VPN, Good or Bad?

A Virtual Private Network is a Private Network that is built to be used over a public infrastructure. VPN's allow users to securely access a network from different locations from a public network, typically through the Internet. Accessing a network from an unsecured public network puts your data at risk. But a VPN allows you to securely access a private network and share data remotely through public networks.

VPN's do this by routing your data through an encrypted tunnel. (this is called tunneling), while simultaneously masking your identity and location (you are using the VPN's address).

VPN’s are utilized by many businesses because they allow employees to securely access data stored on a company’s network (Client to Site VPN) or to securely connect a Head Office with Branch Offices (Site to Site VPN) which is good for the overall security of the data being accessed. But VPNs do get misused as well because internet users can use them to bypass some of the content filters placed by the Government. This is because VPN’s allow individuals to spoof their physical location. The user’s IP address is replaced by the VPN provider, allowing them to bypass content filters.