A Beginner’s Guide to Selecting a Mobile VPN

Virtual Private Networks (VPN) are becoming increasingly popular as concerns over online privacy and security become more prevalent. If you are interested in creating a secure connection to the Internet via your mobile device, selecting a reliable VPN is a great idea.

What Exactly is a VPN and How are They Used?

VPNs are commonly used to shield browsing history on public Wi-Fi networks and access websites located in restricted regions. A VPN funnels your internet traffic through an encrypted network, preventing third parties from actively monitoring your online activity. Some of the most compelling reasons to start using a mobile VPN are:

• Bypass regional website and streaming restrictions.
• View streaming media services like Disney+ and Netflix.
• Provide security while using untrustworthy public Wi-Fi networks.
• Provide a shield of anonymity by hiding your actual location.

When you connect your computer or smart device to a mobile VPN, the device appears to be on the VPN’s local network. Your device accesses websites through the encrypted connection. With more than 300 VPNs available on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your needs. Consider the following points when selecting a mobile VPN.

Why Do You Need a VPN?

Are you shopping for a VPN to provide additional security while traveling? Are you planning to install a VPN for mobile devices throughout your entire household? Is your primary purpose to stream movies? It is important to consider how you plan to use the VPN and what your objectives are before deciding which one is right for you. A comprehensive study of hundreds of mobile VPNs uncovered that many services have large security gaps. This is one more reason why extensive research before purchasing is important.

What to Look For When Selecting a Mobile VPN

Not all VPNs are created equal. Depending on your primary uses for your VPN, certain ones will be more effective than others.

Evaluate VPN Qualities

Much like how streaming services prioritize specific features, VPN companies also have specialties. While one provider may claim to dominate the market when it comes to speed, another will boast vault-like encryption. Evaluate multiple companies to ensure that your priorities are in line with theirs. If your primary goal is to bypass VPN blocks thrown up by streaming services, there are a couple of services that are successful in that area.

Ensure Device Compatibility

Most VPNs support the popular platforms of Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, and iOS. However, some VPNs are not available on all platforms. If you plan to use the VPN on both Android and iOS platforms, check to make sure that your selected provider has a platform for both. If you plan to connect multiple devices to the VPN at the same time, check to see if there is a device limit.

Ease of Use is Important

Many VPNs are designed for techies and can be complex as opposed to user friendly. If you don’t have the skills necessary for configuring a mobile VPN, it is important to select one with a platform that makes sense to you. Explore multiple interfaces to make sure that you will be able to set up and use your network effectively.

Check the Geographical Locations

If you plan to use your mobile VPN to bypass geographical restrictions, the number of servers and locations can be a deciding factor. Make sure your provider has servers in the region through which you want to connect.

How Reliable is the Customer Service?

Having 24/7 customer service may not seem important until, well, you need it. The quality of customer service is an often overlooked feature of VPN services. When you need to access your VPN and hit a snag, reliable and accessible support is imperative. Whether you prefer live chat or phone service, make sure the customer service is adequate.

Understand that all VPNs do not offer the same level or quality of service. Carefully evaluating why you need a VPN and what features are most important to you will help you make a successful decision. It may be tempting to opt for a free VPN, but free services rarely meet all the required needs. Just like researching any other type of business, carefully considering all factors related to your mobile VPN will yield the best results.