VPN Glossary: Key Terms Explained
Confused by VPN jargon? Here are the essential terms in plain English.
New to VPNs? Here are the terms you'll actually run into, explained simply.
Core terms
- VPN: an encrypted tunnel that hides your IP and protects your traffic.
- IP address: your device's address online; reveals location and provider.
- Encryption: scrambling data so only the right side can read it.
- No‑logs: the VPN doesn't record your activity.
- Server/location: the secure relay your traffic passes through.
Good-to-know terms
- DNS: the internet's address book; can leak your browsing if unprotected.
- Kill switch: blocks traffic if the VPN drops, preventing exposure.
- Split tunneling: routing only some apps through the VPN.
Want the simplest version of all this? Just download VPN Panda and tap Connect.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to know all these terms? A: No — a good app handles the details. This is just handy reference. Q: What's the most important one? A: "No‑logs" — it's the core privacy promise.