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Streaming 101
Streaming is often confused with downloading, as they both essentially do the same thing – allow you to enjoy the content you love. Where they differ is in the way they deliver the content to your device. Streaming is when you consume media that’s playing in real-time. This means that the media is not saved on your device and you need internet access the entire time that the content is playing. Streaming speed depends on internet connection strength, which is why streaming is choppy at times. Downloading, on the other hand, is when the media file is transferred entirely to your computer, giving you access whenever you want, even without an internet connection.
Streaming has risen in popularity due to the fact that it’s a safer way to consume content, as nothing is being stored on your computer, and it removes a lot of the hassle that comes with downloading. The media may be stored in a cloud or accessed by a media streamer. Either way, the file is available and requires no download or link-copying on your part.
You can stream content anywhere, anytime, and on any device. No matter if you’re commuting to work, relaxing in the park, or running on the treadmill, streaming is generally quick, safe, and reliable.
Here Are the Top 4 VPN Solutions for Streaming
1. ExpressVPN
- Perfect for streaming
- Easy-to-use apps
- 100% anonymous
With servers in 136 cities and 94 countries, easy setup, and 24-hour customer support, ExpressVPN is one of the most popular VPN solutions on the market.
ExpressVPN is an ideal choice for anyone searching for a VPN that offers speed and emphasizes privacy. From the minute you start streaming, your IP address gets hidden automatically and replaced by a randomly generated one. Adding to its security steps, ExpressVPN also encrypts all data so that you’re safe in the case of a data breach.The VPN is also compatible with multiple devices like routers and tablets, and is available for Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android. If you aren’t sold yet, everything from ExpressVPN’s website to its platform-dedicated apps are built with one thing in mind: simplicity.
2. NordVPN
- Focus on security and privacy
- Servers in 61 countries
- Double data encryption technology
If you’re looking for an affordable VPN solution but aren’t willing to compromise on price, NordVPN is for you. It offers no logging of data, double encryption, and gives you a dedicated IP for top-notch safety. NordVPN also has impressive security features in place, such as its automatic kill switch. This feature is meant to protect you and your data in a split second by shutting down the website or software you’re using the minute you lose VPN connection.
As far as price, NordVPN is incredibly affordable and frequently offers promotions and special deals. Plans start as low as $2.75 a month, if you pay for 3 years up front. It also offers freebies like YouTube and web proxies, and encrypted instant messaging features.
3. ZenMate
- Easy access to geo-restricted content
- User-friendly apps
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Berlin-based ZenMate aims to simplify the world of online security and make it accessible for everyone. With this in mind, it offers an incredibly simple-to-use plug-in. To set up ZenMate, you simply need to complete a one-click installation process, and you’re ready to start securely browsing in up to 30 countries worldwide.
Though ZenMate doesn’t offer a customer support phone line, it does have an email address where support usually responds within 24 hours of receiving the inquiry. The VPN offers competitive pricing, and has over 38 million registered global users.
4. PrivateVPN
- Zero data-logging
- Perfect for online gaming
- Live customer support
servers in 56 countries, allowing you to easily connect and stream any content, no matter your location. Unlike the majority of VPN solutions, PrivateVPN is ideal for smaller home networks, and is perfect for torrenting with unlimited bandwidth, and secure gaming.
Though it doesn’t offer a dedicated IP address, like many other solutions, it does offer top-notch security with L2TP, IPSec, L2TP/IPSec, PPTP, and IKEv2. No matter the system you have, it’s likely that PrivateVPN will integrate seamlessly, as it works with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and most routers.
Using a VPN to Stream
You have likely heard of popular streaming devices like the Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, or Smart TVs. All these are tools for streaming content directly on your TV.
They’re really simple to set up. All you have to do is:
- Turn on your TV
- Open the streaming feature
- Select the show or movie you want to watch
- Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show (literally).
There are also online streaming websites like Netflix, YouTube, and Kodi that stream movies, series, and music directly to your phone or computer.
Common uses for streaming are of course to watch movies and series, but other content can be streamed like news programs and sporting events. After pressing play, the content gets streamed directly to your device in real-time. Keep in mind that you will need to have good internet connection so the content plays smoothly. This is especially true for high quality videos.
Streaming enables anyone to consume any content they want, but many times content is restricted to certain geographic locations or countries, such as China. This is why streaming aficionados turn to VPN (virtual private network) solutions. Using a VPN to stream content allows you to “choose” your computer’s location for unrestricted access to content from around the world.
Bottom Line
With so many reputable VPN solutions all offering different features, it is important to pick the right one. To ensure you choose the right one for your needs, consider points such as free vs paid plans, the maximum amount of devices that can be used at once, and the usability of the solutions. You will also want to take download speed into consideration, as it can vary greatly depending on the content you consume most, and the devices that the VPN is compatible with.
No matter the VPN solution you choose, you’re sure to be pleased with the increase in content you’re able to consume. So VPN-on, and enjoy.
