What are VPNs used for?

VPNs are used for virtual privacy by both normal internet users and organizations. Organizations can use VPNs to make sure outside users that access their data center are authorized and using encrypted channels. VPNs can also be used to connect to a database from the same organization located in a different area.

VPNs also can be used to provide remote employees, gig economy freelance workers and business travelers with access to software applications hosted on proprietary networks. To gain access to a restricted resource through a VPN, the user must be authorized to use the virtual private network and provide one or more authentication factors. These can be passwords, security tokens or biometric data.

When surfing the web, an internet user could have information accessed by an attacker, including browsing habits or IP address.. If privacy is a concern, a VPN can provide users with peace of mind. Encryption, anonymity and the ability to get around geographically blocked content is what most users find valuable in a VPN.

The ability to get around blocked content from another country, for example, might be extremely useful for journalists. For example, if a country is likely to block internet content from foreign entities, journalists could use a VPN to look like they are within that country.