Understanding VPNs and How African Users Can Access It
In the age of increased online privacy and security concerns, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for safeguarding online activity. Like many other regions, Africa faces numerous cybersecurity challenges, making VPNs particularly crucial for internet users in the continent.
A VPN: What is it?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that establishes a secure and encrypted connection between a user’s device and the Internet. Acting as a mediator between the Internet and the device, a VPN safeguards the privacy and security of the user’s online activity.
How Virtual Private Networks Operate
When users connect to the Internet through a virtual private network (VPN), their data is encrypted, which helps to prevent unauthorised access to sensitive information. The VPN server acts as a mediator and conceals the user’s IP address, providing an extra layer of anonymity. This process is particularly important in countries where internet censorship and surveillance are prevalent. Click here to learn more.
Advantages for Users
1. Getting Around Censorship
African countries may restrict specific websites or online content like many other regions of the world. VPN services allow users to bypass online restrictions and access content from around the world by hiding their IP addresses. However, users must use their prudence in accessing the restricted content.
2. Safe Use of Public Wi-Fi
Virtual private networks (VPNs) protect users against security threats on public Wi-Fi networks by encrypting data in transit, preventing data theft and unauthorised access.
3. Improved Secrecy
VPNs offer improved privacy to internet users worried about their online activities being tracked. VPNs significantly reduce the difficulty of ISPs and other entities tracking and analysing user behaviour by encrypting internet traffic.
4. Content Access with Geo-restrictions
There may be regional restrictions on some streaming services and online services. With the help of VPNs, users in Kenya can virtually move to a different area and access content that might not be available where they are.
Things VPN Users Should Know
Although VPNs have many benefits, users should be cautious and take the following into account:
1. Consequences for Law
Users should be aware of laws surrounding the usage of VPNs in their countries. For example, although it is legal to use a VPN in Kenya, users should be aware that using a VPN to carry out illegal activities is still unlawful and subject to legal consequences.
2. Selecting a Trusted VPN Service Provider
VPN services are not made equally. Customers ought to pick a trustworthy VPN service that values privacy, adheres to a rigorous no-logs policy, and provides robust encryption.
3. Speeds of the Internet
Because of the encryption process, using a VPN may cause your internet speed to decrease slightly. Users should carefully choose VPN servers to reduce any adverse effects on their browsing experience.
To sum up, VPNs are now valuable resources for internet users who want to improve their online security and privacy. By comprehending the advantages and factors related to VPN utilisation, people can make knowledgeable choices to safeguard themselves in the digital domain.
VPN Subscription Price in Kenya
| VPN Provider | Monthly Price (KES) | Annual Price (KES) |
| ExpressVPN | 2,399 | 15,588 |
| CyberGhost VPN | 1,399 | 8,394 |
| NordVPN | 2,099 | 12,594 |
| Surfshark | 1,199 | 7,194 |
| PIA | 1,599 | 9,594 |
| IPVanish | 2,399 | 14,394 |
| ProtonVPN | 1,799 | 10,794 |
