Should I use a VPN?

Ultrarunner22 · Dec 19, 2022

Hello;
I am running Windows 11 Pro (latest build) on my PC and use Firefox (latest build) for all of my Internet activity, which has always been limited to legit sites.
However, with all the talk about VPN's, I'm thinking maybe it's time to start using one - especially for banking and shopping.
Is there a VPN that is best for Firefox? I read somewhere that Opera browser includes a VPN, but I would rather stick with Firefox, as I have been using it for many years and am comfortable with it.

Any recommendations?
Thanks
Ultrarunner

z3r010 · Dec 19, 2022

Do you trust some random VPN company more than your ISP?

Are you using banking etc on public wifi?

glasskuter · Dec 19, 2022

I totally agree with @z3r010. It's up to each individual to decide what they need in terms of security and privacy. Personally, I do not use one myself as I have nothing to hide in regard to what sites I visit. I use a well known password manager, visit only HTTPS sites, and use uBlock origin add-on for Firefox to help control ads. See this article that might give you a better insight. Should You Use a VPN? - Consumer Reports

Ultrarunner22 · Dec 19, 2022

Thanks guys;
I only do banking/shopping on my home PC, which is protected with ESET internet security. When I do use my Android phone to access my bank account, I use either my home WiFi or cellular data, but never open/public WiFi.
So I guess a VPN is a good idea for those who use their mobile devices on public WiFi; makes sense.

I had thought about whether or not I should trust a VPN company, as there appear to be an increasing number of them out there. If I do decide to use a VPN, I would go with one that is well known and trusted, not the cheapest option with flashy ads and testimonials.

I've been using Adblock Plus on Firefox for years, and it suits me well, but if there is a better option, I am open to a change.

z3r010 · Dec 19, 2022

Have a look at Cloudflare Warp, it's not a true VPN but it securely tunnels your connection and it's free.

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Fabler2 · Dec 19, 2022

Just for info I sometimes run free Proton VPN. The free version only allows three countries. You'll need to find the fastest servers and it will show the percentage load on them. You could try to test it and always remove if not suitable.

Free VPN with no ads and no speed limits | Proton VPN

Proton VPN’s free plan is the only free VPN service with no data limit, no ads and no logs of user activity. Keep your personal data private and secure.

protonvpn.com

z3r010 · Dec 19, 2022

Fabler2 said:
Just for info I sometimes run free Proton VPN. The free version only allows three countries. You'll need to find the fastest servers and it will show the percentage load on them. You could try to test it and always remove if not suitable.

View attachment 47952

View attachment 47953

Free VPN with no ads and no speed limits | Proton VPN

Proton VPN’s free plan is the only free VPN service with no data limit, no ads and no logs of user activity. Keep your personal data private and secure.

protonvpn.com

That's an absolute spamfest of a server farm they are routing that connection from.

OAT · Dec 19, 2022

Please test your system for vulnerability while browsing with those tools, you will find out that no matter what software you use,
you are never fully protected, just as one cannot put in enough locks on a door.
In the end, it will always be a door.

OAT · Dec 19, 2022

One of those tools will always return your location.
even if you try to spoof it. It does not matter, VPN or not.
Go here, on the pull down, -below the About section-
select one of the two Aggressive options.

Don't be fooled by the hype.
They are all after your money, not your protection.

NavyLCDR · Dec 19, 2022

Ultrarunner22 said:
Thanks guys;
I only do banking/shopping on my home PC, which is protected with ESET internet security. When I do use my Android phone to access my bank account, I use either my home WiFi or cellular data, but never open/public WiFi.
So I guess a VPN is a good idea for those who use their mobile devices on public WiFi; makes sense.

I had thought about whether or not I should trust a VPN company, as there appear to be an increasing number of them out there. If I do decide to use a VPN, I would go with one that is well known and trusted, not the cheapest option with flashy ads and testimonials.

I've been using Adblock Plus on Firefox for years, and it suits me well, but if there is a better option, I am open to a change.

If you want a VPN to use while on public WiFi then get a router with a VPN server built in. Then you VPN directly into your home LAN/Internet connection and you are not sending your internet traffic through some VPN company that may very well be spying on you.

I use my home VPN when camping so that I can access my Xfinity streaming cable TV.

Ultrarunner22 · Dec 20, 2022

NavyLCDR said:
If you want a VPN to use while on public WiFi then get a router with a VPN server built in. Then you VPN directly into your home LAN/Internet connection and you are not sending your internet traffic through some VPN company that may very well be spying on you.

I use my home VPN when camping so that I can access my Xfinity streaming cable TV.

That's an interesting option. Thanks.

Should I use a VPN?

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