larger network (WAN).
3. VPN client-to-server
The next type, client to server VPN, is a VPN that allows clients to connect from anywhere. The user connects directly to the VPN provider in this type of work or process.
VPN safety
A VPN, in addition to its many applications, has several security methods, including:
1. Firewalls
A firewall acts as a barrier between a local network and the internet. There are also ports that can be opened and protocols that are allowed in the firewall.
2. Cryptography
Encryption is the most widely used method of data security. This encryption works by scrambling the information so that it is difficult for others to read.
3. IPSec IPSec is a security method that offers more security than others. For example, a more powerful and comprehensive encryption algorithm.
4. Data security
Data integrity is defined in the VPN security method as every data packet passed on a public network where data integrity guarantees are required.
How Do VPNs Function?
As a user, this is how a VPN works. When you launch a VPN provider's client software, it encrypts your data even before your ISP (Internet Service Provider) or WiFi detects it.
The data is then routed to the VPN server, which then routes it to your online destination. Online destinations assume that your data is coming from the VPN server and their location, rather than from your device or actual location.
A VPN server is a third party that connects to the internet on your behalf, resolving privacy and security concerns such as:
The destination site sees the VPN server as the source of the traffic, not you. Nobody can easily identify you or your computer as the data source, or what you do, such as which websites you visit or what data you transfer.
Because your data is encrypted, even if someone intercepts it, they will only see the encrypted information and not the raw data.
Advantages of Using a VPN
In today's digital age, security is critical and highly sought after by businesses. The requirement to send encrypted data over networks is also growing.
Of course, there are numerous benefits to using the virtual private networks listed below. Here are some examples of VPN applications:
1. Assists in the concealment of one's online identity
Your digital footprints will be untraceable on the Internet because a VPN is a connection service that can hide your IP address and encrypt your online traffic. Hackers will be unable to obtain your personal information by using your real IP address.
A VPN can help you avoid being watched by other users while also protecting your privacy from advertisers.
2. Safeguarding Your Internet Connection
WiFi is a common service that is very convenient to use, especially if your cellular data plan is limited.
The only issue with free WiFi is that it lacks security, putting your personal information at risk.
You won't have to worry about these threats if you use a VPN. Why? Because a VPN encrypts online communications, it effectively ensures that no one can monitor them.
Basically, if a hacker examines your traffic, they will see something that makes no sense.
3. Capable of preventing bandwidth throttling (Bandwidth Slowdown)
Bandwidth throttling occurs when your ISP throttles your bandwidth, effectively lowering your connection speed.
ISPs typically do this to improve their service by removing network congestion and ensuring adequate bandwidth for all users.
A VPN is a connection service that can encrypt all Internet traffic, making it impossible for ISPs to see your online activities.
They won't be able to tell if you're hogging bandwidth by playing online games, downloading files, or streaming TV shows.
Disadvantages of Using a VPN
Actually, there aren't many disadvantages to using a VPN service. However, for those of you who are still interested, the disadvantages of using a VPN are listed below.
1. VPN is not supported by all devices.
VPN services are typically compatible with popular platforms such as Windows, iOS, macOS, and Android.
However, some devices, such as Linux, Chromebooks, and Boxee Boxes, do not support VPN apps.
As a result, you must manually configure a VPN connection on the device or operating system you wish to use.
2. High-Quality VPNs Are Expensive
A VPN is not a reliable option because it is a free connection. So, whether you like it or not, you must select a paid VPN provider.
If you are on a tight budget, this can be a problem, especially since some providers charge hundreds of thousands of rupiah per month.
3. Fake VPN Threatens Your Privacy
The disadvantage of a VPN is that it is intended to protect your online data, but if you don't do your homework, you may end up with a service that does the opposite.
Typically, this is the case with rogue or unpaid VPN providers. Furthermore, because VPNs are free connection services, they frequently do not provide properly configured encryption and may even expose you to malware.
Not to mention selecting a VPN provider who logs your online activity. It will severely compromise your privacy.
When Should You Use a VPN?
You should think about starting a VPN even more if you:
1. If you use public WiFi to connect to the internet
A VPN can be your savior when using a public WiFi network because it is a connection service that adds an extra layer of security to your data. A VPN will also ensure that you avoid coffee shop ISPs and that all of your communications are encrypted.
2. If You Work from Home
Many employees require the use of a VPN to remotely access company services and for security purposes.
When you are not in the office, a VPN connected to a company server can provide you with access to internal company networks and resources.
This is an explanation of what a VPN is, its applications, types, how it works, and its benefits and drawbacks. If necessary, always use a VPN service that is guaranteed to be secure. Take into account all potential risks and apply them accordingly!
