Today, everyone carries their laptop, smartphone, and other devices when traveling to stay updated with their work and for personal use. If you are traveling to the US, you can get access to free internet in almost every city. However, the connections may not be as secure as you anticipate them to be, which can pose a threat to your privacy and personal data. Since many people carry their personal information, contact numbers, and credit card details on their devices, it is necessary to protect them from hacking and phishing attacks. For this, consider using a private network or tweaking your settings to ensure maximum security on public connections. Here are some useful tips to use a private network connection in America.
1. Configure Settings to Maintain Privacy on Public Networks
When in the US, you may have to access public networks to stay updated with your work emails on the go. While it is easy to find free internet in public places like coffee shops and airports across the country, there is no guarantee that your data will stay secure. Configure the settings on your device to use the public network without compromising your security. If you want to use the internet for some basic browsing or checking your emails, you can use a public network by making certain changes to your devices like turning off file sharing and using only legitimate sites.
Before clicking on a link, make sure that the site is encrypted. If the site does not have an ‘HTTPS’ prefix, do not click on it. Furthermore, enabling the firewall can also keep intruders away to a certain extent. While firewalls do not guarantee complete protection, they can keep your information secure by blocking data-based attacks. To enable the firewall in your Windows device, click on ‘System and Security’ and turn on ‘Windows Firewall’. For further protection, you can use antivirus and protect your device from malicious attacks caused by viruses.
2. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Use a VPN to access public networks without worrying about malicious attacks and surf the internet with complete anonymity. A VPN establishes a private route by configuring the IP address and makes a public network secure. Basically, you are using a public network with optimum security at a low cost. While some VPN service providers charge a monthly fee, others offer a free trial period to test the efficiency.
Certain places in the US like Rhode Island, New York, and California are known for their high-speed internet. You just need a reliable VPN service to start accessing public networks on the go. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are some of the top VPNs for New York that are highly reliable and easy to set up. While some offer free trial periods, others guarantee high speed and money-back guarantees. Research your options before picking one and consider certain factors like compatibility, speed, support, security, integration, and additional features to make an informed decision. Over time, a VPN will likely become a necessity for you when traveling abroad.
3. Carry Your Own Hotspot
Another option to use a private network connection outdoors is to carry your own hotspot. While using your smartphone’s hotspot is an ideal choice, you can also consider getting a handy modem with a stronger connection and carry it around to access free internet on the go. Getting a mobile hotspot will also establish a strong connection that can be integrated with multiple devices at once. You no longer have to worry about the cracking voice and poor quality of videos when accessing the internet in a public place. Even though getting a 4G or 5G connection for a few days can get a bit expensive, the strong connection and reliance on fast-speed internet will make the investment worthwhile.
You can also get a separate SIM card with strong connectivity in one of the local stores. This will also allow you to make local calls and send text messages within the US. If you prefer to use your own number, consider the roaming charges and opt for the cheaper option. If you prioritize ease of use and privacy over cost, using a VPN and a personal hotspot are your two best choices. Some services also provide mobile hotspots for rent.
Today, hackers are constantly on the lookout to invade every vulnerable user’s privacy and use their personal data to their advantage. To avoid this, follow one of these three tips to set up a private network on the go and keep your information secure. With this, you can freely access every public network when traveling across the United States and enjoy free internet for your personal and professional needs.
