The security of your home computer network and your data is something you should take very seriously. Especially since we are now living in a digital age, where most scams and robberies happen online. Your data is worth a lot more these days than the money in your wallet. Because with your data and with access to your home network, scammers and thieves can take a lot more from you than just a bit of cash.
This is why you should consider using a VPN. But what is a VPN? And which ones are worth using. Stick with us as we break down exactly how a VPN works and take a look at the best overall VPNs you should use. VPNs aren’t all the same. Some specialize in different areas so it is important to find one that suits your specific needs. We have tried to include reasonably priced VPNs on the list to ensure you don’t have to break the bank.
What Is A VPN?
A Virtual Private Network, or a VPN for short, can be explained fairly simply. Imagine your home computer network. A series of devices connected, either physically or wirelessly, like a giant spider’s web. All the devices are able to communicate with each other and access the internet. Often the devices are connected together through your Wi-Fi router.
A VPN is structured in a similar manner. A web of devices connected together, linked by a central source. The key difference is that a VPN is, as the name implies, virtual. But what does this mean?
Think of it as a web on top of a web. When you use a VPN, all your devices are connected through a location that isn’t your home. So it acts as an extra layer of security between you and any potential hackers or data thieves. But more than that it can also be used to store a lot of data and provide access to employees or friends from around the world.
VPNs are often run by private companies with their own in-house servers running the VPNs. And they often have servers based across the globe to ensure your visible location is always changing. These VPNs also often have higher security and a slew of other features. So, with that out the way, which VPNs are worth using?
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Nord VPN
You might have heard this name before. If you’ve spent any time on YouTube, especially watching video game content, you will have heard about this company as they sponsor a lot of content creators. And it is well worth checking out.
Nord VPN is one of the more reliable VPNs on the market. It offers great connection speeds and consistent up-time. Making it ideal for businesses who need their systems running 24/7. And it comes with a host of security features and active support from the company. It is also great for individual users just looking to add a level of security to their home system. Offering smaller packages that focus just on streaming security.
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Hotspot Shield
The pandemic was a trying time for everyone. It forced us to isolate ourselves from those we loved. But as humans always do, we found new ways to interact. This is when viewing parties became all the rage. Netflix party mode and other apps were huge, allowing people to view the same movie or TV show at the same time.
Hotspot Shield is a VPN specifically designed for use with streaming platforms. Working on both mobile devices and computers. It ensures that you are protected against any threats while accessing a third-party streaming app such as Netflix party. And it is especially useful if you are joining a viewing party with unknown people. It has great connection speeds and fantastic security. The free service does have a limit of only 500MB though. But we are sure once you’ve given it a go you’ll love it.
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Atlas VPN
If security is your main concern then Atlas VPN might be the ideal choice for you. It doesn’t matter if you are after personal home network security or security for your business, Atlas VPN offers all the security you’d expect from the high-end VPN companies, at a more affordable price range. Besides its robust security, it also comes with a lot of features that make it a very good VPN for both private and business use. Unlimited number of simultaneous connections, rotating IP, and active support.
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Proton VPN
There are a few key factors to examine when looking for a quality VPN. Security is often the highest among them. But the other key aspect is speed. No one wants a network that is lagging so much it hinders productivity. This is why Proton VPN has made the list.
It boasts some of the fastest connection times out of most of its price range competitors. It is ideal for businesses that need to interact with customers instantly or for gamers who need a stable and secure connection. On top of that, it is completely open-source as well, which for tech enthusiasts is a huge plus. It operates on a policy of transparency meaning customers are constantly kept informed about changes being made and the direction the company is heading. It doesn’t just focus on speed though. It offers a lot of security features as well. It also operates outside of the USA, if that is something that matters to you.
