VPN – Virtual Private Network

Last Updated: August 27, 2024 4:08 pm

OASIS IRB Support

Whenever connecting to a network other than the UNC Chapel Hill campus (either Eduroam or from a physical connection on campus) you should be connecting to a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This is true for both computers and mobile devices.

A VPN is a service that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a private server before reaching its destination. This process masks your IP address, making it appear as though your online activities are coming from the VPN server rather than your actual location. A VPN acts as a secure tunnel through which your data travels, protecting it from unauthorized access.

Using a VPN is essential for safeguarding sensitive information because it encrypts your internet connection, making it nearly impossible for hackers, cybercriminals, or even your Internet Service Provider (Google, Spectrum, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.) to monitor your online activities. This is particularly important when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often unsecured and a prime target for data breaches. By encrypting your data, a VPN ensures that your personal information, such as passwords, banking details, and private communications, remains confidential and secure, protecting you from identity theft and other cyber threats.

Even if you’re encrypting your data, a VPN provides additional security by masking your IP address and routing your internet traffic through a secure server. This protects your data from being intercepted on public networks and hides your online activities from your ISP and potential attackers.

Help Articles – VPN (requires Onyen password)