Whether browsing the internet using a public wifi network or in the workplace where certain sites are blocked, a Virtual Private Network or VPN is a gateway to access the internet in a more secure way. By masking your IP address your network usage and location tracking are encrypted.
This makes it safer if you are accessing websites that contain sensitive information like bank or government sites. Or even to access banned porn sites.
Setting up a VPN might seem like a complicated task. Did you know that you can set up one through your Android smartphone?
Here is how to do it:
Step 1
Go to settings and select connections. Under connections select more connection settings.
Step 2
Select the VPN option.
Step 3
Tap the three dots on the top right-hand side and select the Add VPN profile.
Avoid copying server address from any third party websites.
Step 4
Fill the details which are name, the server address, username and password, you can fill more specific details by selecting the advanced options.
Step 5
Select the VPN profile to connect. When connected a key icon will be shown on the top notification bar.
If you find these steps hard to follow, there are VPN apps available on the Play Store that perform the same function. Except, you will have to pay for them or risk parting with some of your data.
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)