Overview
This article explains in detail exactly what VirtualShield VPN is, and how it works under the hood. It also teaches you how to get started protecting all of your devices using VirtualShield.
Learn how to create a new account, how to log in to the app, and how to activate VPN protection for the very first time. It doesn't matter which device you are using, this article applies to computers, cell phones, tablets, and more.
In this section
What is a VPN?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. Technically speaking, a VPN is a service that creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. In other words, it allows you to browse the internet without anyone being able to see what you are doing online.
First and foremost, a VPN hides your location by scrambling your IP address. It also encrypts your data, and hides your traffic from all third-parties including websites, the government, Internet/Cellular providers, and more.
An anonymous VPN works differently from a private browser or a proxy server. Learn more about the differences here.
Why is a VPN important?
When you're connected to the internet, these third-parties try to collect your information. This includes various details like the device you're using, your Operating System, the websites you visit frequently, and most importantly your IP address and your physical location.
The IP address isn't everything, it's just a visualization of what VirtualShield is doing in the background. Basically a VPN allows you to create a secure connection to another network over the Internet.
VirtualShield's network uses patented technology to encrypt and protect your private online activity from potential hackers. What this means is that your entire internet connection is passed through our servers to give you a private tunnel to the internet, preventing all third-parties from seeing what you're doing.
You can learn more about our VPN technology, and all of the benefits of using a VPN here.
Why choose VirtualShield?
At VirtualShield, your online privacy and security is our number one concern above all else. That's why we have a completely 100% zero logs policy, which means we don't track, monitor, or know what you do online. We will never filter or censor any of your internet traffic.
On top of that, we offer a 7 day risk-free trial period with all of our plans, so you can give us a try before you actually start to pay for our services. You can cancel your account at any time during your free trial period and you will not be billed.
If you're just looking to hide your location, the Basic plan is all you need in order to be protected. This plan also includes real-time threat monitoring using our Personal Data Removal service. If you would like to take advantage of the additional services we offer, one of our other plans might suit you:
Protect your entire family and all of your devices with our fast, secure, unlimited VPN service. Includes Unlimited devices, Over 25 virtual regions to choose from, Unrestricted Streaming on your favorite apps & websites, and more.
In addition to our fast, secure, unlimited VPN and Personal Data Removal service, this plan includes Ad & Malware Blocking, SSN Monitoring, Dark Web Scanning, and more.
If you want to be fully protected, this plan unlocks full access to everything. Some features include Antivirus Protection, Full Identity Theft Protection, Up to $5 Million Insurace, and more.
In this section
Activating VPN
After signing in to the app, you will be presented with the Home screen. This is where you can connect to and disconnect from the VirtualShield network.
This screen may look a little different depending on the make and model of your device, but the concept is the same. You will see a power button, and a place to choose your location.
You can also adjust your various configuration settings and view your subscription details from this screen.
Toggle VPN Protection
Now all you need to do is press the power button to toggle VPN protection. That's it! You are now protected by VirtualShield.
The power button and the shield icon will appear green once you're connected. It will also display the location and IP address of the data center you are connected to.
On desktop and laptop computers, you can also toggle protection by flipping the Secure VPN switch, or clicking the shield icon near the corner of your screen (next to your clock).
By default, we automatically select the data center closest to you. See our support article for more info on how to change your location.
Verify your Protection
You can test your protection at any time using this link. It doesn't matter which device you're using, this page will work on all of your various devices, computers, tablets, smart phones, and more:
If you are connected to our secure network, this page will report your status as Protected. It will also display the IP address and geographic location of the data center you're connected to. Otherwise, this page will display your actual location.
This is the same information other websites, apps, and your Internet/Cellular provider can see. See our support article for more information.
You're done!
As long as the Test My Protection page reports your status as Protected, it means you're all set. You can now surf the web and use all of your apps just as you would normally, but with relief and peace of mind, knowing your data is fully secure and not being shared with any third-parties.
You can follow the same steps to toggle VPN protection off again in order to use location-based apps, or play games that consume high bandwidth. However, it is strongly recommended to connect first before making purchases or sharing your personal details online.
You can also choose to automatically connect to our servers as soon as your internet connection can be detected. See our support article for more information.
Common Questions
I use a free VPN, am I still protected?
Yes and no. Free VPNs collect your information, and sell it to advertisers. This applies to many paid VPNs as well. Learn more about the difference between free VPNs and paid ones here.
I use a proxy server, do I still need a VPN?
A proxy will hide the data inside of your web browser, but it will not protect or encrypt the other apps running on your device. Learn more about the differences here.