Wildcats Tech

What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is like an invisible tunnel for your internet traffic. It encrypts your data and masks your real location, making it appear as if you're browsing from somewhere else.

How VPNs Protect You:

• Encryption: Scrambles your data so hackers can't read it
• IP Masking: Hides your real IP address behind the VPN server's IP
• Location Spoofing: Makes websites think you're in a different city or country
• Privacy: Prevents your ISP and websites from tracking your browsing habits

Interactive VPN Simulator

Toggle the VPN on and off to see how it changes your visible IP address and location. Select different VPN server locations to see how it works!

How VPN Encryption Works

When you connect to a VPN, your data goes through several security steps:

1. Encryption: Your data is scrambled using complex algorithms (like AES-256)
2. Tunneling: The encrypted data travels through a secure "tunnel" to the VPN server
3. IP Substitution: The VPN server replaces your IP address with its own
4. Forwarding: The VPN server sends your request to the website
5. Return Journey: Data comes back through the same encrypted tunnel to you

When Should You Use a VPN?

• Public WiFi: Coffee shops, airports, hotels - always use a VPN on public networks
• Privacy Concerns: When you don't want websites tracking your real location
• Accessing Content: Some services are only available in certain regions
• Security: Extra protection when handling sensitive information

Note: While VPNs protect your privacy, they're not a license to do anything illegal. Always follow the law and your school's acceptable use policies!