In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of having a VPN on your iPhone so you can determine if it’s the right choice for you.
How do VPNs work?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is an encrypted private connection between two machines. When you use a VPN, your iPhone or other device connects to another computer called a server. Your device will then use information from that server to browse the Internet instead of your actual network information. Any website that tracks user data will see VPN server information instead of your device information. Some VPN services offer a free trial period, so try an iOS VPN and be sure to protect your device. It is clear that using these encryption services has pros and cons. Next, we will explore the main points regarding the benefits or harm of using virtual private networks.
Pros of using a VPN on iPhone
VPNs are ideal for remote work setups because employees can use their smartphones, or regular computers, to have secure connections to their workplace servers. Using a VPN for business ensures that valuable customer and company data is as secure as possible, even when you’re working from home. Here are some of the biggest pros of a VPN for home and business use:
Gain access to geographically blocked content
Many popular entertainment sites have different content accessible in specific regions. This is done for a variety of reasons, but the main point is that some of the content is only available in a certain location. By using a VPN to make your connection appear to come from the region where the content is available, you can easily enjoy new episodes of your favorite series on your iPhone screen, no matter where you are.
Provide security through anonymity
When using a VPN on an iPhone, or any other device, your network information appears as if it came from a location other than your own. This cover-up for network data helps keep VPN users safe because anyone who wants to steal information will get the data from the VPN server. Using a VPN keeps the user’s location and other valuable information safe and inaccessible to unwanted parties.
Economic safety
There are new “security solutions” every day, but the latest software and firewalls can be expensive and can cause more problems than they avoid. You can avoid high licensing fees or monthly charges by using a VPN. While it may not scan for viruses or stop intruders from trying to connect to your PC, a VPN avoids the need for these features, essentially making you invisible online. You don’t need to block outsiders who try to join your network when they think your cell phone is three thousand kilometers away in Jamaica.
Cons of using a VPN on iPhone
Before deciding to use a VPN, it’s important to understand the disadvantages of a VPN as well. The good news is that, in most cases, the pros outweigh the cons. Here’s what you need to know:
Slower connection speeds
Because a VPN is a virtual connection that exists within a physical network, there will always be some slowdown in terms of internet speeds. Setting up and maintaining the VPN will require a certain amount of bandwidth, which slows down connection speeds. To be clearer, using a VPN is taking resources away from your Internet, thus limiting the speed of your VPN connection. However, this is gradually becoming less of a problem as VPN services are getting better every day. Most large VPN providers have minimal loss of connection speed.
There is VPN blocking software
Those same companies that want to charge people more based on location have found out about VPN usage and have recently taken steps to combat it, no matter if you use the VPN on iPhone or any other device. Some e-commerce sites use software known as VPN blockers, which work to identify and prevent users from using VPNs. The company that typically stores account information such as username and email will now also store a list of your common IP addresses (they essentially are what identifies you on the web). If the website senses that you are using an IP from a different location than normal, it may restrict or block your access. VPN blockers are growing in popularity along with the use of VPN.
Complicated setup
While connecting to the internet can be easy, setting up a VPN can be much more challenging, on iPhone or any device. A VPN is essentially an encrypted tunnel that hides information within it. Failure to configure VPN correctly can result in leaks. Information leaks can occur when using a VPN that is not configured correctly. These leaks are significantly more dangerous than surfing the web without a VPN, because the leak shows that you are trying to use a VPN to hide information, drawing the attention of unwanted people. For this reason, it is crucial to ensure that you understand your VPN provider’s operating procedures before implementing them.
Things to remember when using a VPN on iPhone
Not all VPN providers are created equal. Many offer different connection speeds, among other features and services. When purchasing a VPN, thoroughly research the provider to protect yourself from potential fraud and get the best deal. To simplify things, we recommend you use NordVPN. Here are some other important factors to consider when purchasing a VPN:
Privacy. Some VPN providers log user data, which defeats the purpose of having a VPN in the first place; Cost. VPN pricing can vary widely based on location, speed, and length of service contract. Make sure you get a VPN service that meets your specific needs and doesn’t charge for unnecessary features; Legality. Using VPN is illegal in some countries, so make sure you don’t break the law when using it; Location. Where are the VPN provider servers? Will these locations be able to provide the speeds you need?
Internet security is more important now than ever before. Every day, more people are working from home and need to have secure connections even on their phones. This increase in web traffic means an increase in malicious apps, hackers as well as scam services. Using a VPN is one of the best ways to protect your iPhone from these growing online threats. Tell us what you think of our guide in the comments below!