A VPN is known as the easiest and most convenient method to keep online privacy and security ensured. It is a common perception that because of internet users’ online security and the need of sending internet traffic via encrypted tunnel, VPN technology has been developed. But beside this role, a VPN has much more to offer. I would like to shed some light on a few incredible, yet not-so-known, advantages of a VPN service. So, let’s begin, shall we?
Ok, hold on for a moment! Before getting started with the advantages, let’s have a small introduction of what a VPN is.
In so many words, a virtual private network (VPN) is a safe, private Internet connection where your data and information are encrypted and routed via a private channel, reducing the chances of anyone affecting it.
Some Really Cool Uses of A VPN
As mentioned earlier, the most commonly known advantages of a VPN are to improve online security, utmost privacy and total freedom. But there are plenty of other benefits of a VPN, which most of us don’t know. Let’s have a look on them:
1. Use A VPN to Book Flights and Hotel Rooms at a Cheap Price
Travelling abroad can be expensive, but research shows that by employing minor hacks such as using a VPN to change your location virtually, you can get cheaper rates. A recent research conducted by Northeastern University reported that airlines offer different rates based on your locations and browsing activities (not to mention, e-commerce stores do this as well)[1]
So how exactly do you find the best prices for your tickets? You got it right, you use a VPN and switch your location to check the fares of a flight from a different country’s IP address. For example, you are living in the US; you are going to travel to the UK, and from there, fly to Spain. Now, if you book your UK to Spain flight from the US, it might cost you more. But if you do so from the UK, you may be able to get a much better price. So, why wait to reach the UK? Use a VPN, connect to a UK server and book your flight to Spain. Tada! You must have saved quite a few bucks by now.
Hey! The same theory applies to hotel rooms as well. Don’t forget to repeat the same process to save on hotel rooms as well.
(Please note that while this may not be illegal (yet), it does violate most companies’ policies.)
2. Use A VPN to Buy Books and Avoid VAT
If you are a Kindle user and you buy e-books from Amazon, a VPN is a must for you. First, you can buy e-books that are not available in your region with a VPN. Secondly, if you live in Europe and Australia, you can save money on the value-added tax (VAT). In Europe, you will be charged with VAT based on your location. For example, readers living in the UK may pay 20% VAT. If you are from Ireland, you may pay 23% VAT, German 19%, Estonia 21%, Italy 4% and Luxembourg 3%. On average every e-book reader will be paying 17% more for e-books. Fortunately, a VPN can help you save on VAT. You simply need to change your original IP address with one of the VPN server’s IP to avoid paying extra charges for VAT.
(As noted, please research your country’s laws and regulations on this, in addition to Amazon’s policy, to see if this is illegal, as it’s not advisable to conduct any form of illegal activity.)
3. Use A VPN to Watch Sports Channels in Your Native Language
A large percentage of people are die-hard fans of one sport or another. Some love cricket; some can die for Football; and some have deep-feelings for tennis. But what if you are a German and you are living in the UAE—can you enjoy the FIFA world cup in Arabic? Probably not. A VPN can help you watch sports in your native language by simply taking you back to your home country virtually. Replace your UAE IP address with a German IP and enjoy FIFA in German.
4. Enjoy MMO Games with Your Friends Abroad
VPN can also help when it comes to massive multiplayer online (MMO) gaming. Most games like DOTA 2, World of War Craft, The League of Legends and Battle Field are not available in many regions. So, maybe your friend in China cannot be a part of the tournament. Well, here comes a VPN. A VPN can bypass the restrictions and make your friend a member of your team. It will also help reduce latency and ping. So, enjoy MMO games with your friends from around the globe.
(Please research the specific gaming policy of whatever game that will be affected by the VPN change, as doing this may be in violation of that gaming policy.)
Final Thoughts
A VPN can be more than just a tool for online security, privacy and freedom. It has unlimited advantages. It also shows how important a VPN has become for every Internet user, with the increased censorships and geological restrictions.
That said, please research the company policies and your country’s laws concerning VPN changes before you decide to change your VPN, as doing this may be illegal federally or in violation with company policy in some cases. As mentioned before, it is never advisable to conduct any form of illegal activity.
Featured photo credit: pixabay via pixabay.com
Reference
| [1] | ^ | Washington Post: If you use a Mac or an Android, e-commerce sites may be charging you more |
