Does a VPN Server Provide Internet?
With online security becoming a major concern in today’s increasingly online world, many people turn to virtual private networks, or VPNs, to enhance their online privacy. Most users know that VPNs offer a lot in terms of cybersecurity. Many, however, are a little confused as to how VPNs actually work and whether a VPN server providers internet access itself.
What is a VPN and How Does It Work?
VPN stands for “virtual private network.” It creates a secure, encrypted connection between a VPN user’s device and a remote server. In other words, VPNs work by creating a “VPN tunnel” that connects a device to a server. This secure tunnel effectively masks any information going through it so that anyone and anything outside the tunnel cannot view it.
Specifically, VPNs work by encrypting, or scrambling, data so that only a VPN server can read the information. The VPN user’s real IP address is then hidden, with the server generating a new IP address. These actions effectively mask the user’s real geographical location from internet service providers (ISPs). Any and all information passes through an encrypted tunnel, so any sensitive data is protected from hackers and other cybercriminals.
What is a VPN Server?
A VPN server is a specific part of a virtual private network. A VPN provider uses a server to generate a new IP address for users and establishes a secure connection that routes, encrypts, and decrypts internet traffic and other sensitive data.
Does a VPN Server Provide Its Own Internet Connection?
No.
A VPN server does not provide internet access. Rather, it masks information sent and received online.
What are the Benefits of VPNs?
- Cybersecurity. The main reason people use VPNs is for online privacy, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks. Some VPN services also offer firewalls and malware protection for added security online.
- Access blocked content. Some content is blocked by geographic location. Say, for example, that someone in Spain wants to watch a Netflix show that is only available in Canada. The person could use a VPN to spoof his or her location so that the streaming service thinks the person is in Canada rather than Spain, allowing this person to watch the show.
- Illegal activity. Cyber criminals can use VPNs to help mask their illegal online activity from ISPs.
What are VPN Protocols?
- Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP). L2TP creates a secure connection between multiple devices over a public network.
- Internet Key Exchange version 2 (IKEv2). IKEv2 is what creates the tunnel that connects users to the VPN server.
- Internet Protocol Security (IPsec). IPsec encrypts, decrypts, and authenticates packets of information in a VPN connection.
- Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP). PPTP is an older protocol that creates a tunnel between networks.
What are the Types of VPNs?
- Site-to-Site VPN. This VPN software securely connects two networks, often through IPsec security protocols.
- Remote Access VPN. This VPN lets someone access a secure network from a remote location.
- Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)/Transport Layer Security (TLS) VPN. This type of VPN offers a secure connection to users through a web browser rather than a specific VPN app.
What are Popular VPN Services?
Popular VPN software includes:
Does Using a VPN Server Affect My Internet Speed?
Yes, VPNs can slow internet speeds.
VPN use can affect internet speed since it adds steps to routing internet traffic and transmitting data.