Virtual private networks VPNs have become basic, a must-have tool, which increasingly are used by individuals, businesses and governments to protect vital assets, remain very private on the web, and to secure the privacy and security of their conversation. In this article, I’ll explore the main features of VPNs pointwise, how they work, and as Cybersecurity tools, why they are important in the connected digital world of today to secure our privacy.

Overview of VPN

Virtual private network (VPN) is secure technology that lets users to access a private network via the internet. VPN provides an encrypted connection between users and the private network that is accessed through the internet. It creates a data tunnel identical to the real one and then hooks it up to protect data from hackers and outside eavesdroppers.

VPN applies the most advanced encryption methods to the data which is transmitted between the user’s device and the VPN server, like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). A cybersecurity principle, encryption, applies complicated security algorithm standards that ultimately give the assurance that data will still be unconfirmed, even if it is intercepted, without the associated keys required for its decryption. VPN masks the user’s IP address with the IP address of the VPN server thus it is very hard for the stalker to track the user’s location. This is the act of shunning any intrusion from outside and therefore it protects our privacy making the act of web based activities.

VPNs further protect user’s web navigation and online activity from being captured and kept by ISPs (Internet Service Providers) and any other third parties. If you don’t use VPN, your system will be exposed to few vulnerabilities which can be brought automatically.

VPNs (the Virtual Private Networks) are amongst the tools that are used by workers to access the company’s inner resources in a secure network by connecting to the corporate network through a secure connection. The users will be able to join the VPN server which is located in a different country to have the access to the restricted content and services. This feature works particularly hard with blocked domain when people trying to access websites or streaming services in certain region.

At times, when we are using public wi-fi network, it is better to use VPN to secure our mobile or laptop data from the hackers. VPN creates an extra layer of safety for the users since the data is encrypted all the way, avoiding any potential risks that public hotspots may bring. VPNs take care of many of common security threats that might drop by on public networks, which include the man-in-the-middle attack. VPNs do this by transmitting the data through a secure tunnel.

To secure communication between the head office and remote workers, and mobile devices, VPNs are the best option for enterprises to protect sensitive and proprietary data from interception and unwanted access.

VPNs are the simplest solutions with a great number of server locations from where you can choose plus some features of the commercial VPN services are offered to you additionally. VPNs do serve privacy but the selection of proven and reliable providers should be taken because all VPNs aren’t promoting user privacy and some countries have banned the use of VPNs.

Once you decide to use the VPN service, you need to choose the service providers who have a good image with regard to security, openness, and respect for the privacy of their users. It is worth knowing that some VPN providers store their logs, so in this case you should look for a different provider that does not keep traffic logs.

Types of VPNs

1. Remote Access VPNs

Cater for encrypted links for individual users to get a private network whereby they can access all through the remote connection. This VPN is a good choice by the IT person who is working from home or traveling and need to have a secure access to the company’s resources.

2. Site-to-Site VPNs

Create a network covering an entire system, from linking all the branch offices with the central office or corporate network, to making it safe over the internet. It is usually used by companies with several offices to assure a proper and secure interconnection which is natural in the case of multiple offices spread over the city and outstate.

3. Client-to-Site VPNs or Endpoint VPNs

Similar to VPNs when it comes to remote access but it function exactly on client devices that connect to corporate networks. Its use is appropriate in cases when particular equipment, for example, IoT devices or partner networks, need to obtain access to an enterprise’s system resources.

4. Intranet-Based VPN

It links the parts of an organization through an intranet to provide secure communication. It is most suitable among organizations that have many branches that are willing to set up a secure and private networks with their own business infrastructure.

5. Extranet-Based VPN

Such platform, incorporating VPNs as a complementary component, will bridge the gap in infrastructural security between internal and external networks, thereby connecting intranets of business partners or suppliers. Additionally, this technology ensures the safe communication and collaboration between an organization and its external partners.

6. Mobile Virtual Private Networks

Although its shape and size are small, it was constructed so that mobile device communication over the internet is secured. With lesser chances and no appropriate security tools, remote workers mostly use their mobile phones to access industry data, hence creating opportunities for cyber attackers.

7. SSL/TLS VPN

It is built on the SSL/TLS protocols that are used to establish a secure connection over the web browser, so that there is no need for an additional client software. Several representative applications, primarily online service authentication, associate with this implementation.

8. IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) VPN

The system is a set of protocols that is used to protect the internet communication at the IP layer level. It has the ability to act either as the Tunnel mode or as the Transport mode. It is used in site-to-site VPNs and remote access VPNs. It has suite of security features that are excellent.

9. PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol)

It is older open VPN method that ensures secure tunnel with the end point but is considered less secure than newly developed versions. With this day, modern technologies are not used because they may be in danger. However, they can be found in some old systems.

10. L2TP (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol)

We are also often utilizing it to strengthen security with altogether IPsec. That is secure tunnel for information transmission is provided by it. L2TP/IPsec is mostly used in remote access VPNs, especially on devices that have the native L2TP/IPsec client support.

11. OpenVPN

It is an open source implementation of VPN protocol working with SSL/TLS and using them as key exchange. It is flexible, and has either good security features or it could be run on a wide range of platforms. Such applications as remote access and site-to-site VPNs make extensive use of it.

Protocols used in Virtual Private Networks

The encrypted data transmission and protocols of virtual private network (VPN) decide the quantity of data protected by group of rules and transactions for those devices that have certain VPN connection. To supply with the feature of private and secure communication in people’s online communication, a variety of protocols were used. Some popular VPN protocols are as follows:

1. OpenVPN

It is an open-source and very flexible VPN protocol which is also known as the most secure in the world. It is based on the secure sockets layer (SSL/TLS) and provides many encryption algorithms. It is comprehensive solution that fits in business requirements, such as enterprise VPNs or site-to-site VPNs.

2. IPsec (Internet Protocol Security)

It is about the demise of internet communication protocols and is the manifestation of the IP security at the IP level. Such a tunneling mode can be either of the types, that is, transport mode or the tunnel mode, and it can provide confidentiality, integrity and authentication. It is the most common type of VPN (Virtual Private Network) used for site-to-site VPNs and remote access VPNs in enterprise environments.

3. L2TP (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol)

Generally, this is accomplished by integrating it with IPsec to raise the level of protection it offers.

4. L2TP/IPsec (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with IPsec)

Its configuration enables it to function as the substitute for L2TP and IPsec simultaneously. Through the tunnel provided by L2TP data packets are secured using IPsec service. It is the most commonly used protocol for remote access VPNs and is also supported by many operating systems.

5. PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol)

It has already been declared obsolete and it is known that it does not have a good authentication or encryption. Although it may give some sort of encryption, it is not considered to be secure enough because it is vulnerable to different security threats. It is not so often encountered in the present day due to its crypto-risk, but may still be exquisite in old systems.

6. IKEv2 (Internet Key Exchange version 2)

It is a contemporary and efficient VPN protocol that is used for safe key exchange and is often accompanied by IPsec for encryption and authentication. It is mostly benefiting for mobile VPNs. They are characterized by strong and fast connections when devices switch between networks.

7. SSTP (Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol)

This is the Microsoft-developed protocol that uses SSL/TLS for encryption. It is very common for web servers that run on Windows, especially where there are firewalls that block HTTP traffic. It is used very often in the network form of VPNs. This is particularly for remote access on the Microsoft Windows platforms.

8. WireGuard

It is a younger and lighter VPN protocol that is famous for its simplicity and efficiency. It should therefore permit gains in speed and code simplicity. It is the most advanced protocol due to its speed and it is straightforward, therefore very good for any types of VPN applications.

9. SoftEther Virtual Private Networks

It is a free and open-sourced VPN software that can work with different VPN protocols, including the SoftEther VPN protocol, SSL-VPN, IPsec, and others. It is versatile and offers a huge choice; remote access and site-to-site VPNs are just among all possible cases.

List of Top VPN Service Providers (Virtual Private Networks)

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is famous for its fast connections and advanced security features such as large server network which makes sure that you are always online and your online activities are always private.

2. NordVPN

NordVPN is on the forefront when it comes to privacy and security. It is highly rated in the industry for having strong features like double VPN and a wide server network, thus it is number one among those who are most concerned to protect their online securely.

3. Surfshark

Surfshark is a low-cost, yet unlimited, device that allows you to connect with other people at the same time. The users of this online portal get a user-friendly experience, as well as for customers a high security level is provided.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is very popular due to its user-friendly interface. Also, they have selected servers dedicated to streaming and torrenting, making this VPN powerful for multiple online actions.

5. VyprVPN

VyprVPN is different from the other VPNs with the Chameleon protocol, which is proprietary and designed to bypass censorship. Encrypting the data exchanged on the web and maintaining the confidentiality becomes its strong point for the secure browser.

6. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield first considers users’ general needs for speed and accessibility. It provides a free version and a premium version, which is a good thing because it makes it available to a lot of people.

7. Private Internet Access (PIA)

PIA being its privacy-focused feature and a pervasive server network make it a top choice amongst users. This is the VPN for you if you are looking for a trustworthy and privacy-oriented VPN.

8. Windscribe

Windscribe provides free data limited plan along with a paid version that entails solid privacy. Its dedication to keeping user data confidential earns it recognition within the privacy fan base.

9. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN – This is a product that was created by the team that was also responsible for the development of ProtonMail, and ProtonVPN puts the security and privacy of its users first. That commitments to the confidentiality of its members and the quality of its products are well known.

10. TunnelBear

Being marked as the “easy-to-use” product, TunnelBear provides a free plan with a limited amount of data. It is a good option for those who are not already using VPN services.

11. Mullvad

Mullvad officially incorporates privacy in the policy with no-log method. It gives a direct access to salaries to users, and therefore people who hide their identity pay with cash. It is one of the best choice to anyone who cares about their privacy.

12. Hide[dot]me

Hide[dot]me is a service that gives you the chance to be fully private, including its no-log policy. It is a free offering that comes with some limitations providing the simple users with the much needed security.

VPNs are major contributors to the privacy, secured communications and also to the web access when compared to the public network. VPNs are still the most basic tools for those who want to securely and privately explore the internet world as it changes.

Image credit- Canva

The World Wide Web has become a hub for all human activities. According to statistics, almost 80% of the developed world has access to the internet. We use it for communication, financial transactions, entertainment, education, travel and a lot more besides.

Organizations maintain entire operational infrastructures in cyberspace. Therefore, the data which flows over the digital airwaves is not only diverse but also valuable in a variety of aspects. It all depends on who is peeking into it.

Yes, as surprising as it may sound, as long as you are connected to the internet there are many entities tapping into general or even personal information which belongs to you. Privacy is a fundamental right of every individual and this act of digital spying is a cause of concern to many.

In order to understand how your online presence is vulnerable, we first have to look into how the internet works.

How does the Internet work?

The internet is a virtual neighborhood. The houses are websites, applications and devices. Like a modern society, the residents of each house stay in contact with one another. They do this by sending little packets of data. Each of these packets contain several items but most importantly it has two IP addresses.

An Internet Protocol address or IP address is similar to a house address in the real world. Each packet sent over the internet contains the sender’s IP address and that of the receiver. The whole process resembles the delivery mediums we use on a day to day basis. This process of data being sent is initiated when you type a URL in your browser’s address bar and hit ‘Enter’.

The packet of data which originates from your computer is first received by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and is then sent to the server of the website you were trying to access. This seems simple enough and considering it conventional, people are usually not bothered by it. This is where the problems begin.

What information can be obtained through IP tracking?

Ever since the US government passed the bill to end net neutrality last year, ISPs have the ability to regulate the internet at their will. They keep logs of each IP address, tracking entire browsing sessions. This is easy for them because each packet of data goes through them. They know where a request is coming from and where it is going. In case you are wondering, just the IP address is enough to reveal a lot of information about a user.

First and foremost, it gives away your exact location. Whether you are using a mobile device or a personal computer, the IP address can be used to track where you are in real time. Secondly, it only takes a few easily available tools and simple techniques to decipher a lot else from the users IP address. Also, its not just ISPs but a professional hacker can also intercept the packets of data being sent by your computer and things can begin to go downhill from there.

Potential uses of sensitive data

One of the least harmful uses of sensitive data, which ISPs can gather from your browsing information, is marketing profiling. It is a nuisance receiving spam emails or messages, pop-up ads or random snippets showing up while you are browsing and the fact that your data was used without permission. However, it is just not as dangerous as some of the other things that hackers can do when they gain access to some of your private information.

Unmasked or unprotected IP addresses can reveal your browsing history but if someone, like a professional hacker or even your internet service provider is persistent, they can use it to gain access to what you are doing once you are on a website. This means that the information you might be entering while making a funds transfer or purchasing something online becomes susceptible to theft. What hackers can do with this information does not need elaboration. Moreover, the information can also be used in false impersonation and cases of identity theft. All this is quite simple for anyone who can view your IP address.

How a VPN secures online presence?

Recent surveys have revealed that since mainstream companies like Facebook have had their servers hacked and millions of account credentials stolen, people are becoming cautious. This is a sensible move. Protecting your privacy during the time you spend online is imperative. People are now beginning to realize this. If you’re one of these people and want to know how you can keep yourself safe from cybersecurity threats, a good solution is using a VPN. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) acts as a decoy between the ISP and you.

Without a VPN, your data packets with the IP address of your device are sent directly to the website and the service provider. A VPN changes this route. Your packet is first sent to a secure server owned by the VPN and then to the website and ISP. This way, all that they see is the location of the VPN server and not yours. So, ultimately, they have no idea what you are doing and where you are doing it from. This means that you browse the internet anonymously and securely. There is no fear of being spied on. Well, only if you’re using a reliable VPN!

Conclusion

It’s true! Some VPN’s in the past have been caught doing exactly what they claim to stop, i.e. theft of personal information. To avoid this, it is recommended to use a credible Business VPN.