Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that creates a safe and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the internet.
VPN technology was developed as a way to allow remote users and branch offices to securely access corporate applications and other resources.

Introduction

Pros and cons of using a VPN

The benefit of using a secure VPN is it ensures the appropriate level of security to the connected systems when the underlying network infrastructure alone cannot provide it.
The justification for using VPN access instead of a private network usually boils down to cost and feasibility: It is either not feasible to have a private network -- e.g., for a traveling sales rep -- or it is too costly to do so.
So:

• Provide privacy by hiding your internet activity from your ISP.
• Allow you to evade censorship (by school, work, your ISP.
• Allow you to “geo-spoof” your location in order to access services unfairly denied to you based on your geographical location (or when you are on holiday).
• Protect you against hackers when using a public WiFi hotspot.
• Allow you to P2P download in safety.

VPN performance can be affected by a variety of factors, among them the

• Speed of users' internet connections,
• Types of protocols an internet service provider may use and the type of encryption the VPN uses.
• Performance can also be affected by poor quality of service and conditions that are outside the control of IT.

Why using

You really should be using a VPN, and even if you don’t think so now, at some point in the future you may consider it as important as your internet connection.

The most important thing you need to know about a VPN: It secures your computer’s internet connection to guarantee that all of the data you’re sending and receiving is encrypted and secured from prying eyes.

Usage examples

Watching Formula 1

If you want to look at the broadcast of the Formula 1 in the Netherlands you need access to a paid service (Ziggo Sports).
But Great Britain and Germany deliver this for free on Channel 4 and RTL.
A VPN connection with an IP-Address of Great Britain or Germany hides your real IP-Address (in the Netherlands).

Watching Dutch Television

When in Germany and having a satellite for viewing Dutch television you need a Canal Digitaal subscription.
On the Internet Canal Digitaal has an App to view the broadcasts on mobile devices (i.e. iPhone, iPads etc).
In the Netherlands no problem, but abroad you need to have a VPN with access in the Netherlands.