A VPN can be used for other types of connections other than Wi-Fi. It can also be used to protect wired and 4G connections. Wi-Fi and wired connections work in similar ways, since what separates a wireless connection from a wired connection is literally a cable and most ISPs can provide both wired and wireless services.
When done properly, a network can be encrypted from the moment it is configured. However, most Internet Service Providers will only deliver the equipment and the service will be activated with automatic settings, meaning that a connection established through that network will have little to no encryption. In that sense, a VPN service can protect you if you’re using a wired connection.
When it comes to 4G connections, however, things work differently. 4G-enabled devices connect to the internet through their cellular connection provider. Basically, they receive data from the cellphone company the same way they receive a mobile phone signal. That’s why it is possible to access internet wherever there is a mobile connection. In addition, because data sent via 4G is carried in a different way, it will be encrypted, unlike in Wi-Fi connections. In practical terms, using a 4G connection is safer compared to using hotspots or Wi-Fi networks.
However, this doesn’t mean that 4G can’t be monitored or even compromised. Sure, it is safer than using a Wi-Fi connection but it can also suffer some security breaches. As we know, many mobile and tablet applications monitor our online and even offline activities, such as our real and visited locations. Data can be collected by the companies behind those applications and then used for their own financial gains. And if companies can access that information, so can hackers. In addition, personal information such as medical records or banking information can also be exposed if there’s a security breach.
To sum it all up, just like it is with Wi-Fi connections, a VPN can also be helpful while using 4G. It will further encrypt your connection, maximize your privacy, and also switch the real IP address with an IP address at another location.