Most VPN's were originally used to help remote users securely connect to a main office. But now, WiFi has a growing number of VPN (virtual private network) use cases.
For instance, the new Webroot WiFi Security offers VPN protection across Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac and iOS, and Google Android devices, the company says. The VPN service, according to Webroot:
- Automatically connects to the best server available so users don't have to guess and choose;
- can be set to automatically activate when a user connects to an unsecured network like at a retail location or restaurant;
- has an optional 'kill switch' feature, which blocks all Internet traffic unless Webroot WiFi Security is in use;
- leverages Webroot BrightCloud Threat Intelligence to prevent consumers from visiting risky pages known to serve malware or steal information like usernames and passwords; and
- has 24x7 customer support.
The company provided a simple primer in a blog post on why consumers should use a VPN. Example use cases include security services to protect WiFi users as they connect to the Internet while traveling at hotels, coffee shops and retail locations.
Anytime you are on a public network, you need to be careful about what kind of data you are transmitting. You never know if there is someone on that network specifically looking to perform attacks. Having a VPN is a potential way to help keep your data secure.
