Using a VPN constantly on mobile devices can shorten battery life, though the effect is typically modest. A security expert shared this view during an interview summarised by a Russian media outlet, noting that the main consequence is slightly faster battery drain rather than any additional operational restrictions.
Experts acknowledge there are legitimate reasons to keep a VPN on all the time, especially for individuals who must protect data when connected to public Wi-Fi or when privacy is a priority. Still, users should be aware that not every online resource is accessible through a VPN. Some services may restrict access to VPN users, either by design or policy.
According to the analysis, turning off a VPN can sometimes block access to certain foreign portals that implement anti-Russian access controls. In contrast, some sites or services do not permit use through a VPN at all. In practical terms this means paying for parking meters or accessing certain government portals may become impossible when the VPN is active. The takeaway is that the decision to keep a VPN on or off depends on the specific sites and services a person visits.
Users should also note that many VPN applications allow users to set up automatic routing rules. These rules can specify particular sites to open through the VPN connection or bypass the VPN for others. That capability can help balance the needs for privacy with the need to access resources that do not function properly behind the anonymizer.
Recent coverage highlighted a broader context, including discussions about hardware vulnerabilities and the ways in which software configurations interact with processor design. This broader landscape underscores the importance of staying informed about how security tools, device firmware, and policy-based access controls interact in everyday digital life.
Bottom line: for most users, keeping a VPN enabled continuously provides privacy and protection on unsecured networks and while traveling, but it is wise to periodically evaluate which sites and services are most essential to access without barriers. Monitoring battery impact and using configurable VPN features can help tailor protection to fit daily routines.