How to Setup a VPN on the HTC One (M8)

In the last year or so, virtual private networks (VPNs) have become extremely accessible and popular, especially since many providers offer free VPNs that allow users to hide their identities while browsing the web or using apps like Reddit, Twitter, and Tinder. With the popularity of VPNs, it’s important to understand how to setup and use one correctly. In this tutorial, we’ll discuss how to setup and use a VPN on the HTC One (M8).

The Basics

First off, let’s discuss the basics. A VPN is a type of security software that allows users to securely connect to a server (usually owned and operated by a trusted organization like a VPN company or public institution) that then acts as a firewall between your device and the rest of the network, protecting your personal data from theft. When you use a VPN, all of your web traffic, whether you’re on public Wi-Fi or your favorite online marketplace, is encrypted and protected. Plus, when you use a VPN, your internet connection is not tied to your smartphone; rather, your smartphone becomes a lightweight client that connects to the VPN server whenever you’re online (usually through your mobile data plan). When you’re not online, your mobile VPN client application will save your network connections to ensure you stay logged in wherever you go. Most importantly, using a VPN ensures that your personal data is always protected, regardless of where you are or what device you’re using (e.g. smartphone, tablet, notebook, etc.).

Although there are many different types of VPNs to choose from, the two most popular types are:

• VPNs powered by the OpenVPN protocol
• L2TP/IPsec-based VPNs

Each type has its perks and quirks, so it’s important to do a little research before choosing the one that suits your needs best. OpenVPN is probably the most popular and most well-known VPN protocol, and it’s been around for ages. What is OpenVPN? OpenVPN is an open-source software application that provides users with the ability to securely connect to a remote VPN server. The goal of OpenVPN is to provide users with a secure, private, and free connection to the internet, which is why it’s usually included in free VPNs. Additionally, OpenVPN is extremely flexible and can be used to create secure connections with many different types of devices including Windows, macOS, and Linux computers, as well as Android, iOS, and Windows Phone mobile devices. Finally, OpenVPN provides users with a strong sense of security and privacy, which is why it’s usually included in free VPNs or those that are offered by well-known VPN companies like CyberGhost, NordVPN, and Private Internet Access (PIA).

As mentioned above, L2TP/IPsec is another type of VPN protocol and it provides users with the ability to create encrypted connections between two or more devices or computers. What is L2TP/IPsec? L2TP/IPsec is the networking protocol that is used by IPsec tunnels, which can themselves become VPNs if you have multiple IPsec tunnels between two or more devices or computers. For example, if you have an office network, you could create an encrypted connection (using an IKEv2 handshake) between your PC (internet-facing) and your phone (local area network) to provide you with secure access to your network resources from anywhere. IPsec stands for Internet Protocol Security, and it was designed to provide a secure and private way to exchange data over unsecured public networks (e.g. the internet) as well as private networks (e.g. local area networks). If you’re interested in learning more, here’s an in-depth look at IPsec and how it works:

IPsec Overview

The basics of VPNs and the differences between the two most popular types are covered above. However, if you want to learn more, here’s a brief tutorial that will introduce you to IPsec.

First off, let’s discuss the various types of VPNs. There are two types of VPNs used by internet users:

• Server-based VPNs
• Client VPNs

A server-based VPN is connected to a single internet router or server, which is the core of the network. All of the other devices or computers on the network share the same internet connection as the server, and they can securely connect to the server to access resources like the internet or a company’s network. If you’re using a mobile VPN on iOS or Android, then you’re most likely using a server-based VPN.

A client VPN is a type of VPN that is connected to the internet through a dedicated VPN client or application that is stored on a device (e.g. mobile phone) and that is used to establish and maintain connections to a server. When you use a client VPN, your device becomes your own personal VPN server, which allows you to securely connect to a remote VPN server when you’re online via your mobile device. You can use a dedicated client VPN application or you can utilize the one that is pre-installed on your smartphone or tablet. Remember, when you’re using a client VPN, all of the devices that are connected to the VPN server must have the client installed and be configured to connect to it. Additionally, if you’re still using Wi-Fi to connect to the internet on your mobile device, then you’re most likely using a client VPN.

Using a VPN With Your Mobile Device

Once you have your VPN server set up, all you need to do to use it with your mobile device is authenticate yourself with your username and password when you first setup your device. You can also choose to set a pin to keep your password safe. You may need to create an account with your VPN provider, but this is easy enough and requires few details.

VPNs operate on a binary system, which means they either work or they don’t work. If they work, then they provide security; if they don’t work, then they’re useless. Thus, you either need to use a VPN or you don’t. The binary nature of VPNs makes them easy to use as all you need to do is enable the VPN server software/protocol on your device and you’re good to go. When you use a VPN, your personal data is always protected, and this protection extends to all of your mobile devices, whether you’re on WiFi or LTE. Plus, since your mobile internet connection is not tied to your device, you can always switch networks if you encounter poor connection speeds or intermittent connectivity, which is useful if you’re on the move or changing locations frequently.

The Downsides Of Using A VPN

There are however, some disadvantages to using a VPN. First, if you’re using a free VPN service, then you’re bound to encounter problems connecting to some servers (especially if you live in a small town or rural area). In order to use a free VPN service, you have to ensure that your computer, smartphone, or other internet-connected device is currently able to connect to the internet, otherwise you won’t be able to use the service. Additionally, if you decide that you no longer want to use a VPN after connecting to one, then you’ll have to delete the connection or settings, which can be a challenge if you forget. Another disadvantage is that, since your internet connection is protected by the VPN, you can’t always ensure that you’re not downloading any malware or unwanted software.

Recommendations

Overall, using a VPN is a great way to protect your personal data while surfing the internet or using apps like Reddit, Twitter, and Tinder, especially if you’re concerned about your privacy. If you decide to use a VPN, then make sure to keep your personal data safe by taking the time to read reputable VPN reviews, ask friends for advice, and educate yourself on the topic. Remember, no matter what, when using the internet, you’re always at risk of being surveilled by hackers, data miners, identity thieves, and snoops, all of whom want to steal your personal data.