Mechanism and Security

What is a VPN (Virtual Private Network)?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates an encrypted communication path on the Internet and protects communication data.

By encrypting communications to the VPN server, it reduces the risk of eavesdropping during the transmission path and also makes the source IP address less visible to the destination. However, VPN alone cannot prevent all cyberattacks and data leaks.

Is VPN required when using public Wi-Fi (in cafes or hotels, for example)?

While not required, we recommend considering using a VPN when using public Wi-Fi.

Public Wi-Fi has risks such as eavesdropping on communications and fake access points. Websites that support HTTPS encrypt the communication content, but using a VPN also encrypts the communication from the device to the VPN server, further reducing the risk along the communication path.

However, using a VPN does not completely prevent access to fake websites or phishing scams.

Can I use a VPN to completely hide my IP address and location?

It cannot be completely hidden.

When connecting to a VPN, the website you are accessing will usually display the IP address of the VPN server rather than the actual source IP address. However, information about the user and their location may be inferred from GPS location information, cookies, login information, and browser settings.

VPNs are technologies that help protect privacy, but they do not guarantee complete anonymity.

Will I need antivirus software if I use a VPN?

It should not be used excessively. Combining the two is the basic principle.

VPNs primarily perform encryption of communication paths and protection of IP addresses. On the other hand, antivirus software performs malware detection and defense.

Some VPN services may include features such as blocking ads and trackers and preventing access to malicious websites, but VPNs alone cannot prevent all threats.

What changes when I change the country of my VPN server?

When you change the country of the VPN server connection, the country or region of the IP address recognized by the destination website may change.

As a result, the display content of the website, search results, and available services may change. However, depending on the service, the display content may not always change, as some services restrict VPN connections or use account information to determine the region.

Furthermore, the distance to the server you are connecting to and the communication path can also affect the communication speed and latency.

What is the difference between VPN and proxy?

Both of these technologies allow you to change the IP address that is visible to the destination you are connecting to by relaying the communication; however, the mechanisms and scope of protection differ.

A VPN creates an encrypted communication path between the device and the VPN server, protecting the associated traffic as a whole.

On the other hand, proxies mainly function by relaying specific app or communication requests; whether or not the communication is encrypted depends on the type and configuration of the proxy.

If you prioritize communication protection and privacy measures, it is important to choose them based on an understanding of the differences between their mechanisms and intended uses.

What is the "no logging policy"?

A no-logs policy is an operating policy that does not record or store the logs of the communication history and connection information of VPN users, or limits the collection thereof.

However, the types of logs that are covered and the scope of their retention vary depending on the VPN service. If you prioritize privacy protection, we recommend that you check the privacy policies of each company.

What is the difference between a free VPN and a paid VPN?

The differences between free and paid VPNs mainly lie in their pricing structure, connection speed, data volume, server selection, and available features and support. Free VPNs also come with limitations in terms of bandwidth and speed, and some providers may have privacy and security concerns.

On the other hand, even with paid VPNs, the security and no-logs policies vary depending on the service. When choosing a VPN, it is important to consider not only the price but also the reliability of the operator, privacy policy, encryption method, and security measures.

What can an internet provider know about me if I use a VPN?

Using a VPN, your internet service provider (ISP) can usually see that your device is connected to a VPN server, as well as the IP address of the VPN server you are connected to, your traffic volume, and the length of your connection.

On the other hand, if the VPN connection is properly encrypted, ISPs usually cannot directly see the specific content of the communications flowing through the VPN tunnel or the details of the websites accessed. However, this depends on factors such as the communication environment and unencrypted communications.

Furthermore, some information that is less visible to your ISP may be visible to the operator of the VPN service when you use a VPN. If you value your privacy, it is important to check the VPN service’s logging policy as well.

Will using a VPN stop ads from appearing?

Using a VPN alone does not mean that ads will stop appearing.

The main role of a VPN is to encrypt communication routes and protect IP addresses. Some VPN services include features to block ads and trackers, but not all VPNs offer this functionality.

Will using a VPN make online shopping and online banking safer?

Using a VPN encrypts the communication from your device to the VPN server, reducing the risk of eavesdropping during the transmission of data.

However, VPN alone cannot prevent all risks. To prevent access to fake websites, phishing scams, and account hijacking, it is important to verify the legitimacy of websites and use security measures such as multi-factor authentication.

When using online shopping or online banking, it is important to use reliable services and keep your operating system and apps up to date.

Communication speed and usage environment

Can I use VPN on both my smartphone and my computer? Can I use it on multiple devices at the same time?

The supported devices vary depending on the VPN service. Also, the number of simultaneous connections varies depending on the service. MillenVPN is available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Amazon devices, and there is no limit to the number of simultaneous connections.

Does connecting to a VPN slow down my internet speed?

When connecting to a VPN, communication speeds may be reduced due to changes in the communication path, encryption processes, and the load on the VPN server. However, the impact on speed varies depending on the user environment, the server at the destination, and the VPN protocol.

Depending on factors such as network congestion and routing, using a VPN may actually be faster in some cases, but the speed does not always improve continuously.

If you prioritize speed, you can choose a server that is physically close or has low load, or use a VPN that supports efficient protocols like WireGuard.

MillenVPN is very fast because it uses the high-capacity network of a Tier 1 provider.

Can I play online games while connected to a VPN?

It is possible. However, since the communication path changes when passing through a VPN, the Ping value (response time) may increase or the communication may become unstable.

In games that require real-time responsiveness, such as FPS and fighting games, latency can have an impact on the gameplay.

To play comfortably, it is important to consider the communication path to the game server and choose a VPN server with low latency. Please note that the communication quality may vary depending on the compatibility with the game and the destination of the connection for some VPNs.

If the service offers a trial period or short-term contracts, you can actually try it out.
For example, with MillenVPN,One-time plans available for as little as 7 days.Oh yeah,Sub-subscription plan with 30-day refund guaranteeYou can check the operation there.

Can I use my company network or printers while connected to a VPN?

It may be available, but it depends on the network environment and the VPN settings.

During a VPN connection, depending on the communication path and network settings, you may not be able to access internal servers or home printers.

If you are unable to use it, please check your VPN settings and the network environment of the connection point. If you are using a company VPN, we recommend you check with your administrator.

Laws, regulations, and access restrictions

Is it illegal to use a VPN in Japan?

Using a VPN in Japan itself is generally not illegal. It is used for a variety of purposes, such as enhancing communication security and protecting privacy.

However, even if you use a VPN, illegal activities such as copyright infringement and unauthorized access do not become legal. Depending on how you use the VPN and the content of your actions, you may be held legally responsible.

Are there any countries where VPN use is restricted or prohibited?

Yes. In some countries, regulations are in place regarding the use and provision of VPN services; it may be prohibited to use VPNs that have not been approved by the government, or to engage in certain activities using VPNs.

The content of regulations varies by country, and laws and operational conditions may change. If you use a VPN abroad, please check the latest laws and official travel information for your destination beforehand.

Is it a violation of the terms of service to watch video streaming services (such as Netflix and Hulu) from overseas?

Due to copyright and distribution licensing issues, video streaming services vary in content available depending on the country or region.

Depending on the service, the terms of service may restrict the use of VPN to bypass regional restrictions, or may restrict playback during a VPN connection.

If you are using a VPN to watch from overseas, please check the terms of use and support status of the service you are using beforehand.

Can I use VPN to access overseas websites and services?

It may be available.

Connecting to a country where a VPN server is located allows you to access the internet using the country's IP address. As a result, you may be able to use websites and services that display different content depending on the country or region from which you are connected.

However, some services may detect VPN connections and restrict access, or require additional account registration or local terms and conditions. Additionally, avoiding regional restrictions through VPN may violate the terms of use, so please check the terms and conditions of each service.

Does using a VPN change the search results and website display?

It may change.

When you connect to a VPN, the country or region of the IP address recognized by the destination website or search engine changes, which may result in changes to search results, advertisements, and the content displayed on the website.

However, the search results and display content are determined by various factors, not just the IP address; these include account information, cookies, browser settings, and GPS location information. Therefore, even if you change the country of your connection using a VPN, the display content may not necessarily change.

How to use and troubleshooting

What should I do if I can't connect to a VPN?

If you cannot connect to the VPN, please try the following methods in order.

  • Check to see if the Internet itself is connected
  • Restart the VPN app
  • Change the VPN server to connect to
  • Update your VPN app and device OS to the latest version
  • If you can change to another VPN protocol, try changing the settings and testing it out.
  • Check the maintenance information for the VPN service you are using.

Public Wi-Fi and corporate or school networks may not allow you to connect to a VPN due to limitations on the network side. If you try the above methods and still have no success, please contact the support for your VPN service.

MillenVPN support is here

If the VPN connection is suddenly interrupted, is the communication content protected?

If the VPN connection is interrupted, depending on the settings and the state of the device, it may automatically switch to a normal internet connection. In that case, the protection of the communication path through the VPN will not be applied.

As a function to mitigate the risk of information leakage in such situations, there is a "kill switch." The kill switch blocks internet traffic when the VPN connection is disconnected, preventing communications that do not go through the VPN.

However, the response status and operating conditions vary depending on the VPN service, device, and settings. Please check with the VPN you are using to see if it supports a kill switch.

The MillenVPN app allows you to set the kill switch on or off.

Should I keep my VPN connected at all times?

If you prioritize privacy protection and the security of your communication channels, it is effective to keep the VPN connected at all times.

However, using a VPN may affect the speed of your connection or make some websites and services difficult to use depending on your environment and settings. Additionally, even with a VPN connection, it cannot prevent all cyberattacks and information leaks.

Depending on the purpose of use and the environment, it may be necessary to manage and switch connections.

Does using a VPN increase my data usage?

Using a VPN can increase your data usage compared to not using it, as it involves encrypting your communications data and additional data associated with tunneling. The increase depends on the VPN protocol, the content of your communications, and your environment.

If you use mobile communication, please use VPN while paying attention to the data communication limit of your contract.