A paid VPN is a subscription service

A VPN is something you usually pay for either monthly or for an entire year all at once.

If you decide to pay for a longer period like six months or a year, you'll often get a price break or discount. Opting for a longer subscription period can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the service, especially if you find a VPN that you like and trust.

Before committing to a long-term plan, make sure to read reviews and possibly try out a shorter subscription or free trial to ensure it meets your needs for speed, security, and features.

What a paid VPN costs

The cost of a VPN can vary, but you'll typically pay around $12 per month or $99 for a full year, depending on the brand you select.

Certain pricier VPNs offer additional features like antivirus protection as part of the package. Before choosing a VPN, consider what extra features you may need and whether they justify the added cost.

It's also a good idea to compare different subscription plans from various providers to find the best deal. Keep in mind that some VPNs may offer special promotions or discounts, especially for longer-term subscriptions, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.

Make sure your ISP allows VPNs

Using a VPN is legal in Australia, but be aware that some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) might not be too fond of them. They may even want you to use their own VPN service instead of one from a different company.

Don't expect your ISP to help you with setting up or using your VPN; they usually won't offer technical support for that.

Before you commit to a VPN subscription, it's a good idea to check with your ISP to see if they allow the use of your chosen VPN on their network. Some ISPs might limit or block VPN usage.

eSafety Tip

When picking a paid VPN, make sure to do your homework to find the one that best suits your needs.

Carefully read the details on the VPN provider's website, particularly focusing on whether you can get your money back or end the service early if you opt for a one-year subscription. Also, consider looking at reviews from other users to gauge the VPN's performance, reliability, and customer service.

Sometimes the VPN might offer a trial period, so take advantage of that to test out its features before committing to a long-term plan.

It's all about finding a balance between cost, features, and the level of security the VPN offers to ensure it aligns with your specific needs.

Paid VPNs don't log your internet use

A major benefit of a paid VPN is what's known as a "no-logging guarantee." This means the VPN pledges not to keep track of the websites you visit or sell that information to anyone else, especially not to advertisers. 

This feature is particularly important for those who are concerned about privacy and don't want their browsing habits to be monitored or sold.

However, it's always a good idea to read the privacy policy carefully to understand the extent of this no-logging guarantee, as terms can vary between providers.

Having a no-logging policy is a strong indicator of a VPN's commitment to privacy, but doing your own due diligence is crucial for your peace of mind.

Paid VPNs are the most private

Opting for a paid VPN service means you should get access to all the features that VPNs offer, like shielding your online activities from both your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and advertisers who want to follow what you do online.

Keep in mind, however, that your ISP can still detect that you're using a VPN. So it's crucial not to engage in any illegal activities while you're connected to the VPN.

Being cautious and abiding by the law while using a VPN is important for maintaining a good relationship with your ISP and avoiding potential legal issues. 

Paid VPNs include apps for all devices

Simple free VPNs usually work on just one gadget, like your computer. But a paid VPN often has applications for multiple devices, including not just your computer, but also tablets and smartphones.

Some paid VPNs can even be set up on smart TVs that are compatible, and a few offer specific apps for your home router. A router is what distributes your home's internet to other devices.

Setting up a VPN on a router can be a bit complicated, so you might need to get help from a professional or family member. Don't expect assistance from your Internet Service Provider for installing a VPN on your router.

Setting up your VPN is easy

The upside of paid VPNs is that they're generally straightforward to install and use. First, you download the VPN application from the official app store on your device and then go through the installation process.

After it's installed, you open the app and log in using your VPN account information. To start using the VPN, you'll typically click a button that says "Connect" or resembles an on-off switch.

It's usually a quick and hassle-free process, designed to be user-friendly. Once connected, your internet traffic will go through the VPN, offering you more privacy and security as you browse the web. 

eSafety Tip

Keep in mind that a VPN isn't foolproof and won't give you complete privacy. While it does make it more difficult for your Internet Service Provider and advertisers to track your online actions, law enforcement and other government bodies can still monitor your online activities.

A VPN also doesn't act as antivirus software or guard against certain harmful programs. It's a good idea to use additional antivirus protection on your devices, even when you're connected to a VPN.

Being cautious is key; you can still accidentally click on a dangerous link or have your password stolen while using a VPN. So it's important to continue practicing safe online habits.

WELL DONE!

This wraps up the module on "Paid VPNs and What They Offer". You've learned about the key features and potential costs associated with using a paid VPN service.

Up next, you can delve into ways to enhance your online safety, even when using a VPN, in the module titled "Protecting Your Privacy Online."

We'll cover additional measures and practices that can complement the use of a VPN, helping you maintain a more secure online presence. It's all part of building a comprehensive approach to safeguarding your privacy and security on the internet.