You have probably heard of VPN. VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and you have probably come across with this term on your Apple device. And if you work from home, you probably do it via a VPN connection. But is such a VPN just for work? No! It can’t be.
You might be surprised what you can do with it. We will discuss here some good reasons why you should also install a VPN service on your Macbook, iPhone or iPad.
1. Use free internet
There are many countries that use an internet censorship and almost every government monitors and logs in the internet use of the inhabitants of its own (or other people’s) country. Obviously, censorship can have serious consequences due to the information provided and the quality of life of citizens. While internet surveillance can certainly have some good aspects, it can also be very problematic. Surveillance appears to be used not only for what governments claim to do (combating terrorism and state security).
A good example are the revelations made by Edward Snowden and WikiLeaks in recent years. In conclusion, there are enough reasons for people to be willing to avoid possible censorship and a watching government. A VPN can be used perfectly for this. With a VPN your data will be highly encrypted and your location is changed. This makes your internet use difficult to control and you can escape imposed censorship.
2. Increase your security and protect your identity
The main reason for using a VPN is to increase your security. When we surf the internet, all traffic is vulnerable in transit. Sensitive information can be intercepted and stolen. However, anyone using a VPN can ensure that all data is protected by a special encryption. Most VPN providers use 256-bit encryption, which is the highest form of encryption in the world. You shouldn’t imagine that sensitive emails or even your bank information will end up on the street, right?
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When we use the internet, all kind of information about us is collected. Big data is the keyword. By collecting and adding data, advertisers try to display advertising that fits your profile. This method is quite intrusive. But, with a VPN you mask your identity and it becomes more difficult for companies to monitor your surfing behavior. Popular VPNs make it even impossible to track user’s information.
3. Use Google anonymously
Google is a huge company that has ensured that internet (usage) reaches a bizarre size. This well-known internet giant offers a lot of high-quality services and is increasingly trying to achieve a total package for its users. However, using this total package has a downside. Google is learning more and more about you. You can already notice this because the advertisements you see on many websites are adapted to your internet behavior.
For the privacy experts among us, this is a reason enough to have all their internet traffic encrypted via a VPN. This makes it possible to surf the internet more anonymously. It is of course important to take a few more privacy measures, like for example not logging into Google.
4. You can connect to a remote network
Another advantage of a VPN is the ability to connect to a remote network. This is a major advantage for companies in particular, but for some individuals it is also a benefit.
With a VPN you can connect remotely to, for example, the network of your work. This also allows you to connect to the protected company network from home. It is very useful for an organization with regular homeworkers or someone who works from home for a long time, for example due to illnesses. In any case, most large companies already have a VPN to secure their networks. But, for somewhat smaller companies, where data protection plays a smaller role, there are of course also good business VPN solutions.
This function of a VPN can also be useful for some private users. For example, if you have your own network at home with which you manage your security cameras and outdoor lighting, you might also want to be able to see it from your holidays. With a VPN you can connect to your personal network from any place.
How to Set Up a VPN on iPhone and Mac
Setting up a VPN is easy. Download your provider’s app from the App Store. Sign in. Tap Connect. The app will ask for permission to add a VPN profile. Accept it. You can also set up a VPN by hand. On iPhone, go to Settings, then General, then VPN. On Mac, go to System Settings, then Network, then VPN. Add your provider’s details. Turn the VPN on when you use public Wi-Fi. Turn it off when you do not need it, or leave it on all the time for constant protection.
Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi in coffee shops, airports, and hotels is often not encrypted. Attackers on the same network can snoop on unprotected traffic. A VPN encrypts your traffic, so others on the same network cannot read it. This protects your emails, passwords, and bank details. Even with a VPN, be careful. Avoid banking on public Wi-Fi if you can. Use your phone’s mobile data for sensitive tasks. A VPN helps, but it is not a magic shield.
What to Look for in a VPN
Look for AES-256 encryption. It is the standard for strong VPNs. Look for a no-logs policy. A good provider does not keep logs of your activity. Check the provider’s policy and independent audits. Look for a kill switch. If the VPN drops, the kill switch blocks internet traffic, so your real IP address does not leak. Look for modern protocols, such as WireGuard or OpenVPN. WireGuard is newer and faster. Check the server locations. More locations give you more choice. Free VPNs often sell your data or show ads. A paid VPN is usually safer.
What a VPN Does Not Do
A VPN does not make you fully anonymous. You still log into accounts, and those accounts know who you are. A VPN does not protect against malware or phishing. You still need antivirus software and common sense. A VPN does not hide you from your VPN provider. Your provider can see your traffic, so pick one you trust. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication too. A VPN is one layer of protection, not the whole shield.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server. It hides your IP address and protects your data in transit.
How do I set up a VPN on my iPhone?
Download your provider’s app from the App Store. Sign in. Tap Connect. The app will ask for permission to add a VPN profile. Accept it. You can also set it up by hand in Settings, then General, then VPN.
Does a VPN slow down my internet?
Yes, a little. Encryption and routing add overhead. A fast VPN with nearby servers slows you down the least. WireGuard is often faster than older protocols.
Are free VPNs safe?
Many free VPNs sell your data or show ads. Some have weak security. A paid VPN from a trusted provider is usually safer. Check the no-logs policy before you sign up.
Does a VPN make me anonymous?
No. A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your traffic, but it does not make you fully anonymous. You still log into accounts, and those accounts know who you are.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. VPN features and prices change over time. Check the provider’s site for the current details.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026