What VPNs Actually Do
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between you and a VPN server. Your traffic exits from the VPN server's IP, hiding your real IP from destinations.
VPN Traffic Flow
Without VPN: You → ISP → Website (ISP sees all)
With VPN: You ═══► VPN ──► Website
[Encrypted]
ISP sees: encrypted traffic to VPN server
Website sees: VPN server's IP, not yours
What VPNs Protect
ISP Visibility
ISP cannot see your traffic content
PrivacyIP Location
Hide real IP from websites
LocationPublic WiFi
Encrypt traffic on untrusted networks
SecurityGeo-restrictions
Access region-blocked content
AccessWhat VPNs Don't Protect
From VPN ProviderThey see all your traffic instead of ISP
Account LinkingLogging in still identifies you
Browser FingerprintingTracking beyond IP address
Endpoint SecurityMalware on your device
Choosing a VPN
- No-log policy (independently audited)
- Jurisdiction outside 14 Eyes
- WireGuard or OpenVPN protocol
- Anonymous payment options
- No history of data leaks
- Kill switch feature
VPN vs Tor
Key Difference: VPN = trust one entity (provider). Tor = trust no single entity. For strong anonymity, Tor is superior. For everyday privacy from ISP, VPN is faster and simpler.