With so much marketing around VPNs, it can be hard to tell whether you actually need one. The honest answer: it depends on how you use the internet. Here are the situations where a VPN provides real value, and when you can probably skip it.
You SHOULD Use a VPN If...
1. You use public Wi-Fi regularly
If you connect to Wi-Fi at coffee shops, airports, hotels, or coworking spaces, a VPN is essential. Public networks are easy to intercept, and anyone on the same network could potentially see your unencrypted traffic. A VPN encrypts everything, making public Wi-Fi safe.
2. You want privacy from your ISP
In many countries (including the US), ISPs can legally collect and sell your browsing data to advertisers. A VPN prevents your ISP from seeing which websites you visit. They can see you are using a VPN, but not what you are doing with it.
3. You want to access streaming content from other countries
Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming services have different content libraries depending on your location. A VPN lets you connect to a server in another country and access that region's content. This is one of the most popular reasons people use VPNs.
4. You travel frequently
Travelers face two issues: unreliable hotel Wi-Fi and geo-blocked content from home. A VPN solves both. It secures your connection on hotel networks and lets you access your home country's streaming services and websites while abroad.
5. You work remotely with sensitive data
If you handle confidential work documents, client data, or financial information outside the office, a VPN adds a critical layer of protection. Many companies require employees to use a VPN when working remotely.
6. You live in or visit countries with internet censorship
Countries like China, Russia, Iran, and others restrict access to websites and services. A VPN can help bypass these restrictions, though you should research local laws before using one in these countries.
7. You download files via P2P/torrenting
A VPN hides your IP address from other users in the torrent swarm and prevents your ISP from throttling your connection based on the type of traffic. If you use P2P file sharing, a VPN with a kill switch is strongly recommended.
You Might NOT Need a VPN If...
You only browse on a trusted home network
If you only use the internet at home on a network you control, the privacy benefits of a VPN are less significant (though your ISP can still see your activity).
You expect full anonymity
A VPN improves privacy but does not make you anonymous. If you sign into Google, Facebook, or any other account, those services still know who you are. For true anonymity, you would need additional tools like the Tor browser.
You think it protects against all threats
A VPN does not replace antivirus software, strong passwords, or basic security hygiene. It encrypts your connection, but it cannot prevent phishing attacks, malware downloads, or weak password breaches.
The Bottom Line
For most internet users, a VPN is a worthwhile investment. At $3-5/month for a premium service, it is affordable protection for your privacy and gives you access to a broader internet. If any of the seven situations above apply to you, we recommend getting a VPN.
See our best VPN recommendations to find the right one for your needs, or try Proton VPN's free plan to get started at no cost. If you want to understand how VPNs work before buying, read our beginner guide to VPNs.
Our top picks: NordVPN (best overall), Surfshark (best value with unlimited devices), and Proton VPN (best free option). For streaming specifically, see our best VPN for streaming comparison.