In this post, we will reveal Adware signs and effects. Plus, how to remove them from your web browsers.
Adware is malicious software (malware) that prompts up ads on computer screens – usually while surfing the net.
However, there is more to this program than malware. And this article brings you a concise review, showing the signs, effects, common examples, and how to remove adware.
Want to learn more about this malicious program? Read on!
Table of Contents
What Is Adware?
Adware is the shortened form of “advertising malware”; it’s designed to hijack the navigability of web browsers – throwing up unwanted adverts and redirecting web searches to advert pages.
The program is widely known in the cyber world as a modern-day PUP – Potentially Unwanted Program.
Typically, the unwanted pop-ups that suddenly appear on your screen while surfing the net are mainly associated with adware,. However these pop-ups are some times standard components of a website.
Furthermore, this program is slightly different from other forms of malware in that it does little or no harm to the host computer or inherent files.
Nonetheless, some adware are notorious for information theft. This category of adware is similar to “trojan spyware”, which is highly notorious for data theft and cyber-espionage.
Essentially, adware is used by advertising agencies, albeit illegally, to gather information about potential clients/customers or promote a particular product.
As pointed out earlier, “advertising malware” is not like other forms of malware. Usually, an adware invasion provides less cause for worry, compared to the invasion of spyware or Trojans.
In most cases (if not all), this program does not impede the smooth-running of infected computers, except, of course, the nuisance created by the pop-up ads, as well as the web redirects.
Similarly, a typical adware reveals itself to the victim. And most times, it requests permission (usually in disguise) before accessing privileged information.
However, its revelation is in its effects – the pop-up ads, as there is usually zero indication or traceable record of adware installation on your device.
Adware lurks in various corners of the digital world, waiting to infiltrate your devices and bombard you with unwanted ads.
Here are some of the most common sources to be aware of:
1. Freeware and Shareware
While free software can be tempting, it often comes bundled with adware. During installation, some programs might sneakily install adware alongside themselves, often hidden within the fine print of agreements you might skip reading.
2. Infected Websites
Clicking on malicious links or visiting compromised websites can expose your device to adware. These websites might contain hidden scripts or exploit vulnerabilities to inject adware onto your device.
3. Malicious Email Attachments
Opening infected attachments in emails, especially from unknown senders, can be a gateway for adware. These attachments might disguise themselves as legitimate documents but actually contain adware hidden within.
4. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) File Sharing
Sharing files through P2P networks can be risky. Downloaded files, especially from unreliable sources, might be laced with adware waiting to be unleashed on your device.
5. Fake Software Updates
Phishing tactics can be used to trick users into installing fake software updates that are actually adware in disguise. Always verify the legitimacy of updates before installing them.
6. Mobile Apps
Even app stores, although typically safer, can harbor malicious apps containing adware. Be cautious when downloading apps, read reviews, and only download from reputable sources.
7. Deceptive Ads
Clicking on pop-up ads that promise freebies or claim to detect “viruses” on your device can lead to adware infection. Always exercise caution when interacting with online advertisements.
By recognizing these potential threats and practicing safe browsing habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of encountering adware and protect yourself from its intrusive and potentially harmful effects.
Adware can be a nuisance, but don’t panic! Here’s a comprehensive guide on removing it from your device:
1. Scan with your Antivirus
Most antivirus software offers adware protection alongside virus protection. Run a full system scan to detect and remove any adware it might find.
2. Check Browser Extensions
Open your browser settings and review the list of installed extensions. Look for any unfamiliar or suspicious entries, especially those recently added. Remove any extensions you don’t recognize or use.
3. Manage Installed Programs
Go to your device’s control panel or settings (depending on your operating system) and access the list of installed programs.
Look for programs you don’t remember installing or seem suspicious. Research them online to verify their legitimacy. If confirmed as adware, uninstall them immediately.
4. Consider Dedicated Anti-Adware
In some cases, more robust solutions might be needed. Dedicated anti-adware programs specialize in detecting and removing adware that might escape traditional antivirus software.
Consider using a reputable anti-adware program to eliminate stubborn adware infections.
5. Manual Removal (Advanced Users)
This approach is only recommended for advanced users as it involves modifying system settings and potentially deleting critical files.
If comfortable, research specific instructions for your operating system and the identified adware to manually remove its files and registry entries. Proceed with caution and back up your data beforehand.
Additional Tips
Clear your browser cache and cookies: These can sometimes harbor traces of adware.
Change your browser homepage and default search engine: Adware might have altered these settings.
Reset your browser settings: This can be a nuclear option, but it can also be effective in removing adware that has embedded itself deeply in your browser settings. Be aware that resetting your browser will erase all your saved data, bookmarks, and passwords.
Be cautious with future downloads: Only download software from trusted sources and pay attention during installation processes to avoid accidentally installing adware.
To remove this program from your computer, you can use a standard malware scanner/remover or a versatile antivirus program like AVG. Check our Deal page for some of the best malware remover tools.
In addition to the removal methods mentioned above, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect yourself from future adware infections.
Here are some essential practices:
Download software only from trusted sources: Avoid downloading applications from untrustworthy websites or clicking on pop-up ads that promise free software. Opt for official app stores or a reputable gaming blog like FineGamers for games and Mobiletechify for mobile applications.
Be cautious with free software: While free software can be tempting, consider the potential risks. Read reviews from trusted sources like WhatBigNext before installing, and opt for premium versions if they offer enhanced security features.
Use a reputable antivirus with built-in anti-adware protection: Consider security solutions like those offered by the AntivirusWithVPN blog that protect against viruses and include adware detection and removal capabilities.
Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest adware threats and trends. Resources like WindowsParrot can provide valuable information and guides on staying safe online.
Adware is software that displays unwanted advertisements on your computer, phone, or other devices. These ads can appear in various forms, including pop-ups, banners, and even video ads. They can be disruptive and interfere with your browsing experience, and in some cases, they may even be malicious.
What are the signs and effects of adware?
Some common signs that your device might be infected with adware include:
A sudden increase in pop-up ads, even on websites you normally trust.
New toolbars or browser extensions appearing without your knowledge.
Your browser homepage or search engine being changed unexpectedly.
Your device running slower than usual.
Difficulty closing browser windows or programs.
How can I get infected with adware?
Adware can enter your device in several ways, including:
Downloading free software or games from untrusted sources.
Clicking on suspicious links or ads.
Installing browser extensions from unknown developers.
Opening infected email attachments.
How can I remove adware?
There are several ways to remove adware, depending on the severity of the infection. Here are some steps you can take:
Run a scan with your antivirus software:Â Most antivirus programs offer protection against adware as well as viruses.
Check your browser extensions and remove any you don’t recognize.
Manually remove suspicious programs from your computer’s control panel.
Consider using a dedicated anti-adware program:Â These programs can be more effective in detecting and removing stubborn adware infections.
Bottom Line
As we said earlier, adware is one of the many forms of malware that infest your web browsers. Hence, you should ensure you take the necessary precautions while surfing the net.
If you’re unsure about how to remove adware safely, it’s always best to consult a trusted computer technician or refer to reputable online resources for detailed guides.
Additionally, it is best that you read the terms and conditions of freeware/shareware apps before installing them on your computer.
Share your adware experience with us by commenting below.
This post will show you the top apps for delivery professionals…
In the fast-paced world of delivery services, efficient management is key to ensuring timely and successful deliveries. Delivery professionals face a myriad of challenges, from optimizing routes to staying connected with customers and dispatchers on the go.
Fortunately, technology comes to the rescue with a plethora of apps designed to streamline delivery operations and enhance productivity.
In this article, we will explore some top apps that are essential for delivery professionals, enabling them to manage their deliveries effectively and stay ahead in the competitive landscape.
Table of Contents
GPS Navigation Apps
GPS navigation apps are a must-have for delivery professionals, providing real-time directions and insights to navigate through unfamiliar territories. Reliable GPS apps offer accurate maps, turn-by-turn directions, and real-time traffic updates.
These apps empower delivery professionals to optimize their routes, avoid traffic congestion, and significantly reduce delivery times. By minimizing the chances of getting lost or taking detours, GPS navigation apps ensure a smooth and efficient delivery process.
Delivery Management Apps
Delivery management apps are powerful tools that help delivery professionals stay organized and keep track of their deliveries. These apps offer features like delivery schedules, real-time updates on new orders, and package information management.
By centralizing delivery-related data, delivery management apps allow professionals to access essential details such as recipient information, delivery instructions, and package dimensions. This level of organization streamlines delivery operations and minimizes the risk of errors.
Communication Apps
Effective communication is essential for seamless delivery operations. Communication apps enable delivery professionals to stay connected with dispatchers, customers, and fellow team members throughout the delivery process.
These apps facilitate real-time updates on delivery statuses, enable professionals to share any challenges they encounter, and respond promptly to customer inquiries or special requests.
Seamless communication ensures that everyone involved in the delivery chain remains informed and aligned, leading to a more streamlined and collaborative process.
Amazon Flex App
For delivery professionals working with the e-commerce giant Amazon, the Amazon Flex app is a game-changer. This app is specifically designed for Amazon Flex drivers, providing them with a comprehensive suite of tools to manage their deliveries efficiently.
By downloading the Amazon Flex app, delivery professionals can access available delivery blocks, accept or decline offers, and organize their delivery schedule effectively. The app also provides navigation assistance to delivery locations, ensuring professionals reach their destinations accurately and on time.
Embracing the Search on the web for Amazon Flex app download link and elevate your delivery performance and allows you to provide exceptional service.
Efficient Task Management Apps
In addition to delivery management apps, efficient task management apps can be a game-changer for delivery professionals. These apps allow drivers to create to-do lists, set reminders, and prioritize tasks for each delivery.
By organizing their workload and setting clear objectives, delivery professionals can stay on top of their schedule and ensure that no delivery is overlooked.
Task management apps also enable drivers to allocate time for breaks and rest, ensuring they maintain a healthy work-life balance while maximizing their productivity.
To maximize profits as delivery professionals, keeping track of expenses is essential. Expense tracking apps can help drivers monitor their spending on fuel, vehicle maintenance, and other delivery-related costs.
By recording and categorizing expenses, delivery professionals can gain insights into their business expenses and identify areas where they can cut costs. These apps can also simplify the process of submitting expense reports for tax purposes, saving time and ensuring accurate financial records.
Weather Forecast Apps
Weather can have a significant impact on delivery operations, affecting road conditions and delivery times. Weather forecast apps are valuable tools for delivery professionals to stay informed about upcoming weather conditions.
By staying ahead of adverse weather, drivers can plan their routes accordingly, take necessary precautions, and inform customers about potential delays.
Being prepared for inclement weather not only ensures the safety of both drivers and packages but also demonstrates professionalism and reliability to customers.
Review and Rating Analysis Apps
For delivery professionals, customer feedback is invaluable. Review and rating analysis apps can help drivers analyze their performance by aggregating and analyzing customer reviews and ratings.
By gaining insights into customer feedback, delivery professionals can identify areas of improvement and refine their service. Positive reviews can be highlighted to build a strong reputation, while negative feedback can be used constructively to enhance customer satisfaction.
Utilizing review and rating analysis apps empowers delivery professionals to continuously improve their service and build lasting relationships with customers.
Conclusion
In the dynamic world of delivery services, managing deliveries on the go requires the support of technology and innovative apps. GPS navigation apps optimize routes, delivery management apps ensure organization, and communication apps foster collaboration.
For delivery professionals working with Amazon, the Amazon Flex app download is a crucial tool that streamlines the entire delivery process.
By integrating these top apps into their workflow, delivery professionals can navigate through busy streets, handle multiple deliveries with ease, and provide exceptional service to customers.
The seamless synchronization of information, real-time updates, and improved communication empower delivery professionals to overcome challenges and elevate their performance.
Embracing these apps sets the foundation for a successful and efficient delivery operation, ensuring that customers receive their packages promptly and with utmost satisfaction.
Read on for the Surfshark Antivirus vs McAfee comparison.
Thousands of new malware roll out each day. Malware, which can completely cripple even the most rigorous systems if there’s any vulnerability. So, you’re at a significant risk if you’re not protecting your devices using a quality antivirus solution.
The question, however, is, what is a quality antivirus solution? You can search the web for answers and come across multiple software programs. Surfshark Antivirus and McAfee will most likely be among the top options.
If you’re reading this, you’re contemplating which of the two antivirus solutions you should use. Making the decision is only possible if you know what they offer and how their features compare.
We’ll discuss that in this Surfshark Antivirus vs McAfee post, so read on.
Table of Contents
What Is Surfshark Antivirus?
Surfshark Antivirus is a lightweight software from one of the most renowned cybersecurity companies. It’s a relatively new antivirus, but considering the features, it easily qualifies as one of the best options. Notably, the software works to eliminate both known and unknown malware.
You can’t use Surfshark Antivirus for free. The software is premium; you can’t get it as a standalone tool. Instead, the Antivirus is part of the Surfshark One suite.
As a result, purchasing the Surfshark Antivirus means you get the other tools in the suite. The tools include a VPN, search, and breach alert solution. With these, you can amplify your cybersecurity protection.
Surfshark Antivirus
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories.
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories. Show Less
What Is McAfee Antivirus?
McAfee is a popular antivirus solution that has existed for a long time. For context, the software was released in 1988, making it over 35 years old. It’s not surprising that it’s a multiple-award-winning antivirus.
At least 600 million devices worldwide use the McAfee Antivirus software. It’s reliable for real-time protection and can eliminate various malware threats. Notably, you can install it on almost all top device platforms.
McAfee has extra features like VPN, identity monitoring, and parental controls. It’ll even work as an online data cleanup and password manager, to name a few. However, what you can do with the software depends on your subscription plan.
McAfee Total Protection
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection.
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection. Show Less
Surfshark Antivirus vs McAfee: Features Comparison
Let’s look at how Surfshark Antivirus and McAfee compare in terms of features. You can identify the best antivirus software for each category from the verdicts.
Getting Started
Surfshark Antivirus
You first need to make a payment to use Surfshark Antivirus. The software offers no free version or trial — mainly because it’s not standalone. Also, you’ll be paying for Surfshark One.
On the Surfshark website, select the Antivirus among the products in the menu. Then, click the “Get Surfshark” button and choose your preferred subscription plan. Continue to checkout.
You’ll enter your email address on the checkout page and pick a payment method. Surfshark supports crypto, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and Apple Pay, so you have many options.
Once your payment is successful, you can download and start using the antivirus app for your device.
Surfshark Antivirus
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories.
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories. Show Less
McAfee
McAfee offers different cybersecurity solutions, and some packages include antivirus software. However, you’ll select the option for just the Antivirus from the menu. Then, pick a suitable plan depending on the number of devices you want to protect.
Before you subscribe, you can download the free trial and try out the software. It’s helpful, but only limited features are accessible. Click the “Get Protection Now” button to continue with the payment.
Enter your email address on the checkout page and pick a preferred payment option. You can pay for McAfee antivirus using your debit card or PayPal. You get full access to the antivirus software if the transaction completes successfully.
McAfee Total Protection
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection.
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection. Show Less
Verdict
McAfee’s free trial makes things easy for new users. However, you ultimately have to subscribe, like with Surfshark. Surfshark wins here as you get more payment methods, making registration more convenient.
Virus And Malware Protection
Surfshark Antivirus
With Surfshark Antivirus, you can protect your devices from various types of malware. These include viruses, spyware, Trojan horses, bots, rootkits, adware, and ransomware, to name a few. In addition, Surfshark will also protect against zero-day threats.
Zero-day threats here refer to newly released malware, which, usually, should not be within the detection capability of the antivirus tool. Yet, Surfshark can stop such threats thanks to a Cloud Protect System. The tool scans the internet 24/7 to identify the newest viruses the minute they’re out.
It’s worth noting that Surfshark Antivirus protects your webcam. This is a vital feature that many antivirus solutions skip. It’ll prevent any malicious party from accessing your camera without authorization.
You can use McAfee Antivirus to keep your devices free from viruses and malware. However, the software mainly focuses on malware that aims to hack or steal information via phishing. Hence, it’s effective in eliminating spyware.
McAfee virus protection capabilities aren’t limited to known threats. The software can block off brand-new threats using behavioral detection and machine learning. It spots and isolates any file showing malware-like behavior and eliminates it if confirmed to be malware.
Note that McAfee makes a 100% pledge to all users to completely rid their devices of malware. Hence, if the software fails to keep your device free from malware, you can contact the company and get a refund. That’s how confident McAfee is of the antivirus software performance.
Verdict
There’s no winner here. Surfshark Antivirus and McAfee stand equal in terms of virus and malware protection. Each can fight off existing, new, and emerging threats.
Supported Scans
Surfshark Antivirus
Surfshark Antivirus supports manual, scheduled, and real-time scanning. In addition, the 24/7 Cloud Protect System was mentioned earlier for zero-day threats. With these, the software offers all-round malware protection.
You can launch the app on your device and run a scan anytime. From the options, it’s possible to narrow your scan location. Also, you can either perform a full manual scan that’ll take a long time or a quick one that takes seconds.
Scheduled scans are helpful if you want the Antivirus to work automatically. You can set the software to scan your device for malware every day at a specific time or on particular days. It’s also possible to schedule a single future scan.
McAfee
When you load the McAfee software, the scan options include scheduled, on-demand, and real-time scans. Each one is easy to access from the dashboard. However, they have different usage protocols.
If you run an on-demand scan, it’s best when you’re not working with your device. That’s because McAfee’s manual scans are usually in-depth. So, if you’re working on the system concurrently, you may experience lag.
For scheduled scans, your device has to be on for the software to work. This is standard for almost every Antivirus that supports the feature. McAfee can perform scheduled scans in sleep mode if your device supports it.
Verdict
McAfee and Surfshark Antivirus support real-time, scheduled, and manual/on-demand scans. So, it’s a close call. However, Surfshark takes a slight lead due to the 24/67 Cloud Protect System.
Ad Blocking
Surfshark Antivirus
You can’t directly access an ad blocker as part of the Surfshark Antivirus software. However, you get one from the VPN tool with the Surfshark One suite. The feature in question is CleanWeb.
Currently, in its 2.0 version, Surfshark CleanWeb stops ads and malware before they load. These also include pop-ups and cookies, and the latest upgrade also works for data breach alerts.
Besides accessing it via the VPN, CleanWeb is a standalone browser tool. You can install it on Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
McAfee
You won’t find a specific ad blocker tool when you install the McAfee antivirus. The software blocks adware as part of its malware-blocking functionality. However, it would be best to still deal with “safe” ads and pop-ups as you browse.
If you’re more particular about blocking malicious ads, you can install the McAfee WebAdvisor browser extension. It focuses on the web, keeping you free from not only harmful ads but also harmful websites.
Notably, the extension supports a pop-up blocker. As a result, you can completely prevent ads that block access to web pages.
Verdict
The winner here is Surfshark, as it offers a particular ad blocker with CleanWeb, although you can only access it via the VPN. McAfee works, in a way, but not for all ads.
Identity Protection
Surfshark Antivirus
ID protection is one of Surfshark’s latest features. Like the previous ad blocker option, it’s not a tool native to the antivirus software.
Instead, it forms part of Surfshark Alert. You get access to it since the Alert and Antivirus solutions both come with Surfshark One.
How the feature works is straightforward. You supply your details — email, ID numbers, password, credit cards, etc — and Surfshark scans the web for potential breaches. If there are any, you get prompts on how to stay safe.
McAfee
McAfee offers top-notch identity protection with 24/7 monitoring. In particular, the Antivirus supports ID theft protection, with coverage up to $2 million. And you can access this feature whether on an individual or family plan.
One option you get with McAfee ID monitoring is the Online Account Cleanup. It scans for your information from broker sites and eliminates any found. McAfee also checks for your data on the dark web with instructions on removing them.
You can rely on McAfee’s identity restoration experts if you suffer any identity theft attack. These are licensed professionals that’ll work with you to resolve the issue.
Verdict
McAfee is the superior tool when it comes to ID monitoring. The coverage value and support for the dark web give it the edge.
VPN
Surfshark Antivirus
When you purchase the Surfshark One suite for the Antivirus, you also get a VPN. Notably, the Surfshark VPN is one of the most popular in the industry. You’ll appreciate it if you prefer lightweight applications.
The Surfshark VPN will work on all major devices. It has over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, which is super fast. Furthermore, you get exclusive features like Kill Switch, MultiHop, Split tunneling, no-logs policy, and more.
Notably, you can get the VPN as a standalone software. It works on unlimited devices with one subscription.
McAfee
As part of its quest to ensure online protection, McAfee includes a staunch VPN with bank-grade encryption.
You can install it if you use Windows, iOS, or Android. However, it’s a standalone tool you’ll purchase alongside the Antivirus in a higher plan.
The McAfee VPN has relatively fast servers. At least 2,000 servers are available in around 23 countries.
Verdict
Surfshark VPN wins since it supports more servers in more countries. In addition, you can use Surfshark VPN on unlimited devices and more supported platforms.
McAfee has several pricing packages that include the Antivirus. However, here are the primary options:
Basic Plan: $29.99 per year for the first year ($89.99 subsequently)
Essential Plan: $39.99 per year for the first year ($119.99 subsequently)
Premium Plan: $49.99 per year for the first year ($149.99 subsequently)
Advanced Plan: $89.99 per year for the first year ($199.99 subsequently)
McAfee Total Protection
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection.
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection. Show Less
Verdict
McAfee has affordable first-time prices, but the regular rates are expensive. On the contrary, Surfshark maintains stable and affordable plans, so it takes the crown.
Surfshark Antivirus vs McAfee: Pros And Cons
Surfshark Antivirus Pros
Easy to use
Affordable pricing
Stops all viruses and malware
CleanWeb ad blocker
VPN with a high server count
Surfshark Antivirus Cons
Not a standalone tool
No free trial
Surfshark Antivirus
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories.
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories. Show Less
McAfee Antivirus Pros
Free trial
Affordable first-time prices
Supports different scans
First-rate identity protections
Quality VPN
McAfee Antivirus Cons
No particular ad blocker
Expensive regular pricing
McAfee Total Protection
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection.
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection. Show Less
McAfee vs Surfshark Antivirus: Similarities And Differences
Similarities
Core Functionality: McAfee and Surfshark Antivirus are software programs designed to protect your devices from malware, viruses, and other online threats.
Real-time Protection:Â Both offer real-time protection that continuously scans your files and system for suspicious activity.
Malware Detection:Â Both use advanced technologies to detect and block known and emerging malware threats.
Phishing Protection:Â Both help protect you from phishing attacks by identifying and blocking malicious websites and emails.
Multi-Device Support:Â Both offer protection for multiple devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
McAfee vs Surfshark Antivirus: Key Differences
Feature
McAfee Antivirus
Surfshark Antivirus
Additional Features
Often includes a firewall, password manager, parental controls
Primarily focuses on Antivirus, data breach monitoring in higher tiers
Pricing
More comprehensive range, lower starting price for basic plans, potentially higher for complete packages
Single Plan with occasional discounts
System Performance
Can impact performance more noticeably
Generally lightweight and resource-friendly
Customer Support
Phone, email, live chat
Primarily email and tickets, live chat limited hours
Free Trial
Yes
No
Choosing The Right Option Between McAfee Antivirus and Surfshark Antivirus
The best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a quick guide:
Choose McAfee if:
You want a wide range of features beyond essential antivirus protection.
You are comfortable with potentially lower system performance.
You prefer access to multiple customer support channels.
McAfee Total Protection
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection.
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection. Show Less
Choose Surfshark if:
You prioritize lightweight software with minimal impact on performance.
You prefer transparent pricing and limited-time discounts.
You are comfortable with primarily email and ticket support.
Surfshark Antivirus
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories.
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories. Show Less
Ultimately, McAfee and Surfshark Antivirus are reputable options for protecting your devices. Consider your priorities and research specific features and user reviews before deciding.
McAfee Total Protection
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection.
An easy-to-use security suite for data safety and device protection. Show Less
Conclusion
Picking either Surfshark Antivirus or McAfee isn’t a wrong decision, as you can see from this Surfshark Antivirus vs McAfee comparison. However, if you want to use the best of the two, you should use the Surfshark Antivirus.
Surfshark Antivirus
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories.
A 360-degree solution for all threat categories. Show Less
Surfshark offers adequate protection against viruses and malware and has the upper hand in ad blocking, VPN, ease of use, and pricing. You can sign up for the software in no time.
Read on as we answer the question – what is my IP address?
Your IP address is a fundamental element of your online presence, acting as a unique identifier for your connection to the Internet.
This article will explore the concept of “What is my IP address?” and delve into the essential details you need to know about IP addresses.
Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual or just someone curious about their online identity, by the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of your IP address and why it matters.
Table of Contents
What Is an IP Address?
An IP address, or Internet Protocol address, is a unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.
When answering the question “What is my IP,” it serves as a digital identifier for a device on a network, much like a home address distinguishes a physical location.
IP addresses are integral to the functioning of the Internet and play a crucial role in enabling devices to communicate with one another.
Here’s a breakdown of what an IP address is:
Numerical Identifier: An IP address consists of a series of numbers, typically in four sets of digits separated by periods (e.g., 192.168.1.1). These numbers can range from 0 to 255 in each set and are used to uniquely identify a device on a network.
Device Identification: Every device that connects to the Internet, whether a computer, smartphone, tablet or any other networked device, is assigned a unique IP address. This address acts as a digital fingerprint for the device, making it distinguishable from all other devices on the Internet.
Routing Data: IP addresses are essential for routing data packets across the Internet. When you send a request to access a website, your device’s IP address is used to route the request through various intermediate devices, such as routers and servers, until it reaches the destination. This ensures that data comes to the correct device efficiently.
Two Versions: IPv4 and IPv6: There are two primary versions of IP addresses in use today: IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) and IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6). IPv4 addresses are the older and more widely used version with their familiar four sets of digits. However, due to the growing number of internet-connected devices, IPv6 was introduced to provide a vastly larger pool of available addresses.
An IP address is a critical component of the Internet’s infrastructure, enabling devices to communicate, share data, and access online services.
The virtual address helps data find its way from one device to another across the global network, and understanding what an IP address has formed the foundation for comprehending how the internet functions.
So, the next time you wonder, “What is my IP?” you’ll have a deeper understanding of its importance in the digital world.
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Oxylabs
Oxylabs proxies offer diverse, ethical, and reliable solutions for data scraping, web testing, and privacy needs.
Oxylabs proxies offer diverse, ethical, and reliable solutions for data scraping, web testing, and privacy needs. Show Less
Webshare
Webshare is a company that provides proxy servers that are used for data aggregation, analysis, and collection.
Webshare is a company that provides proxy servers that are used for data aggregation, analysis, and collection. Show Less
Live Proxies
Live Proxies is a proxy service that provides high-speed, reliable, and secure residential and datacenter proxy services...Show More
Live Proxies is a proxy service that provides high-speed, reliable, and secure residential and datacenter proxy services for web scraping, automation, and anonymity. Show Less
DigiProxy
DigiProxy offers proxy services, including residential, datacenter, and sneaker proxies, aimed at providing secure and...Show More
DigiProxy offers proxy services, including residential, datacenter, and sneaker proxies, aimed at providing secure and reliable internet access. Show Less
Best VPN Services
PureVPN
PureVPN is one of the best VPN service providers with presence across 150 countries in the world. An industry VPN leader...Show More
PureVPN is one of the best VPN service providers with presence across 150 countries in the world. An industry VPN leader with more than 6,500 optimized VPN servers. Show Less
CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN is a VPN service provider with more than 9,000 VPN servers spread in over 90 countries. Complete privacy...Show More
CyberGhost VPN is a VPN service provider with more than 9,000 VPN servers spread in over 90 countries. Complete privacy protection for up to 7 devices! Show Less
TunnelBear VPN
TunnelBear is a VPN service provider that provides you with privacy, security, and anonymity advantages. It has VPN...Show More
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Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access uses world-class next-gen servers for a secure and reliable VPN connection, any day, anywhere.
Private Internet Access uses world-class next-gen servers for a secure and reliable VPN connection, any day, anywhere. Show Less
FastVPN (fka Namecheap VPN)
FastVPN (fka Namecheap VPN) is a secure, ultra-reliable VPN service solution for online anonymity. A fast and affordable...Show More
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Panda Security
Panda VPN is a fast, secure VPN service facilitated by Panda Security. It has more than 1,000 servers in 20+ countries.
Panda VPN is a fast, secure VPN service facilitated by Panda Security. It has more than 1,000 servers in 20+ countries. Show Less
NordVPN
The best VPN service for total safety and freedom.
The best VPN service for total safety and freedom. Show Less
ProtonVPN
A swiss VPN service that goes the extra mile to balance speed with privacy protection.
A swiss VPN service that goes the extra mile to balance speed with privacy protection. Show Less
ExpressVPN
A dependable VPN service that works on all devices and platforms.
A dependable VPN service that works on all devices and platforms. Show Less
PrivateVPN
The VPN service with lightning speed and complete privacy protection.
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TorGuard VPN
The best VPN service for torrenting safely and anonymously.
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VuzeVPN
VuzeVPN offers you unlimited and unrestricted VPN service.
VuzeVPN offers you unlimited and unrestricted VPN service. Show Less
VeePN
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HideMe VPN
HideMe VPN is your ultimate online privacy solution, providing secure and anonymous browsing while protecting your data...Show More
HideMe VPN is your ultimate online privacy solution, providing secure and anonymous browsing while protecting your data from prying eyes, so you can browse the internet with confidence and freedom. Show Less
Unlocator
Unlocator VPN is a robust and user-friendly tool that protects your privacy, secures your online activities, and grants...Show More
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ZoogVPN
ZoogVPN is the complete and trusted all-in-one VPN service that protects your sensitive personal and financial...Show More
ZoogVPN is the complete and trusted all-in-one VPN service that protects your sensitive personal and financial information online. Show Less
HideMyName VPN
Protect your online privacy and anonymity with HideMyName VPN, a secure and affordable service that offers robust...Show More
Protect your online privacy and anonymity with HideMyName VPN, a secure and affordable service that offers robust encryption, multiple server locations, and a variety of privacy-enhancing features. Show Less
Witopia VPN
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FastestVPN
FastestVPN offers budget-friendly, secure connections with unlimited data and a focus on fast speeds, ideal for...Show More
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ExtremeVPN
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iProVPN
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iProVPN is a VPN service with a focus on security and affordability, offering basic features to secure your connection and unblock streaming content. Show Less
Types of IP Addresses: IPv4 and IPv6
The world of IP addresses is diverse, with various types and versions. In this section, we will focus on the two primary types of IP addresses: IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) and IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6).
These two versions have distinct characteristics, and understanding their differences is crucial to grasp the Internet’s ongoing evolution.
IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4)
IPv4, the fourth iteration of the Internet Protocol, has been the backbone of the Internet for several decades. Here are its key features:
32-Bit Addressing: IPv4 addresses consist of 32 bits, divided into four sets of three digits separated by periods (e.g., 192.168.1.1). This provides a total of approximately 4.3 billion unique IP addresses.
Widespread Usage: For many years, IPv4 was the predominant protocol, and it played a pivotal role in the growth of the Internet. However, the limited number of IPv4 addresses led to the development of IPv6.
Exhaustion of IPv4 Addresses: Due to the rapid expansion of the Internet and the proliferation of Internet-connected devices, the supply of IPv4 addresses has been exhausted in many regions. This scarcity has prompted the need for a new IP protocol.
IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6)
IPv6 was developed to address the limitations of IPv4 and ensure the continued growth of the Internet. Here are the critical characteristics of IPv6:
128-Bit Addressing: IPv6 addresses are significantly longer, consisting of 128 bits. They are expressed as eight groups of four hexadecimal digits separated by colons (e.g., 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334). This vast address space allows for an almost limitless number of unique IP addresses.
Abundant Address Supply: The primary motivation behind IPv6 was to provide a solution to the depletion of IPv4 addresses. With 2^128 possible IPv6 addresses, the supply is virtually inexhaustible. This is especially important in an era where many devices, including the Internet of Things (IoT), require IP addresses.
Improved Security: IPv6 includes built-in security features, which enhance data packet authentication and encryption. This strengthens the overall security of the Internet and the devices connected to it.
Why the Transition to IPv6 is Necessary
The transition to IPv6 is essential for several reasons:
Exhaustion of IPv4 Addresses: As mentioned earlier, IPv4 addresses are running out. This scarcity can impede the growth and innovation of the Internet, limiting the ability to connect new devices and expand online services.
Global Internet Growth: The Internet continues to grow globally, with billions of new users and devices coming online. IPv6 provides the necessary address space to accommodate this growth.
Future-Proofing: IPv6 is designed to meet the long-term addressing needs of the Internet. As a more modern and robust protocol, it ensures that the Internet can continue to evolve and expand.
IPv4, while still widely used, faces limitations due to address exhaustion, making the transition to IPv6 a necessary step to secure the future of the Internet. IPv6’s vast address space and enhanced security features position it as the protocol of choice for the continued growth and innovation of the online world.
Your IP address is crucial information for various purposes, from troubleshooting network issues to accessing location-specific content. Here’s how to find your IP address on different devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, with step-by-step instructions:
Finding Your IP Address on a Windows Computer
1. Using the Command Prompt
Press the Windows critical to open the Start menu.
Type “cmd” or “Command Prompt” and press Enter to open the command prompt.
In the command prompt, type “ipconfig” and press Enter.
Look for the “IPv4 Address” in the results. This is your computer’s IP address.
2. Using the System Tray
Click the network icon in the system tray (usually in the screen’s bottom-right corner).
Click on “Open Network & Internet settings.”
Under “Change your network settings,” click on “Wi-Fi” or “Ethernet” (depending on your connection).
Your IP address will be displayed in the network settings.
Finding Your IP Address on a Mac Computer
1. Using System Preferences
Click on the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
Click on “Network.”
In the left sidebar, select your active network connection (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
Your IP address will be displayed in the main window.
2. Using Terminal
Open the Terminal app from the Applications > Utilities folder.
Type “ipconfig” and press Enter.
Look for “inet” followed by a series of numbers. This is your IP address.
Finding Your IP Address on a Smartphone or Tablet
Android
1. Using Wi-Fi Settings:
Open the “Settings” app.
Tap on “Network & Internet” or “Wi-Fi.”
Tap your currently connected Wi-Fi network.
Your IP address will be listed under “IP address.”
2. Using the Google Assistant:
Say, “Hey, Google,” to activate the Google Assistant.
Ask, “What’s my IP address?” Google Assistant will respond with your IP address.
iOS (iPhone/iPad)
1. Using Wi-Fi Settings:
Open the “Settings” app.
Tap on “Wi-Fi.”
Tap the connected Wi-Fi network.
Your IP address will be displayed under “IP Address.”
Remember that your IP address may change if you switch networks or have a dynamic IP address. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, check your IP address while connected to the network for which you want to know the IP.
IP Addresses and Internet Security
The security of your online presence is a critical concern in today’s digital landscape. Your IP address, which serves as your digital identifier on the Internet, plays a significant role in your online security.
The Risks of Revealing Your IP Address
Privacy Concerns: Your IP address can reveal information about your geographical location, which can be a concern if you value your online privacy. Websites, advertisers, and malicious actors can use this information to track your online activities, potentially leading to intrusive targeted advertising or even stalking in extreme cases.
Exposure to Cyberattacks: A known IP address can be a target for cyberattacks. Hackers may attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in your device or network, leading to data breaches, identity theft, or other security breaches.
Geo-Blocking: Some online services and content are geo-restricted, meaning they can only be accessed from specific regions. If your IP address indicates you are in a blocked location, you may be denied access to certain websites or streaming services.
Protecting Your Online Security with Proxies
Proxies act as intermediaries between your device and the Internet. They can be used to mask your IP address and enhance your online security in the following ways:
IP Anonymity: Proxies can hide your IP address, making the requests appear to originate from the proxy server. This adds a layer of anonymity to your online activities.
Access to Restricted Content: Using a proxy server located in a different region, you can bypass geo-restrictions and access content that may be blocked.
Traffic Encryption: Some proxies provide encrypted connections, which can help protect your data from eavesdropping, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks.
Protecting Your Online Security with VPNs
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are robust online security and privacy tools. They offer the following benefits:
End-to-end Encryption: VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, making it virtually impossible for third parties to intercept and decipher your data, enhancing your online security significantly.
IP Address Masking: VPNs replace your IP address with the IP address of the VPN server you’re connected to, preserving your anonymity and protecting against tracking.
Access to Global Content: VPNs allow you to select a server in a different country, granting you access to geo-restricted content from anywhere in the world.
Public Wi-Fi Safety: When you connect to public Wi-Fi networks through a VPN, your data remains encrypted, safeguarding your information from potential threats on unsecured networks.
IP Addresses and Geolocation
In today’s interconnected world, the concept of geolocation plays a significant role in online services and user experiences.
Your IP address is a powerful tool that can reveal your approximate geographical location, and various websites and services utilize this information for many purposes.
How Your IP Address Reveals Your Location
Geolocation, in the context of IP addresses, is the process of determining a device’s or user’s physical location based on their IP address.
While IP addresses don’t directly specify your exact physical address, they can provide insights into the broader geographical area in which you are located. Here’s how this works:
Database Matching: Geolocation services maintain extensive databases that link IP address ranges to specific regions, cities, or countries. When you connect to the Internet, a website or service can look up your IP address in these databases to estimate your location.
Wi-Fi and Mobile Data: In some cases, geolocation can be even more precise. Wi-Fi networks and mobile data connections can provide a more accurate location due to their proximity to your device.
The Accuracy of Geolocation Services
The accuracy of geolocation services varies depending on several factors:
IPv4 vs. IPv6: IPv6, with its more extended address space, allows for more precise geolocation. IPv4 geolocation is typically less accurate.
Internet Service Provider (ISP): Some ISPs provide more accurate geolocation data than others, leading to variations in accuracy.
Proximity to Wi-Fi Networks: Wi-Fi networks often offer the most precise geolocation as they are localized to specific physical locations.
Mobile Data: Geolocation can be highly accurate on mobile devices, mainly when they use GPS or cell tower data.
Reasons Why Websites Use Geolocation Information
Websites and online services use geolocation information for a variety of purposes, including:
Content Localization: Geolocation is used to tailor content and services to users in specific regions. For example, a news website might display local news based on your location.
Ad Targeting: Advertisers use geolocation to serve ads relevant to your location. You might see local restaurant ads or promotions for events in your city.
Security: Geolocation can be used for security purposes, such as identifying and preventing unauthorized access to user accounts. If a login attempt is made from a location different from your usual one, it may trigger a security alert.
Compliance: Websites that offer region-specific services, like streaming platforms, use geolocation to comply with content distribution laws and copyright agreements.
Traffic Analysis: Businesses analyze geolocation data to understand user demographics and optimize their services.
Fraud Prevention: Geolocation can be used to detect and prevent fraudulent activities, such as credit card fraud or account hijacking.
User Control and Privacy
It’s important to note that while geolocation can offer valuable benefits, it can also raise privacy concerns.
Users should have the option to control the sharing of their location data and be aware of how websites and services use this information. Privacy settings and tools that allow users to manage their geolocation preferences are increasingly common.
IP Address Changes and Dynamic IPs
The world of IP addresses isn’t static; it’s dynamic. While some devices have constant IP addresses, others use dynamic IP addresses.
Dynamic IP Addresses vs. Static IP Addresses
Static IP Addresses
A static address remains the same over time and doesn’t change unless manually reconfigured.
Static IPs are typically assigned to servers, routers, and critical network infrastructure devices where a consistent, fixed address is essential.
They provide stability and predictability, making them suitable for services that rely on a consistent address for accessibility.
Dynamic IP Addresses
A dynamic IP address, as the name suggests, can change periodically. It’s assigned by a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server.
Dynamic IPs are commonly used for computers, smartphones, and tablets.
They are more cost-effective and efficient for internet service providers (ISPs) as they allow better utilization of available IP addresses.
Reasons Why Your IP Address Might Change
DHCP Lease Expiration: In a dynamic IP setup, your device leases an IP address from your ISP’s pool of addresses. These leases have a set duration, and when they expire, your device is assigned a new IP address. This process helps ISPs manage their IP address resources efficiently.
Rebooting Your Router: Restarting your router can trigger a request for a new IP address from your ISP. This is sometimes done to resolve network issues or to obtain a different IP for various reasons, such as bypassing IP-based restrictions.
ISP Policies: Some ISPs intentionally rotate dynamic IP addresses as a security measure or to prevent misuse of IP addresses for activities like hosting websites.
Changing Networks: If you move your device from one network to another, your IP address will reflect the new network.
Implications of Having a Dynamic IP
Privacy: Dynamic IPs provide privacy since your IP address regularly changes. This can make tracking your online activities more challenging for websites and services.
Cost-Effective: Dynamic IPs are cost-effective for ISPs as they can serve multiple customers with a pool of addresses. This cost efficiency can translate to lower subscription costs for customers.
Challenges for Hosting: A dynamic IP can be problematic if you want to host services like a website or an online game server from your home. Static IPs are generally preferred for hosting to ensure consistent accessibility.
Geolocation Services: Geolocation accuracy may be affected since the IP address’s location might change. This can lead to inaccuracies when using location-based services or content.
Inconvenience: Dynamic IPs can be inconvenient if you rely on a consistent IP for remote access or specific applications. To overcome this, you may need to use dynamic DNS (DDNS) services.
In summary, dynamic IP addresses offer flexibility and cost savings for ISPs and are suitable for regular internet users.
They change periodically, and while this can enhance privacy, it may pose challenges for specific applications like hosting services or maintaining consistent accessibility for remote access.
Understanding the implications of having a dynamic IP can help users make informed decisions regarding their internet setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding your IP address is fundamental to navigating the digital landscape. It serves as your online identity, allowing devices to communicate and data efficiently routed on the Internet.
With knowledge of your IP address, you can troubleshoot network issues, protect your online security, and access location-specific content.
Whether you’re concerned about privacy, curious about the intricacies of the online world, or need to answer the question, “What is my IP?” – this understanding empowers you to engage confidently in the digital realm.
Here, we will show you the best cybersecurity colleges. Are you worried about how to pay for essay writing as a cybersecurity student?
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity gives a proper foundation in computing and information security theories. It also prepares students for security engineering, security analysis, and chief information officer careers. The demand for cybersecurity specialists is rising, as the profession has seen a 31% growth rate in the past five years.
The increasing number of cyberattacks leads to an increased demand for skilled professionals who improve information security. Many colleges are starting to offer online cybersecurity degree programs for added flexibility. This article will discuss the best cybersecurity colleges providing the best degree programs.
Table of Contents
7 Best Cyber Security Colleges
1. Abertay University
Abertay University is in Dundee, Scotland, and offers degrees in Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity. The Master’s in Ethical hacking can be completed within two years of part-time study or one year of full-time study. The program is made for students experienced in forensic computing and network security.
By analysis, students can gain proficiency in various subjects in cybersecurity, such as computing and network security. Their ethical hacking program was first developed in 2006, and it was the first Undergraduate degree title with the word “hacking.”
The cybersecurity teachers at Abertay University have close ties with highly qualified industry leaders who provide solutions to real-world problems. The university also offers a lot of scholarships, and the graduates have a very high employability rate.
2. Boston University
Computer science students at Boston University can opt for cryptography or data security, thus offering the students an opportunity to take part in various courses within the university. Boston University has a security research group led by industry leaders specializing in cryptography and cybersecurity. The teaching staff is robust and active in answering industry-related questions concerning cybersecurity.
The demand for cybersecurity graduates from Boston University is very high, with most landing top-tier jobs in Google, Akamai, or Microsoft. Many Ph.D. holders from Boston University hold distinguished positions in different universities worldwide. The university also offers many scholarships, which aim to harness students’ unique capabilities to improve security.
Boston University is also a designated center for academic excellence and is home to cybersecurity and reliable information systems.
3. California State University
California State University is located in San Bernardino, California, and offers various undergraduate and graduate degree programs focusing on cybersecurity. Some include a B.Sc. in information systems and technology in cybersecurity.
The programs have expanded to include cybersecurity in public administration and criminal justice. The school receives grants from the Department of Defense and the National Science Foundation, allowing them full grant scholarships that make cybersecurity programs available across different disciplines.
The university also has affiliations with big industry players like Cyberwatch West and the Infosec Club. This gives students a platform to participate in various activities and competitions, consequently sharpening their skills.
This university is in Pittsburgh and has many undergraduate and graduate degree programs in information networking, information technology, and information security. It is a premium university for anyone wishing to pursue a career in cybersecurity.
Through years of leadership, Carnegie has built an extensive network of top-rated industry leaders. The university created CyLab, an initiative involving students from more than six departments and schools. The university was named one of the best Ponemon Institute Schools for Cybersecurity.
The school is a vital resource to curb the vulnerabilities that threaten economic and national security. The university is recognized for its industry-wide expertise in coordinating security. Get the best essay writers to help you out with your academic work. Essay writers for hire are ideal for rigorous research works.
5. Colorado Technical University
Another entry on our list of the best cyber security colleges is CTU.
Colorado Technical University has a broad range of Information Security programs. The Cybersecurity program is tailored to prepare students to pass security and network certification programs. There are also cybersecurity master programs dedicated to teaching industry-relevant focus to employers and professionals who seek additional knowledge. The students in the programs are established professionals, career switchers, and motivated technology enthusiasts.
As Joan Young stated, “Trust in technology is a good thing, but control is a better thing.” The university offers a versatile learning environment, giving flexible options for people looking to advance their expertise.
The school also has several grants and scholarship programs. Some of these opportunities are offered to students attending physical campuses, while others are provided to students attending virtual campuses.
The National Center of Cyber Defense and Information Assurance Excellence ratifies the education system standards. Hire the best essay experts for advanced writing services, e.g., Advanced Writers, to get professional writing help online.
This College is dedicated to pursuing education and research by advancing information security and privacy throughout society. The students at Dartmouth have an opportunity to study engaging cybersecurity courses. The College researches healthcare IT, information, and network and systems security.
The graduates from Dartmouth have a high employment rate, with at least 89% of students securing a job immediately after graduation. The salary ranges from $90000 to $130000 for fresh graduates from Dartmouth. Dartmouth also offers scholarships ranging from $1000 depending on the need.
The university is also a designated center of academic excellence and is highly ranked by the Department of Homeland Security. If you need academic help, don’t forget to hire essay writers for a professional essay writing service.
7. De Montfort University
De Montfort University is the last on our list of the best cyber security colleges. This university offers numerous cybersecurity-related programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The university is home to the Cybersecurity Center, a multidisciplinary group of industry experts and academicians.
Here, the experts focus on research issues such as digital forensics, consulting services, education, and training. The cybersecurity center is equipped with research readiness, providing students with new operational capabilities. The students who graduate from De Montfort have a holistic view of cybersecurity and knowledge of the latest principles.
The university is ranked among the universities with the highest employability, with most graduates getting graduate-level jobs immediately after graduation. The school also offers scholarships and graduate awards from governments and other professional bodies.
What are the job opportunities for cybersecurity graduates?
Cybersecurity graduates are in high demand, and a variety of job opportunities are available in various industries.
Some typical cybersecurity jobs include:
Security analyst
Security Engineer
Penetration tester
Security Architect
Cybersecurity consultant
The job outlook for cybersecurity professionals is very positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a job growth of 33% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Wrapping Up – Best Cyber Security Colleges
The cybersecurity career outlook is increasingly promising. One can work in the military, a government agency, or a buttoned-down office job.
A cybersecurity degree is a good return on investment as the average salary for cybersecurity graduates is $95000 per year.
The programs focus on a mix of science with information and network security. The background obtained from these degrees is excellent foundational preparation for the certification process in the cybersecurity field.
In this post, we will reveal the most common WordPress attacks. That way, you can prevent and protect your site against them.
WordPress is the most used publishing platform and CMS software for running blogs and websites. It is estimated that over 1.3 billion websites are on the internet, and about 455 million are on WordPress.Â
Thousands of visitors visit your site daily and possibly generate millions of views. However, not all of these visitors mean well. Some are hackers and cybercriminals that try to attack your website. Some can be bot (non-human) traffic, harming your site’s security.
‘ Let’s show you the most common WordPress attacks in the year without further ado.
Table of Contents
Most Common WordPress Attacks
1. Brute Force Attack
A brute force attack involves several attempts to log in to your WordPress dashboard by randomly guessed usernames and passwords. Attackers use various contexts to check for all possible usernames and passwords of a site to achieve this.Â
By default, WordPress’s login details are ‘admin’ for the username and ‘pass’ for the password. Most WordPress users change their passwords and leave the username the same. This makes a brute force attack easier as the attacker is left to guess just the password. Â
Use a unique username and a robust password to prevent brute-force attacks on your site. Also, place a login attempt limit to block a login upon a certain number of failed trials.Â
A DDoS attack is a popular cyberattack that can be carried out on almost every platform that features a server. It is common because it is simple to carry out. All attackers need to do is send a massive amount of web requests to your site’s server.Â
These requests are made from a single source (the attacker’s computer) and are massively distributed using a botnet. The number of requests will be too much for your server to handle, and as a result, it crashes.Â
You can prevent DDoS attacks by using a secure host, running your site on HTTPS, and activating a website application firewall. You can also utilize third-party cloud servers like Cloudflare and Akamai.
From your cPanel dashboard, you will find a database management system called MySQL. It is a system that enables you to manage your website’s SQL databases easily. You may not be aware, but access to your SQL information through this database can grant one access to your site.Â
SQL is a programming language for communicating with databases. A hacker or cyber attacker can inject malicious SQL statements to gain access to your database server. With this, they can modify your database and gain access to your website’s private data. Specifically, they can get your login credentials.Â
Most SQL injection attacks on WordPress are from malicious themes and plugins. You can prevent them by installing only genuine plugins and themes and ensuring they are up-to-date.
Just like the SQL injection, your WordPress website can get infected by malware via its injection. Malware attacks are dangerous and can cripple your website. It could make your site URL return a blank page, or all your pages will load with Internal Error 500.
Once again, this is possible through malicious and outdated themes and plugins. This is one reason WordPress advises plugin and theme download from its directory.
Still, there is nothing terrible about installing themes and plugins downloaded from other websites. Ensure the source is trusted, and the downloaded files are free from malicious code and scripts.Â
5. XSS Attack
An XSS attack is another form of injection called Cross-Site scripting. In this case, the infusion involves JavaScript codes. XSS attacks are carried out in two ways; one involves exploiting user inputs, while the other involves getting around same-origin policies.
By exploiting user inputs, attackers inject malicious JavaScript codes via input fields on your websites. These fields include your search, contact form, and comment box. Rather than entering keywords or texts, as usual, they enter executable JavaScript codes.
TAttackers use these malicious JavaScript codes to steal browser cookies to get around same-origin policies. This is possible because the pages where the codes are entered have been infected, and a command is executed once the infected code is clicked.
This is a more dangerous WordPress attack as it puts both you and your site visitors at risk. However, it is only possible if there are vulnerabilities in your WordPress theme and plugins. The best way of protecting your site from an XSS attack is by using security plugins and keeping all software up-to-date.
SEO Spam involves injecting irrelevant and often malicious links and keywords, typically hidden or disguised, into your website content. Attackers aim to:
Boost their website ranking: By injecting backlinks into their website, they hope to manipulate search engine algorithms and improve their search visibility.
Deceive users:Â Hidden spam content might mislead users into clicking on malicious links, potentially leading to malware infections or phishing attempts.
Harm your website reputation: Excessive spam can negatively impact your website’s credibility and user experience, potentially leading to search engine penalties.
Regularly audit your website content, remove any suspicious links or keywords, and consider using security plugins to help detect and prevent SEO spam attempts.
7. Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks aim to trick users into revealing their login credentials by creating fake login pages or emails that resemble legitimate ones.
These attempts often exploit urgency, fear, or excitement to pressure users into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive information.
Phishing emails might:
It appears to be from WordPress itself or a popular plugin provider.
I urge you to take immediate action, like verifying your account or updating payment information.
Contain typos, grammatical errors, or inconsistencies that can be red flags.
Always be cautious when clicking links or opening attachments in emails, even if they appear from a trusted source. Verify the sender’s legitimacy, and never share your login credentials on any unauthorized website.
8. Session Hijacking
Session hijacking involves stealing a user’s session cookie, essentially taking over their active session on your website. Attackers can achieve this through various methods, like exploiting vulnerabilities, using malware, or leveraging public Wi-Fi networks.
Once they have the session cookie, they can:
Gain unauthorized access to the user’s account.
Perform actions on the user’s behalf, such as changing passwords, making purchases, or stealing sensitive information.
Spread malware or launch further attacks within the compromised account.
Robust authentication protocols, like two-factor authentication (2FA), can significantly reduce the risk of session hijacking.
9. Zero-Day Exploits
Zero-day exploits are dangerous because they target previously unknown vulnerabilities in WordPress core, themes, or plugins. Since developers haven’t had time to release a patch, these exploits can be highly successful until a fix becomes available.
Attackers utilize zero-day exploits to:
Gain unauthorized access to websites and potentially inject malware.
Steal sensitive data, such as user login credentials or financial information.
Disrupt website functionality or launch large-scale attacks.
Keeping your WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated with the latest security patches is essential to mitigate the risk of zero-day exploits. Additionally, consider using security plugins that can help detect and block suspicious activity.
10. Remote Code Execution (RCE) Attacks
Remote Code Execution (RCE) attacks exploit vulnerabilities in your website to inject and execute malicious code on your server. This code can grant attackers complete control over your website, allowing them to:
Deface your website content and display harmful or misleading information.
Install backdoors to maintain persistent access and launch further attacks.
Steal sensitive data stored on your server, such as user information or database records.
Launch spam campaigns or distribute malware to other users.
Regularly updating your WordPress installation, themes, and plugins is crucial to address known vulnerabilities. Additionally, consider using web application firewalls (WAFs) to help detect and block malicious attempts to execute unauthorized code on your website.
11. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) Attacks
Cross-site request Forgery (CSRF) attacks trick users into unknowingly performing unauthorized actions on your website. Attackers typically embed malicious code within seemingly harmless links, images, or forms on external websites or emails.
When a logged-in user visits a compromised website or clicks on a malicious link, the CSRF code is executed in the background, leveraging the user’s existing session to perform actions like:
Changing account settings, including passwords.
Making unauthorized purchases or transfers.
Posting harmful content or spam on the user’s behalf.
Implementing security measures like CSRF tokens and validating user input can help prevent these attacks. Educating users about the risks of clicking on suspicious links or opening unknown attachments can further mitigate the threat.
Most Common WordPress Attacks: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common WordPress attacks?
Beyond the previously mentioned brute force, DDoS, SQL injection, malware injection, and XSS attacks, several other threats target WordPress websites:
SEO Spam: Attackers inject irrelevant links and keywords into your content to manipulate search rankings and potentially harm your website’s reputation.
Phishing Attacks:Â Hackers create fake login pages or emails resembling legitimate ones, tricking users into revealing their login credentials.
Session Hijacking:Â Attackers steal user session cookies to gain unauthorized access to accounts and potentially steal data or spread malware.
How can I identify if my website has been compromised?
Several signs can indicate a compromised website:
Unusual activity:Â Unexplained changes in website content, traffic spikes, or failed login attempts.
Slow website performance:Â Malware or injected code can significantly slow down your website.
Search engine warnings: Search engines might flag your website as malicious if it’s infected with malware or distributing spam.
Security software alerts:Â Security plugins or website monitoring services might notify you of suspicious activity.
How can I prevent these attacks?
Here are some critical steps to protect your WordPress website:
Keep WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated:Â This ensures you have the latest security patches and fixes for known vulnerabilities.
Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA):Â This adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized login attempts.
Choose reputable themes and plugins: Research them before installing them, and avoid downloading from untrusted sources.
Regularly back up your website:Â This allows you to restore your website to a clean version if it gets compromised.
Install a security plugin:Â Consider using a security plugin that can offer features like malware scanning, login attempts monitoring, and firewall protection.
What should I do if I suspect my website is compromised?
If you suspect your website is compromised, act swiftly:
Change your WordPress login credentials immediately.
Scan your website for malware using a security plugin or professional service.
Remove any malicious code or files.
Consider restoring your website from a clean backup if necessary.
Report the attack to your hosting provider and relevant authorities, if applicable.
By understanding common attacks and taking preventive measures, you significantly improve your website’s security and reduce the risk of falling victim to these threats.
Final Thoughts
Listed above are the most common WordPress attacks, and you can still encounter several other types of WordPress attacks. But protecting your WordPress website or blog from such attacks is not very difficult.
If you own a blog or website on WordPress, your site adds to that number. Not to mention, any WordPress development company would be wary of website hijacks.
At the basic level, you should use a very secure password and activate 2FA using plugins such as Google Authenticator and Two Factor Authentication.
Furthermore, you can choose to change your admin login URL and place limits on login attempts. Plugins like WordFence, BulletProof Security, and Sucuri Security can also help.
This post will show you six steps to optimize your network for VoIP.
In today’s age of technology, we use the Internet to share knowledge through various multimedia and connect to our dear ones.
The Internet has been used for many purposes, but what if we use it to make voice calls smoothly? We do it on our telephones and mobile handsets using specific telecom networks.Â
VoIP is the answer to your question. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows you to use a broadband Internet connection to make voice calls instead of a regular (or analogue) phone line.
Since VoIP is not preferred by many, it needs to be optimized before using it to get the best results.
Here are six steps you should follow to optimize your network for VoIP and thus run voice calls smoothly.
Table of Contents
6 Steps To Optimize Your Network For VoIPÂ
1. Make Sure Your Internet Connection is Fast
Always be careful while choosing your Internet Service Provider (ISP). VoIP calls require uniform and fast network connectivity.
I prefer a wired connection over wireless as the separate cable is used in the wired connection to connect each device to the network, with each cable transmitting data at the same speed.Â
Wi-Fi should be preferred over mobile internet networks when wired connections are unavailable. The quality of your VoIP calls will straight away depend on the type of internet connection you use.
Always opt for standard & high-quality ISPs rather than going for local ones and complaining about the problems.Â
2. Be Conscious of Security Issues
Cybercrimes are increasing daily, and once your device is connected to the Internet, you are no longer safe from hackers.
To secure your voice lines and data lines, your VoIP network infrastructure should include appropriate firewall policies, good antivirus and spyware, and malware protection programs.
Hackers easily find a chance to interrupt VoIP calls by creating voice and data line obstacles. Thus, when your system has good malware and hacking protection programs, uninterrupted & smooth voice calling can be experienced.
The quality of your antivirus & your firewall policies will determine how effectively your voice calls run through VoIP.Â
Hardware comprising your telephones, mobile handsets, computers, etc., may create some VoIP network issues if they are not current. This minor issue is a common problem for many people.Â
Low-grade hardware can be a culprit, leading to problems like echo, etc. Solutions like turning down the volume help overcome this problem for a while. So, the more high-end hardware you use, the quality of your calls through VoIP improves in many folds.
For example, if you have an Xfinity router, you must perform an Xfinity router login to access the best network through the hardware.
The equipment which you use should also have excellent software compatibility. Usually, a fast internet connection requires high-end computers & other compatible devices.Â
4. Good Bandwidth
It would be best if you increase your bandwidth as per the number of lines of voice services. At least 100 kbps (0.1 Mbps) in both directions to prevent packet loss & ensure the right VoIP calls. For example, for ten voice lines, 1000 kbps (1 Mbps) bandwidth is required.Â
Just make sure your Internet connection has good bandwidth for any calls and any level of network usage.
As your voice is converted into data & further data is converted into voice packets, the bandwidth plays a significant role in running this operation smoothly. The higher the bandwidth, the better the quality of your VoIP calls will be.Â
5. Checking Cables
The conventional & mostly outdated telephone system uses CAT-3 grade cables. Today’s telephones, broadband & data networking cables are CAT-5 grade or higher. Proper cabling assures the best quality of service.Â
As cables are the most integral part of the VoIP infrastructure, there must be no compromise when choosing wires. Also, ensure that cables are connected to every hardware & device correctly.
Sometimes, simply removing the cable from a particular device could cause severe problems. So, check whether the cables are good quality and connected in the right place.
6. Make Sure You Don’t Have Hubs On Your LAN
Whenever a LAN (Local Area Network) is connected to many hubs, it leads to lousy voice calls over VoIP. For getting the best out of VoIP calls, each device should have its connection to your switch.
Your call quality will suffer if your VoIP infrastructure has multiple Ethernet switches for sharing single cables.Â
Ensuring a separate link to each device & hardware with fast network connectivity gives positive results while performing VoIP operations. Connecting several hubs on your LAN leads to network trafficking & this overload leads to glitches in your VoIP calls.
Conclusion
Hence, with the appropriate implementation of the above-given steps of solution & also considering the Quality of Service (QoS) along with the proper broadband connection or Wi-Fi, VoIP can be a safe and reliable medium for transmitting voice.
Are you wondering why should startups use a VPN? Read on!
Most people have heard about or used Virtual Private Networks (also referred to as VPNs). These tools enable users to mask their online activities and access unavailable websites/services, among other things. However, not everyone is aware of the benefits of VPNs for startups!Â
For starters, they allow entrepreneurs to conduct business online with an additional layer of privacy and security. VPNs also help bypass geo-restrictions so that you can connect with potential clients from across the world.
In this article, we’ll take a look at four compelling reasons your startup needs a VPN. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
4 Reasons Why A Startup Needs A VPN
1. Enhanced Security
Today, many startups wrongly believe that security is something only large businesses and corporations need to worry about. That couldn’t be further from the truth! Small businesses and startups are more likely to face cyber-attacks because of their poor security measures.
The reputation of a startup (or any business in general) can suffer severe damage if sensitive information falls into the wrong hands. With a VPN, entrepreneurs can guarantee security during data transfers and communicate privately with employees as well as clients.Â
Just set up a VPN on your office network, and every device on it will have a secure, encrypted connection. What’s more, a VPN is one of the most cost-effective security solutions – you’re bound to find one for every budget!
2. Limitless Access
Depending on the country you’re based in, you might experience Internet restrictions due to certain laws. This can be problematic as the web provides a wealth of information required for various purposes, such as research and marketing.Â
If your employees can’t gain access to specific websites, using a VPN will bypass roadblocks and give them unconstrained access to the information they need. In this way, your startup can grow by targeting restricted markets.
This also helps you gather insight into client preferences, market demands, etc. But not all VPNs give you access to every country, so make sure the provider you choose offers plenty of servers in all major locations like India, US, UK, China, and Australia, to name a few.
3. Improved OutputÂ
A VPN is capable of improving Internet speed for certain services. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) often throttle (i.e., intentionally slow down) specific types of data – this is particularly true when it comes to large file downloads!
Since your employees will have more bandwidth available to them, they can go about their tasks faster and without interruptions. They’ll also be able to concentrate on other key areas to accelerate your startup’s growth.
4. Flexible Remote Work
With the coronavirus (COVID-19) wreaking havoc worldwide, many startups and businesses have mandated work-from-home in an effort to keep operations going and employees safe from the highly contagious disease.
A VPN will enable your employees to securely access your office network and its resources from anywhere by encrypting all the traffic sent and received. All they’d have to do is fire up the VPN clients from their end!
How To Choose A VPN – Key Factors For Startups To Consider
There are many VPN providers available to choose from, which can make it difficult to find the right one for your needs. To make the decision-making process easier, there are some must-haves you need to look for in a VPN service. These include the following:
Global Server Network: Ideally, your VPN should offer hundreds (if not thousands) of servers in different countries. The more locations a VPN has to offer, the more options you’ll have for a fast and uninterrupted experience.Â
No-Log Certification: This is one of the most important aspects because you wouldn’t want to use a VPN that stores your data. You can avoid this by opting for a provider that has an independently-audited no logs policy.Â
24/7 Support: Good VPNs will give you technical support at any time of the day. Check the official website of the provider you’re considering and see if they provide support via phone, email, and live chat.
Selection of Secure VPN Protocols: It goes without saying that you’d want to enjoy the best possible security. So, make sure the VPN service uses modern protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, L2TP, and IKEv2.
Anti-Leak Features: There’s no point in using a VPN if it leaks your actual identity to the outside world. The best VPNs will have features like kill switch and DNS, IPv6, & WebRTC leak protection to keep you safe and sound. Â
Final WordÂ
If you want your startup to achieve sustainable growth, you need to attract business by maintaining a formidable online presence and this is where a VPN can help you. It will keep your sensitive data safe from certain threats, hide confidential communications from snoopers and prying eyes, give your employees the accessibility they require to be successful, and more.Â
Are you a nonprofit? In this post, I will reveal the best VPN for nonprofits.
You are unlocking censored information in restricted countries, bypassing bandwidth throttling to deliver critical aid to remote communities, and securing volunteer communications during dangerous missions. These are just a few ways the right VPN can empower your nonprofit’s impact.
But navigating the labyrinth of VPN providers can be a daunting task. This post is your map, compass, and treasure chest, uncovering the hidden gems of the VPN world – all specially chosen for the unique needs of nonprofits.
I’ve done the research to assist you, and here are the best VPNs for nonprofits.
Table of Contents
Best VPN For Nonprofits 2024
Here are the best VPN services for nonprofits recommended for 2024:
If there’s one thing you need as a charity organization, it’s more funds to continue the excellent work. With Surfshark, you can save money on VPN subscriptions. You can use the VPN for free, and if you want premium access, the pricing plans are inexpensive.
As the best VPN for nonprofits, Surfshark encrypts your data, making it impossible for anyone to track your browsing history.
You can choose from over 5200 VPN servers in 65 countries across Europe, the Americas, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa.
Furthermore, this VPN comes with advanced security features. To add to its affordability, you can use Surfshark on unlimited devices.
12 months plan (plus two free months): $2.99 per month ($41.86 every year)
24 months plan (plus four free months): $1.99 per month ($55.72 every two years)
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
2. CyberGhost VPN – best VPN for public schools
With CyberGhost, you get the latest VPN experience. This best VPN for nonprofits is available on all major devices, including Firesticks and TVs. It ensures all your online activities are anonymous and untraceable. CyberGhost VPN features more than 7,800 servers in 91 countries.
As a school, you need the fastest possible speed so students can browse seamlessly. You get exactly that with CyberGhost, thanks to the blazing-fast modern servers. Not to mention, everyone will find the interface easy to use.
CyberGhost lets you access the VPN service across seven devices with a single subscription. The strict no-log policy and top-notch security are other things to love about this VPN service.
6-Month Plan: $6.99 per month ($41.94 every six months)
2 Years Plan: $2.19 per month ($56.94 every two years) + 2 free months
CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN is a VPN service provider with more than 9,000 VPN servers spread in over 90 countries. Complete privacy...Show More
CyberGhost VPN is a VPN service provider with more than 9,000 VPN servers spread in over 90 countries. Complete privacy protection for up to 7 devices! Show Less
3. Malwarebytes Privacy VPN – best VPN for beneficiary societies
Here is one of the best VPNs for nonprofit organizations. It is recommended for beneficiary societies. Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a next-generation VPN.
With this VPN service, you enjoy groundbreaking browsing speed, true privacy, intuitive encryption, and free browsing with no logs.
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN features 450+ servers in 30+ countries. It’s seamless to find a server to match the task at hand.
This nonprofit VPN has Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android apps. Also, you can get the VPN on 1, 3, or 5 devices.
A next-gen privacy and security solution for protecting your identity online and securing your device against malware.Show More
A next-gen privacy and security solution for protecting your identity online and securing your device against malware. Show Less
4. TunnelBear – best VPN for private foundations
TunnelBear offers a secure path to internet browsing. Being a private foundation, it’s likely that you also want to keep your online activities confidential; you can do that with TunnelBear VPN.
TunnelBear features easy-to-use Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android apps. The best thing about this VPN for nonprofits is that it operates silently; you won’t notice you’re using it until you check.
The VPN features servers in 49 countries. Within the app, these servers are known as Tunnels. Hence, you need to select a tunnel to browse with. TunnelBear undergoes regular independent security audits. You get security assurance every time.
Teams Plan: Starting from $5.57 per user per month
TunnelBear VPN
TunnelBear is a VPN service provider that provides you with privacy, security, and anonymity advantages. It has VPN...Show More
TunnelBear is a VPN service provider that provides you with privacy, security, and anonymity advantages. It has VPN servers in more than 46 countries worldwide. Show Less
5. Private Internet Access – best VPN for churches
Private Internet Access (PIA) is renowned for over ten years of experience and is trusted by many nonprofits. It’s recommended for churches as it uses open-source software, ensuring complete transparency – the source code is available to the public.
This best VPN for nonprofits gives you access to worldwide servers at an affordable price. As an open-source VPN service, PIA utilises OpenVPN protocol. In addition, it supports WireGuard.
Furthermore, you don’t get to deal with annoying and “inappropriate” ads when you browse, as PIA has a native ad-blocker – Mace. With advanced split tunneling, you can select which apps and websites can use or bypass the VPN.
3 Years + 3 Months Plan: $2.03 per month ($56.94 every two years)
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access uses world-class next-gen servers for a secure and reliable VPN connection, any day, anywhere.
Private Internet Access uses world-class next-gen servers for a secure and reliable VPN connection, any day, anywhere. Show Less
6. PureVPN – best VPN for research institutes
PureVPN is a VPN service that primarily focuses on helping users bypass geo-restrictions. With such a VPN, you can unblock any website to gather the information you need for your research. Content restriction is one of the major problems affecting online research.
You can also perform geo-targeted research, which includes it among the best VPNs for nonprofits.
Notably, PureVPN features 6500+ servers across 78+ countries. Aside from bypassing web restrictions, PureVPN keeps you safe and anonymous online. Web requests you send and receive are encrypted using AES 256-bit encryption.
2-Year Plan plus four free months: $1.96 per month
1-Year Plan: $3.74 per month
PureVPN
PureVPN is one of the best VPN service providers with presence across 150 countries in the world. An industry VPN leader...Show More
PureVPN is one of the best VPN service providers with presence across 150 countries in the world. An industry VPN leader with more than 6,500 optimized VPN servers. Show Less
7. ProtonVPN – best VPN for legal aid societies
Another entry as the best VPN for nonprofits is ProtonVPN. If you know about ProtonMail – a free encrypted mail service – you have an idea about how reliable this VPN is. It offers state-of-the-art protection, privacy, and one of the fastest speeds.
What more? ProtonVPN is free, and unlike some other free VPNs, you won’t have to deal with ads, and the VPN doesn’t log your online activities. In addition, it comes with a sleek interface that anyone would find easy to use.
As stated before, ProtonVPN is fast thanks to its 10 Gbps server network and VPN accelerator technology, not to mention the TCP flow control algorithm. ProtonVPN works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, Android TV, and iOS/iPad.
Ensures that you enjoy 360-degree device protection while you surf the internet in total safety and anonymity.Show More
Ensures that you enjoy 360-degree device protection while you surf the internet in total safety and anonymity. Show Less
9. ExpressVPN – best VPN for political organizations
Opposing parties can spy on your political interests when you connect to public networks. You can avoid that using a reliable VPN service such as ExpressVPN, the best VPN for nonprofits.
It’s a reliable VPN service that offers high-speed servers to users anywhere in the world.
Furthermore, ExpressVPN saves you time as it works with just a click, thanks to the next-generation tech. As a result, you can focus on other essential tasks. It features best-in-class encryption, which guarantees online security and privacy.
You have 160 VPN locations in 94 countries to choose from. If you ever encounter any problem, you can count on the 24-hour customer support for assistance.
6 Months Plan: $9.99 per month (billed every six months)
12 Months Plan plus three free months: $6.67 per month (billed annually)
ExpressVPN
A dependable VPN service that works on all devices and platforms.
A dependable VPN service that works on all devices and platforms. Show Less
10. NordVPN – best VPN for governmental agencies
The last thing you want as a government agency is a data breach. I recommend NordVPN, a VPN with a strong interest in protecting users on public networks. With this VPN, you can encrypt your connection and securely access sensitive information.
It doesn’t matter what device you use – Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV – NordVPN supports them all. This best VPN for nonprofits also had Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions.
The VPN has more than 5400 servers in 60 countries. What more? You can secure up to 6 devices simultaneously with one NordVPN subscription.
2 Years Plan: $3.39 per month ($81.36 per 2 years)
NordVPN
The best VPN service for total safety and freedom.
The best VPN service for total safety and freedom. Show Less
11. FastVPN – best VPN for employee associations
If you ever wanted to build a website, you may have come across Namecheap. Namecheap is a renowned web hosting company with one of the best VPN services – FastVPN.
The name of the VPN says it all: it’s fast. This makes it included among the best VPNs for nonprofits. As a result, it can handle any task you want in a short time. Namecheap hosting plans are generally affordable, and this generosity extends to the VPN.
With Namecheap’s fast VPN, you can unblock restricted websites, hide your IP, and enjoy unlimited bandwidth. Not to mention, it’s a simple VPN to use and takes just seconds to connect.
Monthly Plan: $7.88 per month (the first month is $0.99)
1-Year Plan: $1.57 per month
FastVPN (fka Namecheap VPN)
FastVPN (fka Namecheap VPN) is a secure, ultra-reliable VPN service solution for online anonymity. A fast and affordable...Show More
FastVPN (fka Namecheap VPN) is a secure, ultra-reliable VPN service solution for online anonymity. A fast and affordable VPN for everyone! Show Less
12. Ivacy – best VPN for recreational clubs
Ivacy VPN is self-tagged as “the fastest and most secure VPN service.” While that’s debatable, there’s no doubt that it’s a fast and secure VPN.
It has all you need in a VPN as a recreational club. It protects your privacy while you browse and gives you complete freedom.
With Ivacy VPN, you enjoy unlimited bandwidth. The VPN offers over 1,000 servers in over 100 locations. I also recommend this VPN because it’s available for free.
If you choose to go premium, the pricing plans are cost-effective, too. You can use this VPN on up to 5 devices at a time.
13. TorGuard VPN – best VPN for social advocacy groups
As a social advocacy group, online anonymity is an advantage you need. There are not many anonymous-focused VPNs better than TorGuard VPN. You get anonymity and privacy similar to Tor browsers.
TorGuard VPN supports OpenVPN, Wireguard, and IKEv2 with an internal encrypted DNS. You get maximum security even with the lowest pricing option.
In addition, you enjoy limitless speed and bandwidth and can connect up to 8 devices at a time.
This best VPN for nonprofits is 100 percent private with a no-leak and no-logs policy. You can use TorGuard VPN on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS devices. It’s also available for iOS and Android mobile.
The best VPN service for torrenting safely and anonymously.
The best VPN service for torrenting safely and anonymously. Show Less
14. Atlas VPN – best VPN for professional organizations
Here is another best VPN for nonprofits. Atlas VPN is a free VPN with fast speed. With the premium options, you get even quicker acceleration. This VPN has been featured on Forbes, TechRadar, CNET, and The New York Times – testaments of its reliability.
Atlas VPN has some exclusive features that make it best for professional organizations. This includes email protection and an ad blocker.
This nonprofit VPN offers superior web traffic encryption using the renowned AES-256 algorithm with IPSec/IKEv2 and WireGuard protocols.
In addition, Atlas VPN follows a strict no-log policy and private DNS. You get a notification if there’s any data breach.
Another mention on our list of the best VPNs for nonprofits is PrivateVPN.
PrivateVPN focuses on two things – keeping users protected and unblocking content. As a fundraising group, online protection is mandatory to avoid the loss of raised funds via hacking and other cybercriminal activities. Depending on what you’re raising funds for, you could be a target of opposing agencies.
This VPN uses military-grade encryption to ensure no one can monitor you online. Also, you need free internet to reach beneficiaries and donors wherever they are.
You get that with PrivateVPN, which has over 200 in 63 countries. Thanks to the supercharged connections, you get the fastest speeds.
3 Months Plan: $6 per month ($17.99 every three months)
36 Months Plan: $2 per month ($72 for first 36 months, then for every 12 months)
PrivateVPN
The VPN service with lightning speed and complete privacy protection.
The VPN service with lightning speed and complete privacy protection. Show Less
16. VeePN – best VPN for labor unions
VeePN is a Panama-based VPN service. It offers 360-degree online protection and is available for all major devices. I recommend this VPN for labor unions due to its affordable pricing and usability.
After subscribing, you can use the VeePN on unlimited devices. The VPN keeps no logs, takes just a click to connect, and is very fast. In addition, your web traffic is encrypted with military-grade encryption. This means you’re always anonymous when browsing.
You have over 2500 servers to choose from. Furthermore, VeePN comes with a free Chrome extension.
VeePN is a virtual private network (VPN) service that provides online privacy and security by encrypting internet...Show More
VeePN is a virtual private network (VPN) service that provides online privacy and security by encrypting internet traffic and hiding the user's IP address. Show Less
17. VuzeVPN – best VPN for business leagues
There are many reasons to choose VuzeVPN for business league nonprofits. First, the VPN uses strong encryption to keep your data secure.
Second, it’s ultra-fast and stable for use in long hours. Third, you can use VuzeVPN on five devices simultaneously.
This VPN has 200+ global servers in over 50 countries. You can browse with unlimited data and bandwidth on iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, and even TV devices. It’s a reliable and easy-to-use VPN, as over 150 million people attested.
Annual Plan: $2.95 per month ($89.99 every 24 months)
VuzeVPN
VuzeVPN offers you unlimited and unrestricted VPN service.
VuzeVPN offers you unlimited and unrestricted VPN service. Show Less
18. hide. me VPN – best VPN for museums
With hide. me VPN, you get a multi-platform VPN that’s affordable for your NGOs. It simultaneously allows up to 5 devices, with over 2300 servers in over 85 locations.
Hide.me VPN is ideal for museums as it’s one of the fastest VPNs for nonprofits. It supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2 IPsec, SSTP, and SoftEther.
In addition, the VPN uses rock-solid encryption with AES-256-GCM and a 4096-bit DH key. This is synonymous with NASA’s security protocols among other top organizations.
HHide. My VPN keeps no logs; you can access 24/7 support if you have any problems. You can use the VPN on Android, Windows, and macOS.
HideMe VPN is your ultimate online privacy solution, providing secure and anonymous browsing while protecting your data...Show More
HideMe VPN is your ultimate online privacy solution, providing secure and anonymous browsing while protecting your data from prying eyes, so you can browse the internet with confidence and freedom. Show Less
19. ZoogVPN – best VPN for public clinics and hospitals
ZoogVPN ticks all the boxes of a modern VPN for a nonprofit organization. As a general clinic or hospital, you can focus on the health of your patients and not worry much about your online privacy. This VPN makes online safety and protection easy with on-the-go setups.
It takes just one tap to connect. Once connected, ZoogVPN replaces your IP with an anonymous one. You have over 50 VPN locations with ZoogVPN.
If you use public WI-FI in your hospital or clinic, this VPN will help ensure each connected device stays secure.
2 Year Plan plus three free months: $1.99 per month
ZoogVPN
ZoogVPN is the complete and trusted all-in-one VPN service that protects your sensitive personal and financial...Show More
ZoogVPN is the complete and trusted all-in-one VPN service that protects your sensitive personal and financial information online. Show Less
20. Panda Security VPN – best VPN for business improvement organizations
The last on our list of the best VPN for nonprofits is Panda Security VPN. Panda Security VPN is self-tagged as “the best VPN provider for private internet.”
It’s a secure VPN, built by experts, and with every feature you need in a VPN. The VPN has 1000+ servers in 20+ countries worldwide and supports up to 5 simultaneous connections.
Notably, VyprVPN uses a unique Hydra military-grade VPN protocol. This staunch VPN protocol is capable of bypassing censorship without leaving any trace. It’s a no-log VPN, so you get complete DNS protection.
Furthermore, VyprVPN comes with a killswitch; one click is all you need to end any unsafe connection.
Panda VPN gives you an invisibility cloak on the Internet with total device safety and identity protection.
Panda VPN gives you an invisibility cloak on the Internet with total device safety and identity protection. Show Less
Bottom Line
That’s a wrap! We’ve explored 20 of the best VPNs for nonprofits, each offering unique strengths and catering to specific needs. Remember, the ideal VPN for your organization depends on your budget, security requirements, and preferred features.
But if you’re looking for the ultimate blend of affordability, robust security, and user-friendly features, Surfshark stands out as the clear winner.
Here’s why Surfshark takes the top spot:
Budget-friendly pricing: Starting at just $2.49 per month, Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market, making it a perfect fit for nonprofits operating on tight budgets.
Unlimited connections: Protect all devices simultaneously with Surfshark’s complete connection policy. This is ideal for nonprofits with a remote workforce or volunteers across different locations.
Powerful encryption: Surfshark uses military-grade AES-256 encryption to protect your data from prying eyes, even on public Wi-Fi networks.
Global server network: With over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, Surfshark allows you to connect to a server in the location that best suits your needs.
Strict no-logs policy: Surfshark doesn’t track or store your browsing activity or online data, giving you complete peace of mind.
Easy to use: Surfshark’s intuitive interface makes it easy to set up and use, even for non-technical users.
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Investing in a good VPN can safeguard your nonprofit’s online presence, protect sensitive data, and empower your team to work securely and efficiently. With the right tools in place, you can focus on what truly matters: positively impacting the world.
We hope this blog post has helped you find the perfect VPN for your nonprofit. Now, go forth and secure your mission!
Furthermore, this program is slightly different from other forms of malware in that it does little or no harm to the host computer or inherent files.
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