What is VPN
VPN is short for Virtual Private Network. VPN creates a private network over a public network for encrypted communications.
The VPN gateway implements remote access by encrypting the data packet and converting the target address of the data packet.
VPNsare widely used in enterprise networks because they can be installed on servers, hardware, and software.
VPN is a type of remote access technology that uses a public network to build a private network for users. So what is remote access? When you want to work from home, or when someone from another country wants to work on the company Intranet, such access requests are called remote access.
However, some people will question, whynotchoose the dial-up line to accessthe enterprise Intranetdirectly?
Of course, you can, but it can be a security risk for businesses and individuals.
Some traditional enterprises choose to use leased DDN lines (which provide users with dedicated medium and high speed digital data transmission channels, so that users can use it to organize their own computer communication networks) for remote access, but this kind of equipment is relatively old, and enterprises need to pay more expensive communication costs and equipment maintenance costs.
VPN essentially uses a series of encryption technologies to install a data exchange channel on the public network.
After a VPN server is installed on the Intranet, the Internet is connected to the VPN server when remote users want to access Intranet information. Then the VPN accesses the desired website.
The VPN in the middle transmits information to servers and user devices on both sides while encrypting the data. This encryption process makes much of the data “unreadable” to the outside world as if it were a separate channel, but in fact, a VPN still uses a public network.
The working process of theVPN
The workflow of VPN is very similar to the sealing, transportation, and unpacking of express packages. The workflow of VPN is as follows:
- Protect the host from sending information.
- Select the delivery mode: According to the rules set by the network administrator, decide whether to encrypt the data (packaging and sealing) or directly transmit the data.
- Packing: If encryption is required, the VPN device encrypts all the data (including the data to be transmitted, source IP address, and destination lP address), adds a data signature, and re-encapsulates new data headers (including the security information and initialization parameters required by the destination VPN device).
- Transport: The encapsulated packets are transmitted over the public network through the channel.
- Check and unpack: After the data packet arrives at the destination, the data packet is decrypted (unpack) after checking the digital signature.
In the entire flow, the destination address of the original data packet (VPN destination address) and the remote VPN gateway address are very important, which affect the whole VPN communication.
According to the destination address, the VPN gateway can determine which packets need to be processed, and those packets that do not need to be processed can be directly forwarded. The remote VPN gateway address specifies the destination address (the address at the other end of the VPN channel) to which the processed packets are sent.
Because communication is bidirectional, gateways at both ends of the channel must know the destination address of the packet and the remote VPN gateway address to ensure the correctness and stability of information transmission.
The advantagesof VPN
- Convenient and Flexible–VPNsmake it possible to work flexibly.
Home and business travel are no longer barriers to not being able to work, and business partners and others can take advantage of locally available high-speed broadband connections to connect to corporate networks.
- Easy for use–VPNsgive users a whole new experience.
It provides an Internet infrastructure that is easy to set up so that both new and oldusers can quickly pick up and easily add to the network.
- Full of Security–VPNshave a higher level of security.
It establishes tunnels.Encryption and identity protocols protect data from outside prying eyes, effectively preventing data theft and other unauthorized devices from reading the data.
- Stable and Efficient–VPNsprovide quality service.
Wan traffic is unstableand bandwidth utilization is low, thetraffic distribution is polarized. During peak traffic periods, network bottlenecks are caused due to congestion, which greatly affects the transmission of real-time data. However, a large amount of bandwidth is idle during low traffic periods. VPNs use traffic control policies to arrange bandwidth based on priorities to prevent congestion.
- Manageable
VPNsare fully managed by the user, making it easier for everyone else to use it.
- Save money
The cost of traditional long-distance dedicated lines is huge. VPNsonly need toconnect new nodes and provide the communication rules between new points and other pointsat a relatively low cost.
The disadvantagesof VPN
- Relyon suppliers
Users need to sign a contract with a VPN supplierto keep the service running. Individuals can’t directly interfere with VPN performance. Creating a VPN is a complex process, so it’s important to find a good vendor and sign a reasonable contract.
- Maybe the product is not compatible
VPN products and solutions from different suppliers are sometimes incompatible, driving up the cost of using the device.
- Wireless devices may pose security risks
Any advanced encryption can be breached as users roam between access points.
What is IP VPN
We already know what VPN is. We know that it takes a lot of money and energy to buy the equipment, design and build the lines, and carry out daily maintenance. Even training can be costly. In this case, you need to purchase the VPN service provided by the suppliers. IP VPN is also a service they provide.
Based on the Backbone network owned by the supplier and using the advanced multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) technology, theIP VPN service provides end-to-end service quality assurance and security services for enterprise users to build an internal private network.
Generally, IP VPN service suppliershave professional technical teams and a relatively large operation scale to help users to establish a more mature and stable network, which saves a lot of time and unnecessary capital consumption for users, and at the same time enables users to have a better experience.
Common technologies of IP VPN
- L2TP: Widely used for distributed mobile customers.
- IPSec: It can be used alone or in conjunction with tunneling protocols such as L2TP and GRE, giving users greater flexibility and reliability.
- GRE: An early, mature protocol, which is easy to implement.
- MPLS: A new technology that uses tags to guide data along with an open communication network at a fast and efficient rate. It is used to regulate network resources and improve service quality.
The difference between VPN and IP VPN
VPN and IP VPN have different mechanisms
The tunnel can ensuresecurity. Therefore, IPVPN also uses the channel mechanism to make the encapsulation mode and address information of VPN packets irrelevant to that of the bearer network.
However, while IPVPN is very similar to VPN, they are different.
VPNsbelong to layer 3 and layer 4 of the OSI model and, as mentioned earlier, build channels over the public network, which means that the VPN still relies on the public network. And no matter how you defend it, using a public network means you may face bandwidth deficits (denial of service) and slow speeds.
However, IPVPN belongs to layer 2, which means that it is off the public network and connects to the site through a private network, which ensures the efficiency and security of data transmission.
VPN and IP VPN apply different circumstances
VPN is recommended if you are working for an individual’s daily life or for a small startup where you don’t need to telecommute. Because A VPN can meet your data transmission and security needs without payingexcessive costs for maintenance, resulting in a personal economic burden.
But if it is a large enterprise or a major organization, IPVPN is the best choice. Because IP VPN can meet the demand of access from different places, it is more efficient and more secure.And large enterprises can support the cost of operating an IPVPN.
For suppliers, IP VPN is a business scope with great potential, and improving better IP VPN services is the need of The Times.
FAQs
IP VPN vs VPN | What's the difference? ›
By using a public gateway, VPNs are exposed to DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks that decrease speeds and consume valuable bandwidth. An IP VPN is considered layer 2, meaning it avoids public internet by travelling on a private connection to each remote site, so your vital company data remains secure.
What is the IP VPN? ›Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP-VPN) is one of the many types of WAN technology available. You may have used a Virtual Private Network (VPN), a solution that lets users access a network remotely via a public internet connection, before – and IP-VPNs work in a similar way.
What are the benefits of IP VPN? ›- Secure Your Network. The benefits of using a VPN are vast. ...
- Hide Your Private Information. ...
- Prevent Data Throttling. ...
- Avoid Bandwidth Throttling. ...
- Get Access to Geo-blocked Services. ...
- Network Scalability. ...
- Reduce Support Costs.
In an Ethernet VPN, connections take place via ethernet switches and MAC addresses. On the other hand, IP VPNs user router to router connections and IP addresses.
How does the IP VPN work? ›A VPN connection establishes a secure connection between you and the internet. Via the VPN, all your data traffic is routed through an encrypted virtual tunnel. This disguises your IP address when you use the internet, making its location invisible to everyone. A VPN connection is also secure against external attacks.
Can someone use my IP as VPN? ›If they have the right tools and knowledge, someone can use your IP address to steal your login credentials, discover your identity, and even find out where you live. You can use a VPN to encrypt your connection and hide your real IP address so outsiders can't see it.
Is it safe to use VPN IP? ›Using a reliable virtual private network (VPN) can be a safe way to browse the internet. VPN security can protect from IP and encrypt internet history and is increasingly being used to prevent snooping on by government agencies.
How much does a VPN cost per month? ›| Service | Monthly price | Max number of devices |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $11.99/mo. | 6 |
| ExpressVPN | $12.95/mo. | 5 |
| CyberGhost | $12.99/mo. | 7 |
| Private Internet Access | $11.95/mo. | 10 |
A VPN protects your identity even if you are using public or shared Wi-Fi, and your data will be kept private from any prying internet eyes. A VPN circumvents your personal ISP, instead of sending your internet connection to a hosted server.
Does VPN make internet faster? ›Can a VPN improve Internet speed? Under specific circumstances, VPNs can increase speeds for certain services. ISPs sometimes throttle, or artificially slow down, specific types of traffic; for example, several major ISPs have throttled streaming entertainment services like Netflix.
Should I use VPN on computer or router? ›
Without a VPN, your IP address is exposed. Your IP address and the IP addresses of all the devices connected to your home Wi-Fi can be stolen by cybercriminals to track your location, right down to the street level, if they want to. VPN changes your IP by routing your traffic via a remote server.
Why get VPN router instead of VPN? ›If you need more devices connected to a VPN, you will have to install the VPN app on every device. VPN on a router: With a VPN router, you only need a VPN installed on the router itself. Every device then connected to the VPN router will share the VPN connection. You will not have to install an app on any other device.
Is A VPN the same as a WiFi network? ›VPNs are additional tools that protect you and your devices. They do not provide Wi-Fi. However, they make it safe to use free Wi-Fi, which makes them an essential tool if you want to use the internet for free.
How do you set IP a VPN? ›From the Settings menu, go to the Network and Internet section and click VPN. Select Add VPN Connection, then choose Windows (built-in for the VPN provider). Name your connection, enter the address for the VPN server, and select the type of VPN protocol your company or the VPN provider uses.
When should I use a VPN on my phone? ›All data traveling between your computer, smartphone or tablet and the VPN server is securely encrypted. The most typical scenario where you might use a VPN is if you're working remotely and using your laptop to connect to a specific private network, thus protecting your sensitive data.
Can police track IP with VPN? ›Can police track online purchases made with a VPN? There is no way to track live, encrypted VPN traffic. That's why police or government agencies who need information about websites you visited have to contact your internet service provider (ISP for short), and only then your VPN provider.
How do you know if your IP address is being monitored? ›There's just no way of knowing who is running your IP address through any type of IP lookup service. It could be your bank, your real estate agent, or a tech-savvy teenager who's also a hacker. It is possible to be traced by someone—a stalker, an investigator or even a criminal—via your IP address.
Can someone use my IP address without me knowing? ›An IP address by itself, though, doesn't give anyone access to your personal information automatically. Can someone find me through my IP address? Using your IP address, someone can identify what city or geographic region you're in. However, without additional information, no one can find you.
How do I hide my IP address for free? ›How do I hide my IP address for free? You can hide your IP address by either using the Tor browser, a proxy server, or a free VPN. You can also join a public Wi-Fi network.
Does VPN slow down internet? ›Yes. A VPN will slow down the internet speed on any device. Some more than others, depending on the capabilities of the device, but even your iPhone is vulnerable.
Why would I pay for a VPN? ›
If you value your online privacy, a VPN, or virtual private network, is an essential tool. Encryption protects your data from hackers, ISPs, and other snoopers, so you can browse the internet with genuine privacy, even when connected to public Wi-Fi.
Can you buy a VPN without a subscription? ›Is There a 100% Free VPN? Very few VPNs offer a truly free option. Instead, most companies offer time-limited trials or money-back guarantees. However, the free VPN apps listed in the table above offer free subscription levels.
When should you not use a VPN? ›VPNs ensure data protection from hackers and secure browsing. In result, this prevents advertisers or ISPs from accessing your browsing data. At the same time, there may be times when you need to turn your VPN off. That is when you need to access local sites or devices, such as streaming platforms or a printer.
Should I leave my VPN on all the time on my iPhone? ›You should always keep your VPN on, regardless if you're using an iPhone or any other device connected to the internet. There are some exceptions, mainly related to banking apps, but you should use a VPN unless you absolutely must turn it off.
Does the average person need a VPN? ›VPNs can be useful, but they're not necessary for every person or every situation, especially now that so much web traffic is encrypted using HTTPS, the secure protocol whose initials you see at the start of most web addresses.
How can you tell if your internet is being throttled? ›- Certain websites are blocked or are nonfunctional.
- Download speeds have slowed.
- Specific websites or services are slower than others.
- Videos are buffering or lagging.
- Your internet speeds are slower than usual.
- Your Wi-Fi connection is choppy or broken.
If you're wondering “does a VPN affect battery health?” the answer is yes, but no more than any other app on your device. On average, you should expect around a 5-15% drop in battery life on your Android or iOS device when a VPN is connected.
What is the best country to set your VPN to? ›- Switzerland – best country for privacy to connect VPN through.
- Spain – best VPN country for torrenting.
- The UK – the fastest VPN location.
- Panama – best country for anonymous VPN connection.
- The United States – the best VPN country for streaming.
With many router models, once you've gone through setup and ensured the connection is stable, all you will need to do is enable the VPN function. Furthermore, some routers come with inbuilt VPNs, and so you only need to click a button to stay protected. Below are ZDNET's top choices for VPN routers in 2023.
What happens when you install a VPN on a router? ›You can use a VPN for home network security by configuring one on your router. Once you've set up a router VPN, every single device connected to your router will have its traffic sent through the encrypted tunnel. Your PC, your laptop, your home entertainment system, and even your smart IoT toaster.
Should you use Wi-Fi when using VPN? ›
If you don't have access to Wi-Fi, you can still use a VPN as long as you have alternative means of establishing an internet connection. Without an active internet connection, a VPN won't work since it cannot create a secure tunnel through its servers over the internet.
How do I know if my router allows VPN? ›To determine if a router is compatible with a VPN, you should consult the router's manual, or simply Google it. If you use an ISP modem (they usually come as a combined router and modem device), then you most likely can't use your router as a VPN client.
Does a VPN cover all my devices? ›Most quality VPNs allow you to have at least five simultaneous connections per account. However, there are some VPNs that offer unlimited connections. This is ideal if you have a lot of devices to secure or if you'd like to share your VPN with family members in your household.
Why is my VPN affecting my Wi-Fi? ›This can happen if the network has some type of security protocol incompatible with the VPN. It is also possible that the VPN is not configured properly. This can happen if you are using the wrong settings or if the VPN is not set up to work with the specific type of network that you are using.
What will a VPN not protect you from? ›A VPN helps you stay invisible and behind the scenes, but it doesn't give you immunity against online risks like malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, or even computer viruses. That's where your antivirus software comes in.
Can a Wi-Fi block VPN? ›Some Wi-Fi networks do not allow VPN connections and restrict VPN access using network or firewall settings. If this error appears when you connect to Secure VPN for the first time, it could be due to the network or firewall settings.
How do I find my IP VPN? ›On Windows
Click the advanced options button in the lower left corner of the VPN client window. The icon will look like a gear. In the new window that opens, look in the Statistics tab under Address Information and the IP address provided by the VPN will be the line that reads “Client (IPv4).”
When you change your IP, you protect your internet identity and ensure a free and open internet experience for yourself. That's why downloading a VPN is so important. Without one, your privacy and online identity are at risk.
Which phones have built in VPN? ›Google's new Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro phones will feature a VPN for the first time. Google made the announcement Thursday at its hardware launch event in New York, where it also touted new Google network routers, doorbells and the Pixel Watch.
Does your cell phone have a VPN? ›VPN software lives on your devices — whether that's a computer, tablet, or smartphone. It sends your data in a scrambled format (this is known as encryption) that's unreadable to anyone who may want to intercept it.
Do you need VPN on cellular network? ›
While cellular networks enable communication through voice calls and SMS texts and offer cellular internet (mobile data), a VPN is necessary when accessing the internet via mobile data. A VPN secures your internet connection and traffic by encrypting and routing them through a secure tunnel via a VPN server.
How do I know my VPN IP? ›With your VPN off, head to DNSLeakTest, which will show you what your IP address is and display your general location. Now, turn on your VPN and reload the page. You should see your VPN's IP address displayed here instead. If these IP addresses match, then your VPN is protecting your IP address.
How do I connect to an IP VPN? ›- In Settings, select Network & internet > VPN.
- Next to the VPN connection you want to use, select Connect.
- If you're prompted, enter your username and password or other sign-in info.
- Open your phone's Settings app.
- Tap Network & internet. VPN. If you can't find it, search for "VPN." If you still can't find it, get help from your device manufacturer.
- Tap the VPN you want.
- Enter your username and password.
- Tap Connect. If you use a VPN app, the app opens.
Can police track online purchases made with a VPN? There is no way to track live, encrypted VPN traffic. That's why police or government agencies who need information about websites you visited have to contact your internet service provider (ISP for short), and only then your VPN provider.
How do I know if my IP is VPN or real? ›If the IP address is from a different country than the one they are currently in, then it is likely that they are using VPN. The DNS lookup method checks whether the person's IP address resolves to a domain name associated with a VPN service. If it does, the person likely uses a VPN.
How do I know if my IP address has been hacked? ›- You can't update your system. ...
- Your computer runs slower than usual. ...
- A big-name company was hacked. ...
- You notice unusual disk activity. ...
- Your antivirus software becomes disabled. ...
- Strange things are happening onscreen.
On Android
Swipe one finger down from the top of the screen and long press on the Internet tile to open the internet settings. Tap the cog icon next to the network you're connected to. Scroll down and you'll find your IP address under Network details.