A Virtual Private Network (VPN) works by creating a secure, encrypted connection over a less secure network, like the internet. This connection is known as a VPN tunnel, and it ensures that data exchanged between your device and the internet is private and protected from eavesdroppers. Here’s a breakdown of how a VPN works:
When you connect to a VPN, all your internet traffic is encrypted before it leaves your device. Encryption turns your data into unreadable code that only your VPN server can decode. This ensures that even if someone intercepts your data, they won’t be able to understand it.
Your encrypted data is sent through a VPN server located in a different location or country. The VPN server acts as an intermediary between your device and the destination server (the website or service you’re accessing). The VPN server hides your real IP address and replaces it with its own, making it seem like your traffic is coming from the VPN server’s location instead of your actual location. This enhances your privacy and can bypass geographic restrictions.
Once your data reaches the VPN server, it’s decrypted and forwarded to the destination (e.g., a website you’re visiting). Responses from the destination server follow the same process in reverse: they pass through the VPN server, are encrypted again, sent back to your device, and then decrypted on your end.
VPNs protect your data from hackers, especially on unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi.They also mask your IP address, making it harder for websites or third parties to track your online activity.