No matter your need or reasons for wanting anonymity on the web, there are a few simple steps anyone can take to ensure their privacy and remain anonymous. Users can use specially tuned operating systems, proxies, online monikers and VPN networks.
The range of options to remain anonymous on the web is vast and depends largely on the needs of the individual user. The simplest means of achieving online anonymity on the web is to create an online identity. Users create a name that represents their personality and adopt a persona while limiting the amount of real life information they share. Obviously this only protects your anonymity so long as no one looks too hard at you. If you want to physically protect your identity the best route is to use software and hardware to protect it.
Anonymity is a large concern for everyone using the internet, but even more so for those who choose to disagree with popular opinion or criticize government or big business. In some countries, it is even illegal to criticize a governmental body, as such the need for anonymity while you strive for social change is paramount.
This anonymity is possible using various pieces of technology, the first line of defense is to use a Linux-based operating system that can be specifically tailored to protect the user’s identity and IP address. It is also possible to access the web using proxies that assign you a different IP address. You should be wary of using certain proxies as they might not be operated by the owner of the server (i.e. hacked without their knowledge) and information transmitted through it can be read by the operator of the proxy.
Probably the simplest and most effective way to protect your identity and data is through the use of a VPN. A Virtual Private Network will funnel your data through a regional server of your choosing, and then assign your computer a new IP address. This allows you to access regionally restricted content such as video streaming, banking, online shopping. The added benefit of having a new assigned IP address also means that it is harder to trace it back to your actual computer. It is also worth mentioning that the VPN’s tunnel will also encrypt your data so in the event someone intercepts it, they will be unable to make sense of the data.
While we may not be able to help you with finding good proxies, or ways to install a linux based operating system, our experts can help you find a VPN that fits your needs. Below, we have compiled a table of the best VPN providers highlighting pros and cons as well as other factors. Using a VPN is the simplest and most efficient way of protecting your online anonymity, it requires very little know how on the part of the user and features robust protection.