In this logic, a VPN infrastructure opting for RAM storage rather than traditional hard disks offers an additional layer of security since the content of the VPN servers is automatically erased each time the equipment is restarted. In any case, to benefit from a flawless confidentiality, the provider must apply and respect a zero-log policy by which the VPN commits to not recording any sensitive data on its users. This is notably the case of Panama or the British Virgin Islands. On the other hand, some territories considered as data havens are very strict concerning the protection of personal data and the respect of anonymity on the Internet. Clearly, it is better to avoid subscribing to a VPN provider located in the United States. One thinks, for example, of the member states of the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances.

Indeed, some countries apply laws that hinder online freedom and the right to privacy on the Internet. the jurisdiction on which its rights, duties and activities depend. The first thing to consider before choosing one service over another is the country of domicile of the VPN, i.e. Conversely, residents of a country can bypass the geographical filters of streaming platforms such as Netflix to access films, TV series and documentaries otherwise unavailable in their region. This allows, for example, expatriate or travelling internet users to unlock content exclusive to their country from abroad. This is an essential feature that allows the opposition to actively fight against the disinformation put in place by totalitarian regimes, while minimising the risk of suspicious arrests and disappearances of politicians, activists, journalists and human rights defenders.įinally, installed on macOS, a VPN facilitates access to content from streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO), television (Canal+, France TV, BBC) or gaming (PS Now, Xbox Game Pass). In addition to enhancing Internet security and privacy, most VPNs offer the ability to bypass state-sponsored cyber-censorship in authoritarian countries such as China, Iran and Russia. By extension, it becomes very difficult for advertisers and other data brokers to track and profile Internet users for targeted advertising. Using a VPN on Apple operating systems therefore allows Mac users to hide the details of their online activities from their ISP and hackers (encrypted tunnel), but also to keep their identity secret from the web platforms they are visiting (substitute IP address).

The secure connection passes through a VPN server, which decrypts the secure data packets, assigns a new IP address to the user (that of the VPN server in question) and sends the request back to the web servers being queried. In detail, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts traffic and routes it from the device to the public Internet via a tunnel, also encrypted, isolated from the rest of the standard HTTPS traffic.

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