Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercit minidon ullamco nostrud enim ad.
VPNs protect your data on public Wi-Fi and from ISPs. Learn how they work, factors to consider when choosing one, and our top recommendation
This blog contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we trust. Thank you for your support!
We’ve all connected to public Wifi somewhere at some point. Some of us do this more often than others, namely remote workers and traveling types. But there are risks involved in using public networks that can seriously compromise our safety.
For one, what if “Free_Coffeeshop_Wifi” wasn’t the coffee shop? What if it was actually a network created by a cybercriminal for the purpose of stealing your precious data? Yikes.
Also, since Congress made it legal for ISPs (internet service providers) to sell user data to big companies like Facebook and Verizon, the demand for VPNs is higher than ever. For reference, ISPs can track everything you do, from your entire search history to bank accounts, to your “private” DMs. So, while there are malicious parties like data thieves, there are perfectly legal parties who also are using and selling your data.
With a VPN, you’re able to browse freely without fear that someone else is lurking about or intercepting your information while also blocking ISPs from collecting your data.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is software that privately and securely connects your device to another server. It works by hiding your IP address (the numerical label that identifies your device and location) and encrypting your precious data, then securely routing it through a server in a faraway location.
For example, you could be in Miami using a server in Los Angeles. Or you could be on vacation in Bali but your location is set to New York City. When you’re using the same public network as others, anyone that wants to can access your private information. Say you’re checking your bank account balance while waiting for your flight at the airport. Someone sitting across from you (a possible cybercriminal) could get your account number or login information and straight-up steal your money.
If you ask us, everyone should be using a VPN– especially if you travel often or do important business on public networks.
Now that we’ve settled that… let’s pick a VPN that best suits your needs!
Choosing your VPN will depend on what you’re using it for and on which devices.
Typically, most users just want a cheap, general service VPN that’ll keep them secure. Below, we broke down our considerations into the following categories:
VPNs aren’t a break-the-bank investment. Most VPN subscriptions range from around $2–5/month depending on the package. But of course, the more you invest into the product, the more protection you’ll get.
There are a few free VPNs out there, but be weary of them. If you’re not paying for your product, your data is being sold for profit (let’s be real, nothing is truly free). That’s why it’s best to actually invest in a VPN subscription to prevent your information from being sold to third-party companies.
In 2013, there was a spike in the demand for VPNs when Edward Snowden leaked highly classified information while working for the CIA. After this, many companies created fraudulent, non-legit software that gave cyber criminals another way to prey on consumers who just wanted to keep their data safe.
The same can apply to free VPN services, as we mentioned before. If it’s free, then you are the product, and that really defeats the whole purpose, does it not?
The point here is: make sure the product is legit. You can do this by looking them up on Linkedin and doing a cross-check. Or if you want to avoid the extra work and anxiety altogether, follow our recommendations below.
Most VPNs should allow for multiple devices to be on the same VPN. In other words, you shouldn’t have to purchase individual service for each device. Regardless of which device you’re using, a VPN can configure to all of them for one subscription free.
Oh, and while you’re at it, why not convince your company to invest in a business VPN? This will shield your company information from getting into the wrong hands, especially when many employees use work devices. And bonus– you won’t have to pay for one yourself!
These recommendations take into account efficiency, cost, and features. Don’t forget to check if any of them offer free trials! Trying out the product first will help you know which one works best for you.
FYI- the price listed below for each recommendation is the service’s cheapest option.
Once you’ve purchased your VPN, check out our article ****about ****how to set up a VPN on your devices!
If you don’t want your information stolen from untrustworthy networks or the legal selling of your data, invest in a VPN. It’s pretty affordable and totally worth it– plus, you may be able to write it off as a business expense or get your company to purchase one! Overall, having a VPN is a more digitally secure option that limits your information to outsiders and protects your privacy.
Feel free to share this article with anyone you know (especially remote workers and frequent travellers) who could benefit from using a VPN!
