In light of the recent repeals that would require your internet service provider (ISP) to ask you to opt-in to share personal information, let’s talk about the best way to protect yourself and your data. While the rules passed on October 27 by the FCC were never put in effect, they would have been a nice layer of internet protection for the American people. To take the precautions and protect your internet data, subscribing to a VPN service is your best bet. While I am not the internet or network guru, I do understand enough about how they work to provide some insight on the topic and talk about the best VPN options.
In This Post
What Is a VPN?
A VPN or Virtual Private Network, lets you connect to the internet via a server run by a VPN provider. Data traveling between your devices and the VPN provide’rs server is encrypted and more secure.
How does a VPN work?
A VPN allows you to create a connection or tunnel from your internet-ready device (phone, laptop, tablet) to a server somewhere in the world. When you access something on the internet, it goes through that “tunnel” to the server and onto the internet. When the web server replies, the reply is to the VPN server, and then the VPN server sends it back through that tunnel to your Internet-ready device.
While your ISP will only be able to see that you are connecting to a VPN service, instead you are exposing your internet activity to your VPN provider. The majority of the top rated VPN providers don’t keep ANY logs so you shouldn’t have any problems. I recommend doing your research before choosing which VPN service is right for you.
Other VPN Advantages
- Bypass web restrictions/censorship
- Browse safely on public Wi-Fi
- Access streaming services from anywhere
- Secure VOIP
The Best VPN Service
I have used three different VPN services (CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, NordVPN) and I found all three reliable. Numerous websites have done reviews (here, here, here) and many of them review my favorite, ExpressVPN, quite highly.
Here are some of the reasons I chose ExpressVPN in the end:
- A wide selection of servers
- Zero traffic logging (see privacy policy)
- 256-bit encryption
- Simultaneous connections for three devices
- Unbeatable simplicity and the best-looking client I’ve seen
If you do end up choosing ExpressVPN, I would appreciate it if you use my referral link, by using my link we will BOTH get 30 days free after your free trial month expires.
The Bald Thoughts
In retrospect, websites have been tracking people’s online activity for years and displaying targeted advertising based on your activity. While I believe this is a step in the wrong direction, it’s too early to know the real implications of this FCC repeal. Right now is an excellent time to start using a VPN, whether you are trying to avoid target advertisements from your ISP or stream Netflix in another country, it’s better to be safe than sorry. In theory utilizing a VPN service is one of the best ways to protect yourself against this recent FCC repeal, I say in theory as I’m not the world’s most trusted network guru and don’t want to make guarantees. No matter which VPN service you end up choosing make sure it suits all of your needs.
Is the recent FCC repeal a big deal to you? How do you see it affecting you?
If you removed the affiliate links, I might believe your opinion as unbiased.
I understand your position. However, this website and many others like it, are completely free for readers. We make money from advertising and affiliate links. Just like you don’t show up to work for free, we don’t write for free.
Take the post and read for the concept. You don’t have to follow any of our links or support any of our sponsors.
Just because we have affiliate links, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a VPN service to protect your data from hackers and others who would do you harm.
Have a good one.
Brian,
Your position is understood and respected. While I did include my referral link for ExpressVPN, I have referral links for other VPN services that offer a better referral bonus, but I’ve found their services inferior. I didn’t mean for the inclusion of my referral link to come across as biased.
I hope you find a VPN service that works for you!