Installing a VPN is something that you will be able to do both on your mobile and on your PC. Very useful to encrypt the connection when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks, but also to access content that may be geographically blocked. Now, are they all safe? Do they all work fine? The truth is that no. In this article we tell you why you shouldn’t install a VPN in your browser and what problems you might have.
But what exactly is an in-browser VPN? Basically it is an extension that you will be able to add to Chrome, Firefox and other browsers. It is software that you install to connect to a remote server, but only through that browser. This is going to have limitations and even risks.
The error of using VPN in the browser
It might seem like something simple and useful, since you just have to add that plugin and you’re done. You will be able to connect to the VPN whenever you want and you will not have to do much else. But be careful with this, since it is not the same as installing an application on the system, such as Windows or Android.
You are limited to the browser
The first problem is that you are going to be limited to the browser. Everything you do with other applications, such as social networking programs, streaming software or anything else, will be left out of this VPN. The connection will simply be encrypted when you connect with Chrome, Firefox or whatever you use.
This can affect you, as you may need to watch Netflix when you are traveling and opt for a VPN in the browser. But of course, when you open the Netflix application it will work through the normal network, without changing the IP. A VPN program, such as surfshark either NordVPNThey are a good option.
There are many scams
You should also be careful, as there are many scams. You will be able to come across VPNs for the browser that have actually been created just to steal personal data. You may come across them on unofficial sites, through third-party pages where they are promoted and are not really legitimate.
These fake extensions can be the gateway for hackers. They could take control of your device and act as if it were you, impersonating you and entering accounts that you have saved in the browser.
They tend to go wrong
Another factor to take into account is that they usually malfunction. The connection will be slow, you may have cuts or you will not even be able to connect to all the servers they offer. They are nothing more than a browser add-on, usually free, that does not have the same features as a VPN you install.
Therefore, if you are looking for a good connection that works fast and stable, you should avoid extensions of this type. Ideally, you should install a program on the system and thus avoid problems that could affect you negatively. It is important to know the differences between Tor Browser and a VPN, as they are not the same.
In short, as you can see, you can have problems if you decide to install a VPN in the browser. Although it is an option, it is really advisable to install a program on the system, so that it can encrypt the connection of the entire device and you do not have problems when browsing or when you need to hide the IP.
