Learn about the latest VPN developments and uses in one article

🌐 Want to know what a VPN is? Let us explain it all!

You may have heard friends or YouTubers say things like, " VPNs are great ," "VPNs can let you watch foreign dramas on Netflix," and "VPNs can access blocked websites." But what exactly are VPNs? Are they safe? And why should Hong Kongers use them?
The editor will help you break down the principles, uses, and pitfalls behind VPNs from the basics to the in-depth details. After reading this, you will know whether you need to use one or not.

1️⃣ What is VPN? A Simple Explanation

The full name of VPN is Virtual Private Network, which is called virtual private network in Chinese .
In simple terms, it’s an encrypted network tunnel that allows you to:

  • Safely transmit data (preventing others from reading it)
  • Hide your real IP address (others can't easily know where you are)
  • Pretend you are in another country (e.g. pretend you are in the US, UK)

📌I'd liken a VPN to a "secret tunnel" through which all your online data is transmitted, making it difficult for anyone passing through (such as hackers, network providers, and even Wi-Fi staff) to peek into your content.

2️⃣ How VPNs Work

  1. You connect to a VPN server (e.g. one in the US)
  2. All your Internet requests (such as opening Facebook, watching videos) will be encrypted by VPN before being sent to the server
  3. The VPN server then helps you connect to the target website
  4. The website will only see the IP of the "US server" and will not directly see your real IP in Hong Kong

🔍Encryption technology : Common protocols include AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, WireGuard, etc., which are relatively secure standards in the industry.

3️⃣ Why do Hong Kong people use VPN?

Based on online discussions and my observations, there are generally several reasons why Hong Kong people use VPNs:

(A) Securing public Wi-Fi

  • When you connect to free Wi-Fi in coffee shops, shopping malls, or airports, it is easy for hackers to intercept your data (such as login passwords and credit card numbers).
  • After using VPN, the data is encrypted and difficult to decipher even if it is intercepted.

(B) Watch movies or subscribe to cheaper services across regions

  • Some content on Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube is only available in certain countries.
  • Certain games or software are cheaper in foreign countries (e.g. Steam, Spotify subscriptions).
  • A VPN allows you to “pretend” to be in another country.

(C) Access to restricted websites or services

  • In some areas (such as mainland China), Facebook, Google, and YouTube cannot be used directly.
  • A VPN can help you bypass regional restrictions.

(D) Protecting online privacy

  • Do not want your ISP to record the websites you visit.
  • Reduce tracking by advertisers.

4. Benefits of VPN

  • Encryption protection : prevent data from being viewed.
  • Hidden Location : Protect personal identity.
  • Break through regional restrictions : watch movies and play games across regions.
  • Prevent Internet surveillance : Increase privacy.

5. VPN Limitations and Risks

I have to be honest, VPN is not a panacea:

  • Your internet speed may decrease because your data will be transferred through the VPN server.
  • Free VPNs are risky : Some free VPNs will record your data, sell ads, or even turn your device into someone else's proxy node.
  • Not 100% anonymous : If the provider logs your activity, you can still be tracked.
  • Some websites block VPNs : For example, Netflix may detect and block some VPN IPs.

📌Editor 's reminder : When choosing a VPN, carefully consider its "No-Log Policy" and whether the company is registered in a country with data protection laws.

6️⃣ How to choose a suitable VPN?

Several key points that are hotly discussed online:

  1. Fast speed (especially for streaming videos and gaming)
  2. Security protocols (e.g., WireGuard, OpenVPN)
  3. No-logging policy (no logging of user activity)
  4. Multiple server locations (convenient for cross-region operation)
  5. Hong Kong server (convenient for connecting back to Hong Kong)
  6. Transparent company background (avoid unknown companies)
  7. Support multiple devices (mobile phone, computer, tablet)

💡 Common and well-known brands (most discussed online as of 2024): NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, ProtonVPN, CyberGhost.

7️⃣ Editor’s personal advice

  • If you only occasionally use public Wi-Fi when out and about, a free VPN or your phone's built-in VPN function may be sufficient, but don't use it to transmit sensitive information.
  • If you need to watch videos across regions and protect your privacy for a long time, a paid VPN will be more stable and secure.
  • Try to choose a brand that has a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can cancel if you’re not satisfied after trying it.

8️⃣ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is VPN legal in Hong Kong?
A: Yes, it is currently legal to use VPN in Hong Kong, but using it for illegal activities (such as fraud, hacking) will still violate the law.

Q: Does a VPN make my phone or computer more secure?
A: It can protect data during transmission, but it cannot prevent you from downloading viruses or visiting phishing websites, so antivirus software is still needed.

Q: Does VPN have to be turned on all the time?
A: It depends on the usage. If you seek the highest privacy, you can keep it on all the time, but be mindful of the battery life and internet speed.

💡 Editor's Summary

A VPN is like an "invisibility cloak + bulletproof glass" when you surf the Internet. It protects you from outside prying eyes while allowing you to freely travel between different online worlds.
However, it is not a panacea. Choosing a suitable and trustworthy VPN provider is the key to using it with peace of mind.

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