VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a widely used technology that establishes an internet connection between users and private servers. The VPN was born out of the necessity for secure network access and business communications. However, its usage quickly extended to non-corporate users seeking to remain anonymous from the prying eyes of internet service providers (ISPs), who typically gather customers’ browsing history.
A VPN is a critical tool for safeguarding one’s online privacy and erasing one’s digital footprint. It is widely used and is accompanied by many misconceptions. Several of these big misconceptions are debunked, along with the reasons why they are false.
VPN ensures complete anonymity
Everyone thinks that VPNs provide users with full online anonymity through an encrypted and secure server. Additionally, it is believed that the high degree of 256-bit encryption used by VPNs makes them tough to crack.
However, full anonymity is not guaranteed since some VPNs retain records of users’ activities for many weeks, if not longer. Logs may be reviewed and subpoenaed, and VPNs are legally obligated to comply with legitimate demands. As a result, you are not completely anonymous if you don’t opt for a reliable VPN.
VPN is designed for individuals involved in illegal activities
The majority of people believe that you do not need a VPN to safeguard your online privacy if you are not engaging in any criminal activity. The widespread assumption is that VPNs are just for internet gamers and torrent users.
However, you would not want someone monitoring your internet actions and maintaining a record of them for future use against you.
Apart from the privacy element, VPNs have a variety of additional legal applications that individuals may benefit from daily. You can visit websites that have banned and blacklisted your country’s IP address. As a result, it enables unlimited access.
VPN is for tech-savvy individuals
Utilizing a virtual reality system may be difficult, particularly in its early stages. The assumption is that only those with a working knowledge of technical terminology and programming can successfully utilize a VPN.
Meanwhile, VPNs have been redesigned to feature user-friendly interfaces that are simple to use, even for beginners.
All VPNs are identical
While it’s tempting to think of all VPNs as being identical and offering the same services, they are all unique. Price, speed, the number of supported systems, and the number of servers all serve as distinguishing considerations. The VPN quality of service varies according to the aforementioned variables. As a result, no two VPNs can be identical.