Firewalls block attacks automatically and also allow you to set security preferences for what you let into your network or computer. What are firewalls?Ī firewall watches incoming and outgoing traffic on your network. To block viruses from entering your network and to prevent data from being stolen, you’ll need a firewall. To monitor for and erase viruses, you’ll need antivirus software. On the downside, as previously mentioned, a VPN can't protect your computer from viruses. If you really care about your browsing privacy and data security, a VPN is your best bet. When you use a VPN, your internet service provider, government websites, and the websites you often visit won’t have a way of knowing your true location. It’s like a private line to directly access a corporate server or a secure network, from anywhere. A VPN is essential when you’re using public Wi-Fi or working remotely, as it encrypts your traffic and protects your information while it’s in transit.

It works by routing your network connection through a remote server, protecting you from those trying to find your location and other valuable data. What is a VPN?Ī Virtual Private Network (VPN), hides your IP address, which is the string of numbers that identifies your device. Firewalls are used by both home and corporate networks to protect computers and devices. Unfortunately, it can’t block viruses, so it’s always good to pair a VPN with a firewall (and antivirus software).Ĭompanies usually use VPNs to let employees securely access remote servers from locations outside the office, while regular folks make use of VPNs when surfing the web in their coffee shop of choice. It keeps the bad guys from knowing your location and activities. (But it also does more than that - which we’ll get to.)Ī VPN is more like an invisible cloak. Since we’re living in a time when most people are ultra-conscious of germs and what they’re touching, maybe the easiest way to explain the difference between a firewall and a VPN is like this:

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