Defining a VPN.
VPN is an acronym that stands for Virtual Private Network. Traditionally, a VPN is used to create a “secure secret tunnel” between two computers or between a PC and corporate data, corporate servers, or corporate applications.
Recently the term VPN has been associated with creating a proxy between a computer and the internet. These VPNs allow providers to screen traffic before it hits your computer and hide your information including location, IP address, Computer Type, etc. Hackers use proxies, many proxies hide themselves between “well known” or trusted locations. Most hackers, hack into personal computers to use them as proxies to mask their identity.
When and why you should use a VPN?
Consumers should use VPNs on their phones and computers to screen the data coming to them over the internet. Businesses should not use VPNs to allow users to connect to their corporate IT environment.
1. Anyone using the internet should either have a sophisticated firewall between them and the internet or use a VPN/Proxy service to protect themselves.
2. Only highly trained professionals should use VPNs to secure networks and communication between corporate computers.