Free Write 9

Virtual Private Networks

Benefits:

  • Encryption
    VPNs create an encrypted pathway between two private networks.
  • Pricing
    It tends to be less expensive than a private leased line. That being said, this is not always the case, so make sure to always compare.
  • Secure
    VPNs establish a secure connection, and after its created, that connection isn’t able to be exploited by outside sources.
  • Data Gathering
    Most VPNs both stop outside sources from gathering your PII and does not gather data on you. Be sure to double check, as occasionally some will log certain information.
  • Unblock Websites
    Depending on where you live, certain websites can potentially be blocked or restricted, unintentionally or otherwise. A VPN is one way to be able to access said sites.

Downsides:

  • Illegality
    Depending on in which country you reside, the use of VPNs may be strictly prohibited. If that is the case, the use of one may not be worth the risk.
  • Slower speeds
    Because a VPN acts as an intermediary service, all data has to be processed through it on its way to and from the device. Obviously, these extra steps take more time than not having that service at all. Slower speeds should be expected.
  • Can be expensive
    While it may be cheaper than a private leased line, the most of them aren’t free, and the better they are, the higher the price they tend to be.
  • Setup can be difficult
    While someone well-versed in the workings of VPNs may not have an issue with anything on the technical side, there can be a bit of a learning curve, if you’re new to the scene. Some setups can be intimidating to try to tackle on your own, especially if you have no background in computer science.
  • No 100% anonymity
    While there is more anonymity than having no VPN, there isn’t a 100% anonymous method using these networks. If that’s what one is searching for, they must look elsewhere. There is no 100% guarantee.

Conclusion:

I believe the benefits of a VPN vastly outweighs the potential downsides. Plenty of people do fine without them; but anyone who uses a computer for anything work related on a regular basis should be inclined to get one. Personally, I’m looking into them. While it may not stop all the data being gathered at my expense, I would rather have some security than none at all. In America, it is legal to use VPNs, and some VPNs are quite user-friendly; therefore, aside from the varying prices, there’s no reason not to get one. What’s a slightly slower speed when you’re receiving encrypted correspondence in return? PII is some of the most valuable information we as individuals possess. It should be protected as such.

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