A VPN, or virtual private network, provides increased security when you use the internet and connect to your accounts.

When you use unfamiliar networks—in airports, hotels, or cafes, for example—you open yourself up to people seeing and potentially stealing your data. This risk is especially high if you visit web addresses using "HTTP" and not "HTTPS."  Additionally, your IP address, which is a unique number that identifies your computer, is public information and reveals where you are in the world.

A VPN creates a closed, private network. When you connect with a VPN, your online activity is hidden from the internet provider you're using and the websites you visit. All activity looks like it's coming from the VPN server and not your IP address. A VPN is like a secret tunnel on the internet between your device and the VPN server. No one on the outside of the tunnel can see who you are or what you're doing.

When should I use Hotspot Shield's VPN?

Access to Hotspot Shield's VPN comes with Dashlane Premium and the admin account of Friends & Family plans. The VPN does not come with the Dashlane Free or Starter plans or free trials of Dashlane Premium.

We recommend you use the VPN feature whenever you feel you need an extra layer of privacy.

We also recommend you always connect to the VPN when using WiFi in public places, such as cafes and airports or on any open network that's unfamiliar. Hotspot Shield's VPN is a simple way to protect your online traffic from prying eyes.

Remember, you need to choose when to connect to and disconnect from the VPN.

Set up an account for Hotspot Shield's VPN
VPN Product Privacy Notice

More about remote network security on our blog