Virtual private networks, better known as VPNs, are old technology. The first VPN protocol (a set of rules that determines how programmes talk to each other), was developed in the late 1990s. What began as a boring tool for businesses is now everywhere, and according to a recent YouGov survey has been used by nearly half of UK adults.
The VPN industry has exploded over the past five years, with companies pouring their budget into YouTube, podcast and TV ads. Everyone, it seems, has heard of them – even if most people aren’t entirely sure what they actually do.
