VPN Glossary 2025

An ad blocker is a tool/feature that stops unwanted ads from showing up when you’re online. It helps make websites cleaner, faster, and safer by blocking pop-ups, banners, and tracking ads. Some ads can slow down your browser or try to collect your data. An ad blocker keeps those away, so you can browse without distractions or risks. It works quietly in the background in order to protect your online experience.

AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) is an encryption method used to lock your information so no one else can read it. It takes your data and turns it into a secret code using strong math. Only someone with the right and authentic key can unlock it. This keeps your online activity safe and private. AES is trusted all over the world because it's super secure and very hard for anyone to break.

AES-256-CBC is a way to protect information so only the right person can read it. It uses a fixed set of steps to turn readable data into scrambled data that looks like nonsense. The “256” means it uses a very long secret key for better security.

The “CBC” part is a method for how the scrambling works in blocks, linking each block to the previous one. This makes the protection stronger because changes in one part affect the rest. Together, AES-256 and CBC make a strong and reliable method for keeping information safe during storage or transfer.

Always-On VPN means your VPN stays connected all the time, without you needing to turn it on or off. It starts working the moment your device connects to the internet and keeps your data private in the background. This way, you’re always protected, even if your Wi-Fi disconnects or switches. It helps make sure your information never leaks and your online activity stays hidden at all times.

An antivirus is a type of software that protects a computer or device from harmful programs. It scans files and systems to find anything dangerous, such as software that can damage data or steal information. Once found, it removes or blocks the threat. It also works to stop new threats from entering the device. Its main job is to keep your device safe and working properly.

Anti-malware is software designed to find and stop harmful programs that can damage your computer or steal information. It scans your device to detect threats and removes them to keep your system safe. It works in the background to block suspicious activity and prevent attacks. Its main goal is to protect your computer and data from any kind of malicious software.

Bandwidth is the maximum amount of data that can move through an internet connection in a given time. You can think of it like the width of a road; the wider it is, the more cars can pass at once. In the same way, higher bandwidth means more data can flow quickly, making things like browsing, streaming, or downloading smoother. It doesn’t measure speed itself, but it affects how fast things feel online.

Bandwidth throttling is when your Internet provider slows down your Internet speed on purpose. This usually happens when you use a lot of data or visit certain websites. Even if you pay for fast Internet, they can still reduce your speed to manage network traffic. It can make downloads, streaming, or browsing slower than normal, even if nothing is wrong with your connection or device.

Bitcoin payments are a method of sending and receiving money using digital currency called Bitcoin. They work online and do not depend on regular banks or physical cash.

Each payment is confirmed and stored on a secure system known as the blockchain. This makes the process reliable, fast, and hard to tamper with. Have you ever thought of paying in a way that is completely digital and independent? That’s the idea behind Bitcoin payments.

Blackout Restrictions are rules that stop certain things from being shown, used, or accessed during a specific time or in a specific area. They are usually temporary and are put in place for a clear reason, like protecting certain rights or following agreements.

These restrictions mean that even if the content or service exists, people in that place or time cannot access it until the blackout ends. It’s a way of controlling when and where something is available, often decided by agreements, regulations, or policies between different parties.

Browser Fingerprinting is a way websites quietly collect details about your device. This includes details like your browser type, screen size, fonts, and more. All this is done to create a unique “fingerprint” of you. Even if you hide your IP or clear cookies, this fingerprint can still track you across sites. It’s like leaving behind clues that say, “Hey, it’s you again!" This makes it more difficult to maintain online privacy without specialized tools or protections.

This is the VPN’s stealth (obfuscation)  mode. When you turn on Camouflage Mode, it hides the fact that you're even using a VPN. Why would you need that? Some countries, schools, or workplaces block VPNs. This mode makes your connection look "normal" so you can sneak past those blocks. 

ChaCha20 is a method for scrambling information so only the right person can read it. It turns plain data into a secret code using a special key. Without the right key, the scrambled data looks like nonsense. It’s designed to be fast, secure, and hard for hackers to break, making it useful for protecting information when it’s sent or stored.

A cipher is a method of changing information so that it cannot be easily understood by others. It works by replacing, rearranging, or hiding the original message in a special way. Only someone who knows the method or key can read and understand it. Ciphers are mainly used to keep information secret and safe. They act like secret codes that protect messages from being seen by unwanted people.

A Cloud VPN is a type of VPN (virtual private network) that works through the internet instead of being installed on one specific device. It runs on cloud servers, which means it can protect your online activity from anywhere. You don’t need to manage complex hardware; everything happens online. It’s easy to use, flexible, and helps keep your connection private and secure across multiple locations or devices.

Connection timestamps are records of the exact date and time when a device or user connects to a network, service, or system. They are stored as digital markers that show when the connection started and sometimes when it ended.

These timestamps help keep track of user activity. They can show patterns, such as how often someone connects, or help in checking the sequence of events. This information can be useful for managing systems, security checks, or troubleshooting issues.

A connection timestamp is simply a way to know when something was connected. It does not show what happened during the connection, only the time it happened. Think of it as a clock entry in a log.

Connection logs are records that keep track of when and how a device or system connects to a network, server, or service. They usually note details like the time of connection, duration, and technical information about the link. These logs help in monitoring activity, finding issues, and ensuring security. In simple terms, they are like a diary that shows the history of all connections made in a system.

A Dark Web Monitor by NordVPN is a tool that checks if your personal information, like email, passwords, or credit card details, has been leaked or is being sold on hidden parts of the internet called the dark web. It scans these unsafe areas continuously and alerts you if it finds anything, helping you protect your identity, accounts, and sensitive data from hackers or fraud.

A DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attack is when many computers flood a website or online service with too much traffic at the same time. This overloads the system and makes it slow or completely unavailable for real users. It’s like forcing the system to handle more requests than it can manage, causing disruption. DDoS attacks are usually intentional and aim to stop normal use of online services.

A Dedicated IP is a distinctive Internet address that only you use when connected to a VPN. Unlike shared IPs, which are used by many people at the same time, a dedicated IP belongs just to you. This makes your connection more stable, helps you avoid security checks or blocks, and gives you a consistent online identity while still keeping your activity private and secure.

DNS filtering is a technology used to control and manage access to websites on the internet. Every website has an address called a domain name, like a phonebook for the internet. When you type a website name in your browser, your computer asks a special system called DNS (Domain Name System) to find the website’s address. DNS filtering works by checking the websites you want to visit and blocking or allowing them based on rules set by an organization or service.

A DNS leak happens when your device sends information about the websites you visit outside your VPN tunnel. Even though you're using a VPN to stay private, your internet provider can still see what you're doing if there's a DNS leak. It’s like telling a secret while trying to whisper, it still gets out. A good VPN prevents DNS leaks to keep your browsing completely private.

Double VPN is a privacy feature where your internet traffic goes through two VPN servers instead of one. The first server hides your real location, and the second hides the first server’s location. This makes it harder for anyone to track or identify you online. It adds an extra layer of security and anonymity, but it can make your internet speed slower because of the extra steps.

DPI (Deep Packet Inspection) is a way for computers or networks to look closely at the data being sent over the internet. Instead of just seeing where the data is going, DPI checks the actual content inside. It helps control, filter, or manage the data for safety, speed, or rules. It’s like reading a message before deciding what to do with it.

A dynamic IP is a temporary address your device gets when it connects to the internet. It’s not fixed. Rather, it changes every time you go online or restart your connection. This is managed automatically by your VPN provider. It helps save resources and adds a bit of privacy since your address isn’t always the same. Most people use dynamic IPs without even knowing it.

Encryption is a way to hide your information so that only the right person can see it. It takes your data and turns it into secret code. If someone tries to look at it without permission, all they’ll see is a bunch of nonsense. Only the person with the right and authentic “key” can unlock and read it. It keeps your messages, passwords, and personal stuff safe from hackers or spying eyes.

End-to-end encryption means that only the sender and the intended recipient can read the message or data being shared. No one else, not hackers, not companies, not even the app or service you’re using, can see it. The information is encrypted when it leaves your device and remains encrypted until it reaches the intended recipient. It keeps your private stuff truly private while it's being sent.

An endpoint is the point where two systems or devices connect and communicate with each other. It is like a specific spot that receives or sends information in a network or software system. Endpoints are used to allow interaction, transfer of data, or access to certain services. They act as the entry or exit point for communication, making sure that information flows between systems in an organized way.

Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes refer to groups of countries that share surveillance and intelligence data with each other. If your VPN is based in one of these countries, there’s a chance your online activity could be shared with other governments. These alliances are known for monitoring internet use, so people who care about privacy often avoid services based in these countries to keep their data more secure.

A firewall is a security guard for your computer or network. It controls the flow of information that goes in and out, based on safety rules. Its main job is to block harmful or unwanted connections while allowing safe ones.

This helps protect devices from hackers, viruses, and other threats. Firewalls can be set up in software or hardware, and they constantly monitor traffic to decide what should pass through. By doing this, they create a protective barrier between your private system and the outside world, keeping your data, files, and online activity safer from attacks or misuse.

A Full Tunnel VPN is a type of virtual private network setup where all of your internet traffic goes through the VPN connection. This means every activity, whether it is browsing or using any online service, is routed through the secure tunnel. It provides a high level of privacy and security because nothing bypasses the VPN.

In this setup, your data is always encrypted and protected while moving between your device and the internet. This makes it harder for outsiders to see what you are doing online. It ensures maximum safety but can sometimes make the connection slower.

When people compare split tunnel vs full tunnel VPN, the main difference is that full tunnel routes everything through the VPN, while split tunnel only routes specific traffic. Full tunnel focuses on complete protection, while split tunnel balances speed and convenience. Both methods serve different needs depending on security or performance priorities.

A VPN gateway is the connection point that links your device to the VPN server and then to the internet. It acts like the main path your data travels through once you connect. The gateway makes sure all your online traffic goes securely from your device, through the VPN tunnel, and out to the web. It’s basically the access point for your safe VPN connection.

Geo-blocking means some websites or apps are only available in certain countries. If you're not in the “allowed” location, the content gets blocked. This is usually done by checking your IP address to see where you are. It’s a way for companies to control who can access their services based on location. So if you're in the “wrong” country, you won’t be able to view or use that content.

Government surveillance means the monitoring of people’s activities by the government. It usually involves watching, collecting, or tracking information to maintain security, law, or order. The main goal is to observe behavior and communication for safety or control. In simple words, it is when authorities keep an eye on what people do. The government surveillance definition highlights this as a way for governments to oversee citizens’ actions and information.

A handshake is the process two systems use to recognize and trust each other before they start sharing information. In simple terms, it is like a quick check to make sure both sides agree on how to talk securely. In VPNs, this step is very important because it sets up the secure rules for the connection. So, when asking what is handshake in VPN, it means the secure start of communication.

A hardware VPN is a physical device that provides secure internet connections. It has built-in processors and software designed only for handling VPN tasks. Unlike regular programs, it works separately from your computer or phone and manages all the private connections on its own.

This makes it more stable, faster, and often safer because it does not depend on other devices. In simple words, it is like a dedicated box only for secure online communication. When comparing hardware VPN vs software VPN, the main difference is that one is a standalone device, while the other is just an app.

HTTP vs. HTTPS refers to two ways websites transfer information between your browser and the internet. HTTP is the basic method, while HTTPS adds a layer of security by encrypting the data. This encryption keeps the information safe from being seen or changed by others. In simple terms, HTTPS is just a safer and more secure version of HTTP, making it the better choice for protecting communication online.

IKEv2/IPsec is a method used to create a secure and private connection over the Internet. It helps protect your data from being seen or changed while it's being sent. IKEv2 sets up and manages the secure connection, while IPsec handles the encryption and safety of the data. Together, they make sure your online activity stays private and safe from hackers or unwanted access.

I2P (Invisible Internet Project) is a private network system that helps people use the internet more anonymously. It hides your identity and location by sending your data through many layers of different computers. This makes it harder for anyone to track what you do online. I2P is designed to protect your privacy and keep your internet activities hidden from others, including websites, hackers, or governments.

IPv4 is a system used to give every device on the internet a unique address, like a digital ID. It helps computers find and talk to each other online. These addresses are made of numbers separated by dots. IPv4 was one of the first ways to organize internet addresses. It has a limit on how many unique addresses it can create, which is why newer systems are being used today.

IPv6 is the newest version of the system that gives every device on the internet a unique address. It's like a digital home address for computers and phones. The old system (IPv4) was running out of addresses, so IPv6 was made to have many more. It helps more devices connect to the internet, works faster, and is more secure. It keeps the internet running smoothly as more people use it.

An IP leak happens when your real IP address (a unique number that shows your location online) is accidentally shared while you’re trying to hide it. This can happen even if you're using tools to stay private. When your IP leaks, websites or others can see where you really are. It's a privacy risk because it can expose your identity or location without you knowing.

An IP Address is a unique number assigned to every device connected to the Internet or a network. It helps identify and locate that device so information can be sent and received correctly. Think of it as the device’s home address in the digital world. Without an IP Address, devices wouldn’t be able to communicate or find each other on the internet or any other network.

Jurisdiction means the legal power or authority that a court, government, or official has to make decisions and enforce laws in a certain area or over certain people. It tells who can decide what in a particular place or situation. Without jurisdiction, a court or official cannot act or solve problems because they don’t have the right to do so there. It’s like a boundary for their control and responsibility.

Lag in VPN means a delay between your action and the response you see online. It happens because your data takes extra steps to travel through the VPN server before reaching its destination. The longer the distance or the heavier the traffic, the slower it feels. In simple terms, lag is just the slowdown or delay you experience while using a VPN connection.

Latency means the time it takes for data to travel from one place to another. It is like a small delay between sending a request and getting a response. Lower latency means things happen faster. Higher latency means there's more waiting. It affects how quickly devices or websites respond when you use them. So, latency is all about how fast or slow the communication happens over a network.

Lightway is a fast and secure VPN protocol made by ExpressVPN. It helps connect your device to a VPN server quickly and keeps your internet activity private. It uses less battery and works well even with weak or changing internet connections. ExpressVPN Lightway is built to be simple, safe, and reliable, so your online activity stays protected while browsing, streaming, or downloading using a VPN.

A logging policy is a set of rules that explains what kind of user data a service keeps and how it is handled. It tells you whether your online activity is recorded or ignored. Some VPN services keep detailed logs, while others promise not to store any information at all. This makes a big difference for privacy and security. Wouldn’t you want to know if your digital footsteps are being tracked or left untouched? That’s what a logging policy clarifies.

A Man-in-the-Middle Attack (MITM) is a type of cyber threat where an attacker secretly places themselves between two parties who are communicating. The attacker can read, change, or steal the information being shared without the parties knowing.

This attack is dangerous because it breaks the trust of secure communication. The attacker may use it to gain sensitive details, monitor activity, or disrupt normal communication. It often goes unnoticed since everything looks normal to the real users.

A Man-in-the-Middle Attack (MITM) highlights the importance of secure connections and protection methods. Without proper security, attackers can misuse this weakness easily.

Meshnet is a type of network where devices connect directly to each other instead of relying only on a central point. It is sort of a web of connections, where every device can link with another. This makes the network strong and flexible.

In a meshnet, if one connection fails, the information can still find another path to travel. This reduces interruptions and keeps things running smoothly. It also allows the network to grow naturally, as more devices can be added without depending on one single hub.

A Multi-Hop VPN is a type of VPN that sends your internet traffic through two or more VPN servers instead of just one. This gives you extra privacy and security by hiding your location and data even more. Each "hop" adds another layer of protection, making it harder for anyone to track what you're doing online. It's like passing your data through multiple secret tunnels before it reaches the internet.

A NAT firewall is a security feature that hides your device’s private IP address by replacing it with a public one when connecting to the internet. It automatically blocks unwanted or unexpected incoming connections, allowing only the traffic you request to pass through. This helps protect your device from hackers, malicious software, and other online threats while keeping your network activity more private and controlled.

Network traffic means the flow of data across a network. It is the movement of information, like files, messages, or signals, between devices connected to the internet or a local system. This movement can be small or large, depending on how much data is being sent or received. Network traffic helps measure how busy a network is and shows how smoothly or slowly communication between devices is happening.

A No-Log Policy means that a service, usually a VPN, does not keep records of what you do online. This includes things like the websites you visit, the apps you use, or the data you send and receive. In simple terms, it means the service does not store your browsing history or track your online activity.

This policy is important because it protects your privacy. If a VPN has a No-Log Policy, there is no stored information that can be shared with anyone. It ensures that your internet use stays private and secure, giving you more control over your data.

NordLynx is a technology created by NordVPN that is built on the WireGuard protocol. It is designed to make internet connections fast, secure, and private. WireGuard is a modern, lightweight system for creating safe online connections, and NordLynx improves it with extra privacy features. Together, they allow users to browse, stream, and communicate online with strong protection while keeping speed and performance at a high level.

NordWhisper is a private communication tool made by NordVPN. It is designed to let people send messages and talk securely without others being able to listen in or steal information. The system uses strong protection methods so that conversations stay safe and private. It focuses on giving users peace of mind by keeping their communication confidential and protected from risks. In short, NordWhisper ensures safe, secure, and private messaging.

NoBorders Mode is a special feature in Surfshark that helps people use the internet freely even in places where the internet is controlled or limited. It allows users to connect to the internet without restrictions by hiding their activity and bypassing blocks or firewalls. This mode makes sure you can browse, stream, or use apps safely and privately, no matter where you are, by avoiding internet censorship and limits.

Obfuscation means making something harder to understand on purpose. It’s when information, ideas, or details are made unclear, confusing, or hidden so that others can’t easily figure them out. This can involve using complicated words, messy structures, or unclear presentation. The main goal is to prevent easy understanding, either to protect information, hide meaning, or make it harder for others to know exactly what’s going on.

Onion over VPN is a privacy feature that adds extra layers of protection to your internet traffic. First, your data goes through a VPN, hiding your location and encrypting everything. Then, it passes through multiple random servers (like layers), making it even harder to trace. This setup keeps your activity super private, even from advanced tracking. It’s useful when you want the highest level of online anonymity and security.

OpenVPN is a tool that helps create a secure and private connection over the internet. It works like a secret tunnel between your device and another network, so others can’t see what you’re doing online. It hides your data and protects it from hackers or spying. So the next time someone asks you what OpenVPN is, tell them it is a trusted, flexible, and safe-to-use VPN protocol, popular for staying private and secure while using the internet.

Parallel VPN means using more than one VPN connection at the same time. Instead of relying on a single secure path, it creates multiple secure paths for your internet traffic. This can improve privacy, security, and sometimes speed. It allows data to travel through different routes, making it harder to track or block. It is like having extra layers of safety for online activity.

Parental controls in VPNs are features that let parents manage and filter what children can access online while using the VPN. They add extra safety by blocking harmful or unwanted content and setting limits on browsing. These controls ensure kids use the internet in a safer and more controlled way. In short, they combine online privacy with protection, giving parents peace of mind while children explore the web.

P2P (Peer-to-Peer) is a way for computers or devices to connect and share information directly with each other, without using a central server. Each device in the network can act as both a sender and receiver of data. This means information moves between users more directly, often making the process faster and more efficient. It’s a shared network where everyone helps keep the system running.

Ping is a way to measure how quickly data travels between your device and another device on the internet. It checks how long it takes for a small signal to go to the other device and come back.

The time is usually shown in milliseconds, which means thousandths of a second. A smaller ping means a faster and smoother connection. In simple words, ping tells you how responsive your internet connection is.

Port forwarding is a method that directs specific internet traffic to a chosen device or service within your network. By default, routers block incoming requests to protect your network. With port forwarding, you set rules that tell the router which requests can pass through a specific “port” and where they should go.

This process makes it possible for external devices or services to connect directly to what they need inside your network. It improves accessibility without making the entire network open to outside access, keeping other devices safe while still allowing the intended connection to work smoothly.

PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) is a method used to create a secure connection between your device and another network over the internet. It works by sending your data through a “tunnel” that hides it from outside view. PPTP is one of the oldest VPN protocols, known for being easy to set up, but it offers weaker security compared to newer protocols.

A proxy server is a middle computer that sits between your device and the internet. When you ask for something online, it passes your request to the internet and then sends the response back to you. It can help control, hide, or change your online activity. People use it for security, privacy, or to manage network traffic more effectively. It works quietly in the background while you browse.

Protocols are basic rules that control how devices share and understand information over the internet or any digital connection. They make sure the data being sent is delivered correctly, in the right order, and in a way the receiving side can read.

Without protocols, devices would not be able to “speak the same language,” and communication would break down.

In simple terms, protocols keep everything organized and structured when data moves through a protocol network. They decide how the connection starts, how information flows, and how it ends. This ensures smooth, reliable, and secure communication between different systems.

Private DNS is a system that helps keep your internet use more safe and private. Normally, when you type a website name, your device asks a public server to find the matching address. With Private DNS, this request is sent in a secure way so that outsiders cannot easily see or track what websites you are visiting.

It hides your browsing details from unwanted access and protects your information from being exposed. In simple words, Private DNS is like a private channel for your device to talk to the internet more safely and with more privacy.

Post-Quantum Cryptography is a type of security system designed to protect digital information from powerful quantum computers. Normal cryptography keeps data safe using math problems that are very hard for today’s computers to solve.

But future quantum computers may solve those problems much faster, breaking current security. Post-Quantum Cryptography creates new methods that even quantum computers cannot easily crack. It ensures messages, online banking, personal details, and other digital activities remain secure in the future. In simple terms, it is about building stronger locks for the digital world that can resist both normal computers and quantum ones.

Public Wi-Fi is a wireless internet connection available for anyone to use in a public place. It lets people connect their devices to the internet without using mobile data. Because it’s open to many users, it often has fewer security protections than private networks. This means information sent over public Wi-Fi can be easier for others to see, so it’s generally less safe than private internet connections.

RAM-only servers are special computers that keep all their data in temporary memory (RAM) instead of saving it on a hard drive. This means nothing is stored permanently. Once the server restarts or powers off, all information is erased. They are often used for better security and privacy, since no records remain after shutdown. In simple words, they forget everything when turned off.

A Remote Access VPN is a secure method for individuals to connect to a private network over the internet from a remote location. It creates a safe, encrypted link so information stays private while traveling between the user and the network. This allows someone to use the network’s resources as if they were directly connected, while keeping data protected from outsiders.

A routing table is like a list that a computer or router uses to decide where to send data on a network. It keeps track of different possible paths and shows the best direction for the data to travel so it can reach the right destination. The device checks this table whenever it needs to forward information, making sure the data takes the most efficient route across the network.

A software VPN is a program you install on your device to create a secure and private internet connection. It works by sending your online traffic through a protected tunnel, hiding your real location and keeping your data safe.

Since it is software-based, you can easily download and use it on phones, computers, or tablets. It gives flexibility to connect from anywhere with an internet connection.

Simultaneous connections in a VPN mean how many devices can use the same VPN account at the same time. It tells you the number of phones, computers, or tablets that can stay connected together under one subscription. The higher the number of allowed simultaneous connections, the more people or devices can share that single VPN account. This makes it easier for families or individuals with many gadgets.

SmartPlay technology is a feature that helps manage online streaming in a smooth and safe way. It makes sure content can be accessed without interruptions while also keeping privacy and security in mind. Wouldn’t you want your online viewing to stay both safe and easy? SmartPlay technology works quietly in the background so users can enjoy their experience without worrying about complicated settings or risks.

A stealth VPN is a type of VPN that hides the fact you are using a VPN. Normally, networks or websites can detect VPN traffic, but with stealth technology the VPN traffic is disguised to look like regular internet use. This makes it harder for anyone to block or restrict your connection. In simple terms, it lets you stay private online while avoiding detection of your VPN use.

A SOCKS5 proxy is a tool that works as a middle layer between your device and the internet. When you connect through it, your internet traffic is sent to the proxy first, and then the proxy sends it to the website or service you want to reach. This makes your real connection details hidden and replaced with the proxy’s details.

SOCKS5 is the latest version of the SOCKS protocol. It supports different types of traffic, including websites, apps, and more. It is designed to be faster, more secure, and flexible compared to older versions, helping users connect in a safer way.

Split tunneling is a way to use a VPN that lets some internet traffic go through the secure VPN connection while other traffic goes directly to the internet without the VPN. This helps users save bandwidth and improve speed for non-sensitive activities, while still protecting important data. Split tunneling gives control over what data is protected and what isn’t, making internet use more flexible and efficient.

SSH stands for Secure Shell. It is a method used to safely connect one computer to another over a network. The main purpose of SSH is to keep the communication private so that no one else can read or change the information being shared between the two systems.

It works by creating a secure "channel" where data can travel in a protected way. This means that passwords, commands, and other information are hidden from outsiders. People use SSH when they need to control or manage computers from far away while making sure everything stays safe and secure.

SSTP stands for Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol. It is a method used to create a secure, private connection over the internet. It works by sending data through an encrypted tunnel so that no one else can read it. SSTP is mainly used to keep information safe when connecting to a network, especially over public or untrusted internet connections, ensuring privacy and security during online communication.

A static IP, as the name suggests, is a fixed, unchanging IP address that you get every time you connect to a specific VPN server, instead of a new one being assigned on each session, like with dynamic IPs. 

Unlike rotating shared IPs, a static IP remains consistent across logins and sessions, which makes it useful for IP whitelisting, remote access to servers or internal tools, and reducing security friction with services that flag frequent IP changes as suspicious. 

Static IPs can be either dedicated (used only by one user) or shared (the same static address used by multiple users), but in both cases the address itself stays the same over time while your traffic still benefits from VPN encryption and routing.

Servers are special computers that store, manage, and send information or services to other computers over a network. They are always ready to respond when other devices request something, like data or tasks. Servers are built to work reliably for long periods, handle many requests at once, and keep information available whenever needed. They form the backbone of how most online systems and networks work.

Smart DNS is a service that changes your device’s DNS settings to route certain internet traffic through special servers. This makes websites think you are in a different location. It doesn’t encrypt data like a VPN but helps bypass regional restrictions. It works by only rerouting specific parts of your connection, so your normal internet speed is mostly unchanged.

A Site-to-Site VPN is a way for two or more separate networks to connect to each other securely over the internet. It makes the connection act like a single private network, even though the networks are in different locations.

This type of VPN uses special devices or software to create a secure “tunnel” between the sites. All data that passes through this tunnel is encrypted, so outsiders cannot read it.

Site-to-Site VPNs are often used by organizations to link their offices in different places. This lets people in each location share information and resources as if they were in the same place.

Tapjacking is a trick used on touchscreens where a hidden layer is placed over real buttons or options. When someone taps on what they see, they are actually pressing something else without knowing it. This can lead to actions being taken without the person’s intention. Tapjacking is considered unsafe because it fools people into doing things secretly in the background while they think they are doing something normal.

Threat Protection Pro is a feature in NordVPN that helps keep you safer while using the internet. It blocks harmful websites, stops trackers that try to follow your activity, and prevents dangerous files from reaching your device. It works in the background to reduce risks and protect your privacy. This way, your online experience stays more secure, private, and less exposed to threats or unwanted interruptions.

Torrenting is a way of sharing files over the internet. Instead of downloading a file from one single place, torrenting lets people get small parts of the same file from many different computers at the same time. All these small parts then join together to make the full file on your device.

It works through special software that connects your computer with others. When you use it, your device is not only taking pieces but also giving pieces to others. This makes the process faster and more connected, like a community of sharing.

So, when you hear the word torrenting, just think of it as a method of sharing and receiving files in bits and pieces.

Tor is a tool that helps people stay private when they are online. The word stands for "The Onion Router" and it works by hiding where your internet traffic comes from. Instead of going directly from you to a website, it passes through several layers of servers, making it hard to trace.

Using Tor makes it much harder for others, like internet providers or trackers, to see what you are doing online. It focuses on protecting your privacy and keeping your browsing anonymous.

Tor is often used by people who want more security or who live in places with restricted internet.

A Tracker Blocker is a privacy tool that prevents websites and apps from secretly collecting information about your online activities. It works by blocking tracking codes or scripts that attempt to follow you as you browse, helping you keep your personal data more secure. This reduces the chances of your information being used without your consent.

By stopping these trackers, a Tracker Blocker makes it harder for companies to monitor your behavior, build detailed profiles, or target you with ads. It acts like a shield for your online presence, giving you more control over your privacy and limiting unwanted surveillance.

Tunneling in networking is a method of sending data privately and securely through a public network. It works by wrapping the original data inside another layer of data, so it can travel safely from one point to another. This process hides the actual data during transfer, making it harder for others to see or change it.

TLS stands for Transport Layer Security. It is a technology that makes communication over the internet safe. Its main job is to protect the data that moves between two systems so that no one else can secretly read or change it.

It does this by locking the information in a secure way before sending it and then unlocking it only at the correct destination. This process makes sure that the data stays private while traveling.

TLS also helps confirm that the systems talking to each other are real and trusted. This builds confidence that the connection is safe and reliable.

UDP, or User Datagram Protocol, is a basic way for sending data over the internet. It focuses on speed rather than checking every detail of the information being sent. When data is sent with UDP, it travels in small packets directly to its destination without making sure each packet arrives perfectly.

Because UDP skips the extra steps of checking and confirming, it is much faster than other methods. However, this also means it does not guarantee that every piece of data will arrive safely. In simple words, UDP is about quick delivery over strict accuracy.

A VPN Kill Switch is a safety feature that automatically cuts off your internet connection if your VPN stops working. This prevents your real location or data from being exposed when the secure VPN link breaks. It acts like a guard that blocks all online activity until the VPN is back on, ensuring your privacy stays protected even during sudden connection drops.

A VPN client is software or an app that connects your device to a private network over the internet. It works with a VPN server to create a secure, hidden path for your data. This helps protect your information from outsiders and lets you use the internet as if you were in a different location. It’s mainly about privacy, safety, and secure connections.

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a service that makes your internet connection private and secure. It works by creating a protected path between your device and the internet. When you use it, your online activities are hidden from others, and your information travels safely.

It also hides your real location by giving you a different online identity. This helps protect your privacy and keeps your data safe from spying or misuse. In simple terms, a VPN is like a shield for your internet use, making sure you can browse, work, or communicate more safely and privately online.

VPN audits are checks done by outside experts to see if a VPN service is truly safe, private, and trustworthy. Think of it like someone double-checking the promises made by the VPN company. These audits look at how the VPN is built, how it protects data, and whether it keeps logs or not. They give users peace of mind by showing if the VPN really does what it claims.

Some well-known companies that audit VPNs include PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), Deloitte, Cure53, VerSprite, and Leviathan Security Group. These firms are trusted in the cybersecurity industry and specialize in reviewing privacy practices, security setups, and technical systems to ensure VPN services meet high standards of safety and transparency.

A VPN tunnel is a secure path that connects your device to the internet through a private link. It hides the details of your online activity by wrapping the data you send and receive in a protected layer. This makes it hard for anyone outside to see or track what you are doing.

The tunnel works like a shield, keeping the information safe as it moves between your device and the internet. It ensures that your browsing, messages, and other online actions stay private. This way, your data travels safely without being exposed to outsiders.

A virtual server is a computer server that does not exist physically. Instead, it is created using software inside a larger physical server. It works like a real server, handling data, applications, and websites, but it shares the resources of the main machine with other virtual servers. This makes it cost-effective, flexible, and easy to manage, since many virtual servers can run on one physical server at the same time.

A Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a type of hosting where one physical server is divided into smaller, separate virtual servers. Each virtual server works independently with its own resources and operating system. It gives more control, flexibility, and stability compared to shared hosting. Users can install software, manage settings, and run applications without interference. A VPS is like having your own space on a bigger server, but still shared physically.

VPN blocks are restrictions put in place to stop people from using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on a website, app, or service. A VPN hides a person’s real internet address and location. Some platforms block VPNs to control access, prevent misuse, or follow rules. When a VPN block is active, the system detects and rejects connections coming from VPN servers, forcing users to connect without them.

As the term says, a VPN location refers to the place you choose when connecting through a Virtual Private Network. It is the virtual spot your internet traffic appears to come from.

When you pick a VPN location, your online identity is shown as if you are browsing from there. This helps protect privacy and gives more freedom online.

A WebRTC Leak is a privacy issue where your real IP address gets exposed through WebRTC, a browser feature that allows direct communication between devices. Even if you are using tools like a VPN to hide your IP, WebRTC can bypass them and reveal your true IP to websites or online services.

This happens because the browser can share network details automatically. A WebRTC Leak can put your privacy at risk by revealing your location or identity without your knowledge. Preventing it usually involves adjusting browser settings or using tools that block WebRTC from sharing this sensitive information.

WireGuard is a modern protocol used for creating secure internet connections between devices. It works by setting up a private, encrypted tunnel so data travels safely and privately over the internet. It is designed to be fast, simple, and lightweight compared to older methods. WireGuard uses strong encryption to keep information hidden from outsiders.

It runs directly inside the device’s operating system for better performance and security. If not configured properly, it could still expose information such as your real IP address through issues like a WebRTC leak, so extra care is needed when setting it up for full privacy protection.

A whitelist is basically a list of things that are allowed or approved. When something is on the whitelist, it means it has permission to pass through or be used without being blocked. Anything not on the list is usually denied or restricted. It works like a filter that only lets trusted items in.

The idea of a whitelist is to create a simple way of controlling access and improving safety. By only allowing what is trusted, it reduces the chances of unwanted or harmful things slipping through. This makes the whitelist an important tool for managing security and access.

Zero-Knowledge encryption/DNS is a way of looking up internet addresses without revealing what you are searching for. It is designed so that the service helping you find a website cannot see or remember the exact request you made.

This works by hiding or scrambling the details of the request before sending it out. The system can still help you find the right result, but it never learns or stores the original information. This means your activity stays private, and no one running the system can spy on or track what you are doing.