You might have heard about VPNs in the past, but what exactly are they, and why are people advised to consider them?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, and this is a cybersecurity software that encrypts your web traffic data. It gives you extra privacy even as you browse online. Most people do not know is that their Internet Service Provider, government, school, or even work can see everything they do on the internet. Whenever you connect to a network, the administrator accesses your browsing history, any personal information and can track your online movement.

Using a VPN stops third parties from accessing your traffic, physical location, your IP address, app usage, the web browser you’re using, and even your device ID. You may also change your geo-location. But one thing you need to understand is that VPN should not replace your antivirus software.

Other reasons you need a VPN to include:

• VPN can stop online trackers that follow your internet activities. And build a solid profile on your internet footprints that can result in targeted ads.
• VPN gives you online privacy on public wi-fi networks, for instance, at the airport, ensuring that unauthorized do not access your data or network privacy.
• Not only do VPNs change IP addresses. But no online activities can be linked back to you. That is great for torrenting. Also, your download activity will not effortlessly get traced to you.

Setting up a VPN

Setting up a VPN is effortless. Even though you can manually configure a VPN to your operating system, the easiest route to take is to purchase a VPN service from a reliable provider.

First, you need to choose your preferred VPN and purchase a subscription. Then, download and install the VPN software to your device or devices of choice, and finally, once the VPN app or client gets successfully installed on your system, you need to launch or connect to a server.

If you are a novice at VPNs, do not worry because most of them come with money-back guarantees.

Read on to learn better about VPNs and some of the best providers as advised by PrivacySharks, which is one of the most reliable and dedicated websites in providing you with reviews about the most popular antivirus, email protection, VPN, and password manager services.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the most secure VPNs to consider in 2021. It offers a host of features and 5400+ servers and server locations across 59 countries. It has a private DNS on all its servers, and you can use it for streaming and torrenting. It is fast, secure and provides advanced encryption, and supports Windows, Android, macOS, and macOS platforms.

Nord VPN is also user-friendly, and if you’re up and about using the same on your cell phone, you can be sure that your device will not connect to a public wi-fi network without an encrypted connection. It also comes with a kill switch and allows you to access block websites and streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix, and BBC iPlayer.

NordVPN also offers dedicated customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee if you do not like their services.

2. Surfshark VPN

Surfshark VPN is one of the most popular providers. And that may be due to their impressive and affordable services. It allows for simultaneous connections and can be used on several devices at a go, meaning that you can share the VPN with your family and friends.

Surfshark VPN also comes with an AdBlock feature that keeps you from clicking on adware. And the CleanWeb that protects you from malware and phishing attempts. With its no-logs policy and kill switch, it means that none of your internet activity gets tracked and that your internet browsing is not exposed.

It also offers 24/7 customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to try out the Surfshark VPN.

3. CyberGhost VPN

Another VPN that PrivacySharks recommend is the CyberGhost VPN. It is privacy-friendly and managed by CyberGhost for added security. It comes with a strict zero-logging policy where the provider releases an annual transparency report. The report discloses network breaches and any shared data with the government.

To ensure your online privacy, CyberGhost employs IPv6 and DNS protection. And a kill switch that will cut off your internet connection if your server gets disrupted. Its speeds are fast, and you can enjoy using it on simultaneous connections, including Windows, Android, Ios, and macOS devices.

The provider offers 24/7 customer support and a 45-day money-back guarantee that allows you to test this service.

4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the most popular VPN in the market, thanks to its reliable service. It offers 3000+ VPN servers across 94 countries, and its MediaStream features allow you to connect it to your smart TV. It gives you download privacy to ensures that you stay safe online and that your internet activities are not exposed.

ExpressVPN also utilizes RAM-only servers and comes with a kill switch and DNS to ensure your browsing safety. It also has a zero-logs policy, which ensures that your private information remains anonymous. It also offers fast speeds, making it ideal for streaming and gaming.

You can connect ExpressVPN on up to five devices at a go, and you can use the same on operating systems such as macOS, Linux, Ios, Linux, and Windows. It also has browser extensions for Mozilla, Chrome, and Firefox.

Additionally, ExpressVPN offers 24-hour live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee to test out their services.

5. Hotspot Shield VPN

Hotspot shield is another VPN provider advised by PrivacyShark.

It offers both paid and free VPN plans. Its premium one provides users with more user-friendly features. But if you are a novice, you can use the free version to test it out.

It uses military-grade encryption and is fast, which is great for streamers and gamers. Its security is also impressive, given that it comes with a kill switch and strict no-logging policy that guarantees no activity on the network can get linked back to you.

Hotspot Shield VPN comes with a massive network of 3200+ server locations in more than 35+ cities. That helps you to access content from varying continents from the comfort of your home. You can also access Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and even BBB iPlayer.

It, however, comes with a five-device protection limit and a chrome extension that offers fast speeds and encryption for your browser’s activities. Users can access 24/7 customer support and a 45-day money-back guarantee.