What is a VPN? Is it legal? How does it work? How do you use it? What is the difference between a VPN and private browsing? Discover the basics of what a VPN is through this detailed and straightforward article.
Why Use a VPN?
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is becoming increasingly common and is no longer reserved for a niche of tech-savvy users. Aware of the growing trade in personal data, many consumers have already adopted this technology to protect their private information while browsing online.
But what exactly is a VPN? Is it legal? How does it work? How do you use it? What’s the difference between a VPN and private browsing?
Discover the basics of what a VPN is through this simple and detailed article.
What Is a VPN?
A VPN is literally a “Virtual Private Network.” This network typically takes the form of software that the user can install on their device (computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.).
Once the VPN connection is established, you benefit from an encrypted and more secure internet connection through a new IP address and a wide network of servers around the world.
Types of VPNs
Different types of VPNs exist to meet the varied needs of individuals and professionals.
- Remote access VPNs: Most common for personal use
- Site-to-site VPNs: Used by businesses to connect offices (intranet and extranet VPNs)
This article focuses on remote access VPNs, the type most relevant to everyday users.
Is Using a VPN Legal?
Yes, it is legal in most countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, and many parts of Asia.
However, legality can vary depending on how the VPN is used and the country’s local laws. While VPNs are generally legal for protecting privacy and securing connections, using them to engage in illegal activities (such as hacking, distributing copyrighted material, or bypassing government censorship) is prohibited.
In some countries like China, Iran, Russia, North Korea, or the UAE, VPN use is either heavily regulated or outright banned. Always check local laws if you’re traveling or operating in a region with internet restrictions.
Important note: Even in countries where VPNs are legal, you are still subject to local laws. A VPN doesn’t provide immunity from illegal activity.
How Does a VPN Work?
While you don’t need to fully understand a VPN to use it, it’s useful to know how it protects you.
The two key elements are:
- Data encryption
- Changing your IP address
Without VPNs, your browsing data is visible to your internet service provider (ISP), and potentially to others. With it, all your online activity is encrypted and routed through secure servers, hiding your IP and protecting your privacy.
Analogy: Using VPNs is like driving through a private tunnel in a borrowed car, instead of taking a busy public highway in your own.
VPN vs. Private Browsing
You might wonder why you need VPNs if you already use private browsing.
Private browsing only prevents your browser from saving local data (like history, cookies, or form entries). It doesn’t encrypt your data or hide your IP address.
Use cases for private browsing:
- Keeping sessions private on shared devices
- Logging into multiple accounts
- Avoiding personalized search results
Key point: Private browsing ≠ true online privacy.
Tip: Combine VPNs with private browsing for better anonymity.
Common Reasons to Use a VPN
People use VPNs for a variety of reasons. Here are the most common:
- Strengthen online anonymity
- Secure sensitive data (location, passwords, banking info)
- Safely use public Wi-Fi
- Access geo-blocked content (e.g., foreign Netflix libraries)
How to Use a VPN
Using it is simple and doesn’t require technical knowledge.
You generally just need to:
- Create an account
- Subscribe to a plan
- Install the VPN app on your device
Then, open the app and choose a server. That’s it. Your connection is now secure.
No additional configuration needed.
Why VPNs Are Becoming Essential
Even people who think they have “nothing to hide” often underestimate how valuable their personal data is.
Using public Wi-Fi or entering sensitive data online without protection can lead to security breaches.
VPNs are now an affordable and accessible solution for privacy-conscious users.
Top VPNs in 2025
Here are some of the most trusted and high-performing VPNs services in 2025, based on security, speed, user experience, and global reputation:
- NordVPN – Still a top leader with strong privacy features, excellent speeds, and over 5,800 servers in 60+ countries. Includes malware protection, dark web monitoring, and Meshnet for remote access.
- ExpressVPN – Known for its simplicity, fast connections, and strong encryption. Works reliably for streaming and bypassing geo-restrictions, even in restricted countries.
- Surfshark – A budget-friendly VPN with unlimited device connections. Includes ad-blocker, cookie pop-up blocker, and GPS spoofing for mobile.
- CyberGhost VPN – Great for beginners. Offers dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. Over 9,000 servers available.
- Proton VPN – Built by the creators of ProtonMail. Focuses on transparency and privacy, with a free tier and strong no-logs policy.
Conclusion
At BluDeskSoft, we believe digital protection should be simple and accessible. Whether you’re a business or an individual, using a VPN is a smart step toward safer browsing, stronger privacy, and more control online.