We know we can use them for getting overseas TV channels, but what is a VPN and how do they work? Here our editor Rizalie answers these questions about VPNs and looks at some of their benefits. There’s help with getting the best VPN in Singapore to watch your favourite sports or TV shows from around the world, and also a special offer so you can see if it works for you!
What is a VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is like owning a secure and private tunnel that you can use for internet activities, including when using public Wi-Fi. When I connect to a VPN, it encrypts or scrambles my internet traffic. This means that everything I do online – whether it’s browsing, messaging, or streaming – is encoded in a way that makes it difficult for anyone else to intercept or read. This encryption happens on the fly, securing everything I do right as it happens.
By disguising my online identity, a VPN makes it challenging for advertisers, hackers or anyone snooping around to trace my activities or snatch my data. It’s like having an invisibility cover that protects my personal information from prying eyes. Using a VPN is particularly valuable when accessing the internet on unsecured public networks, like in coffee shops or at airports.
What’s the best VPN in Singapore?
There are lots of options, but I find that ExpressVPN stands out for a few reasons. For one thing, it has an extensive server network across 105 countries, and your data remains secure thanks to the best-in-class AES-256 encryption. There’s also 24-hour live chat support available to assist with setup and troubleshooting anytime.
ExpressVPN’s Server technology ensures that no data is written to a hard drive. This not only enhances security but it helps supply fast speeds for smoother, throttle-free browsing and gaming. I also like that the service supports use on up to eight devices simultaneously with a single subscription – making it cost-effective and easier for families. The company also maintains a strict no-logging policy, which means the activity and connection logs of users are never stored.
How can you use it to watch shows and sports coverage?
If you’re interested in streaming any sports, from the Paralympics to cycling, international football or the Superbowl, or if you enjoy watching movies and TV shows that may be unavailable, consider using ExpressVPN in Singapore. It enables you to access content globally by connecting to a server in the location of your choice.
For sports fan, here are some of the upcoming shows that might be of interest:
- The Rugby Championship: 17 August – 28 September on 9Now (AU), NZR+ (NL), NZR+ (AT)
- Vuelta a España (cycling): 17 August – 8 September on SBS (AU), RTVE (ES), RTBF (BE)
- Summer Paralympics Games 2024: 28 August – 8 September on BBC (UK), 9Now (AU), NPO (NL)
- US Open Tennis: 26 August – 8 September on 9Now (AU), TVNZ+ (NZ), ESPN (US), Sky Sports (UK), TSN (CA)
How to use ExpressVPN?
- Sign up. Visit the order page to choose the plan that fits your needs. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Download the app. After signing up, download the ExpressVPN app for your device. You can easily get apps for any other devices you have.
- Connect to a VPN server location. Press the On Button to connect automatically to the best server location for your connection. Alternatively, you can choose a specific location from the global network.
6 benefits of using a VPN
#1 One key reason I use a VPN is that it ensures my location remains undisclosed by masking my IP address. This means better privacy online. I can maintain anonymity online and safeguard my personal information from potential trackers or malicious threats.
#2 If I find myself in a place where websites like Google, Wikipedia, YouTube and others are blocked, using a VPN can help me get back online freely. It’s also handy for bypassing firewalls at workplaces.
#3 Using a VPN is another way to change my location. First, it will change my IP address (a unique identifier that tells about me and my location). When I have a new IP address, I can browse the internet, watch shows or play online/mobile games as if in another country, such as the US, Australia, Canada or elsewhere.
#4 With a VPN, I enjoy unrestricted access to my favourite shows and streaming services worldwide, since it bypasses any geo-blocks.
#5 Based on my experience, a VPN also enhances the gaming experience because it reduces lags. I can also play or connect with other gamers based in another region or country.
#6 Lastly, as a traveller and a remote worker, I sometimes I find I have to connect to public networks that can’t be fully trusted. My biggest fallback is to utilise a VPN that shields me from packet capture, dodgy WI-FI networks and man-in-the-middle attacks.
Five FAQs on VPN in Singapore
Are they legal?
Yes, having a VPN in Singapore is legal and they are widely used globally by individuals and organisations to safeguard their private data and online activities, even in regions with strict government controls. In some areas where it might be discouraged, government officials, academics and business leaders still often use them, recognising their importance for maintaining competitiveness in a global environment. It’s impractical for any nation to prohibit them completely. However, it’s important to note that using it does not legalise prohibited online actions. Illegal activities remain unlawful, regardless of VPN use.
How do I choose the best VPN?
Prioritising trust is essential. Look for a VPN provider that:
- provides a clear privacy policy;
- undergoes independent audits;
- has design systems that do not store personal data; and
- demonstrates a dedicated commitment to internet privacy and digital freedom.
Other essential features to consider include the variety of server locations, compatibility with your devices, and whether or not there is unlimited bandwidth.
Why should I pay for a VPN?
While a free VPN might seem like a good deal, they often need help keeping up with a paid provider’s quality services. Free VPNs usually have slower connections due to too many users on limited networks, minimal customer support, weak security and restricted server locations.
Will they drain my battery?
Every app, including a VPN, uses some of your device’s battery power. However, a few of the best VPN providers, including ExpressVPN, create a Lightway VPN protocol. This is designed to use much less battery than other protocols. It’s also faster and simpler to check and keep up-to-date.
Is using a VPN in Singapore safe for online banking?
Using a VPN can significantly enhance your security when managing online banking, especially on a public Wi-Fi network. If your bank notices a login from an unusual location, it might block access to your account. By connecting to a VPN server in your home country first, you can avoid this inconvenience and ensure smooth access to your bank or PayPal account.
Head here for more information and to start streaming using ExpressVPN with a special offer of 3 extra months on a 12-month subscriptions!
