5 Essential Factors to Consider when Choosing a VPN

A virtual private network or a VPN creates a secure connection between your device and a virtual private server by encrypting all your online data. You might not think of using a VPN software now, but with privacy concerns escalating, you should start thinking about investing in one in the near future.

If you are thinking of getting a VPN, consider the following:

1. Application

The type of VPN you need depends on your uses. Even if you’re not particularly security-minded, you still need protection when you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network you can’t trust, such as those you can find at airports or coffee shops. However, you’ll need more than basic services if you are serious about getting rid of all kinds of surveillance.

2. Protocol

Look for a VPN provider that uses OpenVPN and steer clear of PPTP. PPTP is compromised, as it uses a weak encryption and has plenty of security issues, notes an expert from Private Tunnel. Every decent VPN provider should have support for OpenVPN.

3. Servers

The best VPN services should have a robust network of servers spanning all major continents. They should have at least hundreds of servers for customers across the world. If you’re being persecuted by your government, look for a provider that is not based in your home country.

4. Number of Connections

When it comes to how many devices can connect to your VPN, more is better. At the very least, you should be able to connect two devices to the network. The best providers should let you configure various exit nodes for each device so you don’t put all your personal traffic into a single bundle.

5. Activity Logs

Many VPN services promise not to log your online activity, although the extent to which this is fulfilled depends on the provider. They may create temporary logs that are deleted regularly, they may not log anything, or they might log everything at all.

When choosing which VPN software to buy, it is important that you take into account what you need it for. If you’re only interested in getting around content blocks, a full service might not be for you. However, if you’re concerned about governments, ISPs, and advertisers keeping their eye on you – and you should be – getting a VPN may be the right solution for you.