Do you need a VPN? What it does and doesn't do
VPNs are marketed as a cure-all for online safety. They are useful, but for a narrower set of problems than the advertising suggests. Here is what a VPN actually does and when it is worth paying for.
What a VPN does
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the VPN provider's server. Websites see the provider's IP address instead of yours, and anyone on your local network, such as café Wi-Fi, cannot read the traffic inside the tunnel.
What a VPN does not do
A VPN does not remove malware, stop phishing emails, or make you anonymous. You are shifting trust from your internet provider to the VPN company, so the provider's privacy practices matter. Most websites already use HTTPS, which protects much of your traffic on public networks.
- It does not replace antivirus or a password manager
- It does not make logged-in accounts anonymous
- It does not guarantee privacy from the VPN provider itself
When a VPN is worth it
Consider one if you often use public Wi-Fi, travel and need consistent access to services, or want to keep your browsing private from your internet provider. For remote teams, a business VPN or zero-trust tool can also protect access to company systems.
If you mostly browse at home on trusted networks, a good password manager and updated devices will do more for your safety than a VPN.
How to choose
Look for a clear no-logs policy that has been independently audited, a strong record on updates, and apps for every device you use. Treat free VPNs with caution, since someone pays for the service somehow.
Our verdict
A VPN is a good tool for public networks and for privacy from your internet provider, but it is one layer. Pair it with antivirus and a password manager.
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