Historically, gaming consoles such as the initial PlayStation devices were relatively safe and secure when compared to computers, while the same can arguably be said for modern iterations (such as the PS5) that boast online connectivity.
However, there’s no denying that the PS4 and PS5 consoles are now far more than vehicles through which to play games. In fact, they’re online entertainment systems, which also enable you to stream Netflix content and engage in multiplayer gameplay while interacting with your peers in real-time.
This means that modern consoles are more vulnerable to the risk of hacking, phishing attempts and data collection, creating a more direct threat to users. But could this be negated through the use of a VPN? Let’s find out!
What is a VPN?
A VPN (virtual private network) works by constructing an encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote service, which can be enabled when you’re active online and helps to route your data and web traffic with complete anonymity and security.
When using a VPN, all data and web traffic is routed in a way that makes it appear as an indecipherable string of code to hackers, network managers and even Internet Service Providers (ISPs), ensuring that you can remain safe even during extended gaming sessions.
When you complete a VPN download and connect to a remote server in a location of your choice, you’re effectively masking your IP address and the physical location of your device.
This leads to additional advantages (that we’ll explore further below), while creating an additional layer of network security that prohibits different types of malicious attacks online.
The Benefits of Using a VPN on Your PS4 or PS5?
If you own and operate a PS4 or PS5, the chances are that you’ll make use of each device’s ability to connect to the Internet.
Make no mistake; these consoles are now fully-fledged entertainment systems, through which you can engage in online gaming, interact with other players and even stream content from platforms such as Netflix.
These activities require an active Internet connection, and one that could be targeted by hackers and cyberthieves (even in instances where you’re deploying a relatively secure home network).
But what are the exact benefits of using a VPN on the PS4 or 5? Here’s a brief summary:
- #1. Minimize the Risk of Malware Attacks: When a VPN connects to a virtual server and masks your own IP address, it makes it almost impossible for hackers to launch malicious software or malware attacks. Make no mistake; this type of attack is particularly prevalent among gamers, who often spend extended periods of time online. So, connecting to a paid and reputable VPN can safeguard your device and reduce the risk of online attacks being launched.
- #2. Access Content From Across the Globe: As a VPN enables you to connect servers all around the world (especially when you use an established service provider with dense network coverage), you can remove the geographical content restrictions often associated with sites like Netflix and Hulu. These restrictions are usually imposed as a result of licensing agreements, but you can circumvent them simply by connecting to the relevant libraries in a country of your choice.
- #3. Avoid Practices Like Bandwidth Throttling: We’ve already touched on ISPs, who regularly monitor your online activity during peak usage periods. If they notice you regularly gaming or engaging in activities that use a similarly high volume of data, they may look to throttle your bandwidth to free up capacity on the network. This can lead to significantly slower Internet speeds, but you can avoid the risk simply by installing a VPN in hiding your precise activity from ISPs.
So, Do You Need a VPN on Your PS5?
For those of you who game infrequently and avoid online gameplay (or refrain from streaming content through Netflix), you may feel as though a VPN represents an unnecessary expense.
However, even the best paid VPNs can be accessed for less than £3 a month through most subscriptions, while these entities provide an additional layer of network security that offer enhanced protection whenever you’re active online.
In some cases, using a VPN may increase the speed of your Internet connection, especially when you consider the ability of this technology to negate practices such as bandwidth throttling. This is an important consideration, particularly when you understand the additional security benefits and relatively low cost of VPNs.
So, we’d recommend installing a VPN if you regularly use your PS5, while comparing the market to ensure that you identify the best client for you!