What is a VPN (MADE SIMPLE)

what is a vpn in simple english, vpn explained simplified data privacy training

What is a VPN and how does it work?

Have you always heard people say “use a VPN” and never really understood its meaning or its purpose? Or you never even heard of it. Well, as usual, CyberPhorm is here to explain in simple terms for us to understand.

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and it provides a secure channel (or tunnel) to communicate over an insecure network. Think of a VPN like an underwater pipeline that transports oil. The pipeline ensures the oil gets to the other side without the Ocean washing it away. The fishes in the ocean cannot tell what is inside the pipeline. There could be rain and strong waves but the oil remains inside the pipeline.. 

There might be ocean divers who see this pipeline but also cannot see what is inside and cannot see or tell what kind of liquid exactly is inside. There are many benefits of transporting the oil through the pipeline of which you can think of some already. The VPN works in a very similar manner.

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The insecure network (e.g. Internet) is the ocean, your VPN is the pipeline and your data/packets is the oil flowing through the pipeline from source to destination with as much security, shield and protection as possible. Now, let’s not overthink the analogy; we get the idea. In short, that is the purpose of a VPN and how it works on a high level.

Delving a bit lower; the oil pipeline was built with special materials to prevent water entry because if water enters the pipeline, it would mix with the oil which makes the oil being delivered either unusable or untrusted and it can cause damage to whatever machine uses it. When this happens, we can say the integrity of the oil has been compromised. Same with data; it can be compromised through unauthorised modification while at rest or in transit. The pipeline was also designed to withstand a couple of weather conditions and also strong enough that a lot of manpower, tactics, and tools would be needed to break the pipe, same with the VPN. VPNs come with extra security. Most VPNs are designed to add extra layer of security to your internet activity to increase the user’s level of confidentiality, Integrity and privacy in general. VPNs encrypt your data as it travels through the internet from your device to the destination where the resource you are requesting is located. VPNs can mask your online identity providing anonymity. To keep the simplicity of this article, a VPN significantly reduces the chances of you exposing your information or web/browsing habits.

In summary, why do you need a VPN?

  • To prevent your data from being stolen (e.g. credit card, SSN, Tax Id, National Insurance etc.)
  • Securing the above could also protect you from Identity theft (i.e. someone else posing as you elsewhere or using your identity to commit a crime elsewhere without your knowledge)
  • VPNs are able to hide/mask your IP Address
  • VPNs are able to hide or disguise your location
  • Protecting your browsing habits or web activity
  • Disguising your location and the type of device you are using

Who needs a VPN?

  • Literally anyone who values their privacy
  • Anyone who does online transactions with personal details
  • Anyone who does not want to be easily tracked online
  • Organisations with staff working remotely so they can securely connect to the Organisation’s resources

Who can get a VPN and how expensive is it?

Anyone can get a VPN and average subscription price for a good VPN is about $10/month. This is price of one lunch in exchange for your privacy and information security. Even better, click here or click the below link now to get 65% off IP Vanish VPN @ $3.75/month while the offer still lasts. IP Vanish VPN is one of the most reliable VPNs in the market that really values your privacy. IP Vanish VPN is available for all device types and Operating system. Click the link below to find out more or to grab the offer ASAP.

Pipeline picture credit: http://octa-innovation.eu/polynesie-francaise-une-pratique-exemplaire-en-matiere-de-climatisation/underwater-pipeline-2/

12 thoughts on “What is a VPN (MADE SIMPLE)”

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