New to VPNs? Everything you need to know about virtual private networks in 2026

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ZDNET's key takeaways

• A VPN can vastly improve your online privacy and security, and offers other benefits.
• VPNs are accessible, inexpensive, and compatible with most platforms.
• Find out what they are, how to use them, and how to get the most out of your VPN.

Despite pushback from governments worldwide, more and more of us are turning to virtual private network (VPN) services to improve our online privacy. 

VPNs can seem complicated at first glance, but VPN providers have worked hard to make their software user-friendly, easy to understand, and compatible across all major platforms and operating systems. It's now easier than ever to use one day to day. 

Also: The best VPNs for speed, security, and online privacy

If you're interested in what a VPN can offer you and how to use one effectively, our starter guide to VPNs will help you on your journey. 

What is a VPN?

A VPN is software, available as desktop and PC software packages and mobile apps, that provides users with access to a network of servers. 

Using strong encryption protocols, this server network routes traffic, such as your request to visit a web page, through a server relay that masks your identifying digital signature -- your IP address. 

Also: How VPNs are helping people evade increased censorship - and much more

For example, my IP address shows I am located in the UK. I connect my VPN, choose a server in the US, and then suddenly, I appear to be from New York. 

My VPN encrypts communication and traffic from my device to an online service, hiding my location and making it more difficult for me to be tracked. 

Standard VPN features and advantages

• Encryption: VPNs use a variety of encryption protocols, including AES-256, ChaCha20, and RSA. Some have gone further and begun implementing post-quantum encryption. 
• IP address masking: If your VPN is working properly, your original IP address will be masked by the IP address assigned when you connect and travel through the VPN server network. You can check by visiting WhatismyIP.com.
• Server network: VPN providers own or rent servers, creating a network that their users can access. These servers, whether physical or virtual, provide IP addresses in multiple cities and countries. 
• Simultaneous connections: Most VPNs will allow you to connect more than one device to their network at the same time. 
• Platform support: VPNs typically support multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
• User privacy: Any reputable VPN provider upholds a no-logs policy -- they do not collect, store, or sell user data. They may need to collect some metadata for operational reasons, but there should be no logs of what a user is doing, when, or where. 
• DNS leak protection: A reliable VPN will not leak your requests, and a DNS leak test proves it. You can run your own test here. 

Disadvantages of a VPN

• Slower speeds: As a VPN creates an encrypted tunnel and relays your traffic through its own network, some speed loss is unavoidable. I've spent years testing VPNs and found that speed loss tends to settle in the 10%-35% range, which you'll notice more when your starting broadband speeds are low. If you're using fiber, you might not even realize the loss. 
• Page errors: Sometimes, online services will detect that you are using a VPN and will block your access -- and this happens, too, with CAPTCHA barriers. If you encounter this problem, switching your server should resolve it. 
• Long-term subscriptions: If you want the full benefits of a VPN, you'll need to pay for it. However, the best deals are always found in long-term contracts, typically one or two years. It's an investment, but one you should still strongly consider. 

What devices and platforms are VPNs compatible with?

In recent years, VPN use has expanded across all popular operating systems and platforms. You can use VPNs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. On mobile, iOS and Android are typically supported. 

Regarding browsers, expect support for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and, occasionally, other browsers such as Vivaldi. When a browser is supported by a VPN, you will need to download its accompanying extension. 

Many VPNs also offer native apps for Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, routers, and gaming consoles. 

Support varies from VPN to VPN, so check your requirements and the provider's compatibility before you sign up. 

Best VPNs for: Windows | Macs | Linux | iPhone | Android | Smart TVsStreaming | Travel 

How do I install a VPN?

The VPN installation process varies depending on your operating system and the VPN provider.

On Windows and macOS, you would usually visit the VPN's official website, sign up for an account, and, if necessary, pay for a subscription. Installers are often available for Linux, too. You will then be given a key to license your software. Download it, install the VPN, grant it the permissions it requests during installation, and sign in. You then select your server, and you're done. 

Also: The best VPN extensions for Chrome 

You can also explore various settings and make changes as you wish. 

If you only want to use a VPN in a browser, visit the VPN's official website and download its extension. 

What are simultaneous connections?

When you sign up for a VPN service or browse customer and expert reviews, you'll come across the term "simultaneous connections." This phrase refers to how many devices can connect to and use the VPN server network at the same time, and under one account. 

For example, if you want to use your VPN on your desktop PC, iPhone, and TV simultaneously, you'll need three simultaneous connections. The majority of VPN providers will give you at least six connections with a basic, paid account, whereas you'll typically only have one connection with free plans. 

VPN server networks, explained

VPN providers operate sprawling server networks for users to choose from, ranging from fast, local servers in the provider's city or country to far-flung servers thousands of miles away. You can let your VPN select a server for you based on speed, load, and latency, or pick your own if you want a specific IP address.

Your VPN provider may also offer specialized servers. 

Specialized servers, as shown in the screenshot below, are perfect if you want to perform a specific task while using a VPN, including gaming, torrenting (P2P), or improving your privacy even further by multi-hopping your VPN connection -- aka, Double VPN -- which involves routing traffic through two or more servers instead of one.

Should I use a VPN at all times?

If you're not online, there's no need. But if you are always connected, yes. If you're using the internet, a VPN can give you peace of mind and some extra security. 

As so many VPNs are set-and-forget nowadays, it's worth leaving one on in the background. Whether you are using a laptop or a mobile device, neither takes much power and shouldn't be a distraction. 

Also: The best VPN routers: Expert tested and reviewed

There are occasions you might need to temporarily turn off a VPN. Perhaps you're gaming and can't afford speed loss, or you need the best connection possible during a work video call. Just remember to switch it back on afterward. VPNs such as Surfshark and NordVPN offer pause functions that restore your internet connection to its original state for a set period. 

What's a kill switch?

A kill switch, usually enabled by default, is a feature every VPN should have -- and if it doesn't, don't use the service.

A VPN's core protection stems from the encrypted tunnel it forges between your device and an online service. If your internet connection suddenly drops, this tunnel breaks. A kill switch activates, blocking all internet traffic until your connection stabilizes and your VPN tunnel can be recreated.

Also: Is spyware hiding on your phone? How to find out and remove it - fast

Without it, your information is exposed, including your activities and IP address.

You can enable or disable kill switches in your VPN's settings panel. However, I recommend that you always leave this feature turned on.

Can VPNs help me avoid age verification checks?

Yes, but not always. 

Age verification processes are being imposed online by governments worldwide. While the main reason given is to protect children from adult content, these checks have spread beyond pornography websites to everything from Discord to gaming consoles. 

Also: Discord's new age ID rules are driving users away - here's where they're headed

It's frustrating, especially when you don't want to hand over your personal data or facial scans to an unknown, untrusted third party for verification. As a result, many of us have turned to VPNs to bypass them. 

If you have a VPN on your desktop or mobile device and set it to a country that doesn't require an age verification pass, this should work. At least until lawmakers try to ban VPNs next. 

How much do VPNs cost?

There are some free VPNs, but I recommend opting for a paid subscription to enjoy the full benefits of a VPN. You will typically pay between $2 and $4 per month for a decent VPN -- but this is based on an annual (or longer) commitment, so you'll likely need to pay it upfront, plus tax. 

VPN contract terms are normally one or two years, but sometimes you can find options for as little as six months or up to three years. 

Also: The best proxy server services: Expert tested and reviewed

There's always a one-month service plan, but it costs around $15, and if you forget to cancel it, you're out of luck. I would ignore these, as it makes more sense to sign up for a longer plan and then take advantage of a VPN service's money-back guarantee, which is usually 30 days to 45 days. Just ensure you cancel your plan before your time runs out. 

If you need a specialized VPN, you will likely have to pay more. For example, VPNs that work in countries with high levels of surveillance and control -- such as China -- will likely cost you at least $10 per month. 

Can I use a free VPN?

You can use a free VPN, but take care where you get a free VPN account. Don't download the first 'free VPN' app that appears on Google or in app stores, as there are countless fake VPN apps out there that actually monitor your activity and steal your information. 

Instead, check out our guide on the only trustworthy free VPNs that we can recommend. My current favorite free VPNs are Proton VPN and Windscribe, as they are supported by paying subscribers and will not collect or sell your data, nor will they bombard you with ads. 

Also: The best free VPNs: Expert tested and reviewed

If you'd prefer to try out a free VPN first,  keep in mind that these services are always limited in some way, whether by how many devices you can register, the speeds you can expect, or how many servers you can access. 

What are the best VPNs on the market?

The right VPN for you depends on your intended use: Do you need more than one connection? What is your budget? Is speed or security your top priority? To help you decide, check out our guide on the best VPNs of 2026 -- all of which I've personally tested and reviewed.

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