VPN
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts all of your device's internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, hiding your IP and protecting data on untrusted networks.
Definition
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a VPN server. All your traffic flows through that tunnel, so your real IP is masked behind the server's IP and your data is protected from anyone on the local network — useful on public Wi-Fi.
VPN vs proxy
A VPN encrypts all traffic at the operating-system level and prioritizes privacy and security. A proxy typically routes a single app or protocol and is geared toward IP management and scale. For confidentiality use a VPN; for high-volume, IP-diverse automation use proxies.
Examples
Connecting to a VPN server in another country to access geo-restricted streaming
Encrypting traffic on public airport Wi-Fi to prevent eavesdropping
Common Use Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
Keep Learning
All termsWebRTC Leak
A WebRTC leak exposes your real IP address through the browser's built-in real-time communication feature — even when you are using a VPN or proxy.
Read definitionNo-Logs Policy
A no-logs policy is a VPN or proxy provider's commitment not to record what you do online — your browsing, connections, traffic or real IP.
Read definitionWireGuard
WireGuard is a modern VPN protocol built to be fast and simple. Its code is small enough to audit properly, and it connects quicker and runs faster than older protocols like OpenVPN.
Read definitionKill Switch
A kill switch cuts your internet connection the instant your VPN drops, so your real IP address is never exposed during the gap before it reconnects.
Read definition