Virtual Private Networks or VPNs are devices that create what is called a VPN tunnel or VPN gateway. The tunnel of the pathway is between your browsing device and the internet, its job is to send encrypted data packets from your device’s Internet Service Provider (ISP) to a remote server owned by the VP provider.
The data packets are then decrypted at the server located before their onward journey to the internet. Why do you need a VPN, you might ask? For one, it hides your location. If you live in a place where you can’t access some websites, a good VPN helps you overcome that.
It also protects your privacy and data from hackers and intruders by encrypting your data while it is in transit. As a beginner, there are some things you have to look out for before picking a VPN. One important tip is, don’t use a free VPN. It never works.
Here some tips to help you get the perfect VPN
Outline Why You Need A VPN
Not everyone needs a VPN. If you live in some parts of Africa, you most definitely not access In that case, you need a good VPN to hide location, but if you live in any of the five eyes countries (U.S.A, U.K, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada), or the nine eyes countries (France, Norway, Holland) or the fourteen eyes countries (Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden).
There is an excellent possibility that your government is spying on you already, and no VPN has encryption strong enough to protect your data. If you don’t live in those countries, you can use many good VPNs to protect your data while you are on the internet.
The best thing to do is to outline the reasons why you need a VPN, research if those reasons are valid enough. If they are, you have crossed the first hurdle. You are on your way to getting VPN protection.
Examine the Pros and Cons of Each VPN
Like with everything in life, VPNs have their strong and not-so-strong points. Before choosing a VPN, check reviews to see if how people who have used think about it. Another way to get the best VPN to use is to compare two VPNs with each other.
An example is IPVanish vs. NordVPN. Putting these two excellent VPNs through a comparative test allows you to understand their pros and cons before coming to an informed conclusion on which one to get.
There are troves of articles on the internet that list the best VPNs per year, pick each one and read the reviews, compare the ones you like against each other, in the end, you discover the best VPN that suits you.
Know If Your Devices Work with the VPN, You Choose
Some VPNs are not compatible with all devices, perhaps due to a non-supporting operating system or an outdated machine. Before embarking on getting a VPN, confirm that your PC, tablet, mobile phone, or other browsing device is compatible with the VPN.
Check and Understand the VPNs Terms of Service
Every VPN has its unique terms of service. Before deciding on the one, you want to use, read and understand these terms before deciding on choosing. Some VPNs do not allow some activities; some track your internet activities.
You have to bear some of the things in mind while going through the terms of service; don’t go for any VPN that claims to block accounts that don’t have logging information. Confirm that the VPN doesn’t log in any info traceable to you. Information like connection time.
Understanding the VPN vendor’s terms and conditions saves you a lot of grief in the future.
Customer Service IS Important
There are times when things will go wrong with your VPN. For this reason, you need a VPN provider with 24/7 customer service. Before getting a VPN, check for them on all social media platforms you use and ensure responsiveness.
There are times when you experience issues with your VPN. You need a provider, preferably with a live chat feature that can solve all problems from using their product.
Go for VPNs with Money Back Guarantee
A money-back guarantee is always a great way to sweeten a deal. No matter your research, it is possible to buy a product you don’t like. If the money-back guarantee is available, then there is no loss. You get back your money and continue your search.
Don’t be deceived though. It not as easy as it sounds. Getting your money back might be a complicated process. Some VPNs, however, guarantee that they refund your money within a specified time. Go for those.
An added advantage is using a VPN that offers you a free trial for a limited time, usually one week. Before buying the product, most of the best VPNs offer a free trial, usually for a week. Within this period, you can decide if you want to use the product or not. It is possible, however, that during the free trial, not all the features are available.
Conclusion
VPNs can be a lifesaver. They help protect your data while browsing and allow your access to hitherto forbidden websites. It is important to note that not all VPNs are the same. Some are miracle workers, while others deserve a pass.
Use these tips in decided the best VPN for you, and enjoy the freedom of anonymity and privacy that a good VPN brings.
