(EMAILWIRE.COM, February 10, 2012 ) Maryport, UK -- There are loads of tools which can be used by people who are working abroad to help them to be more productive. One of the most useful that can be used is a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
But what exactly is this and how can it be used?
How Does a VPN Work?
A VPN is a network which allows users based in different locations to access a central network in a secure manner after they are authenticated. Data is secured through encryption, and the user can work from their computer as if they were present at the central network.
It works through a provider routing the internet connection through its servers, which are often based in another country. Users might be offered the choice of servers in the UK or the USA, and different providers will have different options.
This then creates a private ‘tunnel’ over the internet which means that users are anonymous in a way that is more advanced than a web proxy.
Why Bother Using One?
There are many reasons why people may want to set up a VPN if they live abroad. These include:
Working with Others
The main benefit of a VPN for most foreign workers is that it can be set up to enable them to work with other employees back in the office in their home country, or with their clients.
This secure network makes it very easy, and often cheaper, to work with other people from anywhere. It is also simple for their clients to use and they can benefit from having their data protected.
Foreign IP Address
One of the main reasons to use an expat VPN whilst living or working abroad is to make use of an IP address which appears to be in the country of the userÂ’s choice.
Nowadays many websites will restrict access to foreign IP addresses, whether the user is shopping, watching TV catchup services or carrying out home banking.
By making it appear that they are using an IP from their home country, they will still be able to access these websites (BBC iPlayer is a popular one), which can make life a lot easier whilst living overseas.
Anonymity
Another useful thing about IP addresses is that no one can track the user by their IP address. Sometimes when an activity is performed online, the userÂ’s IP address will show up and this can show where they are located.
If for any reason a user does not want people to know their IP address then a VPN can provide them with a level of anonymity.
How to Create a VPN
There are many VPNs to choose from. Users may find that it is a good idea to choose one which is focused primarily on their home country, such as Expat Shield for people in the UK. Others such as Pure VPN, Strong VPN and Witopia are just a few which might suit their needs, as well as another popular one, IBVPN.
Invest in a VPN
A VPN can be a very useful tool for anyone who is living and working from another country. It does not have to be very expensive – indeed sometimes it can be very affordable – and with the benefits on offer people living overseas might well find that it is worth their while to invest in one.
About liveworkabroad.com:
Live Work Abroad is a website dedicated to helping anyone with an ambition to move abroad to work. It includes tips, advice, news and information on all aspects of moving and living overseas. It also regularly provides details of various tools to use whilst working abroad, and answers questions such as ‘How does a VPN work?’
