Do I need a VPN at home? A detailed look at an essential privacy tool

Yes, you definitely need a VPN at home; it’s one of the simplest and most efficient ways to protect yourself online. But what is a VPN and how does it work?

A VPN encrypts your data and redirects it through a secure VPN server. You can browse online and act as you normally would, but outside observers won't be able to see what you're doing or track your location.

With data privacy increasingly threatened by government authorities, tech giants, and hackers, this is the perfect time to start using a VPN on your home network.

What happens if you don't use a VPN? First and foremost, you’re risking your privacy and security. You can be hacked, your online activities monitored, and certain services denied. A VPN enhances your digital security and provides you with an encrypted shield.

VPNs encrypt your entire connection. Encryption protects you against snoopers, third-party advertisers, and cybercriminals.

When your VPN is on, your browsing data is encrypted, sent to a secure VPN server, and decrypted, before being passed on to its original destination. The same process occurs when information is sent back to you. Even if a hacker intercepted your data along the way, all they'd see would be a jumble of indecipherable code.

Since even your ISP won't be able to monitor you, you don’t need to worry about your browsing habits being logged and sold off to advertisers. It’s a simple and effective way to maintain your privacy.

Using a VPN at home is as important as having an antivirus installed — its vital protection. The primary purpose of a VPN is security and privacy, but they're actually really versatile. Here are some other ways you can use a VPN at home:

1. Protect yourself against cybercrime

In 2021, more than half of your most valuable possessions probably exist digitally. For cybercriminals, your identity and financial details are gold dust. One of the best ways to protect yourself is with a VPN.

When you use a VPN, you make it much harder for attackers to access your private information. Even if they target your device with router hacks or MITM attacks, they won’t be able to decrypt your data.

2. Get past firewalls and network restrictions

VPNs can help you circumvent firewalls imposed by governments and institutions like universities. To restrict your online movements, these organizations need to see said movements in real time. Using a VPN can mask your activities, letting you slip through the firewalls.

Some VPNs suffer connection losses, which could momentarily expose your activity. That’s why NordVPN comes with the in-built Kill Switch. This feature automatically cuts your internet connection if your data isn’t fully protected and only reconnects once your VPN is active again.

3. Maintain personal privacy

Everyone has a right to privacy, both in the real world and online. But there’s no shortage of people and corporations who’d like to get a look at your browsing activity. In fact, many ISPs are legally allowed to sell your data to corporations, advertisers, research bodies, and government agencies.

A VPN gives you back control of your internet privacy. When you switch it on, even your ISP won’t be able to track you. If you're already asking yourself “should I get a VPN?” The answer is probably yes. Especially if you’re tired of intrusive snoopers, the selling of your data, and constant online ads.

4. VPNs can make digital sharing more secure

When you share files with someone, you don’t want a stranger spying on the transfer. Poor quality home VPNs don’t offer effective P2P file sharing, but premium services like NordVPN do. With powerful encryption protocols and a strict zero-logs policy, your uploads and downloads will be safe from prying eyes.

5. Protect your devices

A VPN can protect your camera and other devices. An unprotected camera is a treasure trove for a particularly cruel cybercriminal. Other devices, like IoT baby monitors, doorbells, or appliances, can also remain vulnerable if you browse unprotected. Set up your VPN directly on your router to protect every device in your home.

For all of the reasons we've mentioned here, we strongly recommend using a VPN, both at home and elsewhere. With just a few clicks, you can supercharge your online security and protect your data.

Phones are just as tempting to hackers as computers and are sometimes more likely to be the target of Wi-Fi snooping. And if you use the Wi-Fi auto-connect function on your iPhone, you should be particularly careful when you’re outside your home.

Public Wi-Fi is a hunting ground for hackers, as it often has no security and leaves user information vulnerable. If you lose your mobile coverage, your mobile devices may auto-connect to the nearest public Wi-Fi, putting you at risk. That’s why NordVPN offers easy-to-use mobile apps for a wide range of operating systems.

Criminals often steal valuable data by targeting the devices of employees within a corporation. Whether you’re running a business or working for a larger company, a VPN can be invaluable.

The threats are only getting worse. As remote working spreads, cybercriminals are taking advantage of unsecured home routers and devices. If you’re one of the many people using one device for both leisure and work activities, a VPN is a great way to add that extra layer of security.

your personal information is at risk

Without a VPN everything you do online can be monitored and tracked by intrusive snoopers like your ISP and other third-parties. Your sensitive information could then be sold to third-parties like advertisers, authorities, and government agencies.

Cybercriminals could spy on you

Secondly, your home Wi-Fi is also at a greater risk of being attacked by cybercriminals. Not having a VPN on your home router, lets a hacker see all of the devices connected to your network and the traffic coming from those devices. Cybercriminals can spy on that traffic, blackmail you, steal your files, and cause a whole lot of avoidable mayhem.

Your whereabouts could be tracked

Thirdly, without a VPN your IP address is exposed. Your IP address, and the IP addresses of all the devices connected to your home Wi-Fi can be stolen by cybercriminals to track your location, right down to the street level, if they wanted to.

So, is a VPN necessary? Not using a VPN is pretty risky in this day and age, so consider using a VPN to protect your safety and the privacy of your family. We've created a checklist of vital things to look out for so you get the best deal.

It’s important to choose a VPN with no data caps, so you can get the fastest download and sharing speeds. A zero-logs policy and high-grade encryption are essential too. Otherwise, the very people promising to secure your data might end up leaking it.

Another thing to consider is the devices and platforms a VPN can be used on. You can use NordVPN on up to six devices simultaneously across every major platform. You can also download the NordVPN app for desktop, iOS, and Android. It features a one-click connect button that secures you and your device in seconds.

You can check out these NordVPN reviews to hear from our customers, and learn about their VPN experiences.

If you’re ready to take internet privacy to the next level, you can get started in just three simple steps:

1. Set up a NordVPN account.
2. Download the app for each of your devices. NordVPN works on all major operating systems and is even available for Android TV. Plus, you can get it as an extension for your Chrome and Firefox browsers.
3. Open the app, log in, and click Quick Connect.

And that’s it! You can even set NordVPN to launch and connect automatically whenever you go online. It will secure your connection without you giving it a second thought. Protecting your privacy online is more important than ever — and it’s never been easier. If you’ve ever wondered “Why do I need a VPN at home?” or questioned whether it’s worth the money, hopefully now you understand the benefits it offers.