The internet can be a scary place.

Because of this, we often turn toward a Virtual Private Network, otherwise known as a VPN, to provide a safe, secure, and fast connection to all of what the world wide web brings to our fingertips.

When choosing a VPN provider, we often make note of which VPN protocols they have to offer, which can set one VPN apart from the other. But what exactly is a VPN protocol?

Protocols have unique specifications that offer benefits to the VPN user based on the circumstance. Some may specialize in privacy while others put an emphasis on speed. VPNs utilize different protocols depending on the device being used, what you want to do, and how you want to do it.

For instance, if you're at home watching Netflix, it won't do you any harm to select a VPN protocol with fewer security measures to speed up your internet connection. This way, you can spend more time engrossed in your favorite TV show rather than waiting for it to load.

The opposite applies when you're doing things online that present a risk to your data, like shopping and banking on an unsecured network.

As you research your options when it comes to VPN software, most will tell you about the VPN protocols they support. To fully understand what this means and how this may impact how you browse the web, it's best to know the ins and outs of the various types of VPN protocols.