Free vs. Paid VPNs: Which One Should You Choose? When it comes to online privacy, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become an essential tool for many. But if you've ever searched for one, you've likely asked yourself: should I go with a free VPN or invest in a paid service? While both options have their benefits, they serve different needs and come with important trade-offs. Let’s dive into the key differences, explore what each type offers, and help you decide which one makes sense for your lifestyle. Understanding the Core Purpose of a VPN Before comparing free and paid VPNs, it’s helpful to quickly recap what a VPN does. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server, hiding your IP address and protecting your data from prying eyes. This is useful for safeguarding privacy, accessing geo-restricted content, and adding a layer of security to your online activity—especially on public Wi-Fi networks. What Free VPNs Offer (and Where They Fall Short)...