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What is a VPN and how does it work?

The digital world brings countless opportunities—but also some risks, especially when it comes to privacy, security, and online freedom. Today, internet users don’t just want fast browsing—they also want to stay safe and anonymous. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, offers an effective solution for exactly that. But how does a VPN actually work, and why is it becoming increasingly popular?


04.04.2025 | Reading time: 5 minutes

How does a VPN work?


A VPN creates an encrypted connection—often referred to as a tunnel—between your device and a server operated by the VPN provider. From there, your internet traffic is forwarded to the web. As a result, it appears to outsiders as if you're browsing from the VPN server's location, not your actual location.

Encryption and IP masking


The data you send and receive is protected through this encrypted tunnel, making it inaccessible to third parties. At the same time, your IP address is masked, helping to keep your digital identity anonymous. This is especially useful when you're using public Wi-Fi networks or don’t want your internet provider to track your browsing activity.

Full tunnel vs. Split tunnel


With a full tunnel, your entire internet traffic is routed through the VPN. A split tunnel, on the other hand, lets you choose which data goes through the VPN and which data is sent directly to the internet. This saves bandwidth and increases speed but can also create privacy risks.

NAT Traversal and DNS leak protection


Modern VPNs use NAT Traversal to bypass firewalls. They also offer DNS leak protection to ensure your actual DNS requests don’t get exposed. Kill switches add an extra layer of protection by automatically blocking internet access if the VPN connection drops.

Overview of VPN connection types


VPNs can be categorized based on their technical implementation and intended use case. This distinction is important, as the type of VPN directly affects its security, flexibility, and range of applications. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

VPN Type

Description

Technical Details

Use Case

Remote Access VPN

Connects a single device to a private network

Uses IPsec or SSL, requires a VPN client

Remote work, access to corporate networks

Site-to-Site VPN

Connects two networks over the internet

Works with IPsec or MPLS, requires VPN-capable routers

Corporate branch offices

Mobile VPN

Optimized for mobile devices with network switching

Supports IKEv2, IPsec, WireGuard, offers roaming

Working on the go with smartphones or tablets

VPN on Router

Set up directly on the router, protects the entire network

Routes all traffic through the VPN, regardless of device

Home networks, small offices

Cloud VPN

Provided through cloud infrastructure

Scalable, software-based, can integrate with APIs

Cloud-first business strategies

Intranet VPN

Internal VPN for closed networks

No internet access, high protection through segmentation

Government agencies, large enterprises

SSL VPN

Access via web browser to specific applications

No client required, access through HTTPS login

Temporary access for external contractors

What makes a good VPN?

When looking for a VPN service, you’ll quickly see how many options are out there. But how do you know which provider is trustworthy and technically advanced? A good VPN should offer more than anonymous browsing—it should maximize your security, be easy to use, and respect your data. Look for the following features:

  • Strong encryption: AES-256 should be the minimum standard.
  • No logging: A reputable VPN won’t track or store your activity.
  • Transparent privacy policies: Clear statements on what is stored—and what’s not.
  • Fast server connections: Global coverage for high-speed access.
  • Compatibility: Works on all major platforms and devices.
  • Reliable support: Ideally 24/7 with live chat.
  • Regular updates: Active development and security patching.

How secure is a VPN really?


It’s a valid question: can a VPN really deliver on its promises? The answer is: it depends. A VPN can greatly enhance your online security—provided it's set up correctly and comes from a trusted provider.

What does a VPN protect?


A VPN offers several layers of protection, especially useful when using public networks or handling sensitive data:

  • Encrypts your data traffic
  • Anonymizes your IP address
  • Provides secure access to unsecured networks.

What a VPN doesn't protect


A VPN is not a catch-all solution:

  • It won’t protect you from malware or phishing attacks
  • Cookies and browser tracking still work
  • Your online behavior remains a key factor

Benefits of using a VPN


A VPN isn’t just for tech geeks. It offers clear advantages in everyday life:

  • Privacy and security on public networks
  • Access to geo-blocked content
  • Avoid bandwidth throttling by your ISP
  • Anonymous browsing, even on mobile devices

Common use cases

  • Remote Work & Home Office
    Secure access to company data without compromising personal privacy.
  • Public Wi-Fi on the Go
    Complete protection when using unsecured networks at hotels, airports, or cafés.
  • Streaming Content
    Bypass geo-blocking to stream content from abroad.
  • Activism & Freedom of Speech
    Access uncensored information in countries with internet restrictions.

VPN protocols compared

Protocol

Security

Speed

Notes

WireGuard

Very high

Very high

Modern, efficient, open-source

OpenVPN

High

Medium to high

Very popular and flexible

IKEv2/IPSec

High

High

Ideal for mobile devices

L2TP/IPSec

Medium

Medium

Less efficient, outdated

PPTP

Low

High

Outdated, not recommended

VPNs on different devices

VPNs are compatible with:

  • Laptops and desktop PCs (Windows, macOS)
  • Smartphones and tablets (iOS, Android)
  • Smart TVs and streaming boxes
  • Routers, to protect your entire home network

Legal status in Switzerland

In Switzerland, using a VPN is legal. What matters is that you don’t use it to access illegal content or to break the law. Prefer no-log providers based in countries with strong privacy regulations.

VPN vs. Proxy

A proxy only redirects the traffic of a specific application (e.g. a browser). A VPN, on the other hand, encrypts all internet traffic from your device—making it much more secure and comprehensive.

VPNs on smartphones

VPNs for iOS and Android are especially useful when you’re out and about. Most providers offer user-friendly apps that let you activate protection with a single tap.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a VPN legal?

Yes, in Switzerland and most Western countries, it’s completely legal.

Will a VPN slow down my internet?

Depending on the server location and provider, there may be a slight delay.

Can I use it to watch Netflix from other countries?

Yes, as long as the provider supports streaming and offers the right servers.

What is a Kill Switch?

It’s a feature that automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN disconnects, preventing unprotected data leaks.

What’s the difference between VPN and HTTPS?

HTTPS secures the connection to a specific website, while a VPN encrypts all of your device’s traffic.

Do VPNs work everywhere?

In restrictive countries, usage may be limited—top providers offer technologies to bypass censorship.

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