A lot of people think a VPN is an obscure technological tool only useful for IT professionals. In reality, it has use cases for anyone who uses the web.

Here are five ways a VPN can improve your online life.

#1 A VPN is essential to data security

VPNs first emerged out of a need for businesses to transmit confidential information securely. A simple Wi-Fi network can easily be compromised by man-in-the-middle attacks and packet sniffers, forcing companies to look for solutions that provide a safe, wireless work environment.

Soon after VPNs became commonplace work tools, they were adapted for private use too. Now, you can connect to a VPN and use the internet with added peace of mind.

When you turn on your VPN, all of your device traffic (including online banking credentials and social media passwords) is automatically encrypted. This means anyone trying to peek into your device traffic will only see encrypted nonsense.

#2 A VPN helps you stay private online

In addition to safeguarding your personal data, a VPN also keeps you anonymous online.

Internet service providers (ISPs) and government agencies often keep track of individual browsing histories, which nullifies your fundamental right to privacy and freedom of speech.

When you turn on your VPN, all of your device traffic is rerouted through the VPN’s server. So even if a third party could see any requests you send, they would have no way to link the data to you.

#3 A VPN unblocks all online content

The advent of the internet means virtually all of the media we enjoy resides online. Sadly, many content providers choose to limit access based on a user’s IP location, while some countries choose to censor certain sites altogether.

With a VPN, the only authority that decides what content you enjoy is you.

Since a VPN replaces your actual IP address with the IP of the server you are connected to, all you need to do is pick a country where the content isn’t blocked and hit “connect.”

So next time you want to cheer on your favorite sports team, catch the latest hit drama, or tune-in to the newest chart-topping hits, turn on your VPN to enjoy the entertainment you want.

#4 A VPN gives you the fastest gaming experience

Regardless of their preferred genre, gamers need a high-speed connection to compete with others around the world. Unfortunately, ISPs often monitor the traffic running through their networks and can throttle connections as they see fit.

By turning on your VPN, your internet traffic is redirected through a privately maintained network, free from ISP throttling. This gives you the bandwidth to enjoy lag-free gameplay whenever you want.

Furthermore, a VPN allows you to play with anyone in the world. Just connect to the VPN location closest to the server you’d like to join, and you’ll no longer be shut out of matches that have geographic restrictions.

And if that’s not enough, using a VPN also gives you access to region-exclusive DLCs, allowing you get the most out of your purchased games.

#5 A VPN makes traveling cheap and keeps you connected

So far, it seems like a VPN is essential for home internet use. But what happens when you want to go on a little getaway?

For starters, you’ll need to get tickets. And that also happens to be where using a VPN can make a big difference. Many airlines and travel companies show different prices to customers from different countries. But by using a VPN, you’ll be able to browse from any country in the world, allowing you to pick the best price for your travel tickets.

And even after you get off the plane, a VPN remains just as useful. While other tourists are wondering how to connect with their loved ones because Facebook or Whatsapp is blocked, just turn on your VPN, and you’ll be chatting with friends and family as if you were at home.

Why do YOU #TurnOnVPN?

A VPN truly is a multi-purpose digital survival tool. No matter where you are or what you want to do online, a VPN allows you to fully enjoy the internet — with privacy and security.

How do you use VPN? Share your thoughts below on why everyone should #TurnOnVPN.