The VPN is a system increasingly used by Internet users around the world. It can prevent malware attacks or even phishing. You can block annoying ads. It protects our data when we access it from public Wi-Fi networks (in fact, it completely encrypts all incoming and outgoing traffic between your device and the network, at all times).
However, when it comes to buying a VPN, users can find themselves in a dichotomy: Software vs Hardware VPN. These two alternatives exist on the market and are in addition to the many other aspects to consider when choosing a VPN.
What is VPN software and why do you need it?
VPN software basically allows you to install the VPN program on your device (computer or mobile) so that all the “power” that characterizes the VPN (hiding the IP, encrypting the traffic, etc.) is carried out by a specialized provider (customer).
The VPN software provider manages its own network of servers and maintenance. When downloading and installing a VPN, the secure connection is established through a “VPN tunnel”.
- First section of the tunnel: Traffic from your computer is routed remotely to the VPN client (which has its specialized VPN hardware). There, the client encrypts the connection and redirects it to your ISP.
- Second part of the tunnel: Traffic is routed to a VPN server anywhere in the world (providers may have hundreds of servers in each country). There, the Internet data is decrypted.
The process also occurs in reverse. This image courtesy of Surfshark illustrates it well:
VPN software is ideal if:
- Looking for a quick and cheap solution (remember you can install the VPN on the router at home, with similar benefits to hardware VPN, but cheaper)
- You wish to take advantage of the additional advantages offered by certain providers (VPN for playersVPN waste streamersetc.).
- You want to access specific jurisdictions (thousands of servers around the world, in countries like Turkey, India, Malaysia, etc.).
- You need a secure connection when traveling or away from home (the software can even be installed on mobile devices).
What is VPN hardware and why do you need it?
In this case, it is a hardware device, similar to an Internet router. This hardware or router manages its own mechanisms for encrypting and protecting online traffic.
VPN hardware has its own processor, so it relieves the resource usage of devices connected to it, unlike VPN software. Therefore, in theory, the VPN connection is faster with hardware than with software.
In addition, VPN hardware, by functioning as a router, protects any device that connects to it, without performing additional actions.
A hardware VPN is ideal if:
- You are a business or a company that processes sensitive information. You are looking for highly specialized security protocols that protect all office or employee devices.
- You want a practically “exclusive” service, with more than one VPN tunnel and dedicated IP addresses. Configuration by competent IT experts
- You need a very powerful firewall for your online activities or a very fast VPN connection.
- You are not interested in routing through servers located in other parts of the world (which might be managed by third parties).
VPN hardware or software: which one to choose?
All options are valid. Either way, the resulting connection is 100% secure and private. Therefore, the choice depends on the particular goals of the user.
In general, the equipment is very expensive and requires specialized installation. But, once configured, it allows constant remote access (for use by employees, for example). Moreover, it does not require the connected computers to use their internal processor to encrypt the connection, or to install software. In short, it allows you to browse and use the Internet without any fear. Widely used by business or technology experts.
VPN software, on the other hand, is intended for personal or family use. It’s easy to install, letting you enjoy the benefits of an encrypted connection in minutes. In addition, being a software, the user can manage the tools he wants from an interface installed on his computer. Among its unique hardware features is the ability to connect to servers around the world: this allows you to access content from other jurisdictions or content from your home country while on the go. In addition, VPN software providers often offer additional services desired by Internet users and playerslike double VPN or ad blocking.
