What is a VPN, How it Works, and Why You Should Use One

29.04.25 06:37 PM - By Mani Kanta L

You’ve probably heard the term “VPN” floating around, especially in tech circles, but what exactly is it and how does it work? In this blog, we’ll explain what a VPN is and how it works, why it’s essential for your security, and how to get started using one.


What Is A VPN?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a network connection type that enhances the security and privacy of private and public networks. Some apps offer VPN services for free downloads. WiFi Hotspots or even your Internet connection at home are common examples. It is commonly used to protect sensitive data and conceal your IP address, making it the best way to ensure online privacy. This network enhances privacy by replacing your original IP address with an IP address from a VPN provider or proxy.


How Does a VPN Work?

A VPN hides your IP address by letting the network redirect it through a specially configured remote server run by a VPN host. This means that if you surf online with a VPN, the VPN server becomes the source of your data. This means your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and other third parties cannot see which websites you visit or what data you send and receive online. A VPN works like a filter that turns all your data into "gibberish". Even if someone were to get their hands on your data, it would be useless.
VPN use has expanded rapidly in recent years, and according to Forbes, it’s believed that 31% of all internet users worldwide now use a VPN. This is despite VPN use being severely restricted or impeded in several countries, including China, India, Russia, Egypt, and Turkey. The same Forbes research has found that enhanced privacy is cited by 47% of personal VPN users as a key reason why they use the technology, closely followed by accessing streaming services (46%).

Why Use VPN?

VPN enhances your privacy and security.
VPN encrypts your internet traffic, which enhances your privacy by making it difficult for others to intercept your data. For instance, when you send information to a website, it can be intercepted by unauthorised individuals while it is in transit between your computer and the website’s server. However, a VPN encrypts this traffic, making it unreadable to anyone who may try to intercept it.

What are the benefits of a VPN connection?
A VPN connection disguises your data traffic online and protects it from external access. Unencrypted data can be viewed by anyone who has network access and wants to see it. With a VPN, hackers and cyber criminals can’t decipher this data.

  • Secure encryption
  • Disguising your whereabouts
  • Access to regional content
  • Secure data transfer

    Why should you use a VPN connection?

    Your ISP usually sets up your connection when you connect to the internet. It tracks you via an IP address. Your network traffic is routed through your ISP's servers, which can log and display everything you do online.

    Your ISP may seem trustworthy, but it may share your browsing history with advertisers, the police or government, and/or other third parties. ISPs can also fall victim to attacks by cyber criminals: If they are hacked, your personal and private data can be compromised.

    This is especially important if you regularly connect to public Wi-Fi networks. You never know who might be monitoring your internet traffic and what they might steal from you, including passwords, personal data, payment information, or even your entire identity.

    When would you use a VPN?

    There are a range of cases where VPNs can be especially useful. These include (and are by no means limited to):

  • Areas with public Wi-Fi
  • General Internet browsing
  • TV and film streaming
  • Gaming
  • Online shopping

Mani Kanta L

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