Travelling is enjoyable, but it also comes with its share of digital “headaches.” Whether it’s simply to watch your favorite streaming service from a foreign country or protecting yourself and your data while connected to hotel Wi-Fi, a VPN is almost essential these days. So, which one should you take on your next trip? Let’s find out.
Commercial VPNs
Commercial VPNs have been around for a while. They are the well-known services with names and colorful advertisements that you may have seen or heard of. These services are centralized, meaning that the company owns and operates all the servers in the network. One standout in this field is Surfshark, which has become a reliable platform for travelers due to its great user experience and applications for almost any device available.
Decentralized VPNs
Decentralized VPNs operate differently. Unlike a single company managing all the servers, dVPNs utilize a peer-to-peer system. In other words, users share their bandwidth to form a decentralized network. This approach is somewhat akin to the cryptocurrency landscape—nobody has control over the entire system. Decentralized VPNs are growing increasingly popular among tech-savvy individuals and those concerned about privacy, offering a unique and innovative solution in today’s VPN market.
Commercial VPNs vs. dVPNs for Traveling
Now, let’s discuss what each type of VPN offers in different areas:
Security
When it comes to securing your data, both types have their advantages. Most commercial VPNs feature top-notch encryption and robust privacy policies. Some even engage independent auditors to verify their security claims.
On the other hand, decentralized VPNs have an inherent privacy advantage based on their architecture. There is no central database that hackers can exploit to access user information. However, the downside is that a dVPN’s security is contingent on the peer network’s strength, making verification somewhat tricky.
Performance
In terms of performance, commercial VPNs tend to have the upper hand. They maintain their servers and can optimize them for better performance. However, they may experience overcrowding during peak times. Decentralized VPNs can offer varying internet speeds; at times, connections might be exceptionally fast, while at other times, they could be sluggish. This variability depends largely on the available peers in your location.
User-Friendliness
Consider this scenario: you’ve just landed in a new country, you’re jet-lagged, and your primary focus is checking your emails securely. The last thing you want is to grapple with a complicated VPN setup. Commercial VPNs excel in this regard, as they typically offer user-friendly applications that can be quickly downloaded and installed. In contrast, decentralized VPNs often require more technical know-how, which may appeal to those who enjoy experimenting with new technologies.
Cost
If you’re mindful of your travel budget, cost is a critical factor to consider. Commercial VPN services primarily use a subscription model, meaning there is an upfront cost; however, some providers offer promotions that can help keep prices down. Conversely, decentralized VPNs may help reduce expenses, with some offering free services or lower pricing. It’s worth noting that some decentralized services may require payment through cryptocurrency, which could be challenging for those unfamiliar with the crypto space.
What’s the Verdict?
Choosing between a decentralized VPN and a commercial VPN for your travels ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you are looking for an easy-to-use option with reliable speed and performance, a commercial VPN might be your best choice. However, if you have a solid technical background, prioritize privacy, and are interested in learning about new cybersecurity concepts, a decentralized VPN could be worth exploring.
So do your research, choose the option that suits you best, and then get out there and explore the world!
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