I always use a VPN to keep my computer data safe, but that’s just the beginning. From smart TVs to gaming consoles, VPNs can do much more than you might think, adding security and unlocking some pretty cool perks.

5A Lightweight VPN for Browsers

A VPN browser extension serves a similar purpose to a regular VPN (virtual private network) by masking your IP address and encrypting your internet connection. However, it only affects your browser, which has several benefits:

It should be noted that whileusing a VPN browser extension has many advantages, they do not offer the same level of protection as a regular (full) VPN. Some VPN browser extensions act as proxies, which do not use end-to-end encryption like true VPNs.

The Express VPN browser extension.

Proxy vs. VPN: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?

Can a proxy protect your online privacy? Better off with a VPN? Not sure what’s best? Let’s settle the proxy versus VPN debate.

4A Dedicated VPN for Gaming

Gamers will find that a dedicated gaming VPN offers several advantages, especially if optimized for low latency and performance.

Remember that free or poorly optimized VPNs usually provide a slower connection and aren’t suitable for gaming. Some companies, includingNord VPN, offer dedicated gaming VPNs with ultra-fast servers for an improved gaming experience.

VPN shield

3Use a VPN With Your TV

There are several practical benefits to using a VPN with your smart TV, especially if you are concerned about privacy or travel regularly.

The flipside of using a VPN with your smart TV is that you may be limited to what’s available on your smart TV app store.

Netflix app on a smart TV

8 VPNs You Can Use on a Smart TV

If you want to watch Netflix libraries from other territories on your smart TV, you need one of these VPNs.

2A Comprehensive VPN for Your Router

Set up a dedicated VPN on your router to provide powerful benefits throughout the home or office, without managing installations on individual devices.

Not all routers support VPNs, and there arepros and cons when it comes to router VPNs. It’s worth remembering that a VPN installed on your router can reduce your internet speeds across all your devices, especially if you have a less-powerful router with weaker hardware.

A mock router with four antenna sitting on a table in front of a bookshelf

1A VPN for Smartphones and Tablets

Our data is vulnerable to cybercriminals, scammers, and data breaches on mobile devices, and this is often where our most sensitive information is found. This is why using a VPN on our smartphones and tablets is all the more important, especially when connecting via an unfamiliar network.

Most VPN providers offer access for multiple devices on a single plan. Be sure to protect as many devices as possible for your subscription (for example,Express VPNprotects up to eight devices), and perks can include ad blockers, 4K streaming support, password managers, andbuilt-in threat detection.

Protecting our online privacy and security has never been more critical. VPNs provide an essential and relatively inexpensive solution to the widespread misuse of our data by scammers, data brokers, advertisers, hackers, and cybercriminals, to name a few. By extending VPN protection across several devices, you’re not just enhancing your online security; you’re taking better control of your entire digital footprint.