Boost your phone’s security with a VPN

This updated article (originally published August 4, 2018) explains how a Virtual Private Network (VPN) enhances your phone's online security and privacy. A VPN routes your internet traffic through its servers, masking your browsing activity from potential snoopers on public Wi-Fi or your ISP. While it might slightly reduce browsing speed, the enhanced security and ability to access geo-restricted content outweigh this minor drawback. Note that the VPN provider itself can still monitor your activity, so choosing a reputable provider with a strong privacy policy is crucial.

Choosing a VPN App

Look for VPNs offering high speeds, robust encryption, and a strict no-logs policy. Paid services are generally recommended over free options due to their better performance and reliability. The following VPNs have proven fast and reliable in testing:

• NordVPN
• ExpressVPN
• TorGuard
• AirVPN
• IPVanish
• Private Internet Access

However, always check independent reviews from trusted sources (like PCMag, The Wirecutter, TrustPilot, and Safety Detectives) before subscribing to any VPN provider.

Setting Up Your VPN

Most mobile VPN apps offer user-friendly setups. We'll illustrate using ExpressVPN (Android) and NordVPN (iOS) as examples. Both apps run seamlessly in the background, minimally impacting phone functionality. They typically connect you to the nearest server for optimal speed, but you can easily change your virtual location to another country. Remember that distance from the server impacts connection speed. Once activated, the VPN will encrypt all your internet traffic, except for non-data-consuming apps like SMS and calling.

Setting up ExpressVPN on Android

Subscribe to ExpressVPN via its website (easier for payment setup). Download the Android app, sign in, and grant necessary permissions. Tap the power button to enable VPN protection (it turns green when active). Android will usually display a key symbol in the status bar when connected. ExpressVPN automatically selects a nearby server, but you can change this via the three-dot menu on the "Current location" bar, choosing from the "All locations" tab. Switching servers temporarily interrupts your connection. App settings allow for auto-connect on restart and protocol selection.

Setting up NordVPN on iOS

Subscribe to NordVPN online. Install and open the iOS app, sign in, and authorize the VPN profile. Tap "Quick Connect" for automatic connection to a nearby server (indicated on the app map and by a VPN badge in the status bar). To select a different server, swipe up to access the country list. Tap a country to connect to a recommended server or use the three dots for a full server list. You can save favorite servers using the heart icon. Speciality servers (like P2P) are available under the "Speciality Servers" menu. NordVPN typically restarts automatically on reboot (password required). Disconnect via the app to disable VPN protection.

Remember to always prioritize your online safety and privacy. A VPN is a powerful tool to achieve this, but careful selection and proper setup are essential.

The above is the detailed content of Boost your phone’s security with a VPN. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!