There are many reasons why the use of virtual private networks, or VPNs, is increasing in popularity. A VPN provides Internet users with an enhanced degree of privacy and security. Some people shy away from VPNs because they think they are overly complicated or difficult to install. This is not the case. Users can select from a wide range of providers. After subscribing, they can configure and begin using their new VPN within minutes.

Privacy

The use of a VPN affords users privacy while browsing the Internet. A VPN will mask a user’s IP address with a virtual IP one. Website hosts are therefore unable to track the user’s location and browsing habits. Furthermore, because all data is transmitted through secure virtual tunnels, a user’s Internet service provider is unable to perform deep-packet inspections. The ISP therefore cannot tailor a user’s browsing experience for marketing purposes. They also will not be able to throttle a user’s connection speed due to online behavior.

Security

When a user connects to the Internet through a VPN, all data that is transmitted from or received by their device is encrypted. This prevents hackers from intercepting any personal data such as passwords and credit card information. There are different protocols that users can select from for data encryption. The most commonly used are:

• PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol), which provides fast connection speeds and 128-bit data encryption
• L2TP/IPsec (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with IP security), which provides 256-bit data encryption but uses more system resources and results in a slightly slower connection
• OpenVPN, which provides both 256-bit data encryption and fast connection speeds, but is usually supported only by desktop computers.

Installation

Installation of a VPN is easy. Once a user subscribes to a VPN service, they will be given installation instructions and password information. Different devices may require different steps. Step-by-step instructions for any type of device are easily found on the Internet.

The user’s choice of protocol will also affect the installation. The PPTP protocol is built into most devices and is the easiest to set up. Users who elect to use a L2TP/IPsec protocol for enhanced security will have a few additional configuration steps. The OpenVPN protocol is easy to set-up but does require a software download. Regardless of protocol choice, however, installation and set-up should not take more than a few minutes.

VPN Application

Some of the higher quality VPN services providers will offer their users a VPN application. Once installed, the application is easily accessible from the user’s computer. It provides even greater ease-of-use for a user’s VPN needs. Users may occasionally wish to browse online without using their VPN. A VPN application will allow them to easily turn their VPN service off and on with a click of a button. A VPN application will also make it easy for users to switch between servers. This is particularly useful when they are traveling. At other times, a user may wish to switch to a protocol that offers higher encryption rates. The VPN application makes this simple to do as well.

A VPN for Netherlands provides users with many benefits. It is easy to use and install. Anyone wishing for greater privacy and security when browsing online should invest in a VPN.