VPNs Explained: What They Do, What They Don't, and When You Need One

VPN usage has gone mainstream but most people don't understand what a VPN actually does — and doesn't do. Here's the honest guide.

What a VPN Actually Does

• Encrypts your internet traffic between your device and the VPN server
• Masks your IP address from websites you visit
• Prevents your ISP from seeing your browsing activity
• Allows access to geo-restricted content (Netflix libraries, streaming)
• Protects you on public Wi-Fi networks

What a VPN Does NOT Do

• Make you anonymous (VPN provider can still see your traffic)
• Protect you from malware or phishing
• Prevent websites from tracking you via cookies
• Make you invisible to Google or social platforms you're logged into

When You Actually Need One

• Using public Wi-Fi (coffee shops, airports, hotels)
• Accessing geo-restricted streaming content
• Privacy from your ISP in countries with aggressive data retention
• Remote work accessing corporate networks

Choosing a VPN

Privacy-first providers: Mullvad (no accounts, cash payment accepted), ProtonVPN (Swiss law, open source). Avoid free VPNs — if the product is free, you're the product.

Speed Impact

A good VPN reduces speeds 10-20%. A poor one can reduce speeds 50%+. Server location matters — choose a server geographically close to you.