In the digital world that we live in today, where the internet has become an inseparable part of human lives, it is important to keep yourself protected from the harms it can cause. Along with the innumerable benefits that the internet has, hackers can misuse it to the disadvantage of others.
One of the most common ways of misusing the internet is hacking. Hacking is a way in which unauthorized access to a device is gained in order to steal data, tamper with data, or transfer data to it along with many other reasons why it could be done.
So, it becomes extremely important for you to ensure your safety on the internet at all times. One of the most trusted ways of ensuring your safety and security on the internet is to make use of a VPN. For this, it becomes extremely important for you to choose a good, strong and reliable VPN, like ExpressVPN.
Step-by-step guide to using a VPN on your device
Using a VPN ensure your overall and all-round safety. It is fairly easy to use a VPN on your device. Simply follow the steps given below to use a VPN on your device:
Step 1: Select a VPN service and subscribe to one of its plans. It is important that you choose a VPN that has excellent security features, is strong, trustworthy and also guarantees results. ExpressVPN is a highly recommended option.
Step 2: Go to the app store and download the VPN app for your device.
Step 3: Install the VPN app and set up your VPN account.
Step 4: Go to the settings of your VPN app and switch on all security features like Kill Switch, ad blocker, etc.
Step 5: Connect to a suitable VPN server.
Your connection is now safe, secure and private. Just make sure to be connected to the VPN at all times when you are active on the internet.
How does a VPN protect from hacking?
Here is how a VPN can protect you from hacking.
Hides device’s IP address
All devices have a unique address called IP address. The IP address of a device can determine the location of your device but not just that, it can also determine some other details about you.
A VPN can hide the IP address of your device and also provide it with a fake IP address so that no one can know your real details. In this way your personal information is safe because it is not visible to anyone.
Encryption
VPNs are capable of keeping all your data encrypted by making a secure tunnel through which all your data passes so that it is not visible to hackers or any third party.
As the data becomes invisible to third parties they cannot get access to it in any way and thus all your data is kept private and secure with the help of a VPN service.
Kill Switch
All good VPNs provide the kill switch feature. This feature plays a key role and it comes into play when your VPN connection suddenly drops due to any reason. In such cases where connection unexpectedly drops, it is easy for hackers to attack as the traffic lays exposed.
Here, with a VPN, the kill switch features immediately comes into action and prevents your data from being attacked by suspending your internet connection for the time being.
Block ads
Most of the VPNs cannot block ads but some VPNs have a feature which can block ads and thus help you maintain online security and privacy.
This is because intentionally or unintentionally clicking on ads can lead to unwanted consequences as many malicious activities are done by creating interesting ads which people open and fall into the trap.
Secure Protocols
One of the identifying features of a good VPN is its protocols. Good VPN services, like ExpressVPN, use safe, secure and reliable VPN protocols. VPNs like ExpressVPN are recognized globally by tech experts for this reason.
Good VPN service have their private protocols adding on to their safety features. These protocols guarantee safety along with excellent speed of the connection.
Which hacks can a VPN prevent?
VPN keeps your connection secure and away from the reach of hackers. Here is a list of the hacks which you can prevent by using a VPN:
- DDoS attacks
- Man-in-the-middle attacks
- Remote hacking
- Fake Wi-Fi hotspots
- Session hijacking
- Malware
- Phishing
How to choose a good VPN?
It is extremely important to choose a good VPN. This is because not all VPN services are trustworthy and not all of them are capable of providing protection from hackers. It has been reported several times that some VPN services leave a loophole for hackers rather than providing full protection. So, you cannot trust any random VPN service.
First and foremost, you have to strictly avoid using free VPNs. They cause more harm than benefit. They could even sell your data to third-parties! So, free VPNs are a big No No.
Here is a list of the most important factors to consider while choosing a VPN for protection from hackers and for overall great performance:
- Strong encryption technology
- Kill switch
- Ad blocker
- Security and privacy features
- Strict no-log policy
- Speed and performance
- Wide server network
- Supported VPN protocols
- Spilt tunneling
Frequently Asked Questions
Can using a VPN protect my data from hackers?
VPN which stands for Virtual Private Network can definitely protect your data from hackers because when you employ a VPN on your device all your data passes through a tunnel which is completely encrypted and becomes inaccessible to any third party because it is highly secured. This is how a VPN keeps your data safe by protecting it from hackers.
Is it safe to use VPNs on laptops?
It is safe to use VPNs on laptops, what matters is that you choose a good VPN service which has good security features to ensure your online security and privacy, as well as the security of your device.
Can using a VPN protect data even when I am connected to a public wifi?
Yes using a VPN can protect your data even when you are connected to a public wifi. A VPN encrypts your data and makes sure that no matter which network connection you use your data is safe and inaccessible to any third party.
When should I avoid using a VPN?
Some services block your access to them when they find out that you are using a VPN and you thus cannot use them because your access gets blocked. In such cases, to avoid getting blocked by a service you should avoid using a VPN.