VPN Glossary
Understanding VPN terminology made easy.
AES-256
Advanced Encryption Standard with 256-bit key length. The gold standard for VPN encryption, used by governments and security experts worldwide.
Bandwidth
The maximum rate of data transfer across a network. VPNs may limit bandwidth on free plans.
DNS (Domain Name System)
The system that translates domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses. DNS leaks can expose your browsing history.
DNS Leak
When DNS queries bypass the VPN tunnel and go to your ISP, exposing the websites you visit.
Double VPN
A feature that routes your traffic through two VPN servers for extra encryption and privacy.
Encryption
The process of converting data into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access. VPNs encrypt your internet traffic.
Five Eyes
An intelligence alliance (US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand) that shares surveillance data. VPNs based outside these countries are often preferred.
IKEv2
Internet Key Exchange version 2. A fast and secure VPN protocol, especially good for mobile devices.
IP Address
A unique numerical identifier assigned to every device on a network. VPNs hide your real IP address.
Kill Switch
A VPN feature that blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
Latency
The delay between sending a request and receiving a response. Lower latency means faster connections.
No-Logs Policy
A commitment by VPN providers not to record user activity or connection data.
Obfuscation
Technology that disguises VPN traffic to look like regular HTTPS traffic, helping bypass VPN blocks.
OpenVPN
An open-source VPN protocol known for its strong security and flexibility. Works on most platforms.
P2P (Peer-to-Peer)
A network where computers share files directly without a central server. Often used for torrenting.
Protocol
The set of rules that determines how data is transmitted through a VPN. Common protocols include WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
Server
A computer that provides services to other computers. VPN servers are located around the world.
Split Tunneling
A feature that lets you route some traffic through the VPN while other traffic uses your regular connection.
TLS (Transport Layer Security)
A cryptographic protocol that provides security for internet communications. The successor to SSL.
Tunnel
The encrypted connection between your device and the VPN server through which all your traffic passes.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A service that encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in another location.
WebRTC Leak
A browser vulnerability that can reveal your real IP address even when using a VPN.
WireGuard
A modern VPN protocol known for its speed, simplicity, and strong security. Increasingly popular among VPN providers.