A virtual private network, or VPN, is a way to establish a protected network connection if you're using public networks. It disguises your online identity and encrypts your internet traffic.

How a VPN works is by hiding your IP address via a specially configured remote server, which redirects your network. When you search online via your VPN, this VPN server becomes the main source of your data.

When you use a VPN, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and other third parties have no way of knowing which websites you visit or what data you send or receive. Basically, your VPN filters your data and turns it into nonsense, so even if someone wanted access to your information, they couldn't receive it.

While VPNs are a rather simple tool, they can do a variety of tasks:

Provide access while traveling. If you travel often for business, using a VPN is a smart idea because it gives you access to the office network while on the road. You can then view sensitive business information without the security concerns that would usually come with off-site work.

Hide browser history. If you're using a public Wi-Fi connection, your browsing history on a non-secured website is visible to everyone nearby. Connect to a VPN to hide your browsing history.

Let you view content almost anywhere. You might not be able to use certain streaming sites in other countries, but if you use a VPN located in the United States, you can easily work around the issue.

VPN software protects your information while you use the internet. If you're concerned about your data privacy, VPNs are easy to use, so consider getting one to protect all your online activity.

Sources: Kaspersky.com, Forbes.com, Howtogeek.com