A virtual private network (VPN) isn’t as complicated to install and use on your home computer as you might think, and can help you to protect your online privacy. In this article, we explore how VPNs work and how to use them.
What is a VPN?
A VPN provides a secure way to connect to a private computer network and protect your personal information online. Much like a firewall safeguards the data in your computer’s memory, a VPN shields your data as it travels over the internet.
Depending on the VPN, it can encrypt your data, make websites think you’re browsing from a different location and allow you to access external servers, such as a work network, remotely.
How do VPNs work?
When you access a website, your computer and the server hosting the website exchange data. A VPN works as a checkpoint between you and the website you’re accessing. Instead of your device exchanging data directly with the website’s server, your web traffic is diverted through the VPN, where data is encrypted and repackaged to protect your security and location.
As a VPN server can be anywhere in the world, it means that you can access the internet as if you are in the location of the VPN server, rather than your actual physical location. This can allow you to bypass location-based internet restrictions (geoblocks).
VPN providers offer different levels of security, features and global server locations.
NBN providers and plans
Looking for a new NBN provider or plan to bolster your new VPN? Check out some of the providers and plans available in the table below. The table contains affiliate links.
The following table shows a selection of sponsored unlimited data Standard Plus Evening Speed (NBN 50), and Premium Evening Speed (NBN 100) plans on Canstar Blue’s database with links to referral partners.. 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $65.90) Typical evening speed of 100Mbps 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $69) Typical evening speed of 100Mbps 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $63.90) Typical evening speed of 50Mbps The following table shows a selection of published unlimited NBN 50 plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of standard monthly cost (excluding discounts), from the lowest to highest, and then by alphabetical order of provider. Use our comparison tool above to see plans from a range of other providers. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners. The table below shows a selection of published unlimited NBN 100 plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of monthly cost, from the lowest to highest, and then by alphabetical order of provider. Use our comparison tool to see plans from a range of other providers. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.
Unlimited
Data/month
$65.90
Cost/month
Go to Site
Unlimited
Data/month
$69
Cost/month
Go to Site
Unlimited
Data/month
$63.90
Cost/month
Go to Site
Unlimited Home Standard (NBN 50) Plans
Unlimited Home Fast (NBN 100) Plans
Why use a VPN?
VPNs are widely used for internet security, accessing local networks remotely, and getting around region blocks and government censorship. Here’s a breakdown of what you can use a VPN for:
- Accessing geo-blocked content: Many websites and streaming services, such as YouTube and Netflix, restrict access to some or all of their content based on a user’s geographical location, due to licensing agreements. A VPN service can allow you to access content available in different countries and regions across the globe.
- Protecting your internet privacy: A VPN encrypts your data, making it a highly effective security tool. Using public or untrusted networks, like hotel or coffee shop WiFi, can be risky because hackers can potentially access your passwords, credit card details, or other sensitive information. However, if you use a VPN on these unsafe internet connections, your data will be protected, keeping your information secure.
- Using local network resources remotely and securely: Many businesses and universities use VPNs so that their internal networks (including access to internal files, intranet and printers) can be securely accessed off-site. This makes it easier to work remotely. You can also set up a VPN for your home, so that you can access your home network from anywhere in the world.
- Avoiding government censorship: The most notable example of internet censorship is the Great Firewall of China. The Chinese government blocks many foreign websites, including Facebook and Google. Similarly, countries like Iran, Cuba, and Vietnam have extensive government censorship and surveillance of internet activities. A VPN can help evade such censorship.
The main drawback of using a VPN is that it can slow your internet experience. Since your web traffic has to pass through extra servers and encryption, data speeds can slow. The extent of these delays will depend on the quality of your VPN service.
How do you use a VPN?
Using a VPN is fairly straightforward. Most VPN providers offer an app or program to download to your computer, phone or tablet. Once installed, you log on and wait for the VPN to connect. You then use your device as normal.
While this is only a simple explanation of a somewhat complex process, it’s a general overview of how a VPN works. There are various types of VPNs and security protocols that each function differently, so if you have specific needs, it’s a good idea to do some research before choosing one.
What are the types of VPN?
Three main types of VPN connections include remote access, site-to-site and VPN applications.
What is a remote access VPN?
Also known as a client-to-site VPN, this type of VPN allows users to connect to a private network or third-party server. Remote access VPNs are commonly used by remote workers needing secure access to company files and resources.
What is a site-to-site VPN?
A site-to-site VPN is a private VPN where one network connects to another. Site-to-site VPNS are commonly used by large organisations that need to link their internal networks across multiple locations, while maintaining a secure connection.
What are VPN applications?
While traditional VPN providers have typically focused on desktop users, the rise of smartphones has led to a significant increase in mobile VPN usage. For smartphone users seeking enhanced security and protection while on the go, a mobile VPN app may be useful.
Mobile VPNs offer the same benefits as traditional VPNs, but with added advantages. They continue to protect your data even when internet connectivity is unstable or when switching between mobile data and WiFi. As long as the app is running, the VPN connection remains secure, keeping your device protected.
Are VPNs legal?
In Australia, it’s perfectly legal to use a VPN. Businesses, universities and governments use them all the time. It’s also currently legal in Australia to use a VPN to access region-locked content. That means if YouTube tells you that a video isn’t available in your country, you can just use an internationally based VPN to watch it.
However, using a VPN to bypass region blocks can sometimes violate a website’s or service’s user agreement, especially if users are required to be residents of the country of purchase. Similar to torrenting, which is often linked to illegal downloading, VPNs are legal tools when used appropriately. If you’re unsure, check the fine print of your preferred VPN service.
How much do VPNs cost?
You can create and host your own VPN, but this requires a certain level of technical know-how. It’s usually much easier to use a third-party provider. Your workplace or university might already have their own VPN available, especially if they use Google to host their email server. This can be particularly helpful when travelling to places like China, where Google is blocked. If you don’t have access to a VPN, or need one for personal use, there are plenty of options available.
Free vs subscription VPN services
While it can be tempting to opt for a free VPN, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Free services may offer fewer features and lower quality servers, but they might suffice if your needs are simple. Many paid VPN providers offer a free trial, which can be a great way to test the service before committing.
Below are the prices from some major VPN service providers. Please note that listing these services does not imply endorsement. Approx prices shown for providers’ basic products in Australian dollars, unless marked.
|
VPN |
Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly plan | Yearly plan | |
| IPVanish | $19.49+gst | $119.99+gst |
| NordVPN | $12.99+gst | $139+gst |
| VPN Unlimited | N/A | US$79.99 |
| TorGuard | US$10.99 | US$65.99 |
| Hotspot Shield | $9.99 | $79.99 |
*Prices taken from provider’s websites, November 2024.
How do I choose a VPN?
With so many providers available, choosing the best VPN service can be challenging. Although most claim to offer similar features, it’s important to shop around and read reputable reviews, as well as user reviews, to find the service that suits you best. Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting a VPN:
- Privacy: Look for a VPN with strong security features, such as robust encryption protocols and a no-logs policy. This ensures your online activities remain private and secure.
- Location: Consider the server locations offered by the VPN. More server locations means you can access content from different regions and potentially find faster connection speeds.
- Encryption: Ensure the VPN uses high-level encryption, such as AES-256, to protect your data from hackers and other threats.
- Malware blocking: Some VPNs offer additional features, like malware and ad blocking, which can provide an extra layer of protection against malicious websites and ads.
- Simultaneous connections: Check how many devices can be connected simultaneously with a single subscription. This is important if you plan to use the VPN on multiple devices, such as your phone, laptop and tablet.
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