Nowadays, everyone uses the internet for practically everything and people use VPNs to keep their data secure. If you are one of the many who use VPNs, you've probably wondered if you can use this on airplane wifi. Fortunately, we have the answers that you are looking for.
While onboard an aircraft, you can use a virtual private network (VPN) for additional security while connected to the airplane's wifi. However, VPNs can get dropped when the plane moves connections, so there's a possibility that you'll lose connectivity to the VPN once in a while.
Using a VPN can be quite confusing especially if you are not familiar with them. Keep reading this post because we will be showing you the reasons why you should connect to a VPN while traveling, as well as the benefits you'll get from using one.
Can You Use A VPN On A Plane?
Traveling can be long and tedious, and one of the easiest ways to make use of this time is to surf the internet. Some people even use their time to catch up on work while traveling. For this reason, airplane wifi has become an essential part of many travelers.
However, one of the risks of using public wi-fi is the possibility of personal data being hacked by unscrupulous individuals. This puts your information unprotected while you are using the internet.
One of the best ways to keep your online data secure is using virtual private networks or VPNs. This service establishes a secure and private connection to the internet by creating an encrypted tunnel for your date. This protects your personal information and IP addresses.
If your flight has an available wifi service onboard and you would like to use it, you will most likely be connecting to public wi-fi. In this setup, you and everyone else who is using this wifi connection will be sharing data, which lessens your information security.
Whenever it is possible, connect to a VPN if you are on a plane and are planning to use their wi-fi.
Before connecting to the airplane's wi-fi, connect to your VPN service so that your personal information, data, and IP addresses are secure. A VPN will work on laptops and mobile devices, so all of your data will be safe on whichever machine you choose to use.
Should VPN Always Be On While Traveling?
While traveling, most people make use of the free wi-fi services to stay connected wherever they go. While it is very practical, there are many risks to using public wireless networks. These networks can collect data when you log in without you being aware of them.
If you, like many others, like to connect to public wi-fi, it is a good idea to invest in a VPN service to protect your data. This will keep your information safe, and any malicious malware or virus won't get to your computers because of an unsecured connection.
Your VPN must always be on whenever you travel because you don't know how secure and safe the connections are in your destination. Malicious hackers are everywhere trying to gather data for sinister purposes, so it's always best to keep your information safe.
Advantages and Disadvantages Of Using VPN
A lot of people know that VPNs protect your personal data while surfing the internet. While this information is true, VPNs can do so much more than that. There are advantages and disadvantages to using a VPN, and here are some reasons.
Pros of using a VPN
1. Secure your data
Data security is possibly the best benefit you will get from using a VPN. When we surf the internet, we exchange data with our connected networks, which then exchange information from their side. All this information travels through different servers without us knowing.
Without encryption on personal data, third parties like cybercriminals can use this information against you. A VPN can help protect your data from this problem by creating encryptions on your traffic so no one knows what you do, see, or access online.
2. Protect your online privacy
Every time we search the web, third parties like internet service providers consistently get information about our online habits. While this may sound harmless, it does take away your privacy, knowing that someone is always watching what you're doing online.
A VPN with traffic encryption will definitely protect your online privacy. Third parties will not be able to check on what you are doing or how long you are online. They also won't be able to get data from you without your consent because of this encryption.
3. Hide or change your IP address
An IP address has all the information about your location, as well as your identity. When using the internet, website providers can see your IP address and they store this data so they can use it in many ways.
A VPN can help hide or change your IP address to protect your location and identity information. Websites will not see your real IP address, but instead, they will be interacting with the VPN server's IP address.
4. Safety in hostile internet environments
While the internet is a space wherein everyone is free to gather and use data for personal use, some places still have a low index of internet freedom. This means that any actions you do online can cause grave consequences if it does not adhere to their rules or laws.
VPN connections can help you keep yourself safe if you ever find yourself in hostile internet environments. Your information is not directly accessible so it's important to have VPNs whenever you surf in other locations.
5. Better connection and experience
Using a VPN can help lessen cases of bandwidth throttling, wherein third parties limit the bandwidth you are getting for your connection. You'll get faster browsing speeds with a VPN, and it can definitely enhance your experience while using the internet.
VPNs also help bypass firewalls so you can now surf websites that are inaccessible to other countries. This means more valuable information for you without limitations.
Cons of using a VPN
1. Slower connection
Some less-than-stellar VPN services might give you a slower connection. This is because the data takes longer to travel because of the VPN connection, so your browsing speeds might be slower than usual.
This is why it's important to get a VPN service that has good servers that you can connect to. Always try to look at the speed tests and the infrastructure of your chosen VPN so you'll be able to get the best service all the time.
2. Unsecured connection
This is a problem for many free VPN services. A VPN should be securing your connection, but free VPN services could be doing more harm to your data. Because it is free, these services might be using your information as another means to monetize and profit.
3. Subscription costs
Unfortunately, one of the things that turn off customers from using a VPN service is because of subscription costs. Some VPN services can be very costly, but the advantages of your data protection are always worth it.
4. Banned in certain countries
Some countries ban or heavily restrict the use of VPNs in their networks. If this is the case, always remember to check before your travels to avoid any miscommunication or issues that might arise from your use of services.
5. Non-protection from voluntary data collection
Of course, while VPNs will protect and secure your valuable data for you, there is nothing the service can do if you voluntarily give it away. Some websites like Google, Facebook, and many others gather data all the time. Just be responsible when voluntarily giving information.
Final Thoughts
With the rampant attacks on data security happening daily, it's important to keep all personal and important information private. A VPN is very useful for any traveler because you know your data will be safe, wherever you may go.
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