Tag Archives: VPN

A Beginner’s Guide to Using a VPN

If you spend any time watching tech YouTubers or hanging out on online communities, you’ve probably heard VPNs mentioned. They’re often recommended in video descriptions, podcasts, or Reddit threads. It’s easy to ignore at first, but after a while, it makes you wonder if you’re missing out on something that could be an internal part of your digital lifestyle.

For newcomers, it’s not always clear what a VPN actually does, whether it’s necessary, or if it truly protects your privacy.

Some people see VPNs as essential digital armor. Others assume they’re only for people trying to sidestep bans, torrenting, or travelers watching foreign Netflix libraries. The truth sits somewhere in the middle.

This guide breaks down what a VPN is, what it can (and can’t) do, and how to decide if using one makes sense for you.

What You Can Do With a VPN

Let’s start with a simple definition. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. Instead of websites seeing your real IP address and location, they see the IP address of the VPN server you’re connected to.

As you may know, your IP address is a main point of data that allows websites and online services to determine your location and to build information about your account activity. Thus, hiding your true IP gives your online privacy a big boost right out of the gate.

With a VPN, you can do quite a bit more than simply conceal your location. By routing your connection through a secure server, a VPN changes how your data moves across the internet and how websites see your device. In practical terms, this opens up several everyday benefits:

Add a layer of privacy when browsing the web
Protect your data on public Wi‑Fi networks
Access region‑locked websites and content
Reduce tracking by advertisers and ISPs
Mask your real location and IP address

To be clear, a VPN doesn’t give you complete anonymity. It’s more about gaining control over how your data travels.

Does Your Average Internet User Need a VPN?

Not everyone needs a VPN, but many could benefit from one without realizing it. If you’re not online much, browse trusted sites at home, and never use public Wi‑Fi, your risk exposure is relatively low.

However, a VPN becomes an essential tool if you:

Use public Wi‑Fi in cafés, airports, or hotels
Travel frequently
Value online privacy and have concerns about data collection
Stream content from multiple regions
Work remotely or access sensitive accounts

Think of a VPN like insurance. You might not rely on it every time you access the internet, but when you need it, you’re glad it’s there. It gives informed, tech-savvy people peace of mind.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a VPN?

Not only does looking at the pluses and minuses help you decide if you need a VPN, but it also clarifies when you should use one and when you should disable it.

Pros

Let’s have another quick look at why a VPN can be a game-changer. Using one comes with several clear advantages, particularly for users who value privacy, security, or flexibility in how they access the internet:

Encrypts your internet traffic
Hides your IP address from websites and ISPs
Improves security on unsecured networks
Enables access to geo‑restricted content

Cons

That said, VPNs are not without trade-offs. Understanding the downsides keeps your expectations realistic:

Typically, has slightly slower internet speeds (depending on the server)
Subscription costs for reputable services
Your VPN isn’t guaranteed to work for some applications, such as unlocking geo‑restricted content
Doesn’t make you fully anonymous

To sum it up, a VPN is a powerful tool, but it’s not a magic privacy switch.

Are VPN Services Worth It?

For most, paid VPN services are justifiable.

Anyone who compares a free VPN with a paid one immediately sees why. Free options often come with limits, ads, weaker encryption, or questionable data practices. A free service might get you by if you use it for the occasional inconsequential task, but for anything beyond that, you want a real VPN.

If you value privacy, convenience, and consistent performance, look at getting a VPN subscription as a long‑term investment.

How to Choose a VPN

Selecting a VPN can feel overwhelming at first. There’s no shortage of choices, and if you ask for recommendations online, it seems like everyone swears by a different service.

Instead of focusing on opinions or experience you see on apps such as Reddit, it’s best to evaluate providers based on fundamentals that directly impact privacy, performance, and reliability. Key factors to look for include:

A clear no‑logs policy
Strong encryption standards
A large server network across multiple countries
Good performance and reliability
Apps for your preferred devices

Independent audits, long‑standing reputations, and clear privacy policies matter more than bold claims. If you take the time to learn about the technologies under the hood, you’ll be rewarded when you make an informed decision.

Check out the top 3 VPNs recommended by LetMeBy here.

Using a VPN on Different Devices

VPNs have come a long way over the years. Since using multiple devices became a part of most people’s daily routine, they’ve leveled up on flexibility. Most providers offer dedicated apps and setup guides that make it easy to protect multiple devices without advanced technical knowledge. Modern VPNs support platforms such as:

Windows and macOS computers
iOS and Android smartphones
Tablets and Chromebooks
Routers, smart TVs, and streaming devices

Many subscriptions allow several devices at once, making it easy to protect your phone, laptop, and home network under one account.

Unlock Geo‑Restricted Streaming

For many, especially those who live outside the US, it’s natural to want to explore if the grass is greener on the other side when it comes to access to TV shows and movies. Thus, one of the most popular and widely discussed uses for VPNs is streaming.

Because streaming platforms license content by region, what you can watch can depend on where you’re located. To bypass this limitation, a VPN makes it appear as though you’re browsing from another country.

While results vary by service and platform, this feature is especially appealing to frequent travelers or expats who want to regain access to some of their favorite content.

Stop Bandwidth Throttling

Bandwidth throttling is a lesser-known but frustrating issue. Some internet service providers intentionally slow down certain types of traffic, such as streaming video or large downloads, especially during peak hours. Since a VPN encrypts your traffic, your ISP can’t easily detect your activity, which may help reduce throttling in some cases.

This isn’t a sure thing, but many users notice more consistent speeds when using a VPN.

Advanced VPN Features You Should Know About

Since you’ve made it this far, let’s go beyond the basics.

Outside of basic encryption and IP masking, many modern VPN services include additional tools designed to improve security, usability, and give you peace of mind. These features usually aren’t highlighted when you’re researching VPNs, but they add meaningful value over time:

Kill switches that cut internet access if the VPN drops
Split tunneling to choose which apps use the VPN
Multi‑hop connections for added privacy
Built‑in ad, tracker, or malware blocking

These features aren’t essential for beginners, but they’re worth exploring as you get more accustomed to using your VPN.

Conclusion

It’s always important to clearly divide a need and a want. You took that step by doing your research about VPNs and making it to the end of this article.

A VPN isn’t mandatory, but it’s increasingly relevant in a world where data collection, tracking, and online restrictions are the norm. Whether you’re protecting yourself on public Wi‑Fi, streaming content abroad, or simply wanting more control over your online footprint, a VPN is a practical tool.

The key is understanding what a VPN does and what it doesn’t. Used wisely, it enhances your digital life rather than overcomplicating it.

Disney+ US vs. Canada: Which Wins on Content?

Anyone who considers Disney+ a “kids-only” streaming service needs to have another look, as it has grown well beyond that. With Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, National Geographic, and a massive film vault under its belt, it’s a serious contender for adults as well.

But if you’ve ever compared notes with friends across the border, you’ve probably noticed an interesting detail: Disney+ in the United States and Disney+ in Canada don’t quite look the same.

So which version offers the better content library? Let’s break down how Disney+ US and Disney+ Canada stack up against each other.

Comparing the Content Libraries: US vs. Canada

At their core, both Disney+ US and Canada share the same foundation. They both have Disney classics like The Lion King and Aladdin; Pixar favorites such as Toy Story, and Finding Nemo; Marvel heavy-hitters like Avengers: Endgame; and Star Wars staples like The Mandalorian.

The real differences start to appear once you move beyond the core Disney brands. The way each country handles “general entertainment” content is what truly separates the two libraries.

US-Exclusive Strengths

Disney’s business partnerships are different on either side of the border, and that alone really affects the selection of content.

The biggest advantage Disney+ has in the United States is its integration with Hulu. In the US, many subscribers can access Hulu content directly inside the Disney+ app, dramatically expanding the library.

This means US viewers often get access to more adult-oriented and prestige TV content, such as:

The Bear – the critically acclaimed kitchen drama that’s become a cultural phenomenon
Only Murders in the Building – starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez
The Handmaid’s Tale – Hulu’s flagship dystopian series
Atlanta – Donald Glover’s genre-bending comedy-drama

On the movie side, US users benefit from Hulu’s deeper catalog of non-Disney films, including:

Prey (the Predator prequel)
No Country for Old Men
Parasite
A rotating selection of Fox and Searchlight titles

For viewers who want Disney+ to function as a one-stop streaming hub for both family-friendly and content for mom and dad, the US version has a clear edge.

Canada-Exclusive Strengths

Canada doesn’t have Hulu, but instead gets the Star hub built directly into Disney+. While Star overlaps with some Hulu content, it also has its own strengths and a more straightforward setup. No separate service is required.

Canadian subscribers often enjoy strong access to:

FX series like The Americans, Sons of Anarchy, and Justified
Popular crime and drama shows such as 24, Prison Break, and The Shield
Comedy staples like Modern Family and How I Met Your Mother

In terms of movies, Star boosts the Canadian catalog with a wide range of Fox and Touchstone titles, including:

Die Hard
Speed
Gone Girl
The Grand Budapest Hotel

One advantage Canadian customers enjoy is simplicity: there’s no bundle so you don’t need to manage Hulu separately. Everything Disney, including Marvel, Star Wars, and shows for the parents, lives under one subscription.

Why Disney+ Differs in the US and Canada

So why did Disney go to all that effort to make Disney+ different in the US and Canada? It mostly comes down to licensing and regional business strategies.

In the US, Disney already owned and operated Hulu long before expanding Disney+ into a broader platform. Rather than folding Hulu completely into Disney+, Disney chose to keep it as a semi-separate brand that integrates with Disney+ for some subscribers.

Internationally, including in Canada, Hulu doesn’t exist. To compete with services like Netflix and Prime Video, Disney created the Star hub to house more mature and licensed content directly inside Disney+.

Which Library Is Better Overall?

Many Canadians can’t help but wonder if the grass is greener for Disney+ customers in the US. Really, there’s no universal winner. It depends on what you like to watch.

If you want prestige TV, buzzy originals, and a deep bench of critically acclaimed series, Disney+ US (with Hulu access) usually comes out ahead.
If you want an all-in-one service without juggling multiple apps or subscriptions, Disney+ Canada offers a cleaner, more unified experience.

For pure volume and variety, the US library tends to feel larger. For convenience and balance, Canada holds its own surprisingly well.

Who Should Choose US vs. Canada

If given the choice, which version of Disney+ is better for you and your family? Let’s dive into that with a big-picture analysis.

Disney+ US is better suited for:

Viewers who love award-winning TV dramas and comedies
Households already invested in Hulu content
Adults who want Disney+ to replace multiple streaming services

Disney+ Canada is ideal for:

Families who want both kid-friendly and adult content in one place
Fans of FX, Fox, and Star titles without extra subscriptions
Viewers who appreciate simplicity over sheer volume

Unlocking Both Libraries with a VPN

Yes, it’s possible to get both.

Some streaming fans use VPNs to explore different regional Disney+ libraries. A VPN can allow access to content available in another country by routing your connection through that region. Essentially, it protects your online privacy by replacing your IP address with a different IP of your choosing.

If you, like Aerosmith, don’t want to miss a thing, check out LetMeBy’s top VPNs for Disney+ here.

It’s worth noting that the ability to access libraries can change, and it’s worth reviewing Disney+’s terms of service before experimenting with a VPN.

Conclusion

Disney+ US and Canada are built on the same iconic brands, but they cater to slightly different audiences. The US version leans heavily into prestige television and Hulu-powered variety. Canada’s Star-enhanced library offers a more streamlined, all-in-one experience.

The “winner” ultimately depends on which movies and shows you’re into. Whether you’re binge-watching The Bear, feeling nostalgic with Die Hard, or introducing your kids to Star Wars for the first time, Disney+ delivers a lot of magic on either side of the border.

Prime Video US vs. Canada: Which Wins on Content?

Amazon Prime Video has become one of the go-to streaming platforms worldwide, offering blockbuster movies, binge-worthy series, and a growing library of originals.

While access to content produced by and made for Canadians is a nice perk, at the end of the day, Americans and Canadians alike want to watch the movies and shows everyone is talking about. But did you know that Prime Video isn’t the same everywhere? In fact, viewers in the United States and Canada get noticeably different experiences.

If you’re wondering which country has the better Prime Video library, or if it’s worth finding a solution to unlock both, this breakdown will help you decide.

Comparing the Content Libraries: US vs. Canada

While both Prime Video US and Prime Video Canada share many titles, the US library is larger. Researchers at Comparitech found that the US library has around 12,150 titles, while Canada has close to 9,900 titles.

This isn’t unusual—streaming rights are often negotiated country by country, and the US tends to secure the broadest access. Canadian subscribers still enjoy plenty of top-tier movies, shows, and Amazon Originals, but the sheer volume of options is more limited compared to the US.

Beyond the numbers, the Canadian and US versions of Prime Video differ in the categories that they excel at. Let’s look at that next.

US-Exclusive Strengths

Although licensing changes over time, users have reported that TV shows such as The Americans, Archer, and earlier seasons of Survivor are available in the US but not in Canada.

Prime Video US tends to dominate when it comes to:

Exclusive blockbuster films: Popular Hollywood titles often land on the US platform first, especially newer releases.
Older TV series: American classics and long-running sitcoms are more widely available.
Niche categories: Genres like documentaries, indie films, and cult favorites go deeper and are better curated in the US library.
Sports add-ons: The US market offers additional channels like NFL Thursday Night Football, which are absent in Canada.

Canada-Exclusive Strengths

Some content is not only produced in Canada but is also uniquely Canadian. Titles that are available exclusively to audiences in the true north include Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make-Believe, LOL: Last One Laughing Canada, and The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal.

Prime Video Canada, while smaller in scale, has its own unique strengths:

Canadian film and TV content: More locally produced shows and movies are accessible thanks to regional licensing.
Partnerships with local broadcasters: Some Canadian-only agreements bring in titles that aren’t in the US, including certain BBC series and international films.
Stronger kids’ content selection: Families in Canada may find more variety in children’s programming compared to the US library.

Why Prime Video Differs in the US and Canada

So, why does Prime Video modify its libraries to suit each country?

The differences come down to licensing and regional demand. Studios sell streaming rights by territory, which means what’s available in one country may be missing in another.

Amazon also tailors its offerings to local tastes and regulations. For example, Canada requires a certain level of domestic content, which is why Canadian subscribers see more homegrown programming. People who grew up with shows like the Polka Dot Door and Mr. Dressup have a special place in their hearts for Canadian content.

Which Library Is Better Overall?

Many times, Canadians can’t help but wonder if the grass is greener for Americans.

For most viewers, Prime Video US is the stronger option simply because of its size and variety. If you want maximum choice, it’s tough to beat the US library. That said, Canadian Prime Video isn’t lacking—especially if you enjoy Canadian films, family programming, and certain international partnerships not found stateside.

Who Should Choose US vs. Canada

So, if you had to choose, which version would be best suited to your viewing preferences? Let’s get to the heart of what makes each one great.

Prime Video US is best for: Viewers who want the largest possible catalog, fans of blockbuster releases, sports lovers, and anyone who enjoys niche genres.

Prime Video Canada is best for: Families seeking strong kids’ content, fans of Canadian cinema and TV, and those who want access to a handful of exclusives not found in the US.

Unlocking Both Libraries with a VPN

The good news? You don’t actually have to choose. With a VPN, you can switch your virtual location and access both the US and Canadian Prime Video libraries from one subscription. While this may require some extra setup, it gives you the best of both worlds.

Think of a VPN as an intermediate layer between your device and the internet. It works by hiding your true IP address and replacing it with an IP associated with a different location. This gives you a greater level of anonymity, security, as well as the flexibility to view the content you want to see most.

To learn about the top 3 VPN services recommended by LetMeBy, visit this page.

Conclusion

Amazon Prime Video offers terrific content in both the US and Canada, but the experience isn’t identical. The US library is larger and better suited for viewers who crave variety, while the Canadian version has its own hidden gems and exclusive partnerships.

If you’re a casual watcher, either country’s version will serve you well. You might never notice titles that are missing from the Canadian library that are available in the US. For the ultimate streaming experience, combining both with a VPN ensures you won’t miss a thing.

How to Unblock Reddit at School or Work

Reddit is one of the most visited websites in the world. If offers vast and diverse communities (called subreddits) that cover everything from breaking news in your city to video games and career advice. In particular, it’s a top destination for sharing opinions and personal experiences related to niche interests.

Despite its usefulness, Reddit is frequently blocked at schools, workplaces, and even in some countries.

Luckily, it’s usually straightforward to find a workaround. If you’re looking to regain access, this guide explains why Reddit is often restricted and how to safely and effectively unblock it using a VPN.

A Brief History of Reddit And Why It’s Great for Research

Founded in 2005 by Steve Huffman and Alexis Ohanian, Reddit quickly became the “front page of the internet.” Its name is a play on the phrase “read it.” The alien featured in the logo is a genderless time-traveler named Snoo. Reddit hosts thousands of subreddits where users post content, ask questions, and share knowledge on virtually any topic.

For students, professionals, and researchers, Reddit is a valuable resource. Subreddits like r/AskScience, r/ExplainLikeImFive, and r/DataIsBeautiful offer insights that are often more digestible and practical than traditional academic sources. Reddit’s upvote system highlights the most useful and accurate responses, making it a powerful tool for learning and discovery.

Why Reddit Is Often Blocked at School or Work

Decision-makers often lump Reddit in with social media apps like Facebook and Instagram. Despite its unique benefits, Reddit is commonly blocked in schools and offices.

The reasons for blocking it include:

Distraction: Reddit can be addictive, with endless content that can take focus away from work or study.
NSFW Content: Some subreddits include adult content or material that’s inappropriate in a public setting.
Bandwidth Usage: In some cases, high traffic from image and video-heavy subreddits can strain network resources.
Content Moderation Concerns: Because Reddit is community-driven, not all content is vetted or moderated uniformly.

Network administrators often block Reddit using firewalls or DNS restrictions to maintain productivity and a safe browsing environment.

Countries That Block Reddit

Reddit has also faced restrictions or complete bans in several countries, often due to political or cultural reasons.

Here are the countries that block Reddit or have blocked it in the past:

China: Reddit is fully blocked as part of the country’s broader internet censorship policies.
Indonesia: Temporarily banned Reddit in the past due to concerns over explicit content.
Russia: Has issued temporary blocks on certain Reddit pages over drug-related discussions.
India: Occasionally restricts access to specific subreddits considered offensive.

In these cases, users often turn to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass such restrictions.

How a VPN Helps You Unblock Reddit

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. When connected to a VPN server, your online activity appears to originate from a different location. You’re given an IP address allowing you to bypass content filters, firewalls, and regional restrictions.

This means that if Reddit is blocked on your network or in your country, a VPN can mask your traffic, making it look like you’re browsing from a location where Reddit is freely accessible.

How to Unblock Reddit with a VPN: Step-by-Step

Choose a Reputable VPN Provider
Look for a VPN with strong security, fast speeds, and a no-logs policy. Check out LetMeBy’s top VPN picks here.

Download and Install the VPN App
Most VPNs offer apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. This allows for advanced functionality and makes configuring each piece of software you use unnecessary.

Launch the App and Sign In
Use your credentials to log into your VPN account.

Connect to a VPN Server
Choose a server in a country where Reddit is not blocked. Ideally, select one close to your actual location for the best download speed.

Open Reddit
Visit www.reddit.com or use the app as you normally would. The restrictions you noticed earlier should be removed!

Tips for Choosing the Best VPN to Access Reddit

There are tons of choices out there for VPN services, but not all of them are created equal.

Here are some qualities to look for to ensure you choose a VPN that provides an outstanding experience on Reddit:

Strong Encryption: Look for VPNs using AES-256 encryption for top-notch security.
No-Logs Policy: Ensures your activity isn’t tracked or stored.
Kill Switch Feature: Cuts internet access if the VPN drops, protecting your identity.
Fast Speeds: Essential for browsing image-heavy content and videos on Reddit.
Effectively Bypasses Restrictions: Choose VPNs known for getting past firewalls, like those used in schools or workplaces.
Good Customer Support: In case you run into issues unblocking Reddit or connecting to a server.

If you’re ready to look at specific VPN providers, I’ve got you.

These are LetMeBy’s recommended VPNs for unblocking Reddit:

Conclusion

Reddit is more than just another Facebook clone. It’s a hub of community-driven knowledge, advice, and entertainment.

While it’s often blocked at school, work, or in certain countries, these restrictions can be bypassed safely using a VPN. By choosing the right VPN and following a few simple steps, you can unlock Reddit’s full potential wherever you are.

Contrary to the belief of some, Reddit can be a productive tool. Just remember to use your newfound access responsibly, whether you’re diving into r/AskHistorians or checking out the latest memes in search of inspiration.

Netflix US vs. Canada: Which Wins on Content?

Does this story sound familiar? A Canadian Netflix subscriber hears about a hot new show on social media. The show is supposedly on Netflix, but it’s nowhere to be found.

Netflix is a global entertainment giant, but its content library varies significantly from country to country. In particular, Netflix US and Netflix Canada offer distinct collections of movies and TV shows, each with its strengths and weaknesses. While both regions share a vast number of popular titles, there are key differences that can make one library more appealing than the other.

Comparing Content Libraries

Netflix US once boasted a larger overall library compared to Netflix Canada. However, now Canada is on top.

According to recent data, Netflix US offers 6,389 titles in total, including about 2,438 TV shows and 3,951 movies. Meanwhile, Netflix Canada has approximately 6,734 titles, with about 2,376 TV shows and 4,358 movies.

This disparity in content is primarily due to regional licensing agreements and content acquisition strategies. It’s important to note that exclusives in the US and Canada change over time as Netflix’s libraries are constantly evolving.

US-Exclusive Titles

The main reason people want to use Netflix US outside of the US is to gain access to exclusives. Some movies and TV shows are only available to US subscribers.

Notable examples of these shows include Grey’s Anatomy and NCIS. Also, movies like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Joker, and May December are US exclusives.

US exclusives often include critically acclaimed series, blockbuster films, and niche genres that may not be accessible in other regions.

Canada-Exclusive Titles

Despite having a smaller library of TV shows, Netflix Canada offers unique content that can’t be found in the US. Additionally, Netflix Canada has more movies than Netflix US.

Movies like The Untouchables, The Hunt, and Blue Valentine are on Netflix Canada, but they currently can’t be streamed in the US. Some acclaimed movies like The Devil Wears Prada and The Shawshank Redemption aren’t on Netflix US either.

The exclusives on Netflix Canada often include Canadian-produced series, international films, and critically acclaimed indie content.

Why the Differences?

US and Canadian audiences enjoy much of the same content, so why does Netflix have different libraries for each country?

The differences in content libraries between Netflix US and Netflix Canada come down to licensing agreements. Netflix negotiates distribution rights with content creators and studios, and these agreements are often limited by country or region. As a result, Netflix may have the rights to stream a specific title in one country but not another.

Which Library Is Better?

Many Canadians wonder if the grass is greener in the US in terms of streaming content.

For most viewers, Netflix US is generally considered the superior library due to its larger selection of mainstream films and popular TV series. However, Netflix Canada is an attractive option for those seeking a blend of mainstream and international content, along with a curated selection of Canadian productions.

Netflix Canada’s library has been making big gains and it’s now larger than Netflix US. For sheer variety and quantity of movies, Canada has an edge.

Who Should Choose Netflix US?

Viewers looking for the latest blockbuster movies and trending TV shows
Fans of US-exclusive content, including classic shows like The Office (US), Charmed, and The Wonder Years
Those seeking the biggest movies and shows everyone is talking about

Who Should Choose Netflix Canada?

Fans of Canadian films and TV shows
Viewers interested in international and indie content
Those seeking a slightly more curated selection of titles

Using a VPN to Access Both Libraries

These days, the Netflix library you’re shown in your country is just the starting point.

For viewers who want the best of both worlds, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can provide access to both Netflix US and Netflix Canada libraries from anywhere in the world. However, Netflix actively works to detect and block VPN usage, so results may vary depending on the VPN provider.

Check out LetMeBy’s list of the top VPNs here.

Conclusion

So, which library is better? There’s no clear winner here. There are far more similarities than differences, but the differences stand out when you’re looking for a specific movie or show.

While Netflix US offers a broader selection of mainstream content, Netflix Canada stands out with its curated selection of Canadian and international titles. Ultimately, the better choice depends on individual viewing preferences. Though with a VPN, viewers can experience both libraries and enjoy all the content Netflix offers worldwide.