Should You Use a VPN to Protect Your Information?

Should You Use a VPN to Protect Your Information?

Connecting to the internet from public hotspots is commonplace. Cafes, libraries, shopping malls, and even hospitals all have public Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi hotspots that allow us to stay connected. However, these hotspots are open to abuse, and it doesn't take much for an experienced hacker to use them to access your data. A VPN helps stop hackers and scammers in their tracks, and you don't need to have completed numerous computing courses to learn how to use one.

A VPN or Virtual Private Network hides your connection and therefore, your data when you connect to public Wi-Fi. It creates a secure tunnel through which your data can travel, making it almost impossible for anyone to see where you are and what you are doing or viewing. This means you can complete applications for computer science courses, send in course work, or hold meetings without fear of being hacked. In many places, VPNs are vital for circumnavigating state censorship and allowing freedom of speech.

VPNs can be installed on numerous devices including mobile phones, laptops and tablets. Running a VPN before using a public hotspot makes online transactions much safer, including internet banking and paying bills. However, some websites can detect VPN usage and won't work with them switched on, Netflix is one such example (although the best VPNs work continuously to find ways around the blocks).

It's not just when you are out and about in Manchester and the North West either, if you travel aboard a VPN helps you safely keep up with news and events at home. If you have shared student accommodation with shared Wi-Fi, it makes that more secure as well. Your computer science engineering coursework might not seem like something worth stealing, but other information you regularly pass over an internet connection may be useful to someone. It is essential to find the right VPN for your needs, take advantage of free trials and read customer reviews. If you are interested in finding out more about how VPNs work, take a closer look at the computing courses available at the University of Bolton.

Why Study Computing at the University of Bolton?

The University of Bolton offers a wide range of computer science courses and was voted No.1 for Teaching Quality in 2020.* Here we focus on the individual student's needs and create a caring and positive teaching environment. Our students always come first and get to experience #UniAsItShouldBe with our dedicated team.

Get in Touch

Search our computer science engineering courses and find your computing niche in a caring and supportive environment. Find out more about our BSc Computer Science degree and other computing courses by getting in touch today. For support with living in and around Greater Manchester, funding, finance, disability support or wellbeing contact our award-winning student services team.

For more information about enrolling head to the computing courses page, call us on +44(0)1204 900 600 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk.

*The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020