Does your office internet connection have strict restrictions? If not, lucky for you. But not all companies are like yours, in fact, some established companies and organizations insist on regulated internet connections mainly to minimize the possibility of a cyber-attack. However, it’s not all impossible to bypass these restrictions and the best way to go around it is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). What it does is it enables any users to access a secure connection from one network to another on the Internet. Generally, the use of a VPN can protect your browsing activity from your network administrator and browse anything on the internet anonymously. Besides, VPN minimizes the chances of anyone spying on your network connection.
Not convinced? The use of a VPN can grant you access to region-restricted websites. That means you can start streaming your favourite Netflix U.S. even you’re a million miles away. Though most operating systems have integrated VPN support, what more interesting is you can start taking precautions by protecting yourself from snooping on untrustworthy public Wi-Fi. Aside from that, you can also gain some anonymity online by hiding your true location. You can even sign-in to another side of the world!
What Are The Different Types of VPNs?
Believe us, there are plenty of VPNs available nowadays than you expected. Unlike the traditional VPNs that require two endpoints, now VPNs tend to be more sophisticated. That said, these VPNs are highly dependent on the type of operating systems and the kind of software it will be used for. Nevertheless, in most organizations or individual people, budget is one of the factors to consider. Here are common VPN services that you might want to consider.
Remote Client
A common form of VPN found is typically powered by a remote client. That said, a remote user must install the required VPN client and set to configure the VPN gateway on the local network. In the case where a user required to connect to an office VPN, he/she needs to connect to a standalone network in the office to transmit secured data from one to another.
Site-to-site
On contrary to a remote client VPN, site-to-site VPN utilizes a WAN-style network connection to allow users to gain access to an encrypted network with remote connectivity directed through two correspond VPN servers. That’s with the condition where end-user must be connected to a secured local network be in sync with the VPN gateway. But what stood out most for site-to-site VPN is its users can easily skip the hassle of setting up or configuring a VPN client. As for the main difference here is the VPN server acts as a server to support all clients and as an endpoint to the remote VPN server. That said, only this type of VPN would require a VPN implementation.
Client-to-provider
In order for a client-to-provider VPN function well, a user will need to have a VPN client installed and configured to connect the remote VPN provider’s servers. How it works is when the VPN is connected to the provider’s virtual tunnel, the data will be unencapsulated and then send to the internet. Similar to all the other VPN, client-to-provider VPN’s main difference is it only co-exist in the first part of the connect but not all the way towards the end destination.
What are the Types of VPN Clients?
Standalone VPN Clients
Standalone VPN is the most common VPN for home and small businesses. Normally, these clients required an additional installation of software from one end to another. In order for standalone VPN function properly, the endpoint must run a VPN client to connect the other endpoint.
Router VPN Clients
Router enabled VPN is the idea to protect several devices connected to the router. This kind of VPN is a bit costly since you need a dedicated router for your VPN. otherwise, some routers have the built-in capability of handling VPNs at a lower cost. Therefore, in the network administrators, the router can enable VPN is a convenient way of protecting every device connected to the network.
Browser Extension VPN
For an individual that wants to sneak out and bypass the restriction policy, you’ll need a VPN. In other words, a browser extension VPN that works as a browser add-on or plugin. One of the most used VPN enabled browsers is ExpressVPN due to its flexibility to function on different browsers including Google Chrome, Firefox, and Internet Explorer. However, the downside of this plugin is that your data will be protected once you use the browser but other apps will not. Above all, if you want to use this kind of VPN, it’s recommended for you to use a more reputable brand of VPN.
A good tool to have your VPN is the key! Let’s examine one of the brands of VPN that is ExpressVPN!
What is ExpressVPN Features?
ExpressVPN is one of the reputable brands in the market today. Here are some tips on why ExpressVPN is a preferred choice.
-
One of the largest providers of VPN services for over 10 years.
-
It can support several platforms, for instance, the Linux, Windows, Mac, Routers, and different browsers.
-
Have support on 94 countries and counting with 3000+ servers covering 160 VPN servers
-
It provides a reliable and fast connection that offers uncensored access to sites and services worldwide.
-
Also, the cities of Lisbon, London, Zagreb, Toronto, Hongkong, Singapore Perth, Japan, and the Philippines. They have 24/7 customer service support and have globally distributed technical teams.
ExpressVPN Pricing: The Cost & Subscription Plans
ExpressVPN offers multiple plans for you to choose from. Plus a special deal to a very affordable price! Choose a plan that suits your budget and needs.
| Type of Subscription Plan | Price / Plan | More Details |
|---|---|---|
|
1 Month Subscription Plan
|
$12.95/month
|
Enjoy a 30-days money-back guarantee.
|
|
6 Month Subscription Plan
|
$9.99/month
|
Saving up to 30% off and enjoy a 30-days money-back guarantee.
|
|
12 Month Subscription Plan + 3 Months Free
|
$6.67/month
|
Saving up to 50% off with an extra FREE for 3 month period
|
Generally, ExpressVPN offers a generous saving with the condition whereby the longer you’ve subscribed to the plan, the more you’ll save. All payments are accepted by credit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin, and other existing Payment walls.
*Note: All of the pricing listed above are correct as of the article’s published date. We do not hold any responsibility for price change in the future.
ExpressVPN: How it Works?
In order to use ExpressVPN, it’s pretty straightforward and hassle-free to set up on your devices. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide on how to use ExpressVPN.
- Sign-up for ExpressVPN.
- Once you’re done, select your preferred setup methods — Automated App setup or Manual setup. If you want to skip the hassle and customization, the ‘App setup’ should do the job fast, secure and easy. As for the ‘Manual setup,’ it is preferably for users who already have the basic technical knowledge on VPN configuration.
- After signing up, navigate through your email if you received a Welcome email after signing up for your account. Click the link to continue with the setup.
- ExpressVPN supports the different platforms and operating systems, you can visit their site to download the installer corresponding to your devices. Support on the different platforms and setup includes Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, Routers, Chromebook, Browser extension, Windows Phone, Streaming media setup, Network-attached Storage(NAS), BlackBerry, DDNS, Smart TV and so many other devices to support with. Also, you can download the application specific to your device.
- You need an activation code for your specific device. An activation code can be found.
- After downloading, run and install ExpressVPN installer to your device. Further details, follow the instructions given during installation. Successful installation will be indicated along the way. Congratulations, you can now use ExpressVPN on your device!
What are the Benefits Express VPN offers and the others Don’t?
1. Additional Security Layer to keep your Identify and Network Safe
A VPN is here to provide network security by encrypting your data, but what ExpressVPN features that none other has is its unique kill switch (Network Lock.) What it does is it acts as a secondary security measure to terminate all of the data traffic to and from your device. Should there be a breach or a server drop, your information stays exactly where it is. This is a security measure that only ExpressVPN offers to ensure no data and IP addresses were leaked.
If you’re unsure if it works, try to download a file. While it’s downloading, switch off the VPN and you’ll be notified with a message stating an error with your download was blocked. Alternatively, you can also run a DNS Leak Test to test out the reliability of ExpressVPN on its Network Lock system. All you need to do is to make sure the VPN server you’re connected to your connection is a match.
2. Enjoy Strictly no Logging in Policy on ExpressVPN
One of the primary reasons you’re using a VPN is to protect your data. On ExpressVPN, you don’t have to worry about having your data being collected during your internet sessions. That means, your information such as IP address, URL, activities all are encrypted and it’ll not be shared with any platforms or services you’ve used. One thing for sure is ExpressVPN promise to deliver tip-top security that no one has with customized VPN apps and servers.
3. The Speed is Outstanding
Although it’s arguable that ExpressVPN might lose out to his competitors regarding the number of servers across the world, it’s still a good number to sustain the demand. One thing for sure its internet speed is stable and quick. That said, you’re able to stream a 4K movie or video with ExpressVPN regardless if you’re connected to a server in New York or South Africa.
4. Sustainable amount of Servers across the Nation
ExpressVPN servers boast around 148 cities across 94 countries. That spread across America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa with distinctive protocols. That said, if your server’s down, these servers are able to support one another. So, let’s the server you’re connected encounter system failure, there are plenty of alternatives
Although ExpressVPN offers a choice of 7 different security protocols, not every single server on their network supports all of them. Thankfully, their large number of servers means that even if you encounter one which won’t support a protocol you want, you will likely be able to find a nearby alternative.
5. Simultaneous Connection on Multiple Devices
With every subscription to ExpressVPN, you can connect up to 3 devices and stream simultaneously. Besides, ExpressVPN promises that these simultaneous streams will not affect internet speed. So, you don’t have to worry about the lags.
6. ExpressVPN accepts Bitcoin as Payment
Wondered when you’ll be able to actually use Bitcoin to purchase something? ExpressVPN is one of the first VPN services that accept Bitcoin for its service. So, let’s say you have some spare Bitcoins, you can put it to good use on ExpressVPN.
The Takeaway
We know it’s annoying to not be able to access any of the sites that you prefer. Hence, VPNs are here to save the day. Regardless of the reasons to need a VPN, this in-depth review of ExpressVPN should give you an overall insight to help you make a better buying decision. If you ever made your decision, here’s how to install a VPN and to make the most out of it.
