Complete VPN Guide
How VPNs protect your traffic, what to look for, and how to choose the right service.
What is a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a VPN server. It masks your real IP address and prevents third parties from reading your traffic.
Without a VPN
- Your real IP is visible to websites
- Your ISP can observe traffic metadata
- Public WiFi is riskier
With a VPN
- Your IP address is masked
- Traffic is encrypted
- Public WiFi is safer
How VPNs work
- Your device connects to a VPN server.
- The VPN creates an encrypted tunnel for your traffic.
- Websites see the VPN server IP, not your real one.
- Responses return through the tunnel to your device.
The result is a private path across public networks.
Key benefits
Hide your IP address from websites.
Encrypt traffic on public networks.
Reduce tracking and profiling.
Access region-locked content.
Limit ISP visibility into traffic.
Improve security for remote work.
Types of VPNs
Remote access VPN
Connects a single user to a private network from anywhere.
- Remote work access
- Secure access to home networks
- Travel connectivity
Site-to-site VPN
Links two networks together, common for business offices.
- Office-to-office links
- Data center connectivity
- Secure branch networks
Mobile VPN
Designed for devices that move between networks.
- Seamless WiFi to cellular handoff
- Battery optimized clients
- Stable connections while moving
Free vs paid
Paid VPNs typically offer stronger privacy, speed, and support.
- Free services may log or monetize data
- Paid services offer more servers
- Premium features like kill switches
VPN protocols
| Protocol | Security | Speed | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | High | Medium | Balanced security |
| WireGuard | High | High | Modern performance |
| IKEv2/IPsec | High | High | Mobile stability |
| SSTP | Medium | Medium | Windows compatibility |
| PPTP | Low | High | Legacy only |
Choosing the right VPN
Must-have features
- Strong encryption (AES-256 or equivalent)
- No-logs policy
- Kill switch
- DNS leak protection
- Multiple server locations
Red flags
- Unclear logging practices
- Very limited server selection
- Opaque ownership or jurisdiction
- Missing security features
Common myths
VPNs are only for technical users.
Most VPNs are one-click applications designed for everyone.
VPNs make you completely anonymous.
VPNs hide IPs, but other identifiers like accounts can still reveal you.
Free VPNs are just as safe.
Many free services monetize by logging or limiting protections.
VPNs are illegal everywhere.
They are legal in most countries and used by businesses daily.
Next steps
Run a VPN leak test regularly to confirm your configuration is working as expected.