What is a VPN, and can it hide my IP address?

Much false information exists regarding virtual private networks (VPNs), their functions, and the security advantages they provide. In this post, we want to dispel several myths about the true operation of a VPN and the benefits of using one.

What is a VPN and how does it protect?

Installing a VPN program on your device can help protect your personal information as you browse the internet. As you may have heard, VPN apps let you safely connect to the internet while running on your smartphone. This means that when you activate your VPN app, your device establishes a secure connection with a VPN server, a specialized computer that routes internet traffic. Additionally, you may have heard that your connection is “wrapped in an encrypted tunnel,” which means that only you can see what you’re doing on the internet because your device and the server share a secure connection.

Can the IP address be changed with a VPN?

A distinct set of digits known as an IP address is allocated to each internet connection (such as your cable modem), and it is linked to data like your location, ISP, etc. By substituting the physical location of the VPN server for your actual IP address, a VPN creates the illusion that you are connecting to the internet from a different location from your actual one. This is but one explanation for the widespread use of VPNs. This can be useful if you wish to conceal your search history or hide from advertising trackers.

How can an IP address be modified using a VPN?

Just launch your VPN program, choose the server location you want to connect to, and you’re done changing your IP address. Now you’re using a different IP address to browse. Open a browser, type in “What’s my IP address,” and click on one of the results to confirm that your IP has changed.

When is the right time to utilize a VPN?

The purpose of a VPN determines when to utilize it. Using a VPN at the airport or a café is a wonderful use case because, for instance, 39% of users are aware that public Wi-Fi is hazardous yet nevertheless use it for important tasks like banking or shopping. As I previously stated, many users use a VPN for privacy-related purposes, such as preventing tracking by advertising. You can surprise your spouse with a vacation you planned and studied on a computer you both use because searches you do and websites you visit won’t be traced. 

Is search history protected by a VPN?

Through the private connection you share, a VPN safeguards your search history. For your browser to locate the website and deliver its content to you, when you search for a website or type a URL into your navigation bar, your device sends a DNS request, which converts the website into the IP address of the web server. A VPN can conceal your search history and habits from those who might use that information to create a profile of you by encrypting your DNS requests. This kind of information might be utilized for everything from malicious social engineering to legitimately offering targeted advertisements.

Is identity protected by a VPN?

By preventing online trackers from following you throughout the internet, a VPN can help you secure your identity. Trackers will believe that you are browsing from a different device in a different area when you have your VPN turned on. Because people believe you are someone different, this disrupts the profile that advertising is trying to create. A VPN can also shield your identity by blocking some kinds of hacking. One way VPNs can help is by preventing assaults on public WiFi where a malicious actor tries to obstruct your connection to the website you are viewing. It is referred to as a man-in-the-middle attack, but that is a topic for another piece.

How to browse anonymous with VPN?

No, you cannot become anonymous with a VPN. Although they aid in securing your online activities, your ISP is nonetheless aware of your online activities. Simply said, they are unable to see your activities, the websites you visit, or the duration of your stay on any given website.

If we use Incognito mode, do we still need a VPN?

If you share a device with someone and don’t want them to see your search history, private browsing settings can help protect your privacy. 

How to get your own VPN?

You can use a VPN indefinitely if you currently have a subscription to any protection platform. Use a secure VPN to shield your private data, including credit card numbers and banking details, from prying eyes.

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