Private browsing modes and VPNs are often mentioned together as privacy tools, but they operate in very different ways and protect against different types of visibility. Many users assume that opening a private or incognito window hides activity from websites, ISPs, or employers in the same way a VPN does.
Many users are surprised when a website refuses to load, shows an error message, or limits functionality simply because a VPN is enabled. This often leads to the assumption that VPNs are being “banned” or that websites are hostile to privacy tools. In reality, websites block VPN traffic for practical
When a website fails to load, one of the most common suggestions online is to “change your DNS.” Sometimes this fixes the problem instantly. Other times it does nothing at all. The reason for this inconsistency is simple: DNS only controls one part of how internet access works. This article
A common concern for internet users is whether their internet service provider can see what they do online. The short answer is that it depends on how you connect and what tools you use. ISPs sit at a critical point in the connection between your device and the wider internet.
When a website fails to load, displays an error message, or shows different content depending on where you are, the explanation is often simplified to “the site is blocked.” In reality, websites are blocked in several very different ways, and the user experience depends entirely on where the block occurs.
When a website does not load, content is unavailable in your country, or an app suddenly restricts access, the explanation is often described vaguely as “internet blocking.” In reality, there is no single type of block, no universal authority controlling access, and no one-size-fits-all solution. Internet blocking, access control, and
Since the introduction of the UK Online Safety Act, a large number of myths have spread online about what the law does, how it affects everyday internet use, and whether privacy tools like VPNs are being restricted or banned. Much of this confusion comes from oversimplified headlines, social media speculation,
One of the most common questions surrounding the UK Online Safety Act is whether VPNs can bypass ISP-level filtering or network restrictions introduced as part of compliance with the law. The short answer is sometimes, but only in specific circumstances. VPNs do not override platform rules or legal obligations, but
Age verification is one of the most discussed and misunderstood parts of the UK Online Safety Act. Many users are unsure how age checks will work in practice, what data is collected, and whether tools like VPNs have any impact on these systems. Some online claims suggest that a VPN
As the UK Online Safety Act comes into force in 2026, one of the most common questions people ask is whether using a VPN is still legal. The short answer is yes: VPNs remain legal to use in the UK, and the Online Safety Act does not ban or restrict
The UK Online Safety Act has triggered widespread confusion about what is changing online, who is affected, and whether tools like VPNs play any role in privacy or access under the new rules. Some coverage suggests the Act enables mass surveillance. Other articles imply that VPNs can simply bypass it
Our 2026 VPN tests include the latest streaming unblocking results, real-world speed benchmarking across 180+ test hours, privacy audits, and coverage of emerging VPN use cases like secure mobile data bundles and geo-block circumvention. We update this guide quarterly to keep pace with changes in global VPN censorship and provider
Our 2026 VPN tests include the latest streaming unblocking results, real-world speed benchmarking across 180+ test hours, privacy audits, and coverage of emerging VPN use cases like secure mobile data bundles and geo-block circumvention. We update this guide quarterly to keep pace with changes in global VPN censorship and provider
In 2026, IPVanish remains a formidable contender in the VPN market, particularly for users who prioritize speed and need to protect a vast number of household devices. While it faces stiff competition from "all-in-one" suites like NordVPN, IPVanish has carved out a niche by owning and operating much
In 2026, Mullvad VPN continues to be the industry's gold standard for radical privacy and anonymity. While it lacks the flashy unblocking features and multi-year discounts of mainstream competitors, it remains the primary choice for "privacy purists" due to its account-less sign-up process and transparent pricing.
In 2026, CyberGhost VPN remains a top contender for users seeking a specialized, beginner-friendly experience without a premium price tag. Known for its expansive network and streaming-optimized servers, it has continued to modernize its infrastructure by upgrading to 10 Gbps hardware across its fleet. This review follows our standardized testing
