What Is a VPN? Why It Matters for Gamers

Posted by: bankofshadow

Posted on: 24/07/2025

Have you ever? Have you ever been playing a game and suddenly experienced lag, even though your internet is fast and your device is top-notch? Or sometimes you want to try a new game that just launched, but it says "not available in your country"? These issues can be easily solved by using a VPN to access games on foreign servers. But for those still wondering, what is a VPN? Will using it really improve gaming performance? Or can a VPN help with something? This article will explain it in a way that's easy to understand, even if you're not tech-savvy, and provide reasons why gamers like us should use a VPN in this era. First, let's get to know what a VPN is.

What is a VPN?

VPN, or Virtual Private Network, refers to a private computer network that operates using a public network infrastructure but can still maintain the specific network of an organization. This is achieved by encrypting packets before transmission to enhance data security.

The VPN technology has emerged as another option because it uses the Internet, which is widely installed, to create a virtual network. It creates data tunnels that connect the source and destination, making it seem like a single network. Various types of data can be transmitted through the network, with the data being encrypted and sent through the data tunnel, ensuring high security.

How does a VPN work?

When we browse the internet normally, our data is sent directly from our device to the websites or apps we use through an Internet Service Provider (ISP), which is at risk of being monitored, recorded, or restricted. As soon as we activate a VPN (Virtual Private Network), our connection is managed to be more secure and private through the following steps.

Create a data tunnel (VPN Tunnel)

All your data will be transmitted through a secure "virtual tunnel," preventing anyone from eavesdropping along the way.

Encrypt

Make your information encrypted, unreadable even if intercepted along the way.

Hide identity and IP address

Instead of the destination seeing your real IP, it will see the IP of the VPN server instead. For example, if you are in Thailand but connect to a VPN in Japan, the website will think you are in Japan.

So why do gamers need to use a VPN?

Online games that are open worldwide still have many limitations that make gamers feel restricted, such as endless lag, country-blocked games, or games not yet available in certain countries. Or if you want to play before anyone else but are stuck due to region locks, VPNs become a helpful tool for many gamers. VPNs can help bypass restrictions and download games from foreign servers.

1. Reduces lag, Lowers ping

When connecting to a game server in another country, the connection path is longer, causing the game to lag. Every action you take is delayed, and before you know it, you've been shot dead before your friends. A VPN chooses a "shorter" or "faster" connection path, making the game smoother and reducing ping.

2. Playing games on foreign servers

Some games are only available in certain countries, such as Japan, Korea, or the USA. A VPN can help you bypass to the server of that country, allowing you to download the game or access that server immediately.

3. Prevent IP or Region blocking

Some games block players from certain countries from accessing them, or some people might get their IP banned for accidentally breaking the rules. When they try to enter the game, they get kicked out or can't load it at all. A VPN can help with this because it can change your virtual location to make it seem like you're playing from another country, allowing you to bypass the block.

Precautions for using a VPN

It might cause more lag if you choose the wrong server.

If you choose a VPN server that is too far away or unstable, instead of being smoother, it might lag even more.

Some games do not allow the use of VPNs.

Especially in online games with anti-cheat systems, if it is detected that you are using a VPN, you may be warned or banned.

Avoid using free VPNs; they risk data theft.

Some free VPNs secretly collect usage data or have a lot of hidden ads.

Can't access the game if the VPN is blocked.

Some games in certain countries detect VPNs and do not allow access to the servers, such as some games in China.

Must choose a protocol suitable for the game.

Some protocols are slow or not suitable for gaming. You should choose one that is fast and stable, such as WireGuard or IKEv2.

What protocols does a VPN have?

Protocol is the method of data transmission that a VPN uses for each connection. Each type has its own unique features. Some are fast, some are secure, and some are specifically suited for gaming.

WireGuard

WireGuard is a new VPN protocol designed to be fast, lightweight, and secure. In simple terms, it is the most modern choice for those who want a VPN that is both smooth and stable.

IKEv2

IKEv2 (Internet Key Exchange version 2) is a VPN protocol known for its speed and stability, especially when used on mobile devices or networks with unstable signals. It is suitable for people who use mobile devices or have frequent disconnections with their internet.

OpenVPN (UDP & TCP)

OpenVPN is the most widely used VPN protocol in the world. Its highlights include high security, reliability, and compatibility with computers, mobile devices, and routers. It is suitable for people who use VPNs for work or to connect to corporate networks.

Which VPN protocol is suitable for gaming?

If you're a gamer who needs stability without interruptions while playing, the IKEv2 protocol is the best choice. It connects quickly, automatically reconnects when the internet drops, and runs smoothly on both mobile and PC. Now, VPN4Games supports IKEv2, allowing you to play cross-region games, reduce lag, and lower ping without complicated settings. Just select the server you want to connect to, and you can dive into games from any country.

VPN4Games VPN specifically for gamers

VPN4Games is a VPN specifically for gaming that helps reduce ping, fix lag, and truly enhance the stability of online gaming. It comes with over 100 servers in 20 countries worldwide, supporting gaming from all regions, whether it's Thai, Japanese, Korean, American, or European servers. It's easy to use, connects quickly, and requires no complicated setup—just click to connect and you're ready to dive into any game.