If you’re not already using a VPN (virtual private network), then you’ve probably received an email promoting one. While they claim to have many benefits, you may like many others, be sceptical about signing up. If you’re still wondering how a VPN works and if they’re actually allowed by your internet service provider – read on to find out more.
Can I use a VPN service with my Broadway broadband?
Yes, you can use a VPN service with your Broadway broadband whether it’s fibre broadband or fixed wireless. Broadway broadband allows you to use a VPN service whether you’re using your iPad to catch the latest episodes or your desktop to finally get that holiday booked!
Here’s a list of just a few of the devices that can use a VPN on Broadway broadband:
While using a VPN for personal use is your business, if you are using a VPN for school or work, you should ask them first. Most use a specific VPN and should have a guide on how to install and connect.
Is using a VPN legal in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, using a VPN is completely legal and anyone who lives or visits the UK has the right to use any privacy software that they want.
However, if you’re visiting a different country, it becomes a bit more complicated. While VPNs are legal in most other nations, there are a few where it’s banned. The countries where using VPN is illegal are:
- China
- North Korea
- Iraq
- Myanmar
- Oman
- Russia
- Turkey
- Turkmenistan
- Uganda
- United Arab Emirates
- Venezuela
Are VPNs safe?
VPNs add an extra level of security to your browsing by keeping all your private information, well, private. VPNs reroute your traffic through an external server, creating alternate IP addresses, and encrypting your browsing data. However, you should always do your research to find the most secure VPN operators. Different VPNs have various levels of encryption, meaning that some are stronger (and safer) than others.
Do you recommend using a VPN?
Thousands of people around the UK use a VPN every day. Here are just some of the benefits they get from encrypting their personal data:
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Saving Money
The privacy of a virtual private network also means you can save money on online purchases. Airlines, for example, often adjust the prices of flights based on a user’s behaviour. So, if you’ve visited their website many times before or are expected to book a return flight, they’ll often crank up the prices for you. By using a VPN and clearing your cookies you can convince the site you’re a totally new user and benefit from lower prices.
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Data Protection and Greater Privacy
As we’ve mentioned, virtual private networks provide data privacy when surfing the web by encrypting your browsing data. For added security, many VPN providers operate no-log networks – so they don’t collect or log any of the data sent through their network. That means your private browsing data stays private even to the VPN operators!
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Safer Access To Public Wi-Fi
If public Wi-Fi makes you nervous, then you’re probably right. The insecure connection gives hackers a chance to access sensitive information like bank details and logins. Using a VPN when on public Wi-Fi makes it much more difficult for hackers to access your information, making connecting to public Wi-Fi much safer.
Will using a VPN mess with my current internet and network connection?
Whether you’re searching, downloading or streaming, a VPN can be a very valuable tool for online privacy. However, it can also affect your connection.
It’s common for VPNs to slow down your internet speed, as they essentially add extra steps for your computer to send and receive data. You can check your speed using a speed test to see if it’s slower than usual. If it is, try clearing your caches or selecting a different location or server on your VPN – both can help reduce speed issues.
