When I was working remotely from Spain last year, I hit a wall. A US website I needed for work wouldn't load, no matter how many times I refreshed. After a few moments of frustration, a quick search and a download later, I was back up and running with a virtual private network.
I haven't stopped using a VPN since.
I'm part of Generation Z, an age group that's leading the way on VPN use, according to CNET's VPN survey. The survey showed that 50% of Gen Zers and millennials use a VPN, compared to 43% of US adults overall.
John Courson, chief information security officer at Fortify Cyber, a cybersecurity consulting firm, wasn't surprised by this statistic. "Younger generations are digital natives," he said. "They want access to the same content anywhere and anytime. They are working from laptops and phones all over the place, and using a VPN has become part of that lifestyle."
VPNs were once something used only by IT teams or cybersecurity experts. Now, for Gen Z, they're just another app on your phone or laptop.
Let's explore what's driving this trend, why my generation is using VPNs the most and why experts say everyone should follow our lead.
Working from anywhere means using a VPN to protect personal data even in Greece.
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Reasons why Gen Zers and millennials are using VPNs
It's important to point out that a reliable VPN can help restore some of your privacy, but won't shield your entire online life, despite what marketing claims may suggest. While a VPN hides your public IP address and encrypts web traffic, it doesn't make you completely anonymous or protect you from threats like malware or phishing.
I spoke with Gen Zers and cybersecurity experts to understand the reasons they use VPNs, and why you should too.
1. To access geo-restricted content
The primary reason for using a VPN is access. Streaming platforms, websites and even basic search results can look entirely different depending on your location. These limits can feel frustrating for generations that grew up with unlimited and instant access to information and media.
Will Coomer, a Gen Z frequent traveler and remote worker, said access is the top reason he keeps his VPN on. "There are shows I can't watch while I'm in other countries," he said. "I just switch my VPN to the United States, England or South America, where they have what I'm looking for."
For those who travel or move around often, a VPN helps keep streaming services, apps and websites working the same way they do at home.
A remote setup in Bansko, Bulgaria, uses a VPN to show its location in New York, US.
2. To prioritize online privacy
Privacy is another reason younger generations turn to VPNs. Younger generations spend more time online and on mobile devices, according to the Pew Research Center, which naturally puts privacy issues front and center.
Even though a VPN can't protect you from data breaches, targeted ads or apps that track online activities, Gen Zers and millennials grew up knowing they're at risk. Our exposure to identity theft, data leaks and surveillance has likely contributed to our overall cybersecurity awareness.
Stacy Sukharevsky, a Gen Z digital nomad and travel creator, told me, "Whenever I'm working from a cafe, airport or hotel, I always connect to my VPN before using public Wi-Fi." She says it's because she learned that a VPN can protect your privacy by sending traffic through a private network and encrypting data, preventing hackers from seeing what she does online.
Courson explained that internet browsers track Domain Name System data, or DNS, which records every website a user visits. That information is valuable for companies looking to sell data and make profits. "Internet carriers are trying to find new revenue sources," he said. "A VPN will hide that DNS traffic in most cases, which is really important." CNET specifically checks VPNs for DNS leaks in its testing.
Although using public Wi-Fi isn't as risky as it once was, now that most websites use HTTPS to secure data, a VPN can still help keep your internet activity hidden from network administrators and internet service providers.
A public library in London provides a quiet space for focused work while traveling.
3. They're early adopters of digital tech
Gen Zers and millennials quickly adopt new technology, and VPNs are no exception. When we hit an error or run into a block online, we look for a workaround. This mindset of not taking no for an answer and wanting instant access makes VPNs a useful tool for us.
Courson explained that this level of digital comfort is a big part of the VPN trend for Gen Z. "They are working more distributed, off laptops, mobile devices and tablets," he said. "It's become a natural part of how they already live and work."
Sukharevsky experiences the difference firsthand. She meets many older travelers who still think VPNs are "too complicated" or "only for tech people." But for her, it's just part of a daily routine.
4. To keep a consistent online experience
When you travel or move between countries, websites and apps can switch languages, currencies or log you out of accounts because your location has changed. A VPN keeps everything stable.
Coomer mentioned he was recently traveling in Turkey and used a VPN to keep a consistent online experience. "Browsers and apps recognize your location, and it's not really helpful," said Coomer. "I don't need my search in Turkish or Turkish Lira prices." Using a VPN helps him keep everything in a language and currency he's fluent in, which helps with work and everyday tasks while he's abroad.
Why everyone should be using a VPN, regardless of age
Using a VPN will protect your online privacy and is a good idea for everyone.
Gen Zers and millennials might be the trendsetters for VPN use, but the reasons to use one apply to all generations. VPNs used to slow down your internet or feel too technical, but they've become much easier to use.
"VPNs have gotten a lot more reliable, and that's made a big difference in adoption," said Courson. "They used to be something only large firms could afford, but now anybody can get one."
CNET's picks for the best VPN range from about $6 to $15 per month, depending on which plan you choose, and annual plans run from $48 to $75 for your first year.
According to Courson, the central reason a VPN should be part of your elementary cyber hygiene is to help protect your online privacy. He reiterated that there's a reason internet browsers are free.
"Google didn't come out with Chrome and give it away for free because they wanted to be the most generous company in the world," he said. "Internet browsers have a tremendous amount of data, and that's their business."
VPNs limit how much of that information can be collected, so your everyday online habits aren't as easily tracked or monetized.
You may not care if browsers collect your data, but attackers and data brokers still pose a significant risk. A VPN reduces what others can see of your browsing activity, which could otherwise expose your location and internet habits. This leaves less information for data brokers to collect or cybercriminals to misuse. Courson said that artificial intelligence makes it easier to sort through massive amounts of personal data in seconds.
"The bad guys are using AI almost better than the good guys right now," said Courson. "The less information you give them to work with, the better."
Using a VPN is just a first step
The benefits of using a VPN matter for anyone who spends time online, not just Gen Zers. Courson said that having a VPN is like being the fastest person when you're running away from a bear.
"If you don't want to be the slowest one in the woods, having a VPN is a very good way to level up some of your basic privacy," said Courson.
Younger generations have demonstrated that using a VPN can be just as easy as using any other app. It gives you more control and fewer restrictions, whether you're traveling, streaming or just checking your email from home.
It's essential to note, however, that even the best VPN services are just one privacy tool and don't offer bulletproof protection. Cybersecurity is not just about choosing a VPN, but about what you share internet, social media and other apps, and how carefully you manage your own information. You can also consider additional protection, such as antivirus software, password managers and identity theft monitoring services.
Ultimately, human choice is the best defense.