Get To Know IT · Courses
What Is a VPN?
Understand the different layers and components of the internet and learn to critically evaluate the opportunities and risks associated with VPNs and online connectivity.
Duration
90 minutes
Certificate
---
Level
Intermediate
About the workshop
Learn through experience
VPNs are often advertised as a simple way to become anonymous and completely secure online. But what does a VPN actually do, and what does it not protect you from?
In this workshop, participants learn how data travels across the internet and how VPNs can influence this process. They explore concepts such as encryption, public networks, privacy, location masking, and geoblocking in an accessible and practical way.
The workshop also takes a critical look at common VPN marketing claims and misconceptions. Participants learn about the limitations of VPNs and develop a realistic understanding of when using a VPN can provide meaningful benefits — and when it does not offer the protection people might expect.
Topics
What you will learn
What is a VPN?
How does data travel across the internet?
Public networks & risks
Encryption explained simply
Changing your apparent location & geoblocking
Privacy & data protection
The limitations of VPNs
Common VPN marketing myths
When VPNs are useful — and when they are not
Requirements
What you should bring
- None
Target-Audience
Who's it for?
The workshop is aimed at teenagers, young adults, and parents who want to understand how VPNs work and what they can and cannot do for online privacy and security. It is particularly suitable for teenagers and young adults who use public Wi-Fi, online gaming, streaming services, social media, or other internet-based services. For parents, the workshop provides an opportunity to better understand VPNs and the security and privacy claims often associated with them. No technical knowledge is required. The workshop focuses on building practical digital literacy and helping participants distinguish between genuine security and privacy benefits and exaggerated marketing claims.
Organise the workshop
Interested? Book the workshop for your school, company or community and help others understand technology in a practical way.
Book the workshop