If you’re always online or using critical information when accessing the Internet, it’s best to keep your connection safe and secure. You can do so by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Since VPNs contain encryptions, what hackers can see are only ones and zeros. Thus, you can prevent unauthorized access to your data or network. Also, VPNs can help you access blocked sites, such as streaming sites, in your country or current location.
There are tons of benefits to using VPN. But, before you even decide to use one, here are some factors you must consider:
1- Security
As mentioned, VPN can secure your network against hackers or unauthorized persons. It hides your online location and activity from cybercriminals by routing the data you receive or send via a virtual tunnel between your VPN server and your device.
You can conclude that the VPN is safe and secure if it passes the following tests:
- DNS Leak Test – To do this test, simply write down your IP address before using the VPN. Then, do the same when you’ve connected to your VPN. If your IP details are fake during your VPN connection, then you can say that you’re safe from the domain name system (DNS) leak.
- IP Address Test – Another way is to check your IP address before and during VPN usage. If it shows a different location or country, then your VPN is safe from vulnerabilities.
Or, if the following factors are present when you’re using the VPN, then consider it safe:
- No-Logs – If the VPN doesn’t require log-in details, then the network won’t gather your personal details that you transmit. Thus, your VPN provider won’t know your search history, location, and other online activities.
- Multi-Factor Authentication – Similar to other apps, a VPN that requires you to verify your identity before using an account shows that only you have access to it.
2- Accessibility
Another thing to consider is the VPN’s accessibility, especially if you’re a person who is always on the go. Now that the Internet has become a vital part of the lives of almost all individuals, especially in terms of doing business, accessing sites wherever you are is critical. That’s why choosing an accessible VPN should be your top priority.
A VPN that’s accessible to some countries may not be so in other locations. So, if you’ll travel to a place where your VPN isn’t available, browsing the Internet won’t be that safe. Worse, the VPN won’t work in a location if they don’t have a network in that location. That’s why you should check the countries that your VPN caters to. Some high-quality VPNs have access to more countries than the other VPNs.
3- Easy To Use
Well, if you’re not a techie person, then you’d probably just settle with using your regular Internet connection. But, now, VPNs have been innovated to suit every type of user. Most are even easy to use, which only require you to click a few buttons or apps on your phone.
Basically, all you need to do is register to the website of the VPN provider. Some even have iPad, iPhone, Android, Mac, and Windows PC apps you can download and install. Then, using your registered account, use it to log in to the VPN app. Lastly, all you need is to click on the “connect” button. Voila, you’re now connected!
It’s that easy. So, if you think you need some technical know-how, then fret not. You may only need to choose the VPN network or location you want to use, and your Internet connection is now safe and secure.
4- Tech Support
More importantly, the VPN should also have reliable tech or customer support. Even if the VPN has superb features, if the company takes hundreds of days to answer your queries and cater to your concerns, then you’re not getting the price you’ve paid. Especially when it’s your first time to use a VPN, although it’s easy to use, you may find yourself overwhelmed.
A tech support is your life-saver. That’s why a VPN should have 24/7 chat support or other platforms where you can contact them. If you’re familiarizing yourself with the VPN, you may find yourself feeling frightened to click on the buttons. But, tech support will guide you through the VPN setup, which makes it easier for you to use its services.
So, if a VPN shortly responds to your queries, you’ll surely feel more comfortable using the VPN.
Conclusion
Now, you’re ready to compare VPN providers to suit your preference. The mentioned factors can help you choose the one that’s worth paying for. If you want to have a secure Internet connection, VPN security should be your top priority. Then, check whether it’s accessible in areas where you frequently go so that you can use it anytime you need to.
Especially if you’re a first time VPN user, you should use VPN with ease. If not, they should have reliable tech support that can help you get started.