VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that creates a protected connection between your device and the Internet. Instead of sending your data directly to a website or app, a VPN routes it through an encrypted tunnel. This helps keep your browsing private and shields your information from people who might try to view or intercept it.

1. Encrypts your Internet traffic
2. Hides your online activity from public Wi-Fi users, ISPs, and other observers
3. Routes your connection through a secure remote server
4. Helps keep sensitive information out of the wrong hands

VPNs serve several purposes depending on who is using them. In general, they're meant to create a safer connection when you're online or accessing private resources.

1. Securing connections on public or untrusted networks
2. Keeping personal information private from snoopers
3. Safely accessing online services while traveling
4. Connecting employees to company networks from anywhere

A VPN on an iPhone works the same way it does on any computer: it encrypts your Internet traffic and routes it through a secure server. Apple includes built-in VPN support, so trusted apps can automatically establish a secure connection whenever you browse, stream, or access work resources.

1. Encrypts data from your iPhone
2. Adds protection when using public Wi-Fi
3. Keeps app and browser traffic private
4. Connects you securely to workplace tools when required

Getting a VPN is usually simple. Most people install an app from a reputable VPN provider. At the same time, businesses set up VPN access for employees as part of their security tools.

1. Download a VPN app from a trusted provider
2. Follow the setup instructions for your device
3. Sign in through your employer if it's part of your job
4. Log in to your VPN, when you want a secure, private connection

VPNs come in several forms, each with a slightly different purpose. While they use similar technology, they're designed for different people and different environments.

1. Remote Access VPNs: Connect an individual user to a workplace network
2. Site-to-Site VPNs: Link two office locations through an encrypted tunnel
3. Consumer VPNs: Apps for individuals who want privacy or secure browsing
4. SSL/IPsec VPNs: Technologies that describe how the VPN encrypts information in any of the above types of VPNs

While VPNs help with privacy and basic security, they also create certain risks, especially as attackers become more sophisticated. Understanding these risks enables you to determine when a VPN is the right solution and when you require stronger protection.

1. Compromised credentials can unlock everything, granting attackers the same level of access as a legitimate user
2. Traditional VPNs grant broad, network-wide access, allowing attackers to move freely once inside
3. VPN appliances and clients are frequent targets of hacking, often hit by zero-day and mass-exploitation campaigns
4. VPN performance can slow down connections, especially when traveling or using mobile networks
5. VPNs do not verify device or credential health, meaning infected or outdated devices and compromised credentials can still connect to sensitive systems

Many newer technologies now offer more secure, flexible, and reliable ways to connect to the resources you need without relying on traditional VPNs.

1. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA): Grants access only to specific applications, not the entire network, and verifies each user and device on every session
2. Secure Web Gateways: Protects Internet and cloud traffic without routing everything through a single VPN tunnel
3. Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB): Provides secure, controlled access to cloud apps even when users are off-network
4. Modern Remote Access Tools: Offers encrypted, app-specific connections that do not expose the wider network