Anyone Use Virtual Private Networks For Protecting Data?

thomasm

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Supposedly they claim it encrypts all your data and makes you less prone to hackers because it hides your IP address.

Any drawbacks?
 
Supposedly they claim it encrypts all your data and makes you less prone to hackers because it hides your IP address.

Any drawbacks?

VPN is typically used for data transfer. Are you looking to move data, or just securely store it. If you want secure offsite storage, I would look at a Virtual Private Server with the ability to move/access your data via VPN. If you need it, message me and I can recommend a friend who is an expert in this field.
 
If you use public wi-fi (airports, coffee shops, hotels etc.) a VPN is a must-have.

There are lots of articles on why. Here are two:

https://askleo.com/is-there-any-reason-to-use-a-vpn-at-home/

http://www.forbes.com/sites/amadoud...-privacy-on-the-internet-then-you-need-a-vpn/

Some VPN companies have apps for cellphones and tablets, but even if they don't it's a one-time, easy set-up (at least for iPhones.)

Most have an app for desktop (PC and Mac) just click an icon, tell it what server you want to use (usually the closest to where you are) and that's that.

I only use it at home when I hit my bank, brokerage or any retail store where I might input sensitive info. True, these pages are usually protected by SSL (i.e. https) but an extra layer of encryption does not hurt.

The only downside to using a VPN is it can slow down your system. However, sometimes it can speed it up too! Also, VPN servers go down a lot and your connection is dropped (although most of the time your regular wi-fi kicks in automatically.) Or the servers get real slow.

There are a zillion and one VPN vendors out there.

If you search for 'Best VPN services' do know that many of the pages that come up are 'bogus' in that the "best" services are the ones who paid big bucks to be 'best.' Try to find an unbiased site... some of the magazines are trustworthy

Ten VPN Services You Should Know About | PCMag.com

"And you all know, security
Is mortals' chiefest enemy."

- Shakespeare Macbeth Act 3, scene 5

(Modern translation: "As you all know, overconfidence is man’s greatest enemy.")
 
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