The internet has changed almost every aspect of our lives. However, it may compromise your privacy as many third parties are interested in your private information.
That is why most people rely on VPN encryption to stay safe online. It will protect your data against ISP tracking, cybercriminals, and government surveillance.
So, if you are concerned with your online privacy, you want the best encryption available. In this article, we will look at military-grade encryption, how it works and why you need it.
What is military-grade encryption?
Cybersecurity experts, governments, and intelligence agencies use military-grade Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to protect sensitive information.
Most VPNs offer AES encryption with 256-bit keys, which is impossible to intercept. So even if the intruder uses a supercomputer, they won’t be able to crack AES.
How does AES encryption work?
When you connect to a VPN, it will encrypt your request before forwarding it to an intermediary server. Then, the request will be decrypted and sent to the intended destination like a search engine or website.
Again, the data you have requested will be encrypted and returned to your device from the server. Because of the encryption, your data will appear unreadable gibberish to anyone who tries to intercept your connection.
What roles do VPN protocols play?
In simple words, a VPN protocol is a process that creates a secure and fast connection between your device and the VPN server. Most providers offer multiple protocols that control different encryption levels in your VPN connection. Below are some of the common VPN protocols available:
- OpenVPN – Very secure, with the UDP option being faster than TCP.
- IKEv2 – Safe and based on IPSec protocol. Best suited for mobile devices.
- PPTP – Fast speed but poor security.
- L2TP – Fast and based on IPSec protocol for improved security
- SSTP – Good protection but slow.
Is military-grade encryption necessary?
Yes, it is necessary, and below are some reasons why you should use military-grade encryption when accessing the internet.
Internet service providers (ISPs)
Usually, your traffic goes through your ISP servers when you connect to the internet. So, for example, when you visit a website, your request goes to your ISP, which redirects you to your destination. This means that your ISP can see everything you do online.
Many ISPs sell the information to advertisers for a profit. Also, they can share the data with authorities if requested. However, you can use a VPN if you want to keep your browsing history private. It will secure your traffic with military-grade encryption for a safer online experience.
Government
Some governments perform mass surveillance on their citizens, alluding to national security concerns. However, this is not okay as you have the right to your privacy, and a VPN can help to keep your online activities private.
The military-grade VPN encryption will ensure that your data is beyond reach by the government. Even if they compel your ISP to hand over your browsing history logs, they won’t have the information if you use a VPN.
Cybercriminals
Whenever you access the internet unprotected, you expose your private information to hungry cybercriminals, especially when using an unsecured Wi-Fi network. However, a VPN will apply military-grade encryption on your connection to protect your online activities from malicious actors.
Strongest AES encryption
AES employs a symmetric algorithm where the same key is used in the encryption and decryption processes. It is designed to support 128-, 192- and 256-bit keys. Currently, AES 256-bit is the strongest encryption standard.
However, although AES 256-bit encryption is more robust than 128-bit encryption, keep in mind that AES 128-bit encryption has never been cracked.
Bottom line
The military-grade VPN encryption may slow down your internet speed. However, this won’t happen, or the difference will be barely noticeable if you use a reliable VPN service with high-quality servers. Some VPNs even offer unlimited bandwidth and data so you can access the internet without limitations.
