So, you have a VPN installed and running on your laptop, tablet or mobile device. What can you do now? Well, we have a list for that!
You have undoubtedly heard the “VPN” acronym. You might even know what it stands for. If you don’t, well, it’s a virtual private network. While its function can get a little complex, the nutshell of it all is that VPNs extend an anonymous network through public networks (i.e. the internet). This, in turn, allows people to access certain systems they otherwise cannot use on a public forum.
Many have no doubt used VPNs to access secure servers for work from a remote relocation. But that is far from the most awesome use of a VPN. The privacy afforded to you allows you to capitalize on a bunch of workarounds in various corners and sectors of the internet.
Where should you start? We will let you be the judge of that. But we have compiled a list of awesome things you can do now that you’ve got a VPN.
Check Out Some International Gaming Sites
Signing up with an online sportsbook, casino, poker or gaming site is one of the most popular uses for VPNs. This is especially useful for people who live in states that have yet to legalize online gambling, in particular.
As the fine folks over at MyTopSportsbooks note, VPNs can be your access point to the best online betting sites in the business. This is especially valuable for sports gambling enthusiasts, but VPNs can also be deployed to visit free-to-play sites (i.e. sweepstakes casinos and sportsbooks) that might be blocked according to geographical location.
Streaming on Public Networks
Looking to stream your favorite show or film while using public wifi. There is, ahem, a VPN for that.
Not only does it protect your personal login information, but it helps prevent network throttling in public spaces. So, if you are using open-access wifi to watch Netflix or Apple TV, there is a strong chance that you will enjoy better connection speeds while using a VPN.
Access Your Favorite Sites While Traveling Abroad
A ton of consideration is often given to the impact international travel has on traditional phone usage. You may not be able to send or receive calls and texts unless you purchase a special plan and activate certain settings.
Less talked about is how this can apply to general internet usage. You may not be able to access your favorite streaming, social media or local news sites while journeying abroad.
Using a VPN encryption generally takes care of this. You might still run into issues with certain streaming sites, but they are eminently effective at enabling access to local news and social media sites.
For the record, this works both ways, too. If you live in the United States but want access to international news or media sites, a VPN allows you access to webpages that might otherwise be subject to geotracking blocks.
Avoid Dynamic Pricing
Most people do not use a VPN service when they’re at home, unless they need to for work. This makes sense. But there are circumstances in which using a VPN can help you save tons of money.
Let’s say you are looking to attend a concert for your favorite band. The rise of dynamic pricing has generally made this a more expensive experience. Basically, dynamic pricing means the cost of something fluctuates, sometimes wildly, relative to demand. So if you are trying to snag a ticket to one of the hottest tours, you are bound to pay through the teeth for a ticket.
In many instances, there can be no avoiding these systems. This doesn’t even get into the idea of geolocation pricing. But as Christopher Owolabi of ExpressVPN explains, the right virtual privacy network might actually save you some money:
“Imagine someone stepping out of a store with a nice jacket, which they bought for $50. That same instant, you walk into the store, and the store owner wants to sell it to you for $75. Why? Just because you look like you can afford it at that price. That’s price discrimination. Many e-commerce and online retailers do it today. Their algorithms can single you out for more expensive prices based on a mix of factors, including where you’re browsing from. In other words, your IP address. By connecting to VPN servers in different regions, you can shop around to try and get the best deals.”
Look, we can’t guarantee you will always save money on experiences and items using a VPN. But we can guarantee that it won’t hurt to try.
General Privacy on Public Networks
Picture this: You are on the train. Surfing the web on your phone. Using the transportation’s open Wi-Fi network. You are logging into your email. Or shopping online. Maybe you even want to check your credit card statement.
We have all been here, in some form or another. Many of us are likely hesitant about inputting personal information while using an open-source network. Understandably so, too. While it is unlikely something will go wrong, it doesn’t mean nothing will happen.
This is where a VPN can come handy. Using a VPN to bounce around the web on your phone offers additional layers of privacy you otherwise wouldn’t enjoy on public networks.
So go ahead and make the purchase. Check your email. Pay that bill. All with peace of mind.