Opera Enables Native VPN In Desktop Browser

Opera is switching on its native virtual private network (VPN) feature for all users, claiming to be the first major browser to offer such functionality.

A beta has been available since April and follows the acquisition of VPN service SurfEasy last March. Opera claims using a VPN can provide more freedom and greater privacy when using the web.

The VPN effectively allows users to unblock firewalls, stop your browser session from leaking onto public Wi-Fi networks, and make it more difficult for websites to track your location and identify your computer.

Opera desktop VPN

Users can pick from five servers – Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore and the US – or let the browser pick the optimum connection based on network speed, latency, location and server capacity.

“If people knew how the internet truly works, I believe they all would use a VPN,” said Krystian Kolondra, head of Opera r for computers. “By making our browser VPN free and easy to use, we hope to make it an essential tool, just as the lock and key is to your house.

“We know that people are concerned about their privacy online and that the interest for VPN is increasing. However, two major obstacles are blocking people from using it: VPNs are too complicated to use, and they require a monthly subscription. Opera resolves both issues by introducing its free and easy-to-use service right into the browser.”

Opera has released free VPNs for both Android and iOS as it seeks to expand its user base by
adding differentiating features such as VPNs, native ad blocking and data crunching algorithms to reduce mobile data use.

According to figures from NetMarketShare, Opera has 1.14 percent of the desktop browser market and 6.3 percent of the mobile market.

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