Virtual Private Networks, abbreviated as “VPNs,” are popular tools for leveraging privacy and security online. They encrypt all your network data and pass incoming and outgoing traffic through a secure tunnel to prevent tracking by ISPs, government agencies, and copyright infringement hunters.
However, that’s not the only reason why people use a VPN service. You see, the product can be used for a variety of use-cases and give you access to a vast list of benefits. That’s what we’ll be talking about in this guide today. Read on to learn about 10 cool things you can do with a VPN.
1. Unblock Full Content Libraries on VoDs
Streaming platforms like Disney Plus, HBO Max, Prime Video, Netflix and Hulu have agreements with production houses and distributors, which prevent them from providing access to certain titles, based on region. As such, they impose geographical restrictions and content limitations.
Depending on your location, you may get access to a completely different content library. A VPN comes in handy by allowing users to shift their location and leverage encryption. For example, if you want to access the US version of Netflix that boasts 13,900 titles, simply connect to a VPN server in the US.
Howtogetamericannetflixincanada.com shows how you can do this perfectly. By using a VPN, viewers are able to unblock the American Netflix, without any hassles. This enables binge-watchers to explore a completely new world of entertainment that was inaccessible before!
2. Bypass Bandwidth Throttling by ISPs
One of the worst things to come of out Netflix and YouTube is perhaps the need for ISPs to indulge in bandwidth throttling. By the first half of 2019, streaming media accounted for more than 12.8% of the worldwide internet traffic with Netflix representing almost 12.6% of the total downstream.
In order to keep things running smoothly, ISPs throttle connections on these sites. Therefore, when streaming you may experience poor speeds, buffering issues, and annoying outages. A VPN acts as a solution to this problem by routing your connection through a secure tunnel, preventing ISP throttling.
3. Keep Secure on Public Wi-Fi Networks
When roaming outside, it may be convincing to ask for the Wi-Fi password at a restaurant, bar, or café. The problem with this is that public Wi-Fi networks are breeding grounds for all sorts of hackers, which can cause great harm to your personal information and even financial situation.
You could easily fall victim to ransomware, malware, or a phishing attack; stealing valuable data. Thanks to VPNs, you don’t have to worry about such things, as all your data is encrypted. As such, cybercriminals will not be able to see any of your activity on the network.
4. Avoid DDoS Attacks and Swatting Hoaxes
As we move towards a more digitally reliant world, even gaming has become more of an online activity. If you want to play with other opponents or with your friends, you will need an internet connection. However, this also opens you up to speed throttling by ISPs and DDoS attacks from petty gamers.
If you want to stay protected when gaming online on your PC, Xbox, or PlayStation, consider getting a VPN service. This will keep you safe from DDoS attacks and swatting hoaxes, as your location to other players will be different online from that of your original address!
5. Ensure Safe and Secure Online Shopping
VPNs can prove exceptionally handy when it comes to online shopping, especially when connected over a public network, or when shopping from a relatively new website. Since your connection routes through an international server, you can access vendors/websites otherwise blocked by firewalls.
You can also order stuff for your home, without even being in the country. This way, you can have everything waiting at your doorstep upon returning. In some countries where payment gateways like PayPal is blocked, a VPN can also help you make payments after connecting to a VPN server.
6. Download Torrents Minus Legal Hassles
Before streaming started gaining traction, if people wanted to download games, movies, TV shows, and other files; opting for a torrent was the easy way out. However, since most torrents contain pirated files, they are often dangerous to download and could risk you getting DMCA fine, if caught.
Some countries may even ban torrenting sites altogether in order to prevent p2p/file sharing. To deal with these increasing set of restrictions on torrenting, a VPN serves as a vital tool for encrypting your network and masking your online identity, keeping you anonymous when downloading pirated files.
7. Stay Protected from Mass Surveillance
Almost all countries now indulge in intelligence sharing which requires them to impose mandatory data retention and mass surveillance laws. These include all those countries part of the Five, Nine and Fourteen Eyes Alliances, along with DMCA, MPAA, and other agencies.
If you are based in any of these countries, you will have to watch out for mass surveillance. By using a VPN, you can cloak your identity online and change your IP address. Simply connect to a country with safer internet laws to avoid being under surveillance 24/7 for no reason at all.
8. Work from Home Safely Amidst COVID-19
With COVID-19 still going strong and taking lives, many countries have entered into lockdown once again. Governments around the world have issued state-wide quarantine measures and advise all residents to work from home (remotely) to keep protected from the dangerous virus.
This resulting increase in remote working has also brought in a huge list of security issues with many falling victim to complicated ransomware, phishing attacks, and malware. A VPN with a dedicated IP helps users receive protection in remote working environments by ensuring secure exchange of information online.
Wrapping Things Up
As you can see above, VPNs have uses far beyond leveraging online privacy/anonymity. These tools are actually becoming kind of the norm with the increasing amount of surveillance and restrictions online. So, if you haven’t already got a VPN yet, it’s probably time you invested in one today!
