Whether to enhance the security of online transactions or to enable access to certain websites wherever you are in the world, VPNs are a need to know for travelers.
You've probably heard the abbreviation VPN, and you may know that it stands for virtual private network. If you know more, perhaps you are aware of its reputation for enabling illegal downloads or other dodgy stuff. Although this reputation is well-earned, VPNs can also be used for legitimate purposes, such as making sure block chain transactions are about as private as they can be. The deep web – those sites not found via standard search engines – can also be accessed more securely using a VPN.
So what, exactly, is a VPN? At its simplest, a VPN is a series of computers networked together across the Internet. It creates a virtual tunnel between your computer and a server operated by the VPN company. This tunnel is encrypted so external Internet traffic can’t see your data.
When your computer is connected to the VPN, your IP address (the network address for a computer on that network at that moment) is masked by the IP address of the VPN server, so your identity is hidden, too.
SECURE CONNECTION
This story is from the December 2018/January 2019 edition of Business Traveler.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2018/January 2019 edition of Business Traveler.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Train of Thought
As Amsterdam’s airport curtails flights because of environmental impact, KLM suggests that its passengers take to the rails
Entry Level
Why travelers are waiting weeks or even months to receive a new passport or renewal
Big Wheels
American Airlines offers a TSA-approved ground service between Philadelphia and surrounding airports
Le Bon Goût
Air France partners with Michelin-starred chefs for its new menus
First Glance
United unveils new high-end seats
Ring of Fire
In October and April, solar eclipses will dazzle the United States
Just Say Know
To improve mental health, learn new skills on the road—and have fun doing it
Rebalancing Act
How Finnair CEO Topi Manner led the airline through two external crises to bring it back on track
New Look
With industry innovations and a star-studded roster of clients, designer Peter Dundas is changing the shape of fashion
Food for Thought
The pioneering Spanish restaurant EI Bulli is transformed into a museum and culinary laboratory