When you connect to the internet, you are connecting to your ISP (Internet Service Provider) which then connects you to the website of your choice. Your online behaviour can be viewed by your ISP and shared with external agencies. 

A VPN provides a secure tunnel that runs between your computer and the sites you visit on the internet. Instead of connecting to the ISP, you connect to the VPN. Any data that then travels between your computer and the internet is securely encrypted meaning external agencies aren’t able to see it. 

There are VPN companies offering both free and paid for VPN connections. Paid for services are more comprehensive and reliable. When choosing a VPN provider, you are essentially choosing to whom you want to entrust your internet privacy. You need to be aware of if and how your VPN may choose to share any of your online data; VPN providers in certain countries are legally obliged to keep logs of internet activity, which pretty much negates the idea of private browsing. 

When using a VPN, you will launch your VPN application on your computer. Your computer will then connect to the remote server in order to prevent any eavesdropping on your web comings and goings. 

It protects your data when you’re browsing on a public Wi-Fi network. If you regularly use your laptop at the local coffee shop or in the airport, you are opening up your data to prying eyes. Shared Wi-Fi connections aren’t secure but connecting through a VPN will ensure your data is kept private from hackers who may wish to steal your personal details or redirect your computer to a disreputable website. 

It allows you to access country specific web pages.Certain websites are restricted to use in a particular country. Watching a TV show as it airs, accessing location-specific radio programmes or using a new application that is only available in one country is all made possible with a VPN. Your VPN connection fools the website into thinking your computer is located in the required country and giving you access to the site. 

It prevents abuses of privacy. If you live in a country where internet access is restricted, a VPN will help you to gain access to prohibited websites without government detection. Even if your country of residence isn’t ostensibly repressive, a VPN can prevent your internet activity from government bulk data collection. Passive surveillance can almost always be avoided but if a government is actively seeking to search through your data, it’s worth bearing in mind that a VPN might not be enough of a protection on its own. 

Using a good quality VPN increases your web freedom and security. It’s a good idea to keep up-to-date with any VPN developments  by following industry blogs like VPN Compass and educate yourself as to whether the VPN you’ve chosen offers effective protection for your chosen internet activity.