VPN (virtual private network)

A VPN, or virtual private network, creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a VPN server, so people on the same network, like a cafe Wi-Fi, cannot see or tamper with your traffic. A company VPN connects remote workers securely to internal systems. A consumer VPN shifts trust from your local network and internet provider to the VPN company, so choose a reputable one. VPNs have limits. They do not stop you from typing your password into a fake website, do not block malicious downloads, and do not make you anonymous to sites you log in to. Since most websites already use encryption, think of a VPN as one useful layer, not complete protection.