In the modern age of constant connectivity across the developed world, one of the biggest worries we face when out and about is less about physical safety and more about digital security.
Just think about it this way: what’s the first thing you do when you get off the plane? Take your smartphone off airplane mode, before connecting to the airport’s wireless network, heedless of the potential dangers to the privacy and security of your data.
Enter the virtual private network (VPN), which encrypts your data and routes it through a network of protected, private servers (hence the name) before transmitting it to the Internet.
VPNs essentially act as a buffer between your device and the Internet. It safeguards your identity, your location and your browsing habits from prying eyes who would use it for targeted advertising or something more nefarious.
Most laypeople would have a pretty difficult time setting up something like this, which is why there are VPN providers out there like ExpressVPN – the world’s largest premium VPN service provider with server networks in 105 countries – who’ll do all of the legwork for you, granting you peace of mind and security without even having to lift a finger.
Still not convinced? Here are five reasons why it’s time to hop on the VPN bandwagon.
1. Get around geo-blocking for global streaming connectivity
By routing your data through their servers, VPN providers prevent websites from finding your real IP address by masking it with theirs. This is great for privacy, but even better for getting around nasty geo-restrictions that hinder you from catching your favourite series on Disney+ or Hulu while on vacation.
As you probably know, streaming services often have a different set of shows depending on location – which means you can use your VPN to make it appear like you’re somewhere you’re not. This also helps you to get around censorship in countries like China, Iran and Russia, where common social media applications like Facebook or Instagram are often inaccessible.
2. Works on just about every device
An added benefit of ExpressVPN is that it works on more or less any device you’d possibly want to use. Smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, e-readers and even gaming consoles like your Playstation or Xbox are all compatible with the VPN provider.
It protects up to eight devices simultaneously, though hardcore gadget junkies can go for broke by opting for their VPN-enabled router, the Aircove, which shields every device that connects to it, even ones that can’t normally run a VPN.
3. Security comes first
As a security and privacy company at its heart, everything about ExpressVPN’s services boil down to data protection. It employs tactics like running VPN servers on volatile memory systems that are wiped every time they’re powered off, as well as a complete dearth of activity and connection logs, to ensure that your data is kept safe at all costs. The company has completed 12 third-party audits with the likes of PwC, KMPG and F-Secure to verify its own security.
4. Set and forget
Like any other security protocol, VPNs only work as well as they do because they are convenient. Outside of secretive corporations and clandestine military groups, most laypeople wouldn’t abide by an ultra-complicated security system that routinely trips them up.
ExpressVPN recognises that, which is why they’re built around convenience and speed. Their VPN system offers a proprietary next-generation Lightway protocol that’s designed for zippy, effortless connection to their network of servers. They also offer 24/7 live customer support via chat and email, along with a range of packages to suit individual needs.
5. Stream to your heart’s content
Days when someone would complain “there’s nothing to watch” are over. Stream and download your favourite content from a wide range of streaming services, and catch the hottest Hollywood blockbusters, K-dramas, live sports and international shows. ExpressVPN allows you to access the platforms and apps securely anywhere without sacrificing security or privacy so you can even watch them on-the-go.
Connecting to your preferred streaming service is simple. All you need to do is to choose the right VPN server location (or the one closest to your physical location) according to your needs. With thousands of servers across 105 countries, you can easily access content typically restricted to a certain country or bypass censorship in a location. For example, you can watch The Walking Dead and 30 Rock which are not available in Netflix Singapore but are streaming on Netflix U.S. Another streaming platform available only in the U.S. is Hulu. With ExpressVPN, you can access to popular Hulu shows such as the Emmy-nominated Only Murders in the Building from Singapore.
