Understanding VPNs and Their Protective Benefits
What is a VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a service that creates a secure connection over the internet between a user's device and a remote server.
Definition and Scope
- Virtual Private Network: A technology that encrypts internet traffic and disguises the user's online identity.
- Scope of Use: Utilised for enhancing privacy, bypassing geo-restrictions, and securing data on public Wi-Fi networks.
Historical Use of VPNs
- Origins: The first VPN concept was developed in 1996 by Microsoft to facilitate secure data transfer between remote employees.
- Growth in Popularity: VPN services surged in usage post-2000s with the rise of cyber threats and internet censorship practices.
- Modern Implementation: Today, VPNs are commonplace, with thousands of providers offering services to millions of users worldwide, such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
