Internet browsing has become one of the undeniable parts of our lives. We check online for almost everything — from dine-outs to job searches and much more. We also browse online to buy food, clothing, and access entertainment. Speaking of entertainment, the world now extensively relies on streaming content, playing games online, and using microblogging and video-sharing social media platforms.
We do not mask anything from our browser. But you’d be surprised to know that your browser logs almost everything that you do online. Your information is not exactly safe. It may be hard to believe, but someone somewhere has access to your browsing history. And this is not limited to just your web browsers. Even the applications that you visit on a daily basis collect and store information about your device, IP, WiFi network, and other usage patterns. If you aren’t aware of how your data is being collected, then it’s time to learn about the major deterrents to online privacy and, to an extent, security.
Data collected from users is the lifeblood of websites like centralized social media networks and e-commerce platforms. It helps them target customers with ads — the online equivalent of hoardings and billboards. According to the European GDPR, platforms must inform users of their privacy policies and provide a cookie notice before delivering their services. These platforms benefit greatly from the information provided by cookies about online behavior and usage patterns.
How do VPNs protect your data?
You are essentially your data. In today’s highly digitized world, how you protect your data determines how private and secure your life will be.
Most people use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure their everyday online activities. A VPN is essentially a mask that hides your identity as you traverse the complex, interconnected websites on the Internet.
A VPN encrypts your connection and masks your identity by hiding your IP address. The destination (the website you visit) sees a different IP address from the one assigned to your device.
VPNs also hide this data from your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and cellular network providers.
VPNs Are Not Black and White
To mask your identity or access an app that is otherwise unavailable in your location, you can use a virtual private network. However, not all VPNs adhere to ethical data handling and privacy protection policies.
When you use a VPN, you connect to a server maintained by the VPN service. Your IP may be changed to that of the VPN server’s IP, however, this information is available with the service provider itself. Not to mention that VPNs can track you.
Your IP → VPN Server (IP/Identity logged) → VPN’s IP → Destination
More often than not, you’re required to register, log in, and purchase the VPN before using it. This means you share your email address and personal information such as credit/debit card or bank details to complete the purchase — your data is once again logged.
Additionally, certain regulators and jurisdictions require VPN providers to share information on demand. In such cases, VPN providers face a conflict of interest between protecting user privacy and complying with state laws.
Free VPNs are no better when it comes to data protection. Every product needs a sustainable revenue model. Free VPNs often earn by sharing aggregated user data. They’re also not ideal for streaming content or gaming due to slower speeds.
What is BelNet?
BelNet allows you to browse the internet without being tracked. It is a decentralized VPN (dVPN) service that lets you surf anonymously.
While traditional VPNs are considered safe, centralized VPNs store information about the source and IP address — meaning you must trust them to safeguard your data.
In essence, you transfer control from ISPs and cellular providers to the VPN service. Though it may not be actively monitored, your information is still stored and may be used when required.
Beldex devised a wiser solution: mask your true identity completely. This is possible with BelNet, a dVPN that does not log or store information about your public identity or IP address. BelNet is supported by a decentralized network of relay (router) nodes and exit nodes. Your data is encrypted in transit and routed through these nodes using a unique onion routing protocol.
There is no monopoly. No single entity can access or control the information transmitted through BelNet. Even if interception were attempted, it would only reveal encrypted gibberish while the actual data remains secure.
How does BelNet work?
A traditional VPN acts as an overlay network by rerouting your traffic and hiding your IP address. It typically sets up fixed bridge connections so that the VPN server sends your information to the internet instead of your computer.
BelNet dVPN improves upon traditional VPN limitations. It is a peer-to-peer (P2P) service that disperses web traffic across decentralized encrypted tunnels. Users retain total control over their data and personal information through BelNet’s decentralized server networks.
Where can you download the BelNet dVPN?
BelNet works using the onion routing protocol and does not store personal information such as name, address, IP address, email, or phone number. You can use the network without providing personal data.
BelNet offers global access without restrictions. It is cross-platform and available for Android, Windows, and Linux devices.
Download BelNet for Android
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.beldex.belnet
Download BelNet for Windows
https://deb.beldex.io/Beldex-projects/belnet-gui/belnet-gui-1.0.0-win64.exe
Guide to Download BelNet for Linux
https://belnet.beldex.io/belnet_linux_installation
BelNet Exit Nodes
BelNet exit nodes help users connect to the internet anonymously. The destination website only sees the IP address of the exit node. Thus, exit nodes play a vital role in protecting user privacy.
BelNet has nearly 20 exit nodes located in:
- Australia 🇦🇺
- France 🇫🇷
- Germany 🇩🇪
- Japan 🇯🇵
- Lithuania 🇱🇹
- Netherlands 🇳🇱
- Singapore 🇸🇬
- United States 🇺🇸
View the complete exit node list here:
https://belnet.beldex.io/belnet-exit-node-list
Exit nodes provide fast connections for streaming, gaming, and seamless browsing. However, speed also depends on factors such as proximity to the exit node and your internet connection.
If you wish to set up an exit node in your locality, contact:
[email protected]
Closing Thoughts
Your data is protected on the BelNet network. BelNet does not collect or store your information, and your identity remains anonymous.
However, privacy tools do not eliminate the need for safe browsing practices. Downloading malicious software or visiting unsafe websites can still compromise your identity.
Online browsing has its do’s and don’ts. Tools like BelNet help you remain anonymous — provided you follow safe online habits.
BelNet is open source and supported by the Beldex Foundation and community contributors. Like other Beldex dApps, BelNet will utilize BDX as a utility token. While it currently has no direct utility within the app, features such as peer-to-peer subscriptions and on-chain rewards are being conceptualized by the team and community.
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