A VPN is a private network that creates a protected channel so data can travel more securely over the internet. It’s like an intermediary that adds a layer of protection while browsing—especially when you use public Wi-Fi or shared connections.

That’s why its use has grown in recent years across privacy, remote-work environments, and digital security. So whether you’re looking to protect personal or professional information, keep reading and you’ll find what you need to know about a VPN.

VPN: What it is, how it works, types, and examples

What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology designed to create a secure connection between your device and the internet. Its main function is to encrypt communication while you browse, preventing information from being readable by third parties as it travels across the network.

When you use a VPN, your real IP address is hidden from third parties because it’s replaced by the server’s IP you connect to. This helps protect your digital identity and reduce tracking of your online activity.

In other words, your data is better protected—even when you connect from public or shared networks.

What is a VPN network?

A VPN network is the private environment that forms when a VPN is established over the internet. This means that even though you connect as usual, your device communicates through a more private space.

The VPN network prioritizes security and privacy on the internet when data flows through it—unlike a public network, where information may be exposed.

For that reason, both companies and everyday users rely on VPN networks for a more secure and private browsing experience.

What is a VPN connection and how does it work?

A VPN connection is the secure session that is activated between your device and a VPN server when you connect to the service.

Here’s how a VPN connection works:

1. Your device initiates a connection with a VPN server via a VPN app or through the operating system’s built-in settings.

2. The service verifies the connection and negotiates data encryption (keys are created) for protection.

3. From there, your traffic is encapsulated and travels through a protected tunnel to make it difficult for third parties to read or intercept.

4. The VPN server communicates with the internet and returns the response to your device through the same protected tunnel.

This way, your browsing is better safeguarded and your real location is less exposed.

What is a VPN used for?

A VPN helps you browse the internet with a lower risk of exposing your information—especially when you use shared networks or work remotely.

Therefore, you can use a virtual private network to:

• Protect data on public Wi-Fi. Security on public networks like cafés, airports, or hotels isn’t always reliable. With a VPN, you better protect your information during the connection.

• Improve online privacy, since the VPN hides your real IP address and replaces it with the server’s IP you connect to.

• Securely access corporate systems, including internal files, servers, and remote work tools.

• Remote work, to connect from outside the office with a more secure and private connection.

• Protect personal information, such as passwords and sensitive data when you sign in, complete online procedures, or interact with digital health services.

Data encryption from a VPN doesn’t make you invisible, but it helps reduce common risks and keep your traffic more protected.

Types of VPN

Today you can find different types of VPNs, all aimed at creating a protected environment through data encryption. However, they’re classified by who they’re for and what kind of access they allow:

• Personal or commercial VPN (individual use). Designed for any individual who subscribes to a provider to browse with more privacy and protection day-to-day.

• Enterprise VPN (corporate environments). Allows teams and employees to access internal resources in a controlled, secure way.

• Site-to-site VPN. Connects two or more networks (e.g., branches or office + cloud) so they communicate as if they were a single network, but using encrypted connections.

• Remote-access VPN. Allows an authorized user (e.g., an employee) to enter the organization’s network from an external location as if they were connected from inside.

In short, the type of VPN you use will depend on the context and how you need to access the network.

Advantages and disadvantages of using a VPN

A virtual private network brings greater privacy and security online, but it’s also important to consider certain points:

Advantages

• Greater privacy. Helps make your browsing less trackable and keeps your real IP less exposed.

• Data security. Adds an extra layer when you transmit sensitive information—for example, when signing in.

• Security on public networks. Lets you browse on shared Wi-Fi with an extra level of protection.

• Encrypted connection. Data encryption raises the level of protection for traffic—valuable if you work in digital environments with sensitive information.

Disadvantages

• It can reduce speed. Encryption and rerouting of traffic can make browsing slower.

• Restrictions on free VPNs. Some VPNs limit data, servers, or performance, and they don’t always offer the same reliability.

• No guaranteed total anonymity. While it helps with privacy, if you sign into your accounts, use AI tools, or share personal data, your activity remains identifiable.

So before turning it on, consider both pros and cons to make a realistic decision.

Is it legal to use a VPN?

Generally speaking, using a VPN in Mexico is legal, as there’s no specific prohibition on installing or using one.

What matters most is how you use it, because the technology doesn’t make an illegal activity legal. In other words, if you turn it on to commit fraud, hacking, or other banned activities, the responsibility remains the same.

Everyday examples of using a VPN

Today, a VPN isn’t only for tech experts or extreme security cases. It’s also useful in common situations when you need more privacy and protection while connecting to the internet.

You can use it to:

• Connect to a coworking space’s Wi-Fi while reviewing personal information.

• Work outside the office with a more secure connection.

• Access shared folders to upload or download work files.

• Shop at U.S. stores from Mexico.

• Check accounts or make online payments from a public network.

• Sign a transaction on a blockchain service from a shared network.

The idea is to add a practical layer of security and privacy at times when your data tends to be more exposed.

Conclusion

A VPN is a practical tool to reinforce your digital security. Its main value is protecting the connection through encryption and helping reduce common risks in everyday internet use.

It’s not a magic solution, but it lets you browse with greater peace of mind—especially when you use shared networks, handle sensitive information, or work online every day.

Simply put, a VPN protects your information online—just as DolarApp does with every transaction you make, whether you send, receive, or convert your USDc/EURc from the app.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a VPN in one sentence?

A VPN is a security technology that protects your internet connection and strengthens online privacy. It’s a basic digital security measure useful for everyday internet use.

What is a VPN network?

A VPN network is a private environment created over the internet that allows authorized devices to communicate in a protected way. It’s as if they were inside the same closed network, even if they’re in different locations.

What is a VPN connection?

A VPN connection is the protected link established between a device and a VPN server. In this way, data traffic travels securely before communicating with the internet.

What is a VPN used for?

A VPN is used mainly to protect your connection when using external networks—but also to access work platforms and carry out online activities with an additional level of security.

Is it safe to use a VPN?

Using a VPN is safe if you choose a trustworthy provider and configure it correctly. However, you should continue applying other security measures—for example, strong passwords or additional authentication.

Sources:

Mexico Report

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