Is It Necessary to Always Have Your VPN On? Benefits and Drawbacks
VPN services are always available online. Since all network traffic passes through the server we are connected to and then out to the Internet, these services enable us to conceal our identity when using the Internet.
Some services let you add parental control over content, filter advertisements, and even incorporate an antivirus program into the app.
For my part, I used to browse the web with a VPN constantly turned on. Today in the Houhou blog for information, I will explain to you the pros, cons, and practical tips if you want to activate it always.
Today, I will share with you all the details of how to always conceal your online identity while using a VPN. Pros, cons, and some practical tips if you, like me, want to be undetectable and access the content catalog of major streaming platforms without having to pay attention to the geo-restrictions that most users face.
- What is a VPN and why should you use it?
Before we get into the details, let’s talk about what a VPN does. Essentially, a VPN encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address, improving your online privacy and security. This means you can browse with confidence, even on public Wi-Fi, knowing that your data is protected.
Now, while a VPN is a great tool, you don’t need to have it on all the time. Let’s go over the key points to help you decide when it’s worth using this feature and when you can do without it.
- Benefits of keeping your VPN always active
Always having your VPN running has many benefits, especially if you value online security and privacy. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Protect yourself on public Wi-Fi networks:
Public networks, such as those in coffee shops or airports, are a breeding ground for hackers. A VPN encrypts your connection, preventing your personal data, such as passwords or banking information, from being intercepted.
- Complete privacy:
With a VPN, your online activity is protected. No one, not even your ISP, will be able to track which pages you visit or what you do online.
- Avoid throttling:
Some ISPs slow down your speed when they detect that you are streaming or downloading files. With a VPN, this doesn’t happen because your traffic is encrypted and they can’t see what you are doing.
- Unrestricted Access:
If you’re traveling to countries with censorship or content restrictions, a VPN lets you access your favorite sites as if you were in your home country. It’s also useful for unblocking geo-restricted content, such as TV shows on streaming platforms.
- Avoid personalized ads:
Have you ever searched for something and found yourself surrounded by relevant ads? With a VPN, your online activity is anonymous, which reduces the appearance of these annoying ads.
- When should you disable VPN?
Although keeping a VPN on has many advantages, there are times when turning off your VPN may be a good idea:
- Connections with your bank app:
Some banks block VPN server IP addresses for security reasons. If you are having trouble accessing your account, please temporarily disable your VPN.
- Connection speed:
If you are playing online games or downloading large files, you may notice that your connection is slower. In these cases, disable the VPN to improve speed.
- Access to specific sites:
Some platforms block connections from VPNs to prevent fraud or unauthorized access.
- Practical tips for using your VPN wisely
Before using any VPN service, we recommend that you evaluate the different services that are currently available.
- Choose a good provider:Not
Not all VPNs are created equal. Look for one that has good reviews, doesn’t log your activity, and has fast, reliable servers.
- Kill Switch Setup:
This feature automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection is lost, preventing your data from being compromised.
- Don't rely on a VPN alone to protect yourself:
Although AI is a powerful tool, its use should be combined with good security practices, such as keeping your devices up to date and using strong passwords.
So, should I always leave it on? The answer depends on how and where you use the internet. If you frequently connect to public networks, travel frequently, or are concerned about your privacy, then having your VPN always on is a great idea. However, if you’re at home and your connection is secure and you need maximum speed, you can disable it at specific times. In short, a VPN is like a seatbelt in a car: you don’t always notice it, but when you need it, it can save you a lot of trouble.