Does a VPN Protect You Against a Computer Virus?

0
2444

Does a VPN Protect You Against A Computer Virus? VPNs have become widespread these days, and the number of VPN users has risen dramatically, especially after the tittle-tattle on net neutrality. Still, not many of people know what a VPN does and how it can shield you (and where it can’t). There appears to be a misunderstanding that VPN also protects you against viruses and other numerous threats online. To that end, let’s learn more about VPN and see how it keeps you safe online.(also see, Computer Virus Guide: Who Creates Computer Viruses and Why?)

Get 72% off NordVPN (drops the price down to $3.29 per month)
(Discount is applied automatically)

Does a VPN Protect You Against a Computer Virus?

What’s A VPN?

A VPN is utilized to create a secure “tunnel” through which internet data travels from your computer to the internet server you’re trying to reach. Since hackers and other spiteful entities are unable to enter this tunnel, your data stays safe. They fail to read it or intercept it. So, whatever you do online cannot be read even by your ISP, the government, or hackers.(also check out, 5 Most Secure VPN Services 2018)

Anti-virus Program

Antivirus software programs have been on the market for quite a long. Most people who use computers have some antivirus on it. It’s a software that works to detect a virus on your system and push it. It also lets you know if the page you are accessing is safe or afflicted with malware. Antivirus programs come with automatic updates to make sure they can block new viruses.

Getting A VPN Shield

While a VPN encrypts your internet data traffic, if you click on a shady download link and it installs malware on your device, your VPN won’t be able to do anything about it. In fact, some hackers might install spyware or virus on your device in the form of a free VPN lure. You might be enticed to download a free VPN client to stay safe online and download a virus instead. Whenever you use VPN, be sure you buy it from a trusted source.

No Anti-Virus?

If you don’t have an antivirus program but use a VPN, there is a possibility that hackers might see what you’re exploring online. For instance, if you click on an apparently innocent link that has a malicious code planted behind it, you might install spyware on your device. Now since if you utilize VPN, your online activities will be protected from hackers. But the spyware installed on your computer will log all your keystrokes, screenshots, and mouse clicks and send them to the person who created the spyware.

Is VPN Enough?

The bottom-line is that you require both VPN and an anti-virus program to be safe online. Both tools go hand in hand when it comes to shielding your online security and privacy. However, each software has its own features and works otherwise. VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your Internet data traffic, but it doesn’t protect you against malicious software, ransomware, viruses, and trojans. You need an active antivirus program to shield you from these different hazards while surfing the web.

So basically VPN and antivirus software complement each other rather than replace one another.

Conclusion -Does a VPN Protect You Against a Computer Virus?

To stay utterly safe from Trojans, viruses, and hackers, you should use a good antivirus program with VPN. While a VPN will keep you safe from spies, the antivirus will keep you protected against viruses and other malware. Make sure you install a trusted VPN with good reviews.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.