A VPN, or virtual private network, has become an essential tool for many internet users. Whether you’re a business owner trying to keep your data secure or a regular person looking to keep your browsing history private, software such as VPN can be a lifesaver.
VPNs provide several essential features for online security, privacy, and anonymity. This blog post will discuss seven of the main features and functions of a VPN and elaborate on why they are so important. Keep reading to learn more!
What is a VPN?
The secure network connection to safely connect your devices to public networks is VPN. VPN technology encrypts all incoming and outgoing online data so that third parties cannot access them. VPN hides your browsing history, IP address, geographical location, and personal data, it comes with many features and functions.
However, the primary purpose of a VPN is to safeguard the user’s privacy while on public networks; however, some other main purposes may involve accessing information that is not publicly available in one’s location. In simple terms, you can use VPN to access region-restricted websites by spoofing your location, as well as protecting personal data from snoopers.
Main Functions of a VPN:
1. Multiple Server Locations
The most common function or purpose of a VPN service is to access content worldwide. VPN technology has made it possible for people to have multiple server locations without worrying about their data security. By using a VPN, you can connect to servers in different geographic areas and access the available resources on those servers. It can be a great way to bypass geo-fence restrictions and/or censored content.
2. SPI Firewall
The SPI firewall is a security feature that is included in most routers. It stands for Stateful Packet Inspection and is specially designed to block unauthorized network ports and protocols to access the protected network. VPN tunnels are created by encapsulating data packets in encrypted protocols such as IPSec or PPTP. This way, the SPI firewall cannot inspect these data packets, as they are hidden inside the encrypted tunnel. However, not every software of VPN service offers these features, so if you are looking for a VPN that helps you bypass SPI Firewalls, be sure to check VeePN.
There are several reasons why you might need to bypass the SPI firewall. For example, It can help businesses access certain websites or applications blocked by the SPI firewall. Besides, it can also be used for privacy and security purposes, as it keeps your traffic hidden from prying eyes. In both cases, a software VPN can help you get around the SPI firewall and access the content you need.
3. Support for OpenVPN
Another important function or purpose of a VPN is to support the OpenVPN protocol. As discussed above, a VPN protects your data by establishing an encrypted data tunnel between the client and the VPN server; however, there are many different protocols available for carrying out this data encryption.
The more options and protocols a VPN service has, the better it will be. In this context, an OpenVPN is perhaps the most important protocol to look for in a VPN. It is the most up-to-date protocol and is regarded to be very safe.
4. Integrated Kill Switch
VPNs are a great way to keep your online activity private, but what happens if the VPN connection drops? Without a kill switch, your computer is vulnerable to being exposed.
A kill switch can be added to your VPN client software or router firmware to disable your internet connection if the VPN fails automatically. It prevents your computer from accidentally exposing your internet activity or real IP address to your ISP (internet service provider) or third-party applications.
5. Anonymous DNS Servers
DNS resolution is the process of translating a domain name into an IP address that can be used by devices to communicate with each other on the internet. This translation is performed by DNS servers, maintained by domain name registrars, Internet service providers (ISPs), and DNS hosting services. Hence, it may compromise your privacy.
VPNs are a great way to protect your privacy when browsing the internet. So, you can access Netflix using a VPN and other video streaming services from any nation and watch your favourite shows. One of the ways they do this is by allowing you to use an anonymous DNS resolution service. It means that your computer will not connect to websites using your regular DNS servers but rather through a VPN server. This makes it much harder for anyone to track what you are doing online.
6. No Log Policy
VPNs are known for their no-log policies. It means that no information is stored about your activities while using the VPN. Hence, it is a great way to keep your online privacy protected. If you’re looking for a VPN with a no-log policy, go for VeePN.
Not all VPNs have no log policies; therefore, you must read the terms of service before signing up. Some VPNs may keep logs for a short period to troubleshoot problems or enforce their Terms of Service. However, these logs are typically destroyed after a short period.
7. Router Support
Instead of setting up VPNs on each device linked to your home network, you can just set up a VPN on your router, which will provide safety for all devices on the network. It is a superior option, but it requires a good VPN service and a compatible router.
Moreover, installing the VPN on the router provides a more cost-effective way to protect all of your devices, and it can also be easier to use than installing the VPN on each device.
Summary
VPNs are an important tool for online security, privacy, and anonymity. They provide several essential features for keeping your data safe and secure when you’re browsing the internet. Whether you’re working remotely, traveling abroad, or just trying to keep your browsing habits private, a software VPN is the best way to ensure that your information is protected. We hope this blog post has helped you understand the main purpose of a VPN and its essential features and function.
