In this digital world, where online streaming and digital activities have increased significantly, ensuring that all your data remains secure is crucial. VPN(Virtual Private Network) is your best shield. It allows you to stream content from any country, anywhere in the world. This blog is a step-by-step guide on how to use a VPN.
What is a VPN?
VPN is a tool that creates a secure and encrypted tunnel between your phone and the internet. This means:
- Your streaming data remains protected
- Hackers cannot intercept your data on public Wi-Fi
- You can easily access Geo-restricted data and platforms
In a nutshell, VPN makes you smarter, stronger, and more anonymous online.
Why Should You Use a VPN?
- Hide your IP address and protect your streaming activities
- Secure your data while streaming on public Wi-Fi
- By-pass geo restrictions
- Access restricted apps with ease and increase your online freedom
- Stay anonymous
How does a VPN work?
1. Choose a reliable VPN provider
- Research regarding the best VPN providers.
- Keep the following points in mind while selecting the VPN provider
- Strong encryption
- No-log policies
- Fast server
- Privacy features
- Broad server network
- Avoid free VPNs as they may compromise security
- Check the VPN compatibility with your device
2. Download and install the VPN app
- Go to the official website or a trusted app store and download the app.
- Install it just like any other software
3. Create an account and log in
- Most VPNs require a sign-up.
- Sign up with a strong password containing a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
4. Connecting to a VPN server
- Open a VPN app
- Choose server location
- Click Connect
5. Customise settings
- Most VPNs allow customisable options like:
- Disconnect your VPN if the internet drops
- Choose which apps use VPN and which don’t
- Auto-connect to protect your online presence
- Route traffic through two servers
- IP rotation
How to use a VPN on different devices
On Windows/Mac
- Download desktop app
- Log in and connect to the server
On Android/iOS
- Install the mobile app
- Tap once to connect securely
On Routers
- Configure VPN on your router
- It protects all devices connected to your router
Top 10 VPNs
NordVPN
- Fast speed
- Robust security features
- Excellent streaming support
- Military grade encryption
- Offer features like Double VPN and split tunneling
- Access to over 7,600 servers across 120 countries
- Balances affordability with premium features
ExpressVPN
- Offers strong encryption
- Stream unlocking features
- User-friendly setup
- Advanced TrustedServer
- Global server reach
- Blazing Speeds
Surfshark
- Unlimited device support
- Fast speed
- Solid privacy toolkit
- Ad/Malware blocking
- Great streaming support
- Affordable
Proton VPN
- Based in Switzerland with no strong log policy
- Open source app
- Secure code double-hop
- Free option available
- High speed
Private Internet Access (PIA)
- Massive server network
- Highly customisable
- Competitively priced
- Security focused
- Customizable encryption
CyberGhost
- Huge server network with 11,500+ servers in 100 countries
- Strong streaming speed
- Generous 45-day money-back guarantee
- Easy-to-use apps
- Strict no-logs policy
PrivadoVPN
- Reliable free tier
- Solid privacy features
- Streaming support
IPVanish
- American service provider
- Reliable security options
- Good speed
- Solid track record for torrenting and streaming
VyprVPN
- On-user security
- Proprietary Chameleon protocol to bypass network restrictions
- Privacy-friendly jurisdiction
Atlas VPN
- Fast speeds
- Easy setup
- Great for beginners and casual users
Quick Comparison Table
| VPN Service | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Fast speed, military-grade encryption, Double VPN & split tunneling, 7,600+ servers in 120 countries, excellent streaming, balances affordability with premium features | All-round performance (speed, privacy, streaming) |
| ExpressVPN | Strong encryption, blazing speeds, global server reach, TrustedServer tech, user-friendly setup, stream unlocking | Beginners & streaming users |
| Surfshark | Unlimited device support, fast speed, solid privacy toolkit, ad/malware blocking, great streaming, affordable | Families & budget-conscious users |
| Proton VPN | Based in Switzerland, strict no-log policy, open-source apps, Secure Core (double-hop), free option, high speed | Privacy-first & security-conscious users |
| Private Internet Access (PIA) | Huge server network, customizable encryption, security-focused, competitively priced, flexible configuration | Power users & torrenting |
| CyberGhost | 11,500+ servers in 100 countries, strong streaming speeds, easy-to-use apps, strict no-logs, 45-day money-back guarantee | Streaming & casual users |
| PrivadoVPN | Reliable free tier, strong privacy features, streaming support, and affordable plans | Free plan seekers & casual streamers |
| IPVanish | US-based provider, strong security options, good speed, reliable for torrenting & streaming | Torrenting & multi-device users |
| VyprVPN | Proprietary Chameleon protocol bypasses censorship, privacy-friendly jurisdiction, and strong security focus | Users in restrictive regions |
| Atlas VPN | Fast speeds, simple setup, beginner-friendly, budget pricing | New VPN users & casual browsing |
Expert Consensus
TechRadar (2025) highlights NordVPN as the best overall option for its reliability, while Surfshark is recognized for providing excellent budget value. ExpressVPN is commended for its strong security features and user-friendly experience. Additionally, Proton VPN and PrivadoVPN are noted for their focus on privacy and free usage, respectively, ensuring that there are options for everyone’s online safety needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is VPN legal?
Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries. Always check local laws to avoid any problems.
2. Will VPN slow down my internet?
Slightly, as data is encrypted. However, premium VPNs minimize this issue.
3. Can I use a Free VPN?
Yes, you can use free VPNs, but they might slow down your internet speed and compromise of data privacy.
4. How to use VPN on iPhone?
Download VPN app ➝ Open & Sign In ➝ Choose Server ➝ Tap Connect ➝ Safe & Private Browsing
Conclusion
Discovering how to use a VPN is not just easy—it opens the door to a world of powerful protection! Picture this: enjoying your favorite shows from different corners of the globe, keeping your sensitive information safe on public Wi-Fi, and ensuring your privacy remains intact while you travel. A VPN isn’t just a tool; it’s your ultimate digital sidekick, ready to enhance your online experience and keep you secure every step of the way!
Also, check out the blog on How to instantly recover deleted WhatsApp messages