Why use a VPN? 5 reasons you should be using one

Why use a VPN? Well, why not? It's never been easier to become anonymous online, as you only need a reliable virtual private network (VPN).

Switching on a VPN is essential if you're concerned about your privacy; it keeps hackers, trackers, and even your internet service provider (ISP) at bay by hiding your IP address. However, its true value lies in its ability to access all the internet has to offer. 

You're no longer bound by region-restricted content nor geo-blocked streaming services that keep you from watching your favorite movies; a VPN lets you be virtually anywhere in the world. There are plenty of VPN services out there, and some may be more suited to your needs than others. Our pick of the best VPNs covers all bases, but if you’re wondering why you need a VPN in the first place, read on. 

Why you should use a VPN

From keeping your browsing activities on the down-low to nabbing the best deals while shopping, using a VPN comes with plenty of perks. 

1. Stay protected

Since a VPN encrypts your internet traffic when connecting to a remote server, your browsing activity will be hidden from prying eyes. It makes it virtually impossible for ISPs, third-party advertisers, threat actors, and government entities to see what you’re doing. This is often backed by a near-impenetrable AES-256 encryption through VPN services, meaning you can scour the web without being paranoid that your data is being sold or stolen. 

2. Bypass restrictions

One of the main reasons anyone uses a VPN is to access websites and content that’s been restricted. This may be due to country-specific rules and regulations or your ISP limiting what websites you can visit. The culprit in denying you access is your IP address, as it indicates your immediate location. With a VPN, however, you can mask your real IP address by switching to a VPN server’s IP address based in another country that doesn’t have these restrictions. You can bypass restricted social platforms, banned websites, and X-rated stuff. 

3. Stream without limits

Research states that 46% of people use a VPN to access streaming services — and for good reason. There are hundreds of streaming services available worldwide, and a majority of them are stuck behind geo-restrictions. Moreover, major platforms such as Netflix and Disney+ have country-specific content libraries, meaning one subscription won’t give you the full catalog of shows a service has to offer. That is, unless you use a VPN. Simply switch to a country where the VPN service is available, and you'll gain access to watch any show from around the world.

4. Optimize speeds

No matter how much you pay for lightning-fast internet speeds, you could always be at risk of ISP throttling. Whether it be from overcrowded traffic from a single location (known as network congestion) or your ISP limiting your bandwidth due to an invisible data cap, your internet speeds can take a nosedive with a flick of a switch. However, a VPN can mask your online identity by hiding your IP address, meaning your ISP can’t recognize you. If it can’t see what you’re up to, it has no reason to throttle your speeds. 

5. Find the best deals

Do you ever think, "Darn, I bet the price of a summer dress in Europe is far more affordable than the U.S.?” A tad specific, but you’d be right. It comes down to taxes, import costs, and inflation — and the same goes for all types of consumer products. Even Apple’s iPhone sees a significant jump in retail price from the U.S. to other countries.

If you’re on the hunt for a bargain, a VPN can help you find a whole new array of prices on the same products in their location. By searching through the same retailer websites via different server locations (and seeing if the delivery fees are worth the investment), you can grab a deal and compare prices in other regions.