When it comes to cybersecurity, two things will always pop up in our minds: VPNs and Antiviruses.
VPN (Virtual Private Network) can establish a protected network when using public networks. It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your online identity, making it difficult for third parties to track your activities and get your data.
On the other hand, antiviruses are programs that block any malware or viruses that try to infect your laptop or phone.
But do you need either or both? Many probably use both of them, and we’ll discuss here
Our devices also need protection, but which should you get? Let’s differentiate VPNs and Antiviruses.
VPNs and Antiviruses provide a different way to protect the user’s data. Let’s say you’re searching for something on Google and clicking a link. This site can get your information, such as browsing history and even login credentials.
Having a VPN will hide your IP address, so websites will never know where you are. One day you’re in Texas; the next day, you’ll be in Mexico.
On the other hand, when you download a malicious file on the internet, it could corrupt your files and even break your computer’s system. Antivirus software can block any malicious software that can destroy your data.
Have you ever felt that you are being monitored while doing something? This is the reality of using the internet. Internet browsers and websites you visit, monitor and store your internet activity.
If you're concerned about privacy, diving into a Brave vs Chrome comparison or other browsers can help you understand the differences in how these browsers handle user data and provide you with more control over your online privacy
Antivirus won’t be able to help you with this one but using a VPN can. As mentioned, VPNs can hide and disguise your IP address. Since the websites won’t know where you are, you’re safe from hackers.
When it comes to speed, there are two things: internet connection speed and the machine’s speed. VPNs can affect the speed of your internet connection, especially the free versions. If you see a free VPN claiming that it has the same features as its premium counterparts, that’s most likely untrue.
This is similar to antivirus software. Some antivirus software might be too heavy for your device. This will slow down your computer or phone. It can also affect the speed because when checking for malicious software in real-time, most antivirus software needs an internet connection.
Both offer free and paid versions. In fact, some of them only offer the program for free. However, they offer two different things.
Free antivirus software provides limited protection. Some features aren’t accessible for the paid ones. For example, the virus type it could detect. The beauty of this is that most devices already come with free antivirus software.
Free VPNs have more hidden dangers and risks than advantages. They are less stable and secure than premium versions. This will allow your internet speed to suffer and your data not to be protected.
Both cybersecurity tools have advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most significant ones.
Our devices and data are very important to our lives and businesses. For instance, we use the computer to manage our businesses, and a lot of the information is stored on the device. Although we can save them on cloud servers, it’s still much more efficient to have them on your computers for easy access. Besides, securing confidential business information is critical to the business itself.
When it comes to security, there are two factors you need to consider: device level and network level. What’s the difference between the two?
Device-level security is security on the device itself against viruses and malware. Antiviruses have the primary responsibility for keeping devices free from any virus infections.
Unfortunately, any computer or phone can be infected. For example, if you plug an infected external hard disk into your computer, your device or data can be broken in an instant. Some of them gather data, such as passwords and keystrokes.
One way to mitigate this risk is through the implementation of AI-powered security measures within the artificial intelligence infrastructure, allowing for real-time monitoring and detection of potential threats, helping programmers and antiviruses to protect data and prevent the spread of malware.
After the devices, another factor is the invisible threat or the network-level threat. This is the level where data traveling between your computer and the network affects your system.
Imagine yourself connecting to a public free wi-fi. It’s free, but it’s one of the most dangerous places when it comes to cybercrimes. Cybercriminals can access your network, get your data, and, worse, do fraudulent activities.
There are even instances where users visit any site without knowing the repercussions. For instance, the site gathers data, including keystrokes detection. This allows cyberattackers to access your data and use it for their benefit.
As previously mentioned, both antivirus software and VPNs should be utilized to safeguard devices and data. Antivirus provides protection against malware and other types of viruses, ensuring that the information is secure and cannot be accessed without consent.
Additionally, VPNs safeguard the identity of the users while browsing the internet, eliminating any concerns about personal information being compromised.
Together, these two cybersecurity tools are essential for maintaining the security of any device and protecting all, including device, data, and identity. It is crucial to take these measures when utilizing technology on a regular basis.
