What is VPN, How does a VPN Work, Types of VPN, VPN Protocols, Is VPN Safe, top free and paid VPN services

What is VPN? | How does a VPN work? | Types of VPN & Protocols

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Last Updated on May 28, 2024 by Tech Queries Team

In the digital age, the term VPN often comes up when discussing online security and privacy. But what exactly is a VPN, and how does it work? In this post, we are going to discuss what is VPN, How does a VPN Work, Types of VPN, VPN Protocols, Is VPN Safe, and everything you need to know about VPN.

Besides that, we are also going to discuss whether the VPN is safe and legal to use, as well as the advantages & disadvantages of using a VPN service. We will further talk about why you should be using a VPN to secure your privacy in 2024. Moreover, we also provided the list of some of the top free and paid VPN services at the end of this article, where you will also find answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). 

You can jump to any section of the article by using the Table of Content.

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What is VPN?

Before we talk about the How does a VPN work, you need to understand What is VPN first. Virtual Private Network (abbreviated as VPN) is a service that helps you protect your online privacy. When you browse the web, the websites you visit are able to see your Internet ID or IP address (Unique Internet Protocol Number). Your IP address can also be used to locate your current physical location and track your online activities as well. 

The information provided by your Internet ID is mostly used for improving user experience, traffic analysis, and marketing. But cybercriminals can use it for other illegal purposes.

Types of VPN, Types of VPN Protocols, What is VPN, Is VPN Safe

A VPN Service/Software protects your privacy by hiding your original Internet Protocol Address and disguises it with a fake address from other corners of the world, which makes it impossible for websites or hackers to track your activities. It also builds a safe tunnel between you and the internet so that others cannot interfere and steal your data. 

By using a VPN, your data is encrypted, and you can surf the web anonymously. Besides protecting you, VPN also provides lots of other features, which we will be discussing further in this article.

Example: 

Suppose you are browsing the internet from India. The websites you visit can see your original IP address and location. As you turn on the VPN service, it will hide your original ID and shows a fake IP address from the USA, UK, etc. Therefore, your identity and privacy are safe, and you can browse anonymously. 

Furthermore, as your IP address changes to the USA, UK, or any other country, you can now watch the shows and browse the websites banned in your country. We will discuss more on watching Geo-restricted content and choosing the server location later in this article.

Most VPN services allow you to choose a virtual IP address. Moreover, some of the paid VPN services offer you to choose from over 150 servers located in more than 60 countries. 

How often do you use VPN while browsing the web?

How does a VPN work?

Now let us talk about how does a VPN work. 

Suppose you are browsing the internet. When you type in the search engine, your computer (or any device) sends a request to the internet. The internet collects the data for you and sends it back to your computer. It looks simple. But when you are sending a request to the internet, you are also sending your other details like IP address, location, and more. So, a hacker can interfere with the signals and steal your data. 

VPN Tunnelling, How VPN works

Now, suppose you are browsing the internet with a VPN connection. When you send a request to the internet, your request goes to the VPN server, and from there it goes to the internet. The VPN creates a secure encrypted tunnel through which you send and receive data. Therefore, hackers cannot interfere or steal your data.

How Many Types of VPNs are there?

There are Two Types of VPN:

  1. Remote Access VPN
  2. Site-to-Site VPN
    • Intranet Site-to-Site VPN
    • Extranet Site-to-Site VPN

Remote Access VPN:

Remote Access VPN helps users to connect to the internet securely and remotely. Users can connect to the internet through VPN Server to bypass regional restrictions, and access blocked websites.

It is what most of the VPN applications provide. It is easy to set up and use. 

Site-to-Site VPN:

It is also known as Router-to-Router VPN. It is a service that helps users located in different geographic locations to access each other’s data securely. 

Suppose a company has offices in different geographic locations. They can connect with each other securely using the site-to-site VPN. Here one office router acts as a VPN server, whereas other ones act as VPN Client. Thanks to site-to-site VPN service, you can share data quickly and securely.

We call it an Intranet-based VPN when the offices belong to the same company. 

Similarly, we call it Extranet based VPN if the offices belong to different companies. 

IP address location

What are the Types of VPN Protocols?

These days, VPN Service Providers let you choose the VPN Protocol based on your requirements. Therefore, it is necessary that VPN users have a fundamental knowledge of the protocols to make sure they are using the right one.

PPTP (Point to Point Tunnelling Protocol): 

Developed by Microsoft, PPTP is one of the oldest VPN protocols. Point to Point Tunnelling Protocol is fast and easy to configure, but it is also the least secure protocol as it uses only 128-bit (basic) encryption. It is compatible with all devices and is also cost-effective. But modern users must avoid it as we require a more secure network these days while browsing the web.

L2TP/IPSec (Layer 2 Tunnelling Protocol):

Co-created by Cisco and Microsoft, L2TP is a better version of PPTP. L2TP Protocol is more secure than PPTP as it uses IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) encryption (256-bit). Compared to PPTP, L2TP is hard to configure but gives steady performance even on unstable networks. Both PPTP and L2TP can be blocked by a Firewall and not beneficial for modern users. If you had to choose between L2TP and PPTP, L2TP is better.

SSTP (Secure Socket Tunnelling Protocol):

Developed by Microsoft, the Secure Socket Tunnelling Protocol is only compatible with Windows devices. It uses SSL 3.0 Encryption, and it can easily bypass the Firewall. Among the three protocols we discussed so far, SSTP is a better choice for Windows devices.

IKv2 (Internet Key Exchange version 2):

Developed by Microsoft and Cisco, IKv2 also uses IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) Encryption to secure the network. Internet Key Exchange version 2 is the newest protocol that is compatible with Windows and Mac devices.

OpenVPN:

It is a multi-platform VPN protocol, but users require third-party applications (VPN Softwares) to setup OpenVPN on their devices. It is the most secure protocol on the list as it uses AES-Encryption to protect your privacy. Similar to SSTP, OpenVPN also uses 443 port to bypass Firewalls. To Conclude, OpenVPN is the best option, as it is the most secure and reliable VPN protocol. 

Premium VPN Services like Nord VPN, CyberGhost, and ExpressVPN support all Protocols, whereas some VPN services work only on OpenVPN Protocol (which is very secure).

Also read What is a Firewall & What does a Firewall Do?.

Is VPN Safe and Legal to use?

Coming to our other primary question, whether VPNs are safe and legal to use? The answer is Yes, as most companies around the world use VPN services to protect their privacy. Some VPN services do not even store your browsing data or user information in their database, so we can say it is safe to use. 

Though, using a VPN to browse or visit banned and inappropriate websites can be illegal. Also, make sure the VPN you are using is from a trusted source, or the VPN itself may try to steal your data. We have mentioned some of the best free and paid VPN services that are safe to use at the end of the article.

Why do you need a VPN?

Privacy is a huge concern these days as marketers are eager to utilize user data to improve sales. Besides that, cybercriminals might be tracking your online activities to find a way to hack into your accounts. Therefore, it is necessary to use a VPN while surfing the internet. Moreover, there are dozens of free VPN software/services that does the essential job of hiding your IP address. 

Another strong reason to use a VPN is that it will also help you save money. How? When you are trying to book a hotel, taxi, or flight tickets from various websites, they store your IP address and increase the price when you visit the website multiple times. 

I personally experienced it while hiring a cab. The price was low when I was just checking. But as the website knows that I need a ride, so they increased the price when I was booking. Therefore, you can use a VPN to do the research and hire cabs or book hotels at the original price.

VPN protects from Hackers

Also, it is not safe to use free WiFi in Coffee shops, Airports, or Malls. When you connect your device (laptop or mobile) to the free WiFi network, anyone with a laptop and basic hacking knowledge can hack your passwords and credentials without making any efforts. Hence, by using VPN software, you can safely transfer the data without any interference.

You can share this article with your family and friends by using the social sharing icons because it is necessary that everyone should know the Types of VPN and VPN protocols before using a VPN Service.

Is VPN Free to Use?

There are both Free and Paid VPN services. The Free VPN Softwares helps you hide and disguise your original identity but lack other advanced features. Some free VPN services have limited usage, and they also reduce your internet speed. You can scroll to the bottom of the page where we listed the Top 5 free VPN software, based on our user experience.

How to Use a VPN?

VPN is very easy to use even for a beginner. You just need to install VPN software and use the ON/OFF switch. No matter which VPN service you use, you can simply click on the ON/OFF Switch to turn it on and off. You can also choose the virtual server location from the drop-down menu. Advanced users will find all the additional features in the settings/options menu.

Types of VPN, Types of VPN Protocols, What is VPN, Is VPN Safe

Why isn’t everyone using a VPN?

You might be wondering that if VPN is so important, then why isn’t everyone in the world using it. First of all, most people are unaware of what a VPN is, and some are not sure whether the VPN is safe or legal to use. Besides that, most VPN services reduce internet speed.

These are the primary reasons why everyone is not using VPN software. But, in the coming days, the VPN will be considered as one of the essential software for your device. However, you can spread awareness by sharing this informative article with your family and friends by using the social sharing icons located on the left side of the page. 

How is VPN useful for Bloggers or Affiliate Marketing?

VPN is proven to be very handy for bloggers and affiliate marketers. When you search for a keyword in the Google Search Engine, it shows the results based on your country and region. But if you are targetting other country audience, you can use a VPN and shift to the targeted location so that your research is more precise. 

Even while searching for the best products, you will mostly find the products available in your country/region. So, if you are looking to send a gift to someone living in another country, you better search through the respective server (by using a VPN) for specific results.

Is VPN Service available for all devices/platforms?

Yes, VPN services and software are available for Windows PCs, Mac PCs, Smart Phones, iPad, iPhones, and other Android devices. You can even install VPN services on your WiFi router to protect other devices like Smart TV, Gaming Consoles, etc. Moreover, you will also find several free VPN plug-ins (addons) to install on your web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, etc. 

Can we use VPN for Smart Phones?

Yes. In most smartphones, you will find the VPN option in Settings > Other Wireless Connections > VPN. But you need to add the VPN service manually. So, it is better to install a reliable VPN app from the Play Store or App Store and use it without any issues. 

Protection for Mobile

Pros and Cons of VPN:

Uses of a VPN:

  • Secure Connection
  • Anonymous Browsing
  • Access to Geo-Restricted Content
  • Easy to Connect and Use
  • Encrypted File Sharing
  • Affordable Security

Cons of Using a VPN:

  • Slow Internet Speed
  • It is illegal in some countries
  • Untrusted free VPN can steal your data
  • Using any wrong VPN Types or Protocols without proper knowledge can risk your privacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

How is VPN Different from Proxy?

Proxy servers hide your IP address and lets you browse anonymously. But it works only on an application level.
For example: If you use the proxy on your web browser, all your other applications connect through the regular server. 
VPN is similar to a proxy, but it secures all your incoming and outgoing connections. Besides that, VPN has a higher security level, and even your ISP provider cannot track your online activities while you access the VPN. So, in conclusion, the proxy is a bit faster than VPN, but VPN is much secure.

Which is the Best VPN for Torrenting?

There are several factors to consider while choosing a VPN for Torrenting. Your VPN service needs to provide privacy, high speed, and unlimited bandwidth. Besides that, it should follow the no-logs policy and has a kill switch. All these features are not available in free VPN software. 
Therefore, you should choose any good Paid VPN software like ExpressVPN, Nord VPN, etc. You may also want to know that, in General, torrenting is transferring a large amount of data between several people. So, it is legal to use torrent for sharing personal files between different users. On the other hand, torrenting pirated data (like movies, games, etc.) is prohibited.

What is the Best VPN for Windows?

There are several VPN software for Windows, both paid and free. You can scroll down and check the list of our top free and paid VPN software.

Is Paid VPN Secure than Free VPN?

VPN itself is a security software. Both Free and Paid VPN services are secure. But make sure you check out the user reviews before using any VPN, whether Free or Paid. Also, make sure the VPN software you are using includes the No-Logs policy to make sure they do not store or share any user information.

What are Free VPN Services for Netflix?

Let me inform you that Netflix does not encourage the users to use a VPN or Proxy as it is against their terms of use. Besides that, Netflix uses several techniques like the Geo-IP database for identifying the network. It is difficult as well as illegal to use a VPN service for Netflix.

Does VPN make Internet slower?

Yes. Most VPN software slows down the Internet Speed to an extent. It is because your data first reaches the server location and then to the internet, to protect your privacy. And, the information again comes through the server location to your computer. Hence, the results are delayed. But most paid VPN services have hundreds of server locations that try to transfer the data as soon as possible.

Can VPN Change your IP address?

No, it just disguises your current IP address temporarily. You can see a new IP address every time you connect to the VPN, but your original IP address will remain the same.
You can check your current IP address on this website called what is my IP address

Can VPN Hide your IP Address?

Yes, it temporarily hides your IP address, as we have discussed earlier in this post.

What VPN Means?

VPN Stands for Virtual Private Network. 

Why VPN Not Working?

Some of the users are not able to use VPN software. Usually, the problem is solved by uninstalling and reinstalling the software. In other cases, your firewall software must be stopping the software from connecting to the internet. So, go to your firewall settings and allow the VPN software to access the internet.

Which VPN is Best?

Well, you can scroll down a little bit as we have listed some of the Best Paid and Free VPN Software. You can choose a suitable one by checking out their features. 

How can we unlock Geo-Restricted content?

Most countries block certain websites, and some programs are not accessible in other regions. Therefore, as you connect through different server locations, it is possible that you can unlock Geo-restricted content.
Internet users usually face these kinds of issues while traveling to other regions. They cannot watch their favorite show or access certain websites as they are restricted to certain geo-locations. Also, while watching YouTube, you might have encountered an error message like This video is not available in your country.
Therefore, by using VPN software, you can browse from other locations and watch your favorite shows even while roaming.

Will VPN work on Smart TV?

Yes. Some of the best VPN Softwares for TV are ExpressVPN, Nord VPN, CyberGhost, and SurfShark. Once you sign up for any of the VPN services, you can download the particular app from the Play Store and start using it. 
Once you install the app, you need to choose the location server and start watching your favorite programs. In case you are not able to access the Play Store, then you can share the VPN connection from your PC to your Smart TV through Ethernet. Another method is to install the VPN on the WiFi router and connect the Smart TV through it.

Can VPN be traced?

Most of the Premium VPN Services like SurfShark, ExpressVPN, Nord VPN, etc. have a no-logs policy. Therefore, even if someone approaches a VPN provider, they would have nothing to offer. However, federal agents have other methods to track the original IP address through various techniques.

What is the best free VPN software for the iPhone?

You will find several free VPN applications on the App Store. Some of the best free VPN apps would be NordVPN, Windscribe, ProtonVPN, and Hotspot Shield.

Are paid VPN Services more secure than free VPN?

Yes. Paid VPN software has a No-logs policy, which means they do not store any user information. Besides that, they also have a kill switch feature that protects your privacy when the VPN connection is suddenly lost. Therefore, paid VPN services are more secure than a free VPN.

What are the disadvantages of using a VPN regularly?

The only downside of using a VPN is that it will slow down your internet speed.

What VPN do hackers use?

Hackers do not require VPN software. They use various techniques to hack user data. Also, they can create their own VPN service if they wanted to. 

Does a VPN protect you from Hackers?

Yes, to an extent. It prevents hackers from tracking your online activities by changing the IP address. A VPN also protects you from hackers when you are using free WiFi in malls, coffee shops, airports, and other public places.

Is online banking safe with VPN?

Accessing online banking websites is safe even without using a VPN. They use high encryption methods to make sure your data is secure. Though, if you are accessing online banking through public WiFi or unsafe networks, it is possible that your username and password could be leaked. Therefore, using a VPN can provide an extra layer of protection. 
But, in some rare cases, you may also get locked-out by your bank for accessing the website through a VPN. Because when you try to access your online banking website through other server locations, it may recognize that as suspicious activity and lock the account temporarily for security reasons.
Therefore, we recommend you to perform banking activities without a VPN connection, but also make sure your device is connected through a secure network.

Which VPN to choose, Free or Paid?

Free VPN Softwares does the job of hiding your IP and protecting your privacy, but there are some cons. Most of the free VPN services have limited monthly usage. Additionally, they reduce the speed of the internet and run ads to generate income. Therefore, if you are a beginner or use the VPN occasionally, then you can use the free VPNs.
On the other hand, paid VPN services are faster, and you can choose from hundreds of servers all around the world. Besides that, paid VPN software gives unlimited bandwidth and offers several features like split tunneling, kill switch, private DNS, and more.

Is DuckDuckGo a VPN?

No. Duck Duck Go is a Search Engine just like Google and Bing.

Can VPN Change your Location?

No. It just masks your original location. Meaning: When you turn on the VPN, it shows a different location from yours, but your original IP Address wont be changed.

Why does VPN keep Turning off?

If your VPN keeps turning off, there might be a connectivity issue with your Internet. Or, try changing the location if it keeps turning again and again.

Can you use VPN to buy Steam Games cheaper?

Gaming Websites might have special offers in a particular country on location on special occassions. Hence, you can use VPN to access the website through that location and claim the discounts. However, you need to be careful as logging into your account through different locations might get you banned because of security reasons.

Does VPN work in Incognito?

Yes. Using Incognito mode has nothing to do with VPN. Incognito Mode simply hides your history from your browser & account. You will be browsing through your original IP address itself. Whereas, using VPN will mask your original IP address with a fake one. But, using VPN in normal browser mode will still record your browsing history.

5 Best Free & Paid VPN Software:

These are some of the best VPN software we tried and tested. The following VPN services are utilized by millions of people worldwide.

Top 5 Best Free VPN Software:

  • Windscribe
  • ProtonVPN Free
  • Hotspot Shield
  • Tunnel Bear
  • Speedify

Top 5 Best Paid VPN Software:

Conclusion:

I hope now you understand what a VPN is, how does a VPN work, What are the Types of VPN, and VPN Protocols. Now it’s your turn to decide whether you really need VPN Software or not. You can make a comment on whether you have decided to use VPN software or Not.

In conclusion, I would like to say that the VPN is essential software for your computer or mobile devices. It protects your privacy when you are surfing the web. Besides that, you can also access blocked websites and the content restricted in your location. Moreover, it also protects you from data-thefts. Therefore, download and try out the VPN services mentioned above.

Disclaimer: We only provide information regarding VPN service, and We do not encourage you to use the VPN for illegal activities. The primary purpose of using VPN software is to protect your privacy while browsing the internet.

If you still have any Questions/Queries regarding VPN, feel free to ask in the comments section.

Also, you can use the social sharing buttons to share this information with your family and friends. Let them be aware of the VPN before using the service in this modern era.