VPN
VPN is short for Virtual Private Network.
A VPN encrypts (scrambles) your internet traffic from your device before it leaves your computer and it keeps it encrypted while in transit through your internet provider's network. For example, if you use Mediacom's internet service and if you were to use a VPN, Mediacom would not be able to view your internet activity. They would ultimately see that you are visiting one site.
Although your internet activity is hidden from your ISP (in this example, Mediacom), your internet activity can be seen from the VPN service that you use. Recently, ISPs in some states are able to sell your internet activity, however if you use a VPN to prevent this, your VPN could sell your internet activity as well. It is up to who you trust more with your internet activity.
Pros:
- When using unfamiliar and potentially unsafe networks, it prevents the ISP from viewing your internet activity
Cons:
- VPNs do not provide anonymity
- Not all VPNs are good
- VPNs do not offer privacy from web sites that collect data about you.