How to Setup a VPN Using Your Computer
A VPN is a virtual private network that securely connects you to a private network, such as a corporate network, over a public network, such as the internet. You can use a VPN to securely access your corporate network from any public location. You can use the same techniques to securely connect to other private networks, such as a home network or a student network. Setting up a VPN is easy. All you need is a computer and an internet connection. In this tutorial, we will show you how to set up a VPN using your computer so you can begin securely connecting to your home network and other private networks.
The Three Types of VPNs
A VPN can be classified into three types:
- L2TP/IPSec VPN
- PPTP VPN
- Wireless VPN
Each type of VPN has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is best to choose a VPN that matches your personal preferences and situation. Below, we will discuss each type in detail.
L2TP/IPSec VPN
L2TP/IPSec VPNs are the most popular type of VPN. They are generally regarded as the best choice for home users and small businesses. L2TP stands for Layer Two Tunneling Protocol and IPSec for Internet Protocol Security. Together, they form the basis for one of the most popular and flexible VPN solutions.
L2TP/IPSec VPNs use OpenVPN, a reputable company that has created an open source tool for setting up VPNs. OpenVPN is a free tool that you can download from their website and install on your computer. Once you have downloaded and installed OpenVPN, you can use it to easily set up a VPN.
L2TP/IPSec VPNs are easy to use and require no special technical knowledge to set up and use. They are suitable for home users who want to keep track of individual VPN settings and requirements. Most importantly, L2TP/IPSec VPNs are very flexible. You can use them on virtually any computer and any internet connection to connect to your home or office network. They can also be accessed remotely through a web browser without requiring you to download any special software.
L2TP/IPSec VPNs are the most popular type of VPN because they provide a good balance between security and convenience. They are also one of the most flexible types of VPNs available. If you are looking to set up a VPN in your home, you could consider choosing L2TP/IPSec because it is easily compatible with most internet connections, including older modem broadband and wireless connections. Additionally, there are no special hardware requirements other than a standard PC. If you are looking for a more secure option, you could choose a PPTP or OpenVPN based VPN.
PPTP VPN
PPTP VPNs (Packet Pro Privacy Tunneling Protocol) are a proprietary type of VPN developed and provided by Private Network Ltd. Like other types of VPNs, PPTP VPNs are used to securely access a private network or location from a public location. However, they were developed with significant security enhancements in mind.
One of the unique features of PPTP VPNs is that they support IPv6. This means that they can automatically connect you to an IPv6 network, even if your PC has only limited IPv4 compatibility. This is a bonus for users who want to keep their internet connection encrypted and private, as it prevents your IP address from being recorded by network equipment or third parties.
On the downside, PPTP VPNs are rather expensive. They also require a bit of technical knowledge to set up and use. If you are looking for a VPN that is simple to use and does not require too much computer expertise, consider using a rival product that does not require you to purchase individual licences to use it. There are also some disadvantages associated with having a proprietary product, such as limited client support and potentially becoming obsolete once a newer version is released. However, as long as you keep updating your software and paying for the latest version, you should be able to enjoy all the advantages offered by a PPTP VPN.
Wireless VPN
Wireless VPNs, or WiFi VPNs as they are often referred to, allow you to connect to a VPN via a wireless network. They do away with the need for an ethernet cable to connect to your home network and allow you to connect to any available network that has a WiFi connection. This makes them ideal for use on the move. Most wireless VPNs work in conjunction with a VPN client that can be installed on your smartphone. When you connect to a VPN using your wireless device, all the data that flows over the network will be secured through the use of AES encryption, which is a fairly reliable and secure form of encryption.
However, like other types of VPNs, wireless VPNs require some sort of internet connection. This means that you will either have to connect to a WiFi network that is available throughout the country or region that you visit, or use a portable hotspot device that can connect to any available network. If you plan on using a WiFi VPN on the move, make sure to pack the router as well as your device. In case you leave the network area, you will need to reconnect to ensure that your encryption key is not compromised.
Overall, WiFi VPNs provide good value for money. They are readily available and can be set up using your smartphone or tablet. If you are searching for a VPN that is easy to use and provides good value for money, consider choosing a WiFi VPN.
The best VPN for your needs will depend on your requirements and your existing situation. If you need a simple, lightweight, and efficient solution, and you do not have a lot of money to spend, consider using one of the free VPNs offered by reputable companies, such as Private Internet Access, NordVPN, or VyprVPN. Alternatively, you could use OpenVPN or PPTP VPNs, which are both readily available and will provide you with a good balance between security and convenience.