It doesn’t matter what device you’re using; you’re always putting yourself at risk whenever you use the internet. And no matter how many pieces of software you install on your PC, there’s still the chance that a hacker could get access to your system or put something on there. That’s not only a chance you don’t want to take, but it’s one you don’t have to when you have a VPN installed.

Virtual private networks (VPNs) are becoming very popular. No doubt it’s due to the rise of cybercriminals who are always trying out new methods of attack and adapting and evolving their own techniques. The best way to combat them is to try and stop them from getting access to your IP address first hand, and that’s something that a VPN can do.

If you use your PC for work or leisure, and you’ve spent time making it as stable as it can be, you want to make sure it’s safe as well, which is why we’ve put together five of the best reasons why you should get a VPN on your PC and the benefits it brings.

1. Proper PC Protection

Forget about all the software you might have downloaded. Of course, it plays a part in removing any malware, ransomware, or suspicious things you’ve accidentally downloaded onto your PC, but you want to make sure that doesn’t happen in the first place. The best way to do that is to hide your IP address, which is what a VPN does. Instead of your original IP address being made available online, the VPN lets you choose a different one by selecting a server from a different country. That way, no hackers or cybercriminals will be able to identify you and will have to battle with the VPN’s security technology. This means all your personal information will be kept hidden safe, and secure.

2. Enjoy more streaming

When you’re watching TV shows or movies from your PC, we’re pretty sure you’re streaming them. In fact, we’re not even sure if PCs even have disk trays for DVDs anymore. But when you’re streaming from places like Netflix or Amazon Prime Videos, you’re often restricted to content from your region. All that Downton Abbey goodness from the UK might be unavailable! It’s not with a VPN, as you can just select a UK server, log in, and enjoy more TV shows and movies that you couldn’t before.

3. Browse in Private

Nobody likes it when someone reads over your shoulder. Imagine how you must feel knowing that law enforcement agencies and your internet service provider are keeping tabs on your browsing activity. You can enjoy the ultimate online freedom with a VPN for PC as your internet service provider won’t be able to see what you’re up to. No more monitoring, no more restrictions of bandwidth, so you can enjoy higher speeds and more privacy. The feds also can’t keep track of you. But they’ve got no reason to, right?

4. Get Stuff Cheaper

Those dastardly online retailers can often give different prices depending on where you’re shopping from. So why not beat them at it by logging in from a different location on the VPN. Then you can go to your favorite online shop and compare prices, ultimately getting what you want for cheaper. It’s not just online stores that sell clothes and other goods; they also work on big things, like airplane tickets and car hires. It’s bad enough forking out all that cash just for your vacation, so if you can save even more on tickets and hire cars, then even better.

5. Faster Servers

There’s always a concern about VPNs when it comes to speed. Worries that it might actually make it slower for you to use the internet on your PC. Not the case. In fact, it’s the opposite. A reliable VPN will have access to furiously fast servers, so when you choose one, you’ll be able to benefit from its fast speeds. You can stream movies from Disney+, download, and enjoy your PC in privacy, safely and speedily. It also ensures your internet service provider can’t throttle your bandwidth either, further improving your chances of high-speed internet connectivity.

Those are just five of the top reasons why you should have a VPN on your PC. You’ve got to admit, they’re pretty impressive, especially if you want to make sure you’re having the best experience when on your PC. And by best experience, we mean safe, secure, private, and fast – it should be the norm, really. At least with a VPN, it is.