Today’s Top 4 VPN Myths

Virtual private networks (VPNs) are, as most users will attest to, valuable and useful digital tools that make surfing the web as easy, safe, and accessible as possible. With that said, and although a multitude of reputable and well-reviewed VPN companies operate today (Surfshark, for example, receives consistently positive user feedback on social media and review websites), many individuals are still suspicious of virtual private networks. In most instances, these informed individuals heard or read something about VPNs that was plainly untrue, and the information, regardless of its factuality, was accepted as accurate. In this way, incorrect statements can “snowball” and be perceived as truths.

To help any misled and/or previously uninterested individuals understand what makes VPN software so fantastic, let’s clear the air and take a look at today’s top-four virtual private network myths!

4. VPNs are Dangerous

First and foremost, it must be emphasized that VPNs are in no way, shape, or form dangerous to computers and other devices. In its most basic form, a virtual private network is simply a means through which internet users can change the internet provider (IP) address and location that are publicly displayed when the internet is browsed. All internet connections issue an IP address to their users, and unless a VPN is used, this IP address is made public for websites, companies, and other internet users to see.

However, VPNs are not antivirus programs, and they shouldn’t be used to replace computer security programs. Those who claim that VPNs are unsafe probably navigated to a website that was infected with viruses or malware, which will harm computers and other devices regardless of whether or not a virtual private network is used. Furthermore, many of today’s newest viruses can circumvent antivirus software—another reason infected and potentially infected websites should be avoided at all costs.

3. VPNs are Expensive

VPNs, like all products, cost a different amount of money depending on the company that’s bought from. To be sure, some VPN companies charge an arm and a leg for their services; it’s up to these companies’ customers to decide whether or not the software at-hand is worth the price. But to claim that all VPNs are expensive just because a select few charge a lot is like saying clothes are expensive just because world-famous brands charge thousands for a single shirt or pair of pants; a complete and all-encompassing look is not provided by such a view.

The reality is that VPNs vary in price, from free to a lot. In terms of the former, though, some companies offer their services (or a limited version of their services) for free, with the opportunity to upgrade being available to customers for a small monthly fee. Other companies grant users unlimited use for an annual license fee. In short, the truth of the matter is that VPN software is very, very affordable today; simply browsing through the pricing of the leading services will prove the point.

2. VPNs Slow Users’ Internet Down

This myth probably got its roots two or so decades ago, when preliminary VPNs were admittedly a work in progress. Today, though VPNs are fast, reliable, and quick-operating; they don’t slow users’ internet browsing down in any way, shape, or form. In fact, VPNs can be activated with a simple click, and they’re so smooth that it’s easy to forget that they’re running!

If today’s VPNs are to judged by their past software, today’s cell phones, internet browsers, video games, and more will have to be judged in the same way, by their multi-decade-old counterparts. And we all know that’s just not fair!

1. VPNs are Useful Only for Changing IP Addresses

The idea that VPNs are useful only for changing IP addresses is perhaps the most damaging of all the VPN myths. Yes, the primary function of VPN software is to change users’ IP addresses, generally or to a location that they indicate. But the far-reaching uses of this function cannot be understated in significance.

First, VPNs allow users to access previously geo-blocked content. Open as the internet is for individuals to use, it isn’t that open; depending on a user’s country, he or she may not be able to access certain media, news, or websites. With a simple click, these users can activate a VPN to make it appear as though they’re browsing from another part of the world, thereby gaining access to content that would otherwise have been off-limits.

Next, VPNs protect browsing data. Website visits, shopping histories, and more are publicly available for others to see. This includes other internet users, companies, and websites. VPNs provide peace of mind to users by protecting their browsing information and activities from prying eyes. In this way, VPNs also benefit one’s internet security.

Last but certainly not least, VPNs prevent hackers from stealing personal information. Many hacking efforts originate from IP address exposure; with a user’s IP address at-hand, hackers can target email inboxes and internet connections, which can, in turn, lead to information-harvesting malware and viruses being downloaded onto a device. But if a hacker isn’t aware of one’s IP address, installing information-harvesting viruses and malware becomes exponentially more difficult.

Now that these common VPN myths have been cleared up, there’s no reason for interested individuals not to protect themselves by downloading reliable virtual private network software. Today’s software prices are incredibly affordable, once again, and with all the benefits and perks associated with VPN use, there’s never been a better time to download an appealing program.

Thanks for reading, and here’s to all VPNs have to offer users!