College Students' Perceptions and Usage of Virtual Private Networks

Abstract

Data privacy is an increasingly important concern for Internet users. However, most Internet users lack knowledge on online technologies and their risks. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are increasing in prevalence as a tool to combat these risks. We studied college students’ perceptions and usage of VPNs through a survey of 350 students. We found that students have an incomplete mental model of VPNs, and use VPNs primarily for content access and less for privacy and security. Cost, ease of use, and speed are important VPN factors for students. School-provided VPNs are most popular among students, though a substantial number use commercial VPNs. Students are dissatisfied with the speed, stability, and interfaces of their VPNs. Our findings suggest various improvements for educators, policymakers, and VPN providers and designers, including better educational initiatives for privacy and security, increased transparency requirements for VPN providers, and more intuitive processes for VPN installation, login, and reconnecting. Our study is a first foray into the perception and usage of VPNs, and establishes a broad overview of the space through the lens of college students.