How a VPN Actually Works

We know you’ve been wondering while stuck at home.

This post is presented in partnership with Private Internet Access.

If you thought you already used the internet a lot, you’re probably discovering that, while self-isolating, you’re relying on the ol’ World Wide Web more than ever before. You’re streaming and gaming constantly. You’re using video conferencing apps you hadn’t even heard of prior to this year to see your mates. And in the biggest shift of all, you’re doing most of your schooling through a screen.

The internet is definitely our friend in these uncertain times, but you’ve likely been told by someone that 'you need a VPN' to use the internet safely.

Problem is, even if you’ve heard the letters VPN before (presumably in that order), you might be unsure what the hell they’re talking about, and how a VPN could help.

We’re here to break it down so you can decide if it’s the right move for you.

What does 'VPN' even mean?

Virtual private network!

Okay. And what does a VPN actually do?

Well, first it's important to establish that every site you visit, and every device you use to access those sites, has what’s called an IP address. This is a string of numbers that identifies where you are located, as well as where those sites are based. Whenever you enter a domain name in a URL bar, or click a link in a search engine, you’re sending a request from your IP address to the internet asking to access that IP address.

However, if you’re on an unsecured network (which is basically everyone not using a VPN, and especially anyone using a public Wi-Fi network), you’re revealing your web browsing habits and your geographic location while also becoming vulnerable to hackers who are able to infiltrate the local network.

For instance, visit the Private Internet Access homepage and check out your IP address at the top of the page. See? It’s visible to everyone.

Though VPNs can sometimes get hacked too, they’re definitely much harder to crack. Plus, VPNs encrypt your information, so most likely what gets hacked, if anything, will be unintelligible anyway.

Sounds legit. But how else would a VPN help me?

Initially, VPNs were used by organisations that wanted to create a secure link to its employees working from home (otherwise, anyone accessing work files remotely on an unsecured network could have been vulnerable to hacking).

But for the grand majority of regular users, a VPN simply keeps their information private, whether it's from hackers, websites, the government, or anyone else who might want to access your data, be it legally or illegally.

Not only that, but you can also set your VPN to make it appear as if you’re accessing the internet from an IP address in a different country. That’s because your request to "the internet" to access a site is now being redirected via the VPN. So, even if you’re in Australia, the VPN can make your request appear as if it’s coming from America. Essentially, using a VPN creates a "data tunnel" between your local network and an "exit node" somewhere else in the world.

Why is that important?

Some websites and shopping marketplaces are only accessible from different countries, so a VPN opens the World Wide Web even wider.

Ultimately, however, during this time of isolation, the most appealing aspect of a VPN is keeping your privacy on lock. (It goes without saying that, regardless of whether or not you use a VPN, you should take as much action as possible to remain cyber safe at all times!) Let’s say you’ve downloaded a brand new app to chat with your friends, or are suddenly giving more of your details up online to subscribe to gaming platforms. The last thing you want is a hacker all up in your business. Cloaking your identify and location is a key part of maintaining your online privacy.

Cool! And they’re free?!

Some VPNs are free, but you need to be very careful with free VPN providers, as they rely on advertising for their income, and will either bombard you with ads (in the best case scenario) or track and sell your data (somewhat ironically). They also usually slow down your internet speed and only offer limited data. When it comes to VPN, you usually get what you pay for, and when you pay nothing, you get nothing good.

Private Internet Access is the leading VPN Service provider specialising in secure, encrypted VPN tunnels, which create several layers of privacy and security providing you safety on the internet. Their service is backed by multiple gateways worldwide with access in 37+ countries, 57+ regions. For a limited time only, get a 76% discount and 2 extra months free.

Header Image: SOPA Images via Getty Images