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A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server before your internet traffic continues to websites and apps. VPNs are widely used by individuals and businesses looking for more privacy and security when they're online.
According to a 2025 survey by Security.org, 32% of Americans use a VPN for more security and privacy. They can be a valuable tool to help keep prying eyes from seeing your personal data when you're accessing your bank account or shopping online. Learning the different types of VPNs, their benefits and downsides and how to choose the best VPN can help you stay safe online.
What Is a VPN?
A VPN is a service you can run on your phone or computer that routes your internet activity through an encrypted connection to help keep your data and internet activity private. Whether you're browsing the web or logging in to your employer's network, your traffic appears to come from the VPN's servers rather than your own device, which adds a layer of privacy.
How Does a VPN Work?
A VPN acts as a middleman between your computer or device and the internet and encrypts the data you send to the internet for protection. Here's how it works.
- You connect to a VPN server. When you want a secure connection, open your VPN app and choose a server to connect to the internet. Generally, the server nearest to you provides the fastest connection speed. Once you hit "Connect," the app verifies your account to confirm you're an authorized subscriber.
- A secure tunnel is established. The VPN software and server connect to form a private path that shields your data from the internet's normal and less secure routes.
- Your data is encrypted. The app encrypts all web requests coming from your device or computer into unreadable code. Even if an internet service provider (ISP) or another third party intercepts your data, it will look like useless gibberish to them.
- VPN server masks your IP address. When you visit a website, the VPN server connects to it for you using its IP address instead of yours. The website then sends its information to the VPN server, which encrypts it and sends it along to your device. This masks your identity and location and helps keep your data private and secure.
Types of VPNs
Here are some of the most common types of VPNs you may encounter and what each does best.
- Personal VPN: This type of VPN is typically used to make public Wi-Fi connections safer or access content available only in other locations by connecting to a server there.
- Remote access VPN: Employees and other authorized users may use a remote access VPN at home or while traveling to access company data and tools more securely and privately.
- Site-to-site VPN: These VPNs create a permanent and secure connection between two or more networks. For example, a company might want to permanently connect two of its offices, or a company may want to securely share information between two or more locations or departments.
- Mobile VPN: As its name suggests, mobile VPNs allow their users to securely access information while they're on the go. First responders, delivery drivers and field technicians use a mobile VPN to stay connected while moving through areas with changing cellular coverage.
- Cloud VPN: A cloud VPN gives employees and offices secure access to private company files and systems stored online. Since the VPN runs in the cloud, users can connect from anywhere, and the company has less VPN equipment to buy and maintain.
Pros and Cons of VPNs
A VPN can give you a valuable layer of security, but understand it doesn't completely eliminate risk and it comes with downsides you must consider.
Pros
Secure connection: Since VPNs encrypt the data you send and receive, your internet activity is unreadable to anyone who might manage to see it. Someone could theoretically still see your connection, but they won't be able to eavesdrop and glean any sensitive information from it like your bank account details or personal information. Even with this added layer of security, however, you'll still need to take steps to keep your personal information safe.
Private browsing: VPNs create an encrypted tunnel, which makes it appear as if your activity is coming from their server and not from your device, which helps your internet activity stay private.
Enhanced privacy from internet provider: When you're connected to the internet through a VPN, your ISP only sees an encrypted connection to the VPN server but not your browsing activity.
Access to geo-restricted content: Connecting to a VPN server in another area may give you access to view regional sports and other content unavailable where you are. If you're traveling abroad, connecting to a server back home may also help you sign in to financial accounts that block access from foreign countries.
Reduced throttling: ISPs often slow down your connection when they see heavy activity, such as when you're streaming or downloading large files. But a VPN hides your activity, which may prevent slowdowns. You may still face throttling when the network is busy or you exceed your data limit.
Cons
Subscription costs: While free VPNs exist, you'll probably need a paid subscription if you want a reputable service with the most secure encryption. Paid VPNs are generally affordable, with the Security.org survey finding that consumers pay a median price of $10 per month.
Slower speeds: Encrypting each piece of data you send from your device can slow your connection speed slightly, but it also depends on the VPN's server load and your internet connection.
Blocked access to some websites: Some websites use VPN-blocking software to restrict out-of-region users from accessing their content.
Dropped connections: Even reliable VPN services experience occasional connection issues. If this happens while you're on the internet, your activity could be compromised.
Not legal everywhere: VPNs are banned or restricted in some countries. Check the local rules before you use one while traveling.
Do I Need a VPN?
As a general rule, VPNs aren't necessary for casual browsing at home on a secure network because, as the Federal Trade Commission puts it, "Today, most websites do use encryption to protect your information."
However, you might consider subscribing to a VPN service if you regularly browse on public Wi-Fi. A 2025 NordVPN survey found that up to 53% of Americans who use public Wi-Fi protect themselves with a VPN or antivirus software. Also consider using a VPN if you need to get around regional or international restrictions to view content unavailable where you are or access services from back home while traveling abroad.
Learn more: A Secure Internet Connection Is Important, Not Foolproof
How to Choose the Best VPN
While a VPN can't read your encrypted passwords or financial data, it does see every website domain you visit. That makes it critical to choose a trustworthy provider with strong encryption. Here's what to look for.
1. Check the VPN's Privacy Practices
When shopping for a VPN, look for providers that openly publish a no-logs policy stating it never stores or shares your internet activity. Also look for a recent public audit on the VPN provider's website from a recognized cybersecurity or accounting firm. These independent audits are now standard among top providers.
2. Review Security Features
You'll want a VPN that uses modern protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN with 256-bit encryption to protect your connection. Watch for a kill switch feature, which automatically disconnects you from the internet so you won't transmit or receive any data on an unsecure connection. Make sure the VPN requires multifactor authentication so no one can log in with just your password.
3. Consider Speed and Server Coverage
Review independent speed tests and reputable reviews to make sure your VPN provides a fast and secure connection that won't interfere with your internet activity. If you expect to use the internet while traveling, check the VPN's server locations to make sure it has servers where you'll need them.
4. Check Compatibility and Limitations
Most VPN services offer easy-to-use apps that work with Windows, MacOS, iOS and Android. It's still worth a check to make sure it works with your system. Also check whether your smart TV and gaming consoles work with VPN apps. If they don't, you may be able to protect them by setting up a VPN on a compatible home router.
VPNs often cap how many connections you can use at the same time. So if you have multiple devices, you'll need a VPN that provides as many connections as you need.
Your VPN needs may depend on how you plan to use it. If it's for gaming, choose a VPN with a server near the game's server to help keep your connection steady. If it's for work, ask whether your employer requires a specific VPN because they may restrict VPN use.
5. Compare Reputation, Pricing and Support
Research who owns a VPN and its history, which can be an "unofficial privacy policy." For example, does the company operate in a country where privacy laws are enforced? Has the company been involved in past data incidents and how did they handle them?
Before signing up, check sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot for complaints about everyday customer service. Pay particular attention to how the company resolves billing disputes and refund requests. Compare a few leading providers' pricing and subscription terms on their official websites. Be wary of free VPNs, which may earn money through ads or by collecting and sharing your data. Paid subscriptions typically only cost between $2 and $15 a month, so the savings may not be worth the privacy risk.
How to Use a VPN
Using a VPN is very easy and only involves a few steps:
- Choose a reputable VPN. Once you find one you like, go to the company's official website or your phone's app store to download the VPN app.
- Create an account. Sign in and pick a server nearby to connect to for the fastest connection. Choose a server in another location if you want to access content that is geo-restricted for that area.
- Turn on the kill switch if one is available. This blocks your internet connection if the VPN disconnects, so your data isn't sent without VPN protection. You can also turn on auto-connect to have the VPN connect when your device starts or joins a new network, such as public Wi-Fi.
- Get connected. Once you're set up with a provider and have selected a server, choose "Connect" to create an encrypted tunnel for safer internet browsing. The VPN typically stays connected until you disconnect it or lose the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a VPN Safe?
Yes, VPNs are generally safe, but it largely depends on the provider you choose. Choose a VPN with strong encryption and protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN and explicitly states it doesn't store or share your browsing history. Quality VPNs secure your data while it's being transmitted, which helps to block unauthorized access and safeguard against data breaches.
Are There Free VPNs?
Free VPNs are widely available, but be aware many free providers monetize your data by collecting and sharing your internet activity, which defeats the purpose of using a VPN for privacy.
Can You Be Tracked if You Use a VPN?
Yes. Even though a VPN hides your IP address and browsing activity from your internet provider, the websites you visit can still track you through account logins, browser cookies and other means on their end. If you use an untrustworthy service, the VPN company itself can log your activity.
Does a VPN Change Your IP Address?
Yes, a VPN creates an encrypted connection between your computer or device and the VPN server. It also hides your IP address and assigns you a new one from the VPN server. This makes it appear as though you are browsing from that server's location until you disconnect.
Prioritize Your Online Privacy and Security
Take precautions to keep your internet activity safe and private, especially when checking financial accounts, connecting to your employer's network remotely or accessing other sensitive data. A VPN can give you extra protection when you're using public Wi-Fi by encrypting your data to help keep it private.
Even if you use a VPN, it's wise to look out for signs that someone may have access to your data. Consider signing up for Experian's free credit monitoring to get alerts about new accounts, credit inquiries and changes to your credit report so you can act quickly if someone is using your information.