You have probably heard people talking about VPNs, particularly when discussing online privacy, travelling overseas, using public Wi-Fi or accessing websites from another country.
But what exactly is a VPN? Do you actually need one? And does using a VPN make you anonymous online?
The short answer is that a VPN can improve your privacy and security in certain situations, but it isn’t an invisibility cloak for the internet.
For most people, installing and using a VPN is also much easier than the name “Virtual Private Network” makes it sound.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a VPN is, why VPNs exist, how they work, how to install one on your phone or computer, and the advantages and disadvantages you should understand before using one.
What is a VPN?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network.
In simple terms, a VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server.
Normally, when you visit a website, your internet connection travels from your phone or computer through your internet provider and on to the website or online service you’re accessing.
When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is instead routed through the VPN service.
The website you visit will generally see the IP address of the VPN server rather than your normal public IP address.
Think of it a little like putting your internet traffic inside a secure tunnel before sending it across the internet.
Why were VPNs created?
VPN technology wasn’t originally created so people could watch overseas Netflix libraries or hide their location.
One of the main purposes of VPN technology has been to allow people to securely connect to private networks from somewhere else.
Businesses have used VPNs for years.
For example, an employee working from home may need access to files, servers or systems that would normally only be accessible from inside the company’s office.
A corporate VPN can create a secure connection between the employee’s computer and the company’s network.
Consumer VPN services have expanded the concept by allowing individuals to route their general internet traffic through VPN servers.
Today, people commonly use VPNs for:
- improving privacy when browsing the internet
- protecting traffic when using unfamiliar or public Wi-Fi
- hiding their normal public IP address from websites
- connecting securely to workplace networks
- accessing services while travelling
- reducing the amount of browsing information visible to their internet provider
- appearing to connect from another city or country
However, exactly what a VPN can and cannot do depends on the VPN service and how it has been configured.
How does a VPN work?
Without a VPN, the basic path of your internet connection looks something like this:
Your device → Internet provider → Website
With a VPN switched on, it becomes more like:
Your device → Encrypted VPN connection → VPN server → Website
The VPN provider effectively becomes an intermediary between you and the websites you’re visiting.
That provides some privacy benefits, but it also introduces something important that is sometimes overlooked.
You are placing trust in the VPN provider
Your internet provider may have less visibility over your browsing activity when you’re connected through a VPN, but you’re now routing traffic through another company.
That means choosing a trustworthy VPN provider matters.
A VPN company potentially occupies a privileged position in your internet connection. You should therefore consider its privacy policy, reputation, security practices, ownership and what information it records.
A free VPN from an unknown company shouldn’t automatically be considered safer simply because the word “VPN” appears in the app’s name.
Does a VPN make you anonymous?
No.
This is probably one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding VPNs.
A VPN can hide your normal public IP address from many websites and make it more difficult for some parties to associate internet activity with your connection.
It doesn’t necessarily make you anonymous.
If you log into Facebook, Google, Instagram, Amazon or another online account while connected to a VPN, that service obviously still knows which account you’re using.
Websites can also use cookies, account information, device characteristics and other technologies to recognise users.
A VPN should therefore be considered one privacy and security tool rather than a complete anonymity solution.
Does a VPN protect you from hackers?
Sometimes, but this needs some explanation.
A VPN can provide additional protection for your network traffic, particularly when you’re using networks you don’t completely trust.
For example, Australia’s cyber security authorities advise that a VPN can help protect people using public networks.
But a VPN won’t protect you from every online threat.
If you click a phishing link and enter your banking password into a fake website, having a VPN switched on won’t necessarily save you.
Similarly, a VPN doesn’t replace:
- strong and unique passwords
- multi-factor authentication
- antivirus and security software
- operating system updates
- browser updates
- scam awareness
- good cyber security habits
Think of a VPN as another layer of protection rather than a complete cyber security system.
Are VPNs useful when using public Wi-Fi?
This is one of the situations where a VPN can be particularly useful.
Public Wi-Fi is everywhere.
You might connect at:
- airports
- hotels
- shopping centres
- cafés
- libraries
- conferences
- restaurants
- overseas resorts
Modern websites increasingly use HTTPS encryption anyway, which provides substantial protection for information travelling between your browser and the website.
However, you still don’t necessarily know who operates a public network or how securely it has been configured.
Using a reputable VPN can provide another layer of protection when connecting through networks you don’t control.
Where possible, using your phone’s mobile data or personal hotspot can also be preferable to connecting to an unknown public Wi-Fi network.
Can a VPN make it look like I’m in another country?
Often, yes.
Many commercial VPN providers operate servers in numerous countries.
Imagine you’re sitting at home in Melbourne but connect to a VPN server located in London.
Websites may see the IP address associated with the London VPN server rather than your Australian IP address.
Your connection effectively becomes:
Melbourne → VPN server in London → Website
This can make it appear to some websites that you’re connecting from the United Kingdom.
This is one reason VPNs have become popular with travellers and people attempting to access geographically restricted content.
However, websites and streaming services can detect or block VPN connections, and using a VPN doesn’t override a website’s terms and conditions or applicable laws.
How do I get a VPN?
For most people, getting a VPN is similar to subscribing to any other online service.
You choose a VPN provider, create an account and download its app.
Most major VPN providers have applications for:
- Windows
- Mac
- iPhone and iPad
- Android
- tablets
Some also support smart TVs, streaming devices and internet routers.
Before subscribing, look carefully at what you’re actually buying.
Consider:
Privacy policy: What information does the VPN company collect?
Logging policy: Does it record your browsing activity or connection information?
Company reputation: How long has the provider existed and who owns it?
Independent audits: Have its privacy or security claims been independently examined?
Server locations: Does it have servers in the countries you need?
Device limits: How many phones, computers and tablets can you connect?
Speed: VPNs can reduce internet performance.
Price: Be cautious about extremely cheap or completely free services where the business model isn’t obvious.
Cancellation and renewal terms: Introductory prices can sometimes increase substantially when the subscription renews.
How to install a VPN on an iPhone or iPad
For most people, the easiest method is using the VPN provider’s app.
Step 1: Choose your VPN provider
Research the company before installing anything.
Step 2: Download the official app
Go to Apple’s App Store and make sure you’re downloading the legitimate application published by the VPN company you’ve selected.
Step 3: Create or sign into your account
Follow the provider’s instructions.
Step 4: Allow the VPN configuration
Your iPhone may ask permission for the app to add a VPN configuration.
This is necessary for the service to create the VPN connection.
Step 5: Choose a server
You might choose:
Australia if you mainly want privacy without sending your traffic overseas.
Or you might select another country if you specifically need your connection routed through that location.
Step 6: Tap Connect
Once connected, your internet traffic covered by the VPN configuration will be routed through the VPN.
You can normally disconnect simply by opening the VPN application and tapping Disconnect.
VPN configurations can also be manually added to Apple devices if you have the necessary connection details.
How to use a VPN on Android
The process is similarly straightforward on most Android phones.
The easiest method is usually:
- Download your chosen provider’s official VPN app from Google Play.
- Sign into your account.
- Approve the requested VPN connection.
- Select a server location.
- Tap Connect.
Android also allows VPN information to be entered manually through the device’s network settings.
Depending on your phone and Android version, you can usually find this under:
Settings → Network & Internet → VPN
If you can’t find it, search your phone’s Settings for VPN.
How to install a VPN on Windows
Again, the easiest option for most consumers is downloading the VPN provider’s Windows application.
Install the program, log into your account, choose a server and click Connect.
Windows also includes built-in VPN functionality.
In Windows 11, you can go to:
Settings → Network & internet → VPN → Add VPN
You’ll then need information including the VPN server address, VPN type and login credentials.
For an ordinary commercial VPN subscription, however, using the provider’s official application is generally easier.
How to use a VPN on a Mac
Commercial VPN providers normally offer a dedicated Mac application.
Download the official application from a trusted source, install it, sign in and select the server you want.
macOS also allows VPN configurations to be added manually through the Network settings if you have the appropriate configuration information.
Should I leave my VPN on all the time?
You can, but you don’t necessarily need to.
Leaving a VPN permanently connected may make sense if privacy is your main concern or you frequently move between different Wi-Fi networks.
However, there can also be disadvantages.
Some websites don’t like VPN connections. Banking services may request additional verification, websites may present more CAPTCHA challenges and some streaming platforms may restrict access.
You might therefore decide to keep your VPN running most of the time and temporarily disconnect when it causes problems.
Advantages of using a VPN
Improved privacy
Websites generally see the VPN server’s public IP address rather than your normal public IP address.
Protection on unfamiliar networks
A VPN provides an encrypted connection between your device and the VPN server, which can be particularly useful when you’re using public or unfamiliar networks.
Useful when travelling
VPNs can help travellers securely access services and connect through servers in their home country.
Secure remote working
Businesses frequently use VPN technology to give employees secure remote access to corporate networks and resources.
Location flexibility
Many VPN services allow you to choose the country through which your internet connection is routed.
Easy to use
Modern consumer VPN applications generally require little technical knowledge. Once installed, connecting can be as simple as pressing one button.
Disadvantages of using a VPN
VPN advertising sometimes makes the technology sound like something everyone should have running constantly.
The reality is more nuanced.
Your internet connection may become slower
Your traffic has to travel through another server, sometimes thousands of kilometres away.
This can increase latency and reduce download speeds.
You’re transferring trust to another company
A VPN doesn’t eliminate the issue of trust.
You’re placing considerable trust in the VPN provider itself.
Some VPNs collect data
Not every VPN has the same privacy standards.
This is particularly important when considering free VPN applications.
If a company provides an expensive global network completely free, it’s reasonable to investigate how that business makes money.
Websites may block VPNs
Streaming services, financial institutions, ticketing websites and other services sometimes identify and restrict VPN connections.
More CAPTCHA requests
Google and other websites may notice large numbers of people sharing the same VPN IP address and ask you to prove you’re human more frequently.
Location services can become confusing
Websites may think you’re in another state or country, producing irrelevant search results, prices, advertisements or local information.
A VPN doesn’t stop scams
This is extremely important.
A VPN doesn’t prevent someone from sending you a phishing email, scam SMS or fraudulent website.
It also doesn’t make a dangerous download safe.
Are free VPNs safe?
Some reputable companies offer legitimate free VPN products or limited free versions of their paid services.
However, “free” shouldn’t automatically be interpreted as trustworthy.
Operating VPN servers around the world costs money.
Before using a free VPN, ask:
How does this company make money?
Read the privacy policy and look for information about:
- advertising
- tracking
- data collection
- browsing logs
- sharing information with third parties
- ownership of the company
Be particularly cautious about downloading an unknown VPN simply because it has thousands of reviews or appears prominently in an app store.
Can your internet provider see what you’re doing when using a VPN?
Your internet provider can generally see that your device is communicating with a VPN server and can see information associated with the connection.
However, the VPN’s encrypted tunnel can prevent the provider from seeing the contents of traffic travelling inside that tunnel in the same way it otherwise might.
The VPN provider, however, occupies an important position in that connection.
That’s another reason why choosing a trustworthy provider matters.
VPN vs Private Browsing: what’s the difference?
These two technologies are often confused.
Private or Incognito browsing primarily controls what your browser stores locally.
For example, private browsing may prevent your browser from keeping your browsing history after you close the private window.
It doesn’t automatically hide your IP address from websites or your internet provider.
A VPN operates at the network level and routes internet traffic through another server.
They solve different privacy problems.
Do you need a VPN at home?
Not necessarily.
If you have a properly secured home network and mainly use reputable websites and services, a VPN isn’t essential for everyone.
Modern HTTPS encryption already protects a significant amount of internet traffic.
However, some people still use VPNs at home because they want additional privacy from their internet provider or don’t want websites seeing their normal public IP address.
Whether that’s worthwhile depends on what you’re trying to achieve.
Do you need a VPN on your phone?
Again, it depends.
Your phone already uses numerous security technologies, and websites and apps increasingly encrypt their connections.
A VPN becomes particularly useful if you regularly connect your phone to unfamiliar Wi-Fi networks.
For example, someone travelling frequently and connecting through airports, hotels and cafés may see considerably more benefit than someone who primarily uses their home Wi-Fi and mobile network.
Is using a VPN legal in Australia?
Using VPN technology itself is legal in Australia.
Businesses, government organisations and individuals routinely use VPNs for legitimate privacy and security purposes.
However, using a VPN doesn’t make otherwise unlawful activity legal.
You should also remember that websites and online services can have their own terms governing geographic restrictions and access.
What should you look for when choosing a VPN?
Don’t choose a VPN purely because an influencer says it’s “the best VPN”.
Instead, look at the company behind the service.
Consider its reputation, ownership, privacy policy, logging practices, security technology, independent audits, server locations, customer support, subscription conditions and cancellation policies.
And be sceptical of extraordinary claims.
Statements such as “100% anonymous online”, “completely untraceable” or “total protection from hackers” deserve particular scrutiny.
No VPN eliminates every online privacy or cyber security risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VPN stand for?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network.
What does a VPN actually do?
A VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server and routes covered internet traffic through that server. Websites will generally see the VPN server’s public IP address instead of your normal public IP address.
Does a VPN hide my IP address?
A VPN can hide your normal public IP address from websites by replacing it with the IP address of the VPN server you’re using.
Does a VPN make me completely anonymous?
No. Websites and services can still potentially identify you through accounts, cookies and other information.
Should I use a VPN on public Wi-Fi?
A reputable VPN can provide an additional layer of protection when using unfamiliar or public networks.
Does a VPN stop viruses?
No. A VPN isn’t a replacement for security software, updates and sensible online behaviour.
Does a VPN protect me from phishing?
No. You can still click fraudulent links and enter information into scam websites while connected to a VPN.
Can I use a VPN on my iPhone?
Yes. VPN applications can be installed on iPhones and iPads, and VPN connections can also be manually configured through Apple’s settings.
Can I use a VPN on Android?
Yes. Android supports VPN applications as well as manually configured VPN connections.
Can I use a VPN on Windows?
Yes. You can install a VPN provider’s application or configure a VPN through Windows’ built-in VPN settings.
Can I use a VPN on a Mac?
Yes. macOS supports commercial VPN applications as well as manually configured VPN connections.
Will a VPN slow down my internet?
Possibly. Encrypting and routing your traffic through an additional server can reduce speed or increase latency. The difference depends on the VPN provider, server location, server load and your internet connection.
Are free VPNs worth using?
Some reputable providers have legitimate free plans, but consumers should carefully investigate the privacy policies and business models of free VPN services before using them.
The bottom line: Is a VPN worth having?
A VPN can be a useful privacy and security tool, particularly if you travel regularly, use public Wi-Fi, work remotely or simply want to prevent websites from seeing your normal public IP address.
But VPNs are sometimes marketed as though switching one on suddenly makes you invisible and completely secure online.
That’s simply not the case.
A VPN should form part of your broader approach to online security alongside strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, software updates, scam awareness and careful consideration of the websites and services you trust.
Perhaps the most important thing to remember is this:
A VPN doesn’t remove the need to trust someone. It changes who you’re trusting with part of your internet connection.
Choose that company carefully.
This article provides general information about VPN technology, privacy and online security. Technology, services and security practices change over time. Always check current information from your device manufacturer, VPN provider and relevant Australian cyber security authorities.
