Android OS is one of the leading operating software for tablet and smartphones and is considered as the direct competitor as Apple’s iOs. However, Android users are not totally safe especially when they are in a public place such as train stations, restaurants, and shopping centers. Online activities in Wi-Fi areas can easily be decrypted and intercepted, increasing the risk of data being stolen and identity theft.
So far, the best way to avoid such scenarios is by using VPN (Virtual Private Network like https://sahrzad.net). By principle, VPN service providers hide your real IP address by assigning a new VPN IP address to you. And because your geo-location is also hidden, you can visit restricted websites in your country. In addition, your online activities are encrypted and no third party can see what you are doing.
Connect VPN to your Android device
Some VPNs may require you to root your device on Android 2.3 or older, but it may not be necessary if you are using Android 4.0 and higher. There are VPNs where you need a third party app in case you don’t prefer to use the VPN support in your device. If your employer requires you to have a VPN account, you should know the name of your VPN server. If you don’t know it, ask your company IT.
You can also find our vpn setup guides for Android here.
Note that the actual procedure of connecting VPN to an Android device depends on the VPN and the version of Android you are using. For Android 4.2, you have the option to enable the Always-On VPN mode. When enabled, you are only allowed to send data using VPN. This feature, which can be found in the Menu button, assures your online safety especially if you are in a Wi-Fi hotspot.
After choosing a VPN service provider, download the app on your Android device. To set up the VPN client, your device should be protected by either a password or a PIN so that no users can perform the VPN client setup. Once you have complied with all the basic requirements, you can now do the following steps:
* Go to Settings. Make sure the Wi-Fi setting is enabled.
* Tap More Settings from the left pane.
* Tap the VPN option on the Wireless & networks screen. (Tap VPN Settings if you are using Android 2.3 or older.)
* Tap the + button and provide the details of your VPN. Choose a name to identify to your VPN. Select the type of VPN, and enter the address of the VPN server.
* Verify if you have entered the correct information, and tap Save.
There are many free VPN services to choose from, but the paid ones are much better. With a premium VPN, connections are much faster and technical support is more reliable. Most VPNs can also instantly provide you a new VPN IP address once the address they earlier provided was blocked. But more importantly, make sure that it is compatible with your device.