WHAT IS A VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a virtual private network that allows a secure connection between two or more devices over the internet. A VPN allows users to create a private extension within a local area network (LAN), which can be for home or business use, enabling secure data traffic. It acts as if it were on the same network as the VPN server. The connection is encrypted, the internet service provider (ISP) does not have and will not have access to browsing activity, and the user's IP address is the same as that of the VPN server.
Operation
The VPN connection is very secure because when this data is sent it is encrypted at all times from the entry of the data to the exit, as if it were sent through a tunnel, which does not allow the entry of external agents.
Thanks to encryption, this data cannot be interpreted because they lack the key to decrypt it. Anyone wanting access to this information would have to fraudulently extract packets from the network using an antenna and pirated software.
Phases
- Data collectionThe data is collected in packets; this data consists of CRC bits, information from the sending machine, so that the information is received in its entirety.
- Channel: Space through which information circulates securely between two points
- Encryption: Once we have the space through which the data circulates, it is necessary to be connected to a VPN server to guarantee security once the data is sent, since it cannot be interpreted.
Advantages of a VPN
- Using a VPN allows you to connect to any part of the network without any restrictions, regardless of your geographical location.
- It facilitates the sending of sensitive information over the internet.
- It allows companies to remotely access servers and networks
- Easy setup and use, as it can be easily activated and deactivated.
Types of VPNs
The main characteristics of the most common types of VPN networks
Network-based VPN
A network-based VPN allows different networks to connect to each other to enhance security. It is typically used by companies with multiple branches, enabling them to securely share information across different geographic locations.
It is important to establish what information will be accessed, how the verification will work, and the devices responsible for decrypting the data.
Client-based VPN
A client-based VPN allows users to connect to a remote network using an application. Through the application, the user, with a username and password, can securely connect remotely to a computer. It's a simple way to connect to an external local network while ensuring data privacy, ideal for people who work from home and need to access sensitive company information.
There are different types of VPNs, both free and paid services. Some of them are:
Free VPNs
- Tunnelbear
- Hotspot Shield Free
- Speedify
Paid VPN:
- ExpressVPN
- IPVanish VPN
- Hide My Ass
