In 2023, the Digital 2023: Global Overview Report stated that 64.4 percent of the world’s total population uses the internet. Because of this increased use and adoption, people are concerned about their privacy and security. These concerns have led users to turn to virtual private networks (VPN) as a means of staying safe online. When they were first introduced to the public, VPNs were mostly used by businesses and large corporations, but that has since changed as individuals have also started using them. This increased use of VPNs has changed the way people interact with the internet.
VPN Removing Location-Based Restrictions
One of the changes that VPNs have brought to how we now interact with the internet is the ability to access content from restricted locations. Many websites and online platforms limit user access to certain products or services based on the user’s location. Before VPNs became popular, people would accept these restrictions and only stick to content available to them. But this has since changed after people discovered that VPNs make it possible for them to change their virtual location by connecting to servers in other countries. This allows them to access the content that was previously unavailable in their locations.
For example, some online platforms like casinos can be restricted in certain areas or completely unavailable due to different reasons like gambling regulations, strict internet censorship, or cultural concerns. By connecting via a VPN, users can play roulette, poker, slots, or any other game that meets their fancy at offshore casinos without any limitations. An offshore casino is a casino that operates outside a player’s home country. These casinos are usually based in countries with more relaxed gaming regulations, like Malta, Curacao, and the Isle of Man.
The casinos that are on Business2Community’s list of recommended offshore casinos by Andrew O’Malley are examples of such casinos where players are guaranteed access to a wide range of games and generous bonuses and promotions, among other features.
Not only can bettors use VPNs to access offshore casinos, but movie and streaming buffs can also use VPNs to watch movies and shows that may not be available in their regions. Platforms like Netflix and Hulu offer services according to a user’s location. Some countries have full access to all the services on offer, while others are limited to certain content or have no access at all. Users are engaging the services of VPNs to connect to servers in countries with full Netflix or Hulu library privileges to enjoy shows or content that was previously unavailable to them.
VPN Securing Remote Work and Business Communication
There is a growing trend of people working outside the normal office environment, which used to be regarded with skepticism. People work from their own homes or in a different location from the company office. The reason why most companies took their time to adopt the trend was because of security concerns. VPNs have managed to address this issue by offering businesses and individuals security for their communications and data.
With remote work on the rise, some employees are required by their companies to use VPNs when accessing sensitive corporate information or communicating with fellow workmates. Using VPNs ensures that all company information shared among remote workers and the company’s servers is encrypted and protected from cyber threats. There are now more people working remotely than in previous years, which shows that working from home is now the new normal. Thanks to VPNs, remote workers are more secure against data breaches or cyberattacks.
Improved Security on Public Networks
Public Wi-Fi networks, like those available in cafes, airports, or hotels, have a record for being vulnerable to hackers and cyberattacks. Because these networks are not secured, anyone connected to them is in a position to intercept your data. If you use public Wi-Fi without taking the necessary security precautions, you will be exposing yourself to cybercriminals. Regardless of what you intend to use the internet for, be sure to use a VPN to protect your data.
With a VPN, your internet connection will be encrypted, making it nearly impossible for hackers to access your information. Many people now rely on VPN security features whenever they want to access the internet. Even though VPNs protect your data on public Wi-Fi and increase your online security, you should not make it a habit of using public connections unless it is really necessary and you have no other options.
Faster and Unrestricted Internet Speeds
Internet service providers (ISPs) may slow down the speed of the internet on purpose to reduce the total amount of bandwidth used by their customers. ISPs carry out this practice of data throttling for the sole purpose of saving money at the expense of customers. ISPs slow down your connection depending on the amount of data your activities are consuming. If you are streaming high-definition content, gaming, or downloading large files, you are likely going to experience slow data connections.
To avoid the frustration of slow connections, you can use a VPN to hide your online activities from your ISP so that they cannot identify what you are using the internet for. You can then enjoy faster and more consistent internet speeds, especially for activities that consume a lot of data.
Access to Better Deals and Pricing
The internet is a hub for a variety of products and services made available to users according to different criteria set by the product owners or service providers. Service providers, especially, are pricing their services according to their customers’ location or browsing history, in a practice called dynamic pricing. Some consumers are being disadvantaged by being charged more than other consumers.
Thanks to VPN technology, people no longer have to accept this fate. VPN users can sometimes find better deals when connected to the internet through a VPN. You may have noticed that hotel booking prices, service subscriptions, or even airline tickets are more expensive in certain countries than others. To benefit from this, you can use a VPN to switch your virtual location to another country and access better deals for the same services. This is especially useful for people who travel a lot or anyone looking to save money on global purchases.
Conclusion
VPNs have provided solutions to many of the issues we encounter while using the internet, such as privacy concerns, content restrictions, and security issues. With all the benefits of using VPNs that businesses and individuals are enjoying, their use is likely to become even more widespread in the years to come.
