Virtual Private Networks or what is popularly known as VPNs are simple software solutions to mask your IP address such that your computer appears to be operating from a different location. How is this done? They do this by creating a virtual network that essentially reroutes either your personal computer or smartphone’s network traffic through a tunnel (encrypted) and it comes out on the other side.
In other words, you know from what location you’re working from but to the world, you’re in whatever location the VPN’s server is situated. Is there any benefit to cloaking your online presence? Most certainly, there is! If there are geographic restrictions on some websites, it can help you bypass them. At the same time help you avoid censors or just ensure you remain anonymous.
Now, the issue is there are several VPN services available online because this isn’t a new technology. How do you know which service is right for you? Keep reading to find out more.
1. Know The Location Of The Servers
One of the most common uses for virtual private networks is their ability to open websites that are not accessible to your location. For example when you need to watch Bleacher Report videos but you’re not situated anywhere near the US. You would need your VPN to at least have multiple servers located around the world.
That said, if the VPN you plan on using only has servers in Asia, Australia, and Europe, what good would it be when you want to access a website in the US? That is an obvious reason why learning the locations of the VPN servers is something you have to do. You can visit vpnlaboratory.com for comparison on different specs including the location of the servers. Wouldn’t you rather choose a service that can connect you to the world than one that has limited access? Bet you’d choose the former.
2. Strong Customer Support
Another thing to consider when choosing a VPN service is verifying that your VPN provider is quite easy to reach out to when you need help. It’s not just their being available 24/7, but how easy it is for them to be contacted via various portals both online and offline like live chat, email, and telephone. Access to customer care is considered more important when dealing with VPNs.
This makes it much easier for you to contact your VPN service when there is an issue you need to sort out. It can be hazardous to you or your business when the service goes down and there is no one to reach out to. Even though most services are pretty big on customer support, it is still in your best interest to verify that their accessibility is 24/7.
3. Find a Convenient Interface
Contrary to what most people think, VPN services and their features are not only used by computer geniuses or hackers. Anyone who uses a smartphone or personal computer can make use of them. It’s for that reason that you need to really consider the VPN’s interface.
There are some that can get somewhat complex which means you’d likely have a very hard time using the software, especially if you’ve never used it before. Well, whether you’re an experienced user or a newbie, you need to look for a simple interface that has easy-to-follow procedures.
It would be easy for you to get the software running in no time. If you’re able to do your research well, you’d discover some VPNs that even have the option of setting up virtually which means you won’t have to do anything to get it running. Just install, register, and connect.
4. Updated Mobile App
Gone are the days where people are mostly focused on computer software. Any VPN service you end up using must have a functioning mobile app so you can use it on the go and be sure your gadgets are protected.
Now, it’s not just enough for them to have a mobile version but do they keep it up to date even without any operating system updates? This is so you are certain that it’d be effective irrespective of when it was installed. You can check for this on their website and if it’s not included there, verify the last time it was updated on the app store.
5. Do They Have a Clear Data Policy?
All virtual private network services log their user’s data and in most cases, it is so they can limit the number of devices that are connected to the server and offer efficient customer support. Them having a clear data policy is not whether or not they log your data but which data is being logged. Some access more data intruding personal info like the websites you visit or what you download. So, do read up on their data logging policy for a proper understanding of what would be logged or not.
Choosing the right VPN service doesn’t have to be the right one if you follow the tips listed in this article and do some more research. Don’t forget to look out for security, great interface, and efficiency.
