The use of Virtual Private Networks is without a doubt became a mundane day-to-day task for many users, just like brushing teeth and making the bed. In recent years, VPN services became a necessity when tackling the growing number of countless cyberhtreats and privacy issues we’re dealing with. VPN services provide a secure and encrypted connection to the Internet, essentially allowing users to have access to restricted content, get rid of limitations, unblock streaming services and protect user’s online privacy without giving out their digital identity. We are used to downloading the VPN app on our Android and iOS smartphones and accessing virtual locations via Wifi or cellular data from any part of the world. However, many users worldwide wonder: do you need WiFi to use VPN? Do you need WiFi for a VPN? Do VPNs work without WiFi? Let’s find out.
Do you need WiFi to use a VPN?
Well, the short answer is definitely no: you do not need WiFI to use VPN, as it can be used with any other type of Internet connection. Virtual Private Network establish connection between your computer/smartphone and the internet regardless of how you are connected, either by WiFI, or by cellular data or Ethernet cable. Besides, VPN services are not limited to smartphone and PC/laptop use, as they can be set up on your router and even Android TV.
When you ask yourself: “Do I need WiFi to use VPN”, consider the following:
- Does my VPN service have a restriction on the number of devices that can be connected simultaneously?
For example, some VPN services limit this number to 3 or 5 to save costs. This might not be ideal for you if you have multiple devices that need to be connected to VPN simultaneously, such as a laptop, tablet, PC, a couple of smartphones for all of your family members. Some VPN services will charge you extra for having additional number of available connections, however, good VPN services like ZoogVPN offer an unlimited number of simultaneous connections free of charge. - Does my VPN service support a connection via router?
Even though this step is not necessary if you’re not planning to set up a VPN service on your router, it is quite important whether a VPN provider of your choice has this option and gives instructions on how to set everything up hassle-free. There should be a detailed instruction on their website on how to set up their VPN service on your router, or at least provide you with a quality customer service that can help you out.
There are certain stipulations you have to take into consideration when using a VPN service via different types of connection.
Using a Cellular Data Connection
Using a cellular data (mobile data) connection is a great way to use a VPN when you’re on the go. If you have a stable connection with cellular data, it is so much better than using public WiFi hotspots that can be filled with ads and can be used to hack your personal information. Many VPN providers offer mobile apps that are optimized for use on smartphones and tablets, making it easy to protect your online activity no matter where you are. ZoogVPN offers amazing apps for both Android and iOS with super intuitive user interface and rich functionality, and they also work with Cellular data.
When using a VPN on a mobile device, it’s important to be aware of your data usage. VPNs use encryption to protect your online activity, which can increase the amount of data you use. If you have a limited data plan, you may want to keep an eye on your data usage to avoid going over your monthly limit. If you decide to go with ZoogVPN, you can see how much traffic you’ve used on the main screen of the app, which comes in handy if you’re on a limited data plan.
Also, if you have a weak signal or poor quality of the connection on your cellular data, this might be a problem while establishing and maintaining connection with a VPN server. If you are located in a place where the signal is pretty bad, you need a VPN with a Kill Switch feature and a WireGuard protocol — WireGuard is the best protocol for mobile users, providing more secure connection compared with older protocols.
Using a Wired Ethernet Connection
While WiFi is a common way to connect to the internet, it’s not the only way. You can use a VPN on any device with an internet connection, including devices that are connected to the internet via a wired Ethernet connection. Using a wired Ethernet connection can actually be more secure than using WiFi, as it eliminates the risk of someone intercepting your WiFi signal. If you’re concerned about online security, using a wired Ethernet connection with a VPN is a great way to protect your online activity. Besides that, using a wired Ethernet connection will diminish the speed drop you may experience with WiFi routers, especially if they are located far away from your computer/smartphone and have poor bandwidth.
When using a VPN with a wired Ethernet connection, you’ll need to make sure that your device is properly configured to use the VPN. This typically involves installing the VPN client software and entering your VPN credentials. Once you’ve set up the VPN, your internet traffic will be routed through the VPN tunnel, regardless of whether you’re connected to WiFi or a wired Ethernet connection.
The use of a VPN does not require WiFi, as it can be used with any type of internet connection. However, it is important to consider factors such as data usage, connection stability, and device restrictions when using a VPN without WiFi. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure a secure and reliable connection to the internet, regardless of how you are connected.
What’s the best VPN for Mobile Data?
ZoogVPN is the best solution with non-cluttered, simple yet clean design that won’t eat your entire cellular data in one browsing session. Our smartphone apps are well-designed and use minimum resources to get the job done and provide you with a smooth unblocking experience. Do VPNs work without WiFi? Yes, good VPN services like ZoogVPN work on mobile data just fine.
Is there a free VPN for WiFI and Mobile Data?
ZoogVPN offers a generous free VPN plan worth 10 GB of monthly bandwidth with 5 locations around the world and all the bells and whistles you would expect from a premium VPN plan. Besides that, you don’t need to fill in your bank credentials, instead just download the app from App Store, Play Market or from our website, sign up with your email and you’re good to go!
Conclusion
Do you need WiFi for a VPN? In short, no. Do VPNs work without WiFi? Yes, VPNs can work just fine without WiFi. Whether you’re using a cellular data connection or a wired Ethernet connection, you can still use a VPN to protect your online activity. VPNs create a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, making it difficult for anyone to intercept or view your online activity. If you’re concerned whether do you need WiFi to use a VPN, just get a reliable VPN service like ZoogVPN that works with any type of connection, including cellular data and Ethernet.
Get the best VPN service for your smartphone now!
- Arsène MaliceArsène is a Kyiv-based staff writer for ZoogVPN, covering everything tech-related from VPN news and social media trends to cybersport events and geek culture. He’s written for several music magazines, and crypto and tech-oriented websites. He tries to keep his finger on the media’s pulse with varying success. You can catch him djing, playing volleyball, and rage-quitting a ranked game in League of Legends.
