You have been browsing, and there’s a thought in your head, is my connection secure and private? Be it targeted ads, unwanted notifications, unsecure websites, and everything else waiting for you to make a wrong move to make you vulnerable.

This isn’t all—losing access to the websites you visit and facing restrictions leaves you with no freedom. The greater threat still remains the public networks, and all these together are just a part of a bigger problem lurking around.

Hoping for a solution, you try different solutions, and they either turn expensive, inefficient or require learning until you come across VPNs. But you’re confused and question yourself if you need one. Here’s the thing – VPNs aren’t for everyone. But in some cases, they’re a game-changer.

I will break down it for you—when a VPN is necessary, when it’s optional, and what to consider before getting one. By the end, you’ll know exactly whether a VPN is right for you.

What Does a VPN Actually Do?

Imagine you’re sending a letter through the mail but without an envelope. All the contents of your letter can be read by anyone who has access. Now, let’s recreate the situation, but with the envelope—no one else would see what’s inside, and your letter would reach its destination safely.

That’s how a VPN works but for your online activity. When you browse the internet without a VPN, your traffic can be accessed and analyzed by your internet provider, websites, advertisers, and even hackers.

However, with a VPN, you get a secure and private tunnel, successfully encrypting your data. This way, unauthorized agents couldn’t track your activity or where you’re browsing from.

To cut to the chase, a VPN helps protect your online activity by encrypting and hiding your identity by masking your IP. Plus, there are a few more unique offerings that vary depending on your VPN provider. You get all the security and privacy, giving you the freedom on the internet you’re hoping for.

Do You Actually Need a VPN?

You might have come across people who use a VPN just for casual browsing, but others use it to get over geo-restrictions. Likewise, some use it for torrenting and for other crucial tasks. The VPN use cases can go on forever, and their use varies depending on the task.

This might bring in confusion—do I really need one? To help you decide, I have listed a few crucial scenarios in which a VPN can be useful and not necessary. Check them out and see where you fall.

When You Might Not Need a VPN:

  • No Need for Restricted Content: If you’re not interested in streaming region-locked shows or accessing blocked websites, you might not need a VPN.
  • Advanced Security Tools: If your devices already have strong security measures that can overcome VPN, using one might be redundant.
  • Stable Streaming Access: If streaming in your region works fine and there is throttling from the ISP end, a VPN isn’t required for basic streaming.
  • Minimal Privacy Concerns: If you’re not worried about data collection, and benefit from targeted ads or online trackers, using a VPN might seem unnecessary.

When You Absolutely Need a VPN:

  • Public Wi-Fi Risks: Public networks at cafes, airports, or hotels are easy targets for hackers. A VPN keeps your data safe from prying eyes with encryption and IP masking.
  • Accessing Blocked Content: Some websites and streaming services limit access based on location. You can get around those restrictions by connecting to different servers using a VPN.
  • Remote Work Security: Working from home or traveling for work exposes sensitive company data. A VPN encrypts your connection and keeps it secure.
  • Managing Multiple Accounts: Platforms can flag or block users managing several accounts from one device. Using a VPN gives you different IP addresses, and helps you manage accounts without triggering restrictions.
  • Avoiding ISP Throttling: Internet providers sometimes slow down your connection during streaming or downloads. Most VPNs today, with built-in obfuscation, which can prevent that from happening through obfuscation.
  • Bypassing Censorship: Traveling to countries with strict internet rules can limit your browsing freedom. Connecting to a country with no restrictions through a VPN solves the issue.
  • Torrenting Safely: Downloading torrents exposes your IP to others in the network. A VPN keeps your activity private by masking your IP.
  • Blocking Trackers and Ads: Advertisers and websites track your browsing habits. A VPN reduces how much of your activity they can see through their built-in blocker tools.
  • Protecting Personal Data: Shopping or banking online without protection can put your information at risk. A VPN, thanks to its encryption capabilities, adds an extra layer of security.
  • Preventing Surveillance: In some regions, governments monitor online activity. A VPN helps shield your browsing from unwanted attention through encryption.

Common VPN Myths Debunked

VPNs are often misunderstood due to myths and these keep many users from using a VPN. Most of these myths bring confusion and lead to unnecessary worries. If there’s something bothering you as well, here are common myths and explanations to help you make an informed decision.

A VPN makes me completely anonymous

Most assure that using a VPN makes them invisible. A VPN does hide the user’s IP address and encrypt the connection, but that doesn’t mean you’re completely anonymous. In reality, you can still be tracked through cookies, browser fingerprints, or account logins. To achieve the best privacy, using a VPN with safe browsing habits is the way to go.

VPNs slow down my internet

It’s true that a VPN can affect your speed. With a good VPN provider, the difference is barely noticeable. Most VPNs arguably have optimized servers and with obfuscation, you can achieve better than the base speeds by reducing ISP throttling.

I don’t need a VPN if I’m just browsing

Even casual browsing exposes you to online tracking, targeted ads, and potential data collection. A VPN helps keep your browsing private, so staying connected to the VPN is ideal regardless of your activity on the web.

VPNs are complicated to use

This might have been true in the past, but not anymore. Most VPNs today are designed for simplicity. With user-friendly apps, you can connect to a VPN with just one click. You don’t need any technical skills as such—just install, open, and connect.

I don’t get into trouble with a VPN

Using a VPN doesn’t mean you can get away with illegal activities. Regardless of the encryption and IP masking, you can still be tracked down. Continue using VPNs for useful tasks like safe shopping, working remotely, or watching shows while traveling.

Using a VPN is illegal

In most countries, using a VPN is completely legal. People use them for privacy, security, and safe internet access. However, some countries with strict internet censorship don’t allow their citizens to use a VPN. To avoid trouble, follow the set rules.

All VPNs are the same

Not all VPNs offer the same level of security, speed, or privacy. The reputed providers are usually the ideal picks. Hence, it’s important to choose the right VPN that suits your needs.

Checklist: Choose the Right VPN

If you have decided to use a VPN, but couldn’t come up with a final decision, don’t worry. The VPN market is loaded with multiple providers with hoax promises and failing to choose the right could severely impact the internet experience.

To help you make an ideal choice, I made a checklist—use this to your advantage and pick the best VPNs for your needs.

  1. Is the VPN provider a reputed one?
  2. How good are the VPN ratings and reviews?
  3. Where is the VPN based?
  4. Is it independently audited and has a strict no-log policy?
  5. Do they offer a free trial and have a money-back guarantee program?
  6. Are their servers RAM-based?
  7. Does it have all core features (Kill switch, Split Tunneling, Leak prevention, etc)?
  8. How big is their server network?
  9. How good is the VPN device compatibility?
  10. Do they have servers optimized for streaming, gaming, torrenting, and other tasks?
  11. Is the interface easy to use without the need for any learning?
  12. Are the plans well curated and offer discounts?
  13. Do they have in-built blockers, specialized servers, and unique offerings?
  14. Is their customer service reliable?
  15. What’s the simultaneous device connection limit?

Alternative Solutions to a VPN

A VPN usually stands out as an overall solution, and for those who need a solution for a specific task, it could be an excess. If you find VPN the same, here are a few alternatives you must consider checking out.

  • Proxy Servers: Hide your IP address and access region-blocked websites. Useful for basic browsing and bypassing simple restrictions.
  • Tor Browser: Routes your traffic through multiple nodes for anonymity. Ideal for private browsing and accessing the dark web.
  • Smart DNS: Changes your DNS to bypass geo-restrictions without encrypting data. Handy for streaming content with minimal speed loss.
  • Incognito/Private Browsing Mode: Prevents your browser from saving history and cookies. Good for quick, local privacy but doesn’t hide your IP.
  • Browser Extensions: These extensions force websites to use secure HTTPS connections. Useful for safer browsing but doesn’t hide your identity.
  • Firewall and Antivirus Software: Protects against malware and suspicious activities. Essential for device security but doesn’t cover online privacy.

The 1Browser Alternative: A Built-In VPN and Proxy Browser

If you’re someone with needs for both a VPN and a proxy, it could turn out to be too expensive. That’s where 1Browser comes in handy.

With a built-in VPN, you can access global content, manage multiple accounts without constant verifications, and keep your browsing private. Plus, with built-in free proxies and data syncing across devices, you can browse securely and effortlessly without worrying about extra costs.