Here’s why VPNs aren’t really that useful

VPNs (virtual private networks) have grown in popularity for their promise of secure private browsing, but their capabilities can be overrated. So while VPNs do work, there are a lot of misconceptions about the security they provide and what they’re really good for.

How VPNs work

When you connect to the Internet, your device (phone, laptop, or desktop computer) sends your request to the router, which then routes it to the modem. From there, the modem connects to your ISP (Internet Service Provider), making it easy to route your data to the right destination. Both your public IP address (modem address) and private IP address (device address) are used to ensure that your data is transferred to the correct location and a response is sent to your device.

Using a VPN changes this process. The VPN app on your device encrypts your data before it reaches your router and modem. The ISP then redirects your connection to a VPN server where your data is decrypted, used to access the content you’re looking for, re-encrypted and sent back to the ISP. Finally, your modem and router will receive the encrypted data and route it to your device, where the VPN application will then decrypt its contents.

A VPN essentially encrypts your data and masks your IP address by connecting to a VPN server, adding a layer of anonymity and security when connecting to the internet.

Problem with VPN services

Although using a VPN service masks your IP and encrypts your data, it does not guarantee complete online security or anonymity as the ads try to convince you. There are some common misconceptions about using a VPN for security:

1. Full anonymity: VPNs can mask your IP, but they don’t stop website trackers, which may still use cookies and other tracking methods. Additionally, VPN providers can see your online activity if they log data, even if they claim otherwise.
2. Protection against all hackers: A VPN can secure data on public Wi-Fi, but it doesn’t protect against malware or phishing attacks that steal credentials. Other security tools, such as antivirus software, remain essential.
3. Complete ISP privacy: VPNs hide data from ISPs, but transfer trust to the VPN provider, who could potentially be logging your activity.

While VPNs add a layer of privacy and security, many don’t explain their limitations or make general statements about how they keep your online environment safe. This in turn can give people a false sense of security, leading to poor cyber hygiene.

VPN services also add a few more layers to your internet access. This can slow down your internet speed and increase latency, affecting the responsiveness of time-sensitive applications such as video calling, online gaming and stock market monitoring.

What is a VPN good for?

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Considering the pros and cons of using a VPN, subscribing to a VPN service doesn’t seem that useful. However, in my opinion, if you do subscribe to a VPN, it should be for these two reasons:

• Access to geo-restricted content: VPNs allow users to view region-locked content by appearing to connect from other countries. This may work to access streaming services or websites only available in certain areas.
• Data security on public networks: VPNs are useful on public Wi-Fi by encrypting data, which prevents snoopers from intercepting information. This added privacy can be valuable in public spaces, but is not a substitute for other security practices.

VPNs serve their purpose, but they are not the ultimate answer to online security or anonymity. They are useful for protecting your device when using public Wi-Fi or accessing geo-restricted content. With VPN prices going up significantly after the first year of subscription, the limited online protection and disadvantages you get from using one, is it really worth paying for one?