Do I need a VPN service?
Importance of a VPN
So people have been talking about this thing called a VPN and you are wondering ‘Do I need a VPN service’, right? What is a VPN service? How much does a VPN service cost? And, last but certainly not least, how much does something like this cost?
A VPN service (virtual private network) is a network that allows you to use your computer wherever in the world you may travel. Now, why is that important? Easy. If you travel outside of the US, then many of the services that you use to access programming, like Netflix, Hulu, and Pandora, won’t work outside of the US. This is because these services check to see where your computer is located (using your computer’s address or IP address). If you aren’t in the US, where you have your subscription with them, then they deny service. This is not really fair, when you think about it, because you’ve paid for the service, so you should be able to use it whenever you like, right?
This is why you need a VPN service, then. The VPN service masks the true IP address of your computer, so that while you may be flying over Hong Kong, your computer still looks as if it is still in the US. Then you can access Netflix or hulu whenever and wherever you like.
But there’s another reason you might want to consider getting a VPN service. Security. If you’ve ever taken your computer into a coffee shop, or sat in an airport terminal clicking away, you’ve put your computer in jeopardy from hackers. These are some of their favorite haunts, and with just a little knowledge, they can upload and access many of your critical and private information right there. This is where a VPN service comes into play.
A VPN service, not only masks your IP address, but a VPN connection encrypts the information so that it is locked up tighter than Fort Knox. No one gets in unless you say they do. That’s peace of mind, for sure. And, get this…ever taken your laptop from the office just to go down to the coffee shop to work? Many times your computer’s firewall is still hooked to a network in the office allowing would-be hackers access to company information. This is disastrous to say the least.
Now, instead of getting a VPN service, you could jump through about 5 different hoops to ramp up the security and firewalls on your laptop, but isn’t that a big pain when all you wanted to do was surf at the local café, or kill some time in the airport terminal while waiting for your flight?
Choosing a VPN service is not only a smart choice, it is the ONLY choice for people who are on the go. When searching for a VPN service, make certain that it is not one of the ‘free’ versions out there as they are not the ‘real deal’. You want to look for the VPN service that can handle high bandwidth. So, do I need a VPN service? Yes!