Windows 10 VPN & HTTPS

[Hermitkrab]

I generally use a VPN when on the Internet. I'm wondering if I'm logged on to a secure site (HTTPS), does using a VPN provide any extra security, or is it not necessary at all?
Thank you.

 

[Neemobeer]

They both do essentially the same thing. A VPN just masks the true destination in addition to encrypting the traffic. Most sites are going to https only so there's no way to not use it unless the destination site doesn't support it. It's also important to note a VPN only encrypts traffic to the VPN provider and then connects http or https to the destination site.

 

[Hermitkrab]

Thanks, Neemobeer. You always supply a good answer.

 

[samK]

A VPN lets you increase the security of your web session, transmitted data, financial transactions and personal information online, no matter where you are. ... Internet service providers may invade your privacy by selling data about your online habits to advertisers

 

[Hermitkrab]

Any increase in security is a desirable thing in today's cyber world, so I think I'll just continue with the VPN. It hasn't really affected anything negatively, as far as I can see.

 

[Neemobeer]

As far as security is concerned HTTPS and a VPN do the same thing. That is provide an end-to-end encrypted session. The only added benefits of a VPN are that all protocols go over the VPN are encrypted and owner and other users of the same access point (if you're on a public network) can not see any of your traffic safe for that you are connecting to your VPN provider (DNS, IP destination). This adds a measure of privacy assuming you can trust the VPN operator.

 

[Hermitkrab]

Thanks again. I'm getting a clearer understanding now. For a number of years I've been using Tunnelbear VPN (paid), and seemed to work fine I'm trying Proton VPN (free) now, just to check it out.