Decentralization or abolition of centralization is a devolution of the central service provider's powers and responsibilities to individual users. Currently, both private and public sector participants are looking for alternative methods to help bypass the one-sided requirements of technology giants and focus more on individual users, their needs, and interests. Therefore, technological advances such as blockchain technologies, cloud computing, machine learning, edge computing, differentiated privacy, artificial intelligence, and VPNs—are moving toward more decentralized solutions.
What is a VPN?
Today, VPNs are more popular than they were in the previous few years. According to statistics, about 1,5 billion people use VPNs worldwide. Moreover, the companies that create them have become real giants. Its principle of operation is straightforward. First, the data flow is transmitted to the VPN server, where encryption is performed—hiding the IP address and location of the user. A hidden IP address ensures that you are untraceable in the online space. It is also a known fact that a VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions. People use VPNs to access content that is only available in third-country markets. Thus, a customer using a VPN is considered to be located in a chosen third country.
Advantages of Classic VPN
Safety
When you surf the Internet, your data traffic travels a long way, passing through various servers. This stream includes your most personal information: passwords, financial data, etc. VPN encrypts your Internet traffic so that no one can see your online activities and accesses.
Assurance of fast-speed
Internet service providers can slow down their customers' connections when visiting certain websites or using certain services. If your traffic is encrypted, Internet service providers can't see your activity on the Internet, so they do have no reason to limit your traffic.
Unforgettable gaming experience
VPN services give you an unforgettable gaming experience. Fast internet speed ensures that the user can play games and enjoy the moment without any obstacles.
Disadvantages of Classic VPN
VPN is a paid service.
A reliable VPN will cost you a few euros a month. However, these euros aren't much considering the security that is provided. And if we consider all the advantages, a VPN can save you a really solid amount of money.
VPN can be prohibited in some countries.
VPN is prohibited or severely restricted in certain countries. If a VPN is legal in your country and you are planning to visit another country, check the restrictions in that country so you know exactly what you can and can't do.
VPN cannot be used with some devices.
Most popular devices and operating systems are fully compatible with VPNs, but there are some exceptions, mostly related to smart home devices. For instance, VPNs cannot work with some models of TVs and game consoles.
What is a Decentralized VPN?
The problem with a classic VPN is that when this service is provided by one company. In other words, third parties cannot intercept the information, but all private personal information and history is available to the company itself. A Decentralized VPN is a technology based on blockchain. It consists of a network of nodes, where each person can provide encryption services with his computer. Anyone can connect their device to the network, and the network works as one unit to provide this service to those who need it.
Advantages of Decentralized VPN
Better privacy
Decentralized VPN provides the same private browsing functions, but unlike classic VPN, it does not store user data and is more resistant to cyber-attacks. Decentralized VPNs use their blockchains and have their respective tradable cryptocurrencies.
Scalability and reliability
Individuals who wish to join the decentralized VPN network can easily do so. Since many users own the network, if one of them leaves the network, the network remains unchanged. This ensures the reliability and scalability of decentralized VPNs.
Better resistance to censorship
Classic VPN is controlled by only one Internet service provider, so third parties can try to block the Internet Service provider. A decentralized VPN network is maintained by many users or, in other words, is controlled by so-called nodes, so a decentralized VPN ensures greater resistance to censorship.
Disadvantages of Decentralized VPN
Slower Internet speed
Due to multiple nodes in the network, the Internet speed can be slower than usual.
Use of cryptocurrencies
A decentralized VPN also costs money. Cryptocurrencies are mostly used in decentralized VPN networks.
Complexity
The decentralized VPN consists of many nodes. For this reason, the decentralized VPN is a more complex network than a classic VPN. New users can find it difficult to connect to the decentralized VPN network.
The Bottom Line
Both decentralized and classic VPNs have their advantages and disadvantages. Both types of VPNs have the express goal of protecting the data and ensuring privacy while browsing the Internet. We should not forget to mention that a decentralized VPN is a future solution that is rapidly becoming popular among VPN users.
