Apple's closed ecosystem often suggests that the iPhone is invulnerable to security issues. However, even if iOS protection safeguards the operating system, this may not be enough for data traveling over the network, as it can be subject to monitoring by providers and potential interception.
In this scenario, a VPN comes into play. By establishing an encrypted channel between the device and a remote server, it secures the connection traffic, hides the IP address, and extends this protection to apps that are not limited only to the browser.
Smartphone security is also intrinsically linked to the network. Even with native iOS privacy features enabled, the traffic from most third-party applications can remain exposed. A VPN introduces encryption into the traffic and can be applied in several circumstances:
- Public Wi-Fi: Helps safeguard passwords, messages, and other data sent on open networks.
- Apps: The VPN connection can cover multiple applications, not just the browser.
- Travel: Allows selecting a server in another country to keep the connection route closer to the usual one.
- Privacy: The true IP address remains hidden from the service being accessed.
- Restricted Networks: Features like NordWhisper help maintain the connection in environments with filters or blocks.
Although iCloud Private Relay can give the impression that the iPhone already has a built-in VPN, the features have similar purposes in certain aspects but operate differently. Private Relay was primarily designed to protect Safari browsing, using a two-relay architecture to dissociate the user's identity from the visited destination. In contrast, a VPN establishes a tunnel to direct traffic through the service's private network.
NordVPN offers functionalities that go beyond simple IP changing. Its app consolidates threat protection, performance, and privacy features into a single connection. Setting up a VPN on iOS does not require complicated system procedures; activation via the official app is straightforward and automates the creation of the encrypted tunnel. If the user prefers not to use the app, iOS itself allows native configuration using the data provided by the provider.
After this setup, the app begins routing traffic through the VPN network. The same subscription can be used on up to ten devices simultaneously, covering computers with macOS, Windows, and Linux systems, as well as tablets and smart TVs, thus allowing network security to be maintained on other daily-use devices. Furthermore, NordVPN declares adherence to a no-log policy, without archiving browsing activities, and this policy has been submitted to six independent audits.
In the mobile context, a VPN plays a broader role than just disguising location. It adds a layer of encryption to the traffic, can protect connections from different applications, and provides greater control over the path taken by the device. In the specific case of NordVPN, this set of functionalities is complemented by features such as specialized servers, fraud call defense, threat blocking, and leak monitoring.