Do You Actually Need a VPN?
- Luanna Rozentals
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Benefits
A VPN hides your real IP address and replaces it with one from the VPN server. This makes it harder for websites, advertisers, or even your internet service provider (ISP) to track what you do online.
It makes using a public wifi (like at the library or the coffee shop) more secure. The VPN encrypts your data.
Prevents your ISP (Internet Service Provider) from tracking what you are doing online. Evidently, they are legally allowed to sell the anonymous data to advertising networks.
Prevents your location from being tracked.
Helps prevents bandwidth throttling (if you are using a lot of bandwidth like gaming or streaming video the ISPs often will throttle your bandwidth)
Allows for access to sensitive accounts while travelling abroad by using a US based server when connecting to the VPN.
Can reduce Ad tracking
Access to content from other countries that might be restricted here by using servers from other countries.
Three types of VPNs
Consumer (more user friendly)
Self-hosted (if you know what you are doing)
Corporate (larger scale – more complicated)
Best for beginner user
For a novice user who wants both strong security and ease of use, top recommendation is:
Why:
Very simple apps for Windows, Mac, iPhone, and Android
Strong privacy reputation and independent no-logs audits (OpenTheRank)
Based in Switzerland, which has strong privacy laws (OpenTheRank)
Includes features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection
Has a legitimate free tier if you want to try before paying (VPN That)
Less "marketing-heavy" than some competitors and generally easy for beginners to understand
For most people, the setup is:
Install the app.
Sign in.
Click Quick Connect.
You're protected.
If you want the absolute simplest experience
Consider ExpressVPN.
It's often praised for having one of the easiest interfaces and setup processes available. (TechRadar)
For someone who has been asking about VPNs, kill switches, and leak testing but is not looking for advanced configuration, I'd start with Proton VPN. It strikes the best balance between security, transparency, and ease of use without requiring much technical knowledge.
Here are some of the most common
Commercial VPNs with links and approximate pricing
NordVPN
$29.99 annually
Proton VPN
$83.88 annually
Mullvad
$33 - 6 months
Express VPN
Basic plan is 99.99 annually
Malwarebytes anti-malware and VPN
$39.99 per annual
All of these companies also offer a reduced price to begin with to entice you to use their program.
Setup on Windows
Using a Commercial VPN app
1. Sign up on the app/website of the particular company
2. Download the app
3. Install (follow the prompts)
4. Log in
5. Click Connect (you have the option to choose a different server)
Manual Setup on native windows VPN
Windows includes a built-in VPN client, so if you have VPN connection details from your employer, school, or VPN provider, you can connect without installing additional software.
Set Up a VPN in Windows 11
1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet → VPN.
3. Click Add VPN.
4. Fill in the VPN details:
o VPN provider: Windows (built-in)
o Connection name: Any descriptive name
o Server name or address: Provided by your VPN administrator
o VPN type: Usually IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, SSTP, or Automatic
o Type of sign-in info: Username/password, certificate, smart card, etc.
o Enter your credentials if required.
5. Click Save.
To connect:
1. Return to Settings → Network & Internet → VPN.
2. Select the VPN connection.
3. Click Connect.
Set Up a VPN in Windows 10
1. Open Settings.
2. Select Network & Internet → VPN.
3. Click Add a VPN connection.
4. Enter the VPN information provided by your administrator or provider.
5. Save and connect.
Information You'll Need
Most VPN setups require:
· VPN server address
· VPN protocol (IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, SSTP, etc.)
· Username and password
· Shared secret or certificate (if applicable)
Verify the Connection
After connecting, visit:
Your displayed IP address should match the VPN server's location rather than your normal internet connection.
PowerShell Option (Advanced)
Windows also allows VPN creation via PowerShell, however I am choosing not to supply the PowerShell commands. If you are savvy enough to use PowerShell you can do a search and find the commands needed. Generally the PowerShell option would only be used in a larger network that had numerous devices to connect.
Configure a VPN Using Native macOS Settings
Your employer, school, or VPN administrator should provide connection details:
macOS Ventura, Sonoma, Sequoia, and later
1. Open System Settings.
2. Select VPN from the sidebar (or go to General → VPN & Device Management depending on your macOS version).
3. Click Add VPN Configuration.
4. Choose the VPN type provided by your administrator (commonly IKEv2 or L2TP/IPsec).
5. Enter:
o Server address
o Remote ID (for IKEv2)
o Username
o Password or certificate information
6. Click Create.
7. Toggle the VPN switch to connect.
Information You'll Need
Your VPN provider or administrator should supply:
· VPN type (usually IKEv2, sometimes L2TP/IPsec)
· Server address
· Username
· Password
· Shared secret or certificate (if required)
· Remote ID (for IKEv2)
Verify the Connection
After connecting:
1. Open a browser.
2. Visit:
o or IPLeak.net
3. Confirm that your IP address reflects the VPN server's location.
Notes
· Modern macOS versions natively support IKEv2 and L2TP/IPsec.
· OpenVPN and WireGuard generally require their own apps:
· Many organizations now prefer IKEv2 or WireGuard because they are typically faster and more secure than L2TP/IPsec.
Mozilla
1. Firefox - Free Built-In VPN
The free browser VPN masks your IP address by routing only your Firefox traffic through a secure proxy server. [1]
· Features: Allows you to mask your IP address and toggle protection on or off for specific websites. You can also select your preferred server region. [1, 2]
· Availability: Free and requires no subscription—just log into a free Mozilla Account. The feature is in a progressive rollout for users in Canada, the US, UK, Germany, and France. [1, 2]
2. Full-Device Mozilla VPN
For complete privacy outside of just the Firefox browser, Mozilla offers a full-device application. [1]
· Cost: Plans start at $4.99 USD/month (billed annually) or $9.99 USD/month (billed monthly).
· Features: Protects up to 5 devices simultaneously with advanced security protocols powered by Mullvad, a strict no-logs policy, and no bandwidth restrictions.
· Integration: Includes a Firefox extension so you can customize website-specific settings directly from your Firefox browser.
Malwarebytes
Your malware protection may have a VPN option. I use Malwarebytes and they offer a VPN addon for $99.99 yearly. Be sure to check your malware protection to see if that option is already a part of your service.
Warning:
While a VPN is a phenomenal shield for data privacy and network traffic, it is not a silver bullet. It won't stop you from downloading malware, nor will it protect you if you willingly type your password into a phishing site. For complete digital safety, it should always be paired with good antivirus software and smart online habits.
Not total anonymity: VPN providers themselves can see your traffic unless they have strict no-logs policies.
Slower speeds: Encryption and rerouting can reduce connection speed. I have experienced this, but it’s been awhile. Recently I have had no issues with delay.