A virtual private network, or VPN for short, is a service that encrypts information as it travels the Internet. It works by encrypting data as it leaves a user’s computer and then sending it directly to a VPN company that decrypts it before sending it along to its final destination. VPNs can be used on both desktop computers and mobile phones.

Setting up a VPN on your computer involves signing up for the service then in many cases downloading a piece of software to your computer that will insure your data is encrypted.

VPNs are popular in countries such as China and Iran where the Internet is censored because the service allows encrypted data to get past government Internet filters. They are also popular among business travellers who need to send sensitive information through the Internet.

But does the average consumer need a VPN? One reason users turn to virtual private networks is to access media sites — such as the online video service Hulu — that are blocked in Canada. But are there other good reasons?

The Star asked Karl Kathuria, who is the CEO of Psiphon, a Toronto VPN company, for his pitch.

Kathuria says VPNs are useful for anyone logging on to public Wi-Fi networks.

“Anyone accessing the Internet over open Wi-Fi connections, for example in hotels or cafés, can be vulnerable to threats from the logging of traffic by the service provider, or even network “sniffing” by someone else on the network.

“A VPN gives you more control over what you reveal on the Internet, and to whom — just make sure you know you can trust the VPN provider not to track or log your data themselves.”

Now we want to hear from you in the comments.

Do you think there are good reasons for an average user to have a VPN?

If you currently have a VPN, tell us about your experience.