What Is a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server operated by the VPN provider. All your internet traffic routes through this tunnel, so websites and services see the VPN server's IP address - Not yours.
How a VPN Works - Step by Step
| Step | What Happens |
|---|
| 1 | You connect to a VPN server (in any country) using the VPN app |
| 2 | Your device and the VPN server negotiate an encrypted tunnel |
| 3 | All your traffic (browser, apps, DNS) routes through this tunnel |
| 4 | The VPN server makes requests to the internet on your behalf |
| 5 | Websites see only the VPN server's IP - Your real IP stays hidden |
VPN Protocol Comparison
| Protocol | Speed | Security | Best for |
|---|
| WireGuard | Fastest | Excellent | Modern devices, everyday use |
| OpenVPN | Good | Excellent | Maximum compatibility |
| IKEv2/IPSec | Fast | Very good | Mobile (handles reconnects well) |
| L2TP/IPSec | Slow | Good | Legacy systems |
What a VPN Protects - And What It Doesn't
| VPN Protects Against | VPN Does NOT Protect Against |
|---|
| ISP seeing your browsing | Malware on your device |
| Websites seeing your real IP | Cookies and browser fingerprinting |
| Network snooping on public Wi-Fi | Phishing and social engineering |
| Geo-restrictions and censorship | Account hacking (requires strong passwords) |
