VPN use has surged in the UK as new online safety laws^ come into force. Suddenly, everyone is searching for VPN services, wanting to understand what they actually do and how to get hold of one. It’s easy to get lost with technology and confusing jargon, so we’ll break it down in a way that is easy to understand.
What Exactly Is a VPN?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. In simple terms, it’s a tool that creates a private “tunnel” for your internet traffic. Instead of your data travelling directly from your device to the website or app you’re using, it first goes through an encrypted connection to a VPN server. From there, it continues on to its destination.
This has two main effects. First, your real location and IP address are hidden because the internet only sees the IP address of the VPN server. Second, your data is encrypted, which means it’s scrambled in a way that makes it almost impossible for anyone else, be it hackers, your internet provider, or even government agencies, to read it.
For example, picture yourself sending a postcard through the mail. Normally, anyone handling it, postal workers, mail carriers, can read your personal message as it travels to its destination. Using a VPN is like sealing that postcard inside a padded, secure envelope and sending it through a private courier service. Your message still reaches the intended recipient, but it remains completely hidden from everyone else along the route.
Why Are People Turning to VPNs?
People use VPNs for all sorts of reasons, and often it’s a mix of privacy, security, convenience, and sometimes a little bit of curiosity.
Keeping Your Browsing Private
Every website you visit, every video you stream, leaves a trail. Your internet provider sees it. Advertisers see it. Even your phone’s apps might be quietly sharing what you do online. VPNs make this much harder by masking your activity and encrypting it. This is especially important if you use public Wi-Fi, like in a café or airport, where snoopers might be waiting.
Escaping Geo-Blocks and Content Restrictions
If you’ve ever tried to watch a show on Netflix only to see the message: “This content is not available in your region,” you’ve run into geo-restrictions. VPNs allow you to connect to servers in different countries, making websites think you’re browsing from somewhere else. Suddenly, you might find a whole new library of shows, films or sports events at your fingertips.
Avoiding Throttling and ISP Monitoring
Sometimes, internet providers deliberately slow down certain types of traffic, like streaming or gaming, especially during busy hours. Since VPNs hide what you’re doing, your provider can’t easily target your connection for slowing down. This means smoother streaming and better gaming performance for some users.
Accessing Blocked Websites
Whether it’s a website blocked by network administrators at work or school, or restrictions imposed by governments, a VPN can help you bypass those barriers. This has been a vital tool for people living in countries with heavy internet censorship and for journalists or activists needing secure access.
Working from Home Securely
Businesses often require employees working remotely to connect via VPN to ensure data remains secure. This prevents sensitive company information from leaking when staff use unsecured connections at home or on the move.
How to Use a VPN
You don’t have to be a tech wizard to get a VPN up and running. Here’s a simple guide:
Step 1: Pick a Reliable VPN Provider
There are countless VPN services out there, so it pays to be picky. Steer clear of free providers unless they’re from a company with a solid reputation. Many free VPNs limit speeds, bombard you with ads, or worse, sell your data.
Look for:
- A strict no-logs policy (they don’t keep records of what you do)
- Servers in the locations you want
- Good speeds and reliable connections
- Apps for your devices (phone, laptop, tablet)
Popular choices in the UK include ProtonVPN^, NordVPN^, ExpressVPN^ and Surfshark^.
Step 2: Download the VPN App
Once you’ve signed up, download the provider’s app for your device. It’s usually available for Windows, Mac, Android and iPhone.
Step 3: Choose Your Server
Open the app and log in. If you want privacy without fuss, pick a server near you, say, somewhere in the UK. If you’re after content from another country, select a server there. For example, a US server to watch American Netflix or a German one for German news sites.
Step 4: Connect and Browse
Hit connect, wait a few seconds, and your traffic is now encrypted and routed through the server you chose. You can browse, stream or download with more privacy and fewer restrictions.
What a VPN Won’t Do
A VPN is not a magic invisibility cloak. If you log into Google, Facebook or any other account, those companies know who you are and what you do. A VPN hides your IP and encrypts your traffic, but it can’t stop websites from tracking you using cookies or browser fingerprinting.
Also, a VPN won’t protect you from viruses or phishing scams. It’s wise to use antivirus software and stay alert online.
Sometimes streaming services detect and block VPN servers. If that happens, try switching servers or contact your VPN provider for help.
Should You Use a VPN?
If you care about your privacy, find yourself on public Wi-Fi regularly, want to access content from other countries, or simply don’t want your internet provider tracking everything you do, a VPN is worth considering.
It won’t solve all internet safety problems, but it gives you a solid layer of protection and more control. As online regulations tighten and data privacy concerns grow, a VPN can help you keep a step ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about VPNs? Here are some quick answers to the most common ones.
Can using a VPN affect my internet speed?
Yes, because your data travels through an extra server and is encrypted, your connection might slow down slightly. The impact varies depending on the VPN provider’s server quality and your distance from the server.
Are VPNs legal?
Using a VPN is perfectly legal. However, illegal activities conducted over a VPN remain illegal, and providers may cooperate with law enforcement if required.
Can I use a VPN on multiple devices at once?
Most VPN providers allow you to connect several devices simultaneously with one subscription, covering your phone, laptop, tablet, and more. Check your provider’s device limit before subscribing.
