A VPN, which is short for virtual private network, is a technology that has been used since the 1990s to surf the Internet securely. A VPN can be used on a computer as well as a smartphone and tablet. The very first VPN protocol was a PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protol) this was almost exclusively used in corporate networks at the time to securely access corporate resources via remote accesses. A few years later, through the L2TP it was also used by individual users. The reason for using those forms of a VPN, is still the same as it is today. Namely, for evading geographical blocks, for extra security while surfing and for overall password and IP address security.

How should you use a VPN?

Using a VPN is incredibly simple. You buy a subscription, with a level of your own choosing. This can be done with large companies such as; NordVPN, ExpressVPN and CyberGhost VPN. Then from the company you get a special software, which you download on the platform to be used after which you have to create an account to make sure the VPN also knows what data needs to be protected. Once this is all done, the VPN is activated and usable almost immediately.

Does Ziggo have a VPN connection?

No, Ziggo does not have its own VPN connection within their service package. However, a VPN, for example from the above companies, can simply be used in combination with Ziggo's Internet package, for example. There are no blocks imposed on these external options to improve your own privacy and security. At the moment there is also nothing known, about an own VPN from Ziggo/Vodafone.

Is a free VPN secure?

This depends entirely on what kind of VPN you use. Beforehand, it cannot be said with certainty that every VPN is safe to use. It is true, however, that there are some free VPNs. As such, these are fine to use. However, they will come with guaranteed limitations, which you can only use the moment you have the paid version. For example, think slow connection, incomplete privacy protection. But you may also have connected a VPN that makes you sell your data on to third parties, this as a free VPN is therefore their revenue model. Tip: Do not use a free VPN, always choose a paid VPN where you are sure it is good. Always look at the reviews.

What does a VPN cost per month?

On average, a VPN costs about 10 euros per month. However, the average is difficult to name, since VPN companies often have subscriptions for sometimes two or three years. For example, NordVPN's most popular package is a 4 euro per month package. It does last two years where you get 3 months free. In total, you pay 107 euros for two years. This is also the price at which NordVPN's competitors sit.

What does a VPN not protect against?

A basic package from a VPN company, does not protect against all online threats such as malware and phishing attacks. Importantly, an anonymous text is not necessarily directly phishing. If you have a VPN, still use a dedicated antivirus software and keep avoiding suspicious websites. Your data is protected, but hackers can still find out other things nonetheless. Always remain vigilant.