Privacy online is a moving target with ad trackers and malicious software. And while Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can do a lot for you, they come for a price, This raises the question — are VPNs worth it? That’s exactly what we’ll explore in this article.
What Can a VPN Do for You?
VPNs work by encrypting data and routing internet traffic through a secure server. VPN statistics show that both businesses and individuals rely on this type of service to keep their data safe from prying eyes. Users also turn to VPNs if they want to access blocked websites and content, bypass geographical restrictions, or if they want to stream their favorite shows from anywhere in the world.
Is Having a VPN Worth It for General Use?
There are several reasons which make VPNs worth considering for general use:
- Security on a public connection: If you access the internet through free or public Wi-Fi, you need protection from malicious users that look for unsuspecting victims on such networks.
- Data privacy from your ISP: Using a VPN affords you a level of protection that prevents your ISP from seeing what you do online.
- Data privacy from apps: Facebook is one example of why you may need a VPN to protect your browsing history. The app is a repeat offender when it comes to privacy violations.
- Privacy from the government: The right VPN can help you log into restricted content and access global news if your government censors content.
- Access to geo-blocked content: While accessing streaming services in another country is a bit of a gray area, the top VPNs for streaming will help you get your TV fix.
- Secure remote working: Your data might not be very appealing as a private citizen. However, your company’s data is a different matter. Companies may request that you use a VPN for remote work to protect sensitive data.
- Saving money: This takes a little more research, but you could save money on flights, subscription services, and digital products by using a VPN to take advantage of better offers from other locations.
Are VPNs Worth It for Gaming?
Here are several considerations to keep in mind if you’re considering a VPN for gaming.
- The best VPNs for gaming will allow you to access better servers nearer to you, reducing lag and ping time.
- You should be able to access games from different regions
- A VPN could help you overcome Peer-2-Peer blocks, but this is seldom an issue in multiplayer games. Xbox statistics, for example, confirm that few big gaming companies use a peer-to-peer model of delivery anymore.
- Some gamers use VPNs to unblock content from around the globe. However, this is becoming less of a problem today as game developers tend to allow you to play world-over. A VPN may be worthwhile when you’re in a country where the developer may not operate.
- Gaining early access to content through a gaming platform is tempting with a VPN but can violate service. Your account may get banned, and so you could lose access to your games and data.
- Disguising your IP address protects you from DDoS attacks. However, you are unlikely to be a target unless you’re a big-name gamer or an up-and-comer.
Are VPNs Worth It for Firestick?
Firestick statistics indicate that there are two primary reasons to consider this option for this device, starting with content. If it’s all legal and above board, you shouldn’t need to disguise your IP address at all. However, if you wish to stream content that is not available in your region, the situation changes.
Security is a close second. Malicious actors may hack a Firestick and use it as a cryptocurrency miner. This will slow performance, so hiding the device’s actual IP may prove worthwhile.
Bear in mind that these services can impact streaming, meaning, that you choose among the best VPN options for Firestick.
Are VPNs Worth It for Netflix?
They may prove worthwhile if you wish to access the Netflix library in other countries. Alternatively, using the top VPNs for Netflix while traveling abroad will make sure you are always up-to-date with your favorite shows and not risk spoilers.
However, a word of warning here, Netflix does block known IP addresses for virtual network providers. So, to be on the safe side, perform a test with the VPN you choose to see if you can sign into the Netflix library you choose before committing money to the service. Most reputable companies offer a free trial.
Are VPNs Worth It for Average Web Browsing?
Given that the good ones make little difference to browser load speed, then at the very least, it’s worth considering. VPNs make it difficult for hackers and tracking software to nail down your location, adding an additional layer of security. Also, depending on the provider, using a VPN is fairly easy and shouldn’t take too much time and effort to set it up and turn it on and off as needed.
Are VPNs Worth It if You Don’t Use WiFi?
Yes, any time you connect to the internet, you open yourself up to hackers. Even if you use an ethernet cable to connect, the minute you open that connection, your IP address is visible online. Bad actors with malicious intent may launch several vectors of attack.
VPNs are not the ultimate protection but can form a valuable part of your cyber defense strategy.
Are VPNs Worth It for Streaming?
This depends again on the content and how you are streaming it. If you’re a private user streaming content legally available in their location, you may choose a VPN to improve security. If your ISP throttles your connection for streaming services, it may also be prudent to hide your browsing activity.
The Summary
There are several instances in which using a VPN makes sense. It protects your devices from hackers, disguises your browser activity, and grants you access to a global network of content. For the average user, a VPN may not seem essential, but the increase in privacy and security makes it a worthwhile investment.
Is a VPN Worth It FAQs
Do I really need a VPN at home?
Considering the prevalence of trackers and remote hacking software, you probably do. Even if you have no data of value, malicious actors might take over your computer or linked devices to use as part of a bot army or to mine cryptocurrency. They could also lock your computer with ransomware or simply wipe all the data out of malice.
Do VPNs actually protect you?
They protect you by hiding your computer’s address online. A real-world analogy would be if someone was planning a bank robbery but had the wrong address. The software doesn’t prevent attacks completely, but it makes it more difficult to find. You.
It also obscures your browsing history because those that may wish to track your data have no idea where you are in the world. You could, for example, be in South Africa and use a server in the United States.
What are the pros and cons of a VPN?
The pros involve better security, access to servers in other countries and so content in those countries, and better privacy of your data. The cons, meanwhile, include possible slower connections, the expense, or the risk of the VPN provider selling our data to third parties. So, when deciding whether VPNs are worth it, you would focus only on reputable services where the last risk from our list is practically non-existent.
