Secure tunneling is a technology that creates an encrypted channel between a device and a remote server. Let’s understand why an average user needs this.
Term Explanation
The abbreviation stands for Virtual Private Network - literally “virtual protected channel.”
The word virtual means the connection is created programmatically over a regular network. The word private indicates data encryption. The word network describes the type of link between two endpoints.
Operating Principle
Standard Connection
Traffic usually travels an open route: device - internet service provider - global network - target resource.
With this setup, the carrier sees addresses of visited resources, connection times, volume of transmitted information. The target resource receives the user’s real address.
Connection Through Secure Tunnel
Tunnel activation changes the route: device - encrypted channel - protection provider server - global network - target resource.
The carrier sees only the connection to the protection provider server and volume of encrypted flow. Contents and final addresses are hidden. The target resource receives the server address, not the user’s.
Practical Applications
Transmission Confidentiality
Encryption transforms information into an unreadable set of characters. An interceptor sees a meaningless data stream.
Relevant when transmitting:
- Account credentials
- Payment details
- Work documents
- Personal correspondence
Connection Anonymity
Address replacement hides real location from external observers. The carrier doesn’t know which resources are visited. Ad networks cannot track behavior profiles.
Security in Public Networks
Open access points in public places don’t encrypt traffic. An attacker in the same network can intercept data. Secure tunneling closes this vulnerability.
| Place | Risk | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Cafe | Open WiFi | VPN encrypts traffic |
| Hotel | Shared network | VPN protects data |
| Airport | Public network | VPN hides activity |
Protection in Home Network
Even home internet isn’t completely safe. VPN adds an extra layer of protection from:
- Traffic interception by ISP
- Tracking by ad networks
- Behavior analysis
What Different Parties See
| Observer | Without Protection | With Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Resource addresses, time, volume | Protection server address, volume |
| Target resource | Real address, location | Server address, server location |
| Others in local network | Open traffic | Encrypted flow |
Modern Protocols
Protocol determines how the channel is created and encrypted.
| Protocol | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| VLESS+REALITY | High speed, masquerading as regular traffic |
| WireGuard | Minimal latency, compact code |
| Shadowsocks | Proven technology, wide compatibility |
| Hysteria2 | Optimization for unstable channels |
Technology Limitations
Secure tunneling is not a universal solution.
Doesn’t protect from:
- Malicious software
- Fake resources (phishing)
- Device compromise
- Voluntary data sharing
Doesn’t provide:
- Absolute anonymity
- Protection from targeted attacks
Solution Types
Corporate
Provide remote employees access to company internal resources. Configured and maintained by IT department.
Consumer
Designed for private individuals. Provide protection and privacy. Work on subscription basis.
Selection Criteria
When evaluating a provider, pay attention to:
Data storage policy: a reliable provider keeps no activity logs.
Server geography: more locations means more options.
Protocols used: modern solutions ensure high speed and security.
Jurisdiction: registration country legislation affects provider obligations.
Common Questions
Does it affect connection speed? Encryption and additional routing create slight delay. Quality solutions lose up to fifteen percent of original speed.
Is protection needed in home network? If privacy from provider matters - yes. For regular use - optional.
Is it safe to use on public WiFi? VPN is the best way to protect on public networks. Without it, your traffic is visible to the network administrator.
Summary
Secure tunneling is a tool for traffic encryption and location concealment. Used for confidentiality and safe operation in public networks.
Tainet uses current protocols for maximum protection with minimal speed impact.
