You've heard all about VPNs. Now you know what a virtual private network is and the reasons you should have one.
But you're still doubtful. Does a VPN really make a difference to you? Surely your hardware cannot be used with a VPN?
Well, unless it's a kettle or made from wood, the chances are it probably can. To demonstrate, we've compiled this list of ten different devices you can set up a VPN on.
VPNs for Every Occasion
It doesn't matter if you want to use a VPN to keep yourself secure on public Wi-Fi, or for protecting your online gaming. Perhaps you want to secure your Kodi media center's connection to the internet, or simply ensure your work is secure when you work from home.
Whatever the case, you should be able to use a VPN. But which one?
Fortunately, the vast majority of VPN services (such as those on our best VPNs list) support the OpenVPN standard. This means that even if they don't offer a dedicated app for your computer, laptop, mobile device, or whatever, you'll be able to set up a VPN -- with relative ease -- thanks to OpenVPN.
But are there really 10 devices you can use a VPN with? Take a look!
Use a VPN With Your Desktop or Laptop PCs
The three main desktop operating systems can all be setup with a VPN client, or by manually configuring an OpenVPN connection.
1. Windows
The mainstream choice for running a VPN, every VPN provider offers a client app for Windows. This means downloading and installing the client, inputting the credentials for your account, and then activating the VPN when you need to use it.
It's really that simple.
A manual connection can also be set up, via Settings > Network & internet > VPN. Check your provider for details. In many cases, only the PPTP protocol can be used, but this is no longer maintained, and has many vulnerabilities.
2. Mac
Although coverage for macOS isn't as wide as it is for Windows, the majority of the top VPN providers offer clients for Mac users. Again, this means downloading a client application with which to connect to your chosen VPN server.
3. Linux
Support is less widespread for Linux, although some VPN providers offer dedicated apps. Those that don't, however, usually support OpenVPN, which can be set up in pretty much every Linux operating system.
4. Browser Extensions
What if you're not able to install a VPN client? Or if you just want more immediate control over it?
In this case, some services offer a browser extension (such as ExpressVPN, which requires you have the full client installed as a prerequisite). Here, all you need to do is download the extension for your browser, and you'll then be able to easily connect and disconnect your VPN as required.
You'll need to check with your VPN provider whether a browser plugin is available. Typically, extensions for Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Apple's Safari browser are usually available.
Get a VPN for Your Mobile Device
It isn't just desktop and laptop computers that benefit from the added security and privacy benefits of a VPN. Almost all VPN providers offer mobile apps. Even those that don't can probably be used thanks to OpenVPN apps.
5. iOS
If you're an iPhone or iPad user, you're in luck. Your device is widely supported by VPN providers, and there's a very good chance that you'll be able to get connect to the net via a dedicated client.
Simply check with your VPN provider. Meanwhile, if they don't support iOS (which seems unlikely), or you have difficulty with the app, there are OpenVPN apps you can use. These will allow you to connect to any of the servers your VPN provider maintains, using the OpenVPN protocol.
6. Android
Like iOS, Android phones and tablets can connect to your VPN service of choice using a dedicated app. It often goes beyond the standard Android devices, too. Some VPN services provide apps for the Amazon Fire tablets, as well as the TV sticks.
Again, like iOS, if there is no dedicated Android app from your VPN provider, you can use an OpenVPN app instead.
7. Blackberry
Despite being on life support, some VPN providers continue to offer client apps for Blackberry devices. These are invariably for later devices, however, so if your Blackberry device is older, then you'll need to make different arrangements. Happily, Blackberry phones are the original secure mobile device, and have long had support for VPNs.
On later devices (such as the Blackberry Torch), open the Options screen and find Security > Advanced Security Settings > VPN. Here, click New and search for your VPN provider, adding credentials when prompted.
For older Blackberry handsets, go to Settings > Network connections > VPN, then use the Add New option to create a connection. You'll need to add your credentials into the correct field, along with the VPN server you wish to use.
8. Windows 10 Mobile/Windows Phone 8
Few client apps are available for Windows 10 Mobile, and the same is true for its predecessor, Windows Phone 8.1. In order to use a VPN with these devices, you'll need to configure this manually.
Windows 10 Mobile users should go to Settings > Network & wireless, then VPN. Here, click Add a VPN connection, and input the server name and credentials as required. To use the VPN, open it from the same menu.
In Windows Phone 8.1, meanwhile, find Settings > VPN and switch to On, then tap + to create a profile. Input the required credentials, and the server name.
If you run into difficulty with manual setup on Windows Phone/Mobile 10 or Blackberry, you'll find all of the details you need on your VPN provider's website, support pages, or discussion forum.
Install a VPN on Your Game Console
Amazingly, it's also possible to install a VPN on your game console. As long as you're running a PlayStation 4, or an Xbox One, then you can probably use your VPN service. Obviously, you'll have to check for the details.
9-10. PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
Some VPN services offer special tools for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. These are typically intended to help with media streaming activities, however, rather than security and privacy. For instance, if you're based in the U.K. but want to access U.S. Netflix, then you can use these DNS tricks to find a way around the region blocking. Check your VPN provider for full details.
You can also connect through your Windows PC's own VPN client, using an Ethernet "crossover" cable.
Pro Tip: Set Up a VPN on Your Router
All of the options above are based on setting up a VPN on a specific device. But what if we told you that it's possible to bypass all of these options (although you'll want to keep client apps on laptops, tablets, and smartphones for safe mobile use) by setting up your preferred VPN on your router?
This isn't practical for all routers, but it enables you to easily and effectively enhance the security and privacy of every device on your home network.
Find out more by checking your VPN provider's support for OpenVPN and the correct configuration for your router.
You Can Use a VPN Anywhere on Any Device!
It's amazing that VPN providers are so flexible. Almost any device you can think of can run a VPN client, or at least connect to your preferred VPN server.
But have we missed anything out? What device do you use with a VPN? Help us fill in the blanks, and let us know in the comments.