Does a VPN Protect You Against A Computer Virus?

Does a VPN Protect You Against A Computer Virus? VPNs have become popular these days and the number of users has increased dramatically, especially after the talk on net neutrality. However, not a lot of people know what a VPN does and how it can protect you (and where it can’t). There seems to be a misconception that VPN also shields you against viruses and other various threats online. To Let’s learn more about VPN and see how it keeps you safe online.

Does a VPN Protect You Against a Computer Virus?

Virtual Private Network

A VPN is used to create a safe “tunnel” through which data travels from your computer to the web server you’re trying to access. Since hackers and other malicious entities cannot enter this tunnel, your data stays protected. They cannot read it or intercept it. So whatever you do on the internet cannot be read by your ISP, the government, or hackers.

Antivirus Program

Antivirus software solutions have been on the market for long. Most people who use computers have some sort of antivirus on it. It’s a software that’s used to find out a virus on your system and remove it. It also lets you know if the page you’re opening is safe or ridden with malware. Antivirus programs come with automatic updates to make sure they are able to block new viruses. Take a look at our favorite antivirus programs here.

Using a VPN

While a VPN encrypts your traffic, if you click on a suspicious download link and it installs a malware on your system, your VPN will not be able to do anything about it. In fact, some hackers might install virus or spyware on your computer in the form of a free VPN bait. You might be tempted to download a free VPN client to stay safe online and download a virus instead. Whenever you use VPN, make sure you buy it from a trusted source.

No Antivirus?

If you don’t have an antivirus but use a VPN, there is a chance that hackers might be able to see what you’re searching online. For example, if you click on a seemingly innocent link that has a malicious code hidden behind it, you might install spyware on your system. Now since if you use VPN, your online activities will be hidden from hackers. But the spyware installed on your computer will record all your keystrokes, screenshots, and mouse clicks and send them to the person who generated the spyware.

So Is VPN Enough?

The bottom line is that you need both VPN and an anti-virus program to stay safe online. Both tools go hand in hand when it comes to protecting your online security and privacy. However, each tool has its own features and works differently. VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your Internet traffic but it doesn’t shield you against malicious software, ransomware, viruses, and trojans. You need a reliable antivirus program to shield you against these various hazards while surfing the web.

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

How to Stay Safe

To stay completely 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.