Tual Private Networks, or VPNs for short, are a handy tool for businesses and other entities that require enhanced networking services. VPNs have a number of distinct benefits, such as securely giving users access to company data from remote locations or tying in multiple networks into one structure. Another added benefit of a virtual private network is that it can significantly reduce your overhead. If you manage a business where there is a need for employees to gain access to the company network from remote connections, a VPN could be a useful tool. It is as simple as configuring the network to allow remote access and then installing a remote client on the computer of the individual who will be connecting to the VPN. The individual will connect to the company VPN server through any ISP. After establishing a connection, the remote client can access the company systems through the virtual private network server as easily and securely as if he or she was sitting at work. Before VPNs found widespread use, many companies used leased lines for remote access. This resulted in a significantly higher cost. In private use, VPNs have the advantage of providing anonymous surfing on the internet. The VPN hides your computer’s true IP address. Your IP is usually tracked and traced by other websites, sometimes with malicious intent. With a virtual private network, those websites will instead be tracking the VPN's IP and country of origin. When traveling abroad, you may find your web browsing restricted by the local government and laws of the land. China, for example, has strict laws in place for restricting which websites can be visited by its citizens. A VPN allows a user to surf the web free from local restrictions. Wi-Fi hotspots are available everywhere from your local grocery store to the coffee shop across the street to your favorite bar. While the convenience is great, it is also very dangerous. Hackers are also lurking at these locations more and more nowadays. These hackers can often intercept usernames and passwords on these unsecure connections. Using a VPN will protect both you and your interests from all of these criminals. Using a VPN service will also help you protect your web surfing activity from the many marketing companies that collect and then sell this information. It gives you the freedom to choose what information you share and what information you do not share.