What every VPN does
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a server. Everything you send travels inside that tunnel, so the network you are on (a hotel, an airport, your mobile operator) cannot see what you do. Websites see the server's IP address instead of yours.
The big question is where that server is and who runs it. That is what separates the two kinds of VPN.
A commercial VPN: you borrow someone else's server
A commercial VPN gives you access to servers in many countries. You choose a location and, to the websites you visit, you appear to be there.
- Protects you on public WiFi and hides your IP from websites.
- Lets you choose the country you browse from.
- Nothing to install at home: you just use the app.
- But your IP is shared with other users, and it does not let you into your own home network.
That is what SiVPN does.
Your own VPN: the server is yours
A self-hosted VPN runs on a computer in your home or office. When you connect, you are inside your own network and you go online with your own IP.
- Access to your NAS, cameras, printer or office computer from anywhere.
- Your usual IP for banking, company tools and services that only accept it.
- No third-party servers between you and your data.
- It needs a computer that stays on at home (a Raspberry Pi is enough).
That is what MiVPN does.
Side by side
| Commercial VPN (SiVPN) | Your own VPN (MiVPN) | |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Privacy and browsing from other countries | Reaching your home or office network |
| Your IP online | A server IP, shared with others | Your own home IP |
| Access to your devices at home | No | Yes |
| Choose a country | Yes | The one where your server is |
| Who runs the server | The provider | You |
| What you install | Only the app | The app and the server at home |
Which one should you choose?
- You work away from home and need your home or office IP: your own VPN.
- You want to watch or use services from another country: a commercial VPN.
- You want to open your NAS, cameras or files from anywhere: your own VPN.
- You only want to be safe on hotel or airport WiFi: either of them.
- You travel a lot and want both: many people use both and switch depending on what they need at each moment.
Your own VPN server, free to start
Install MiVPN Server on any computer at home and connect from your phone or laptop. No configuration files, no third-party servers.
Browse from another country in one tap
SiVPN connects you to our servers in other countries and protects you on any network. Apps for every device.
Frequently asked questions
Is using a VPN legal?
In most countries, yes, and it is common practice for companies and travellers. A few countries restrict them, so check the local rules if you travel.
Does a VPN make me anonymous?
It hides your IP from websites and your traffic from the local network, but you are still identified when you log in to your accounts. It is privacy, not invisibility.
Can I use both on the same device?
A device uses one VPN connection at a time, so you switch between them depending on what you need.
Do I need technical knowledge?
No. With current apps you sign in and connect. Your own VPN only needs one extra step: installing the server on a computer at home.