In today’s world, online privacy and security are more important than ever. One of the best tools to help protect your privacy is a VPN, or Virtual Private Network. ExpressVPN is one of the most popular and trusted VPN services available. But if you’re new to using VPNs, you might be wondering: can I leave ExpressVPN on all the time? This article will answer that question in detail, explain the benefits and potential downsides of leaving your VPN on 24/7, and provide tips to help you make the best decision for your needs.
What Is ExpressVPN?
Before diving into whether you should leave ExpressVPN on all the time, let’s first understand what a VPN does and what makes ExpressVPN stand out.
A VPN is a service that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device (computer, phone, tablet, etc.) and the internet. It hides your IP address and makes it much harder for anyone to track your online activity. ExpressVPN is a premium VPN provider that offers fast and reliable service with servers in over 90 countries. It’s known for its strong encryption, user-friendly interface, and ability to unblock geo-restricted content.
Benefits of Using a VPN
There are several reasons why people use VPNs, including:
- Privacy Protection: A VPN hides your real IP address, making it difficult for websites and online services to track your activities.
- Security: VPNs encrypt your internet connection, making it more difficult for hackers or third parties to intercept your data, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
- Bypass Geoblocks: Many streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer restrict content based on your location. A VPN allows you to bypass these restrictions and access content from anywhere in the world.
- Safe Torrenting: VPNs protect your identity and data when downloading or uploading files using torrenting websites.
Now that you know the basics, let’s explore whether you can or should leave ExpressVPN on all the time.
Can You Leave ExpressVPN On All the Time?
The short answer is yes, you can leave ExpressVPN on all the time. In fact, doing so can have several benefits. However, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you’re getting the most out of your VPN connection.
1. Continuous Protection and Security
One of the main reasons to leave ExpressVPN on all the time is continuous protection. If you keep the VPN active 24/7, your internet connection will always be encrypted, making it much harder for hackers or malicious actors to steal your data. Whether you’re browsing the web, checking your email, or streaming videos, your privacy and security will always be safeguarded.
This is particularly important if you often use public Wi-Fi networks, which are notoriously insecure. With ExpressVPN always running, you can ensure that your connection is always safe, even when connecting to untrusted networks like coffee shop Wi-Fi or airports.
2. Protect Against Data Leaks
VPNs are designed to protect your data from leaks, but leaving ExpressVPN on all the time can offer an added layer of protection. Data leaks can occur if your VPN disconnects unexpectedly or if your device switches between networks. ExpressVPN has features like the “Network Lock” (also known as a kill switch) that will immediately cut off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing any of your data from being exposed. This feature is especially useful when using VPNs all the time.
By keeping ExpressVPN on, you reduce the chances of accidental exposure.
3. Access Restricted Content Anytime
If you enjoy watching TV shows and movies on streaming platforms, you know that many services restrict access based on your location. With ExpressVPN always on, you can bypass these geographic restrictions and access content from any country. This is particularly useful if you travel often or if you want to access content that is only available in specific regions.
For example, if you’re in the U.S. but want to access BBC iPlayer, you can use ExpressVPN to make it appear as though you’re in the UK. This can be done with just a click of a button, and leaving the VPN on will make sure you’re always able to enjoy your favorite content.
Things to Consider Before Leaving ExpressVPN On All the Time
While leaving ExpressVPN on continuously offers many advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before deciding if this is the right choice for you.
1. Performance Impact
VPNs can sometimes slow down your internet speed due to the encryption process and the routing of your traffic through remote servers. ExpressVPN is known for having minimal impact on speed, but it may still cause a slight reduction in connection speed, especially if you are connecting to a distant server. If you have a high-speed internet connection and your primary concern is security, this may not be an issue. However, if you notice a significant slowdown, you might want to turn it off when performing activities that don’t require it, like casual browsing or local online gaming.
2. Battery Drain on Mobile Devices
If you use ExpressVPN on your mobile phone or tablet, keeping it active all the time can drain your battery more quickly. While modern devices and VPN apps are optimized to use minimal battery, running the VPN constantly will still have an effect on your device’s overall battery life. If you’re on a long trip or need to preserve your battery, consider turning the VPN off when not in use.
3. Compatibility with Certain Websites and Services
Some websites or online services may not work well with VPNs. For instance, online banking websites or certain business services may flag your VPN connection as suspicious and temporarily block access. In these cases, you may need to turn off ExpressVPN to use these services properly. It’s a good idea to check whether specific websites or services require a direct connection before deciding to leave your VPN running at all times.
4. Legal and Compliance Issues
In some countries, the use of VPNs is heavily regulated or even prohibited. If you live in a country where VPN usage is restricted, you should exercise caution. While ExpressVPN is known for its security and privacy features, it’s important to understand the legal implications of using a VPN in certain regions.
How to Ensure Safe and Effective Use of ExpressVPN
If you decide to leave ExpressVPN on all the time, there are a few tips to help you get the most out of it:
1. Choose a Fast Server Location
Select a server location that is geographically close to you for the best speeds. ExpressVPN allows you to connect to hundreds of servers worldwide, so it’s important to choose one that doesn’t slow down your connection. You can test different servers to see which one offers the best performance for your location.
2. Enable the Kill Switch
Make sure you have ExpressVPN’s Network Lock (kill switch) feature enabled. This will ensure that if the VPN connection drops for any reason, your internet connection will be blocked until the VPN is restored. This prevents any data leaks from happening while you’re browsing or streaming.
3. Use Split Tunneling (If Needed)
If you don’t want all your traffic to go through the VPN, you can use ExpressVPN’s split tunneling feature. This allows you to select which apps or websites will use the VPN and which will connect directly to the internet. For example, you could use the VPN for streaming services but connect to other sites without it, helping to balance performance and security.
4. Regularly Update the App
To ensure you’re always using the most secure and optimized version of ExpressVPN, regularly check for app updates. ExpressVPN frequently releases updates to improve performance, fix bugs, and enhance security features.
Conclusion
Leaving ExpressVPN on all the time can provide continuous protection, enhanced privacy, and allow you to access geo-restricted content without interruption. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as performance impact and potential battery drain, the benefits of keeping your VPN active far outweigh these concerns for most users.
To make sure you’re using ExpressVPN effectively, take advantage of features like the kill switch, split tunneling, and choosing fast servers. Whether you’re looking for enhanced security while browsing or wanting to access content from around the world, keeping ExpressVPN on all the time can be a smart decision.
