VPN: Should Users Leave Their VPN Turned On?

We have all had our shared experiences of strangers sneaking into our phone screens on a bus for work or school. Similarly, one as well can sneak into a browser window, since it is now a common phenomenon for victims to be exposed to all forms of cyberattacks online.  

However, with the aid of a Virtual Private Network (VPN), the user’s internet connection will be secured, preventing unauthorized access to the data or other online activity. So why one should have his VPN activity? And are there any situations that might require a user to turn it off? 

Why should users leave their VPN turned on?

VPN users are often perplexed on whether they should leave their VPN turned on or off. Most online users prioritize their online data security and anonymity, consequently preferring to leave their VPN turned on. But they do have their drawbacks too, including potential time lags, depending on the service being used. Here are some factors to consider about if you are unsure whether to leave your VPN on or not.

Browse the Internet Privately

Some people may need help understanding why VPNs are required to keep you off the grid since all devices come with incognito mode, which they believe has the same function. However, they do not. Incognito mode only protects you from anyone who has access to your device. VPNs protect users from these vulnerabilities, as your online presence is encrypted when VPNs are in use.

By encrypting data, VPNs take it up a notch by preserving your online anonymity and enabling you to access the internet more freely and privately.

Protect Your Information from Hackers

One of the benefits of using a VPN is that it protects the user from potential vulnerabilities lurking across the internet. Hackers can work in a variety of ways in order to gain unauthorized access to sensitive user data or personal information, which could aid them to access victims’ bank accounts, credit cards, etc.

Bypass Geo-Restrictions on Content

Geoblocking is a tool used by services in order to restrict user access to content in certain geographic locations. While turning the VPN off will expose the online user’s real location and consequently restricts the content, with the use of a VPN, one can bypass these restrictions.

When Should You Turn Off Your VPN?

While VPN serves as a significant tool to combat cyberattacks and keep the users’ private data anonymous. Despite the many benefits, there are instances when it is necessary for a user to turn their VPN off.

To Increase Internet Speed

One of the major benefits of using a VPN mentioned earlier is that it encrypts the user’s online presence. But this process takes time. The amount of time that a VPN utilizes in order to encrypt user data could negatively impact one's online experiences. Users may also face a longer wait for a page to load.

To Prevent Fast Battery Drain

The choice of VPN can further impact a device’s battery capacity. Usually, VPNs aid the same battery life as other applications on iOS and Android devices, but some take a bigger battery chunk than others.

Naturally, every mobile device is unique, and the exact battery usage depends on several variables. These include the level of VPN encryption, mobile coverage, and whether or not the VPN runs in the background at all times.

To Reduce Data Consumption

VPNs tend to use more data when encrypting. In case a user has limited data, it would be best for him to turn off the VPN to restore his internet activities and enjoy them without interruptions, such as streaming music, downloading content, and surfing the web.

To Avoid Geo Location Illegality

Not everyone supports VPNs. A technique called VPN blocking was even created to hinder VPN use. Some countries like Iraq, Turkey, Russia, and China, use VPN blockers to limit their citizens’ exposure to inappropriate content. There’s no rulebook for what form of content gets blocked, as it is dependent on the location.

In countries that ban the use of VPNs, there are heavy penalties for anyone caught using one. Users could also be fined as much as $5,000, and they would not be able to rely on their VPN provider to help them out.

Should you use a VPN?

When using the internet, a VPN is a crucial security tool that keeps you protected. Between your device and your service provider, they build an encrypted tunnel, through which all of your information travels and is processed securely.

There are many advantages and drawbacks associated with staying connected via a VPN. Assess why you have to use a VPN and consider if the disadvantages may disproportionately affect you. Whether you leave your VPN on or off, it is most important that you browse safely.