A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an essential tool for online privacy and security. In this article we explain in plain language how a VPN works and why you might want to use one.

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What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a service that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. Think of it as a secure tunnel: all your internet traffic goes through this tunnel, invisible to outsiders.

Without a VPN, your internet provider, hackers on public Wi-Fi or websites can see exactly what you are doing. With a VPN, that is impossible.

How does a VPN work technically?

When you use a VPN, the following happens:

1. Connecting Your device connects to a VPN server somewhere in the world.

2. Encryption All your internet traffic is encrypted before it leaves your device. This encryption is so strong that it is practically impossible to crack.

3. New IP address You get the IP address of the VPN server. Websites do not see your real location, but that of the server.

4. Data transfer Your encrypted data travels to the VPN server, where it is decrypted and forwarded to the website you are visiting.

5. Return trip The website's response goes back to the VPN server, is encrypted and sent to you.

This whole process takes milliseconds and is invisible to you as a user.

Why use a VPN?

Protecting your privacy

  • Your internet provider cannot see which websites you visit
  • Advertisers have a harder time tracking you
  • Your online activities stay private

Improving security

  • Essential on public Wi-Fi (cafe, hotel, airport)
  • Protection against man-in-the-middle attacks
  • Hackers cannot intercept your data

Getting around geo-blocking

  • Access to content that is blocked in your country
  • Watching foreign Netflix libraries
  • Visiting websites that are censored in certain countries

Other benefits

  • Finding better prices (some sites show different prices per country)
  • Torrenting safely
  • Working remotely on a company network

Setting up a VPN on your device

On Windows/Mac

  1. Choose a VPN provider and create an account
  2. Download the VPN software
  3. Install it and sign in
  4. Select a server location
  5. Click Connect

On a smartphone (iOS/Android)

  1. Download the VPN app from the App Store or Play Store
  2. Open the app and sign in
  3. Give permission for the VPN configuration
  4. Select a server and connect

On a router

Some routers support VPN configuration. This automatically protects all devices on your network.

Free vs paid VPN

Free VPN

Pros:

  • No cost
  • Good for trying out a VPN

Cons:

  • Often a data limit (500MB-2GB per month)
  • Slower speeds
  • Fewer server locations
  • Some sell your data to advertisers
  • Can be unsafe

Pros:

  • Unlimited data
  • Faster connections
  • Hundreds of server locations worldwide
  • Better privacy guarantees
  • Customer service

Cons:

  • Cost (on average 3-10 euros per month)

Advice: For serious use, a paid VPN is strongly recommended. Free VPNs are fine for occasional use, but choose a reliable provider.

Well-known reliable VPN providers:

  • NordVPN
  • ExpressVPN
  • Surfshark
  • ProtonVPN (also a good free version)
  • Mullvad

In the Netherlands: yes, completely legal.

Using a VPN is completely legal in the Netherlands and most Western countries. You are allowed to protect your privacy.

Note:

  • Illegal activities remain illegal, even with a VPN
  • In some countries (China, Russia, UAE), VPNs are banned or restricted
  • Check the local laws when you travel

FAQ

Does a VPN make my internet slower? Yes, usually a little. After all, your data has to make an extra stop. Good VPNs, however, have fast servers, so the difference is minimal (5-15% speed loss).

Can I download anonymously with a VPN? A VPN hides your activities from your internet provider, but you are not 100% anonymous. The VPN provider could theoretically see your activities. That is why you should choose a provider with a no-logs policy.

Does a VPN work on all devices? Most VPN providers offer apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and sometimes Linux. Some also support smart TVs and game consoles.

How many devices can I protect? This varies by provider. Usually 5-10 devices at the same time with one subscription.

Does Netflix block VPN users? Netflix actively tries to detect and block VPN servers. Good VPN providers, however, have special streaming servers that do work.

Do I need a VPN on my home network? For privacy: yes, because your provider then cannot see what you are doing. For security: less necessary than on public Wi-Fi, but it does no harm.

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