Not so long ago, artificial intelligence was just something people spoke about in movies set in the distant future. Now, it seems like it's all anyone is talking about. Advancements have been sudden and dramatic. There's still so much we don't know, but what's clear is that artificial intelligence is here to stay. And it's going to change the way we all live our lives.
A lot of the artificial intelligence discussion has centred around ChatGPT, and it's easy to see why. This artificial intelligence chatbot has been making waves with human-like conversations that at times defy belief.
What is ChatGPT?
ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence chatbot created by OpenAI and released towards the end of 2022. What's a chatbot? A chatbot is a computer program that uses AI and natural language processing to understand the questions you enter and automate responses, simulating human conversation.
It's difficult to describe something that's so new to the world, but the best way to better understand ChatGPT is to give it a try. You can ask questions and make requests of ChatGPT, and this self-learning AI tool will respond. We think you'll be impressed by what you get back. You might also be a little scared, and that's OK.
Do you need a VPN for ChatGPT?
In the most simplest terms, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide protection for your data and identity when you're online. They offer this service by creating a private network that hides your real IP address, making all of your activity untraceable and secure. It is this act that could be useful when it comes to ChatGPT.
It is not possible to access ChatGPT from certain countries such as Iran, China, Russia, and Egypt. Italy also banned the chatbot over concerns about its privacy policy and data protection, but has since restored access after these issues were addressed. On top of this, plenty of schools and workplaces have shut down access to ChatGPT. Schools obviously care about the potential for cheating, whilst many workplaces are trying to limit the risk of sensitive information being exposed. This reasoning seems totally justified, but it does mean that those seeking to use ChatGPT without bad intentions will also be blocked. And that seems a touch unfair.
VPNs can hide your real IP address and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can bypass restrictions to access ChatGPT from anywhere in the world. The process is quick and easy:
Sign up for a leading VPN
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports ChatGPT
Connect to ChatGPT
It really is that easy. There are plenty of services that can make light work of this task, including popular options like ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access. The best service for you will depend on a number of factors.
What should you consider when selecting a VPN?
Before you make any sort of decision on the best VPN for accessing ChatGPT, you should consider connection speed, server network, number of logins, security features, and privacy policy:
Connection speed — Even the very best services are going to produce a drop in your connection speed, but you shouldn't accept anything that is going to stop you from doing your day-to-day tasks. This probably goes without saying, but sure you select a VPN that doesn't negatively impact your connection speed to the point that you can't use ChatGPT without disruption.
Encryption — Whilst it's important to take note of the grade of encryption provided by your VPN, the best options will all offer powerful protection for your data. This is obviously massively important when bypassing online restrictions put in place by institutions.
Number of connections — Some of the best VPNs let you connect an unlimited number of devices with the same account, whilst others limit you to just a single device. Prioritise services that offer multiple simultaneous connections so you can enjoy the benefits of a VPN connection of all your devices.
Privacy policy — Pay close attention to the data-handling, storage, and usage practices of a VPN. Most VPNs require access to your IP address, online transactions, and browsing history, plus your personal details when you sign up. Your VPN of choice should not store these details under any circumstances. Any VPN worth your consideration should clearly lay out its data handling practises in a privacy policy.
Server network — You should seek out a VPN that offers the potential to connect to thousands of geographically diverse servers. This is useful because you should always be able to find a stable and speedy connection for accessing ChatGPT from anywhere in the world.
You also need to be conscious of things like price and subscription plans, but these features are a good starting point for anyone looking to invest in their first VPN.
Do you need to pay for the best VPNs?
We'll start with the good news: There are plenty of free versions of popular VPNs, and free trials of VPNs with full access to everything you get with a premium plan. The bad news is that there does tend to be a catch with free versions, and it's normally in the form of limited data usage. These plans will work fine if you're just an occasional user, but this simply isn't going to work for anyone who lives online. Free trials come with everything you get in a paid plan, but they obviously don't last very long. Trials are great for testing out a service before committing, but this isn't a long-term solution.
You get what you pay for with VPNs, and the best option for securely accessing ChatGPT from anywhere in the world is with a paid subscription. To gain access to advanced security features without limitations on usage, you will need to invest. We're sorry to break it to you like this.
What is the best VPN for ChatGPT?
We have carefully researched all the leading VPNs and lined up a selection of the very best services for ChatGPT. We have tried to find something for everyone and every budget, and you can find popular services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost VPN in this roundup.
These are the best VPNs for ChatGPT in 2023.