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There are two types of VPN kill switches, each using different protocols: the Active Kill Switch Protocol and the Passive Kill Switch Protocol. What are the two types of VPN kill switch?
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Reconnecting: The moment your VPN connection returns, the VPN app’s kill switch disengages, automatically restoring your connection. Scanning: A VPN kill switch analyses your connection to the VPN server in real-time by scanning for changes in your network status or IP address.ĭetecting: Any disruption to your VPN connection is instantly detected by the kill switch feature.īlocking: The VPN either disconnects your entire device from the internet, or just blocks certain applications, depending on your VPN service and its settings. Here are the four main processes that determine how VPN kill switches work: When your connection is restored, the kill switch reverses itself to hook you back up immediately - often before you’ve even noticed a thing. VPN kill switches act as a failsafe by completely disconnecting your device from the internet whenever your VPN connection is down. That’s why a backstop that instantaneously kicks in the moment your VPN goes down is so important for maintaining your privacy online.Īlso known as connection kill switches, network locks, or network kill switches, VPN kill switches are features of VPNs that provide a powerful last line of defense to ensure anonymity in the event of private network failure.Ī VPN kill switch automatically disconnects your device from the internet if your VPN connection fails, protecting your privacy and blocking unsecured connections. VPNs offer great benefits, letting you surf the web safely and securely - but even a momentary connection lapse to the private network has the p otential to unmask your identity. That way, a VPN kill switch provides an extra layer of protection when using a VPN.
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Even the best networks aren’t immune to outages that can leave your personal information vulnerable, but VPNs with a kill switch feature keep your IP address hidden and your data private, even when connectivity drops.
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