## What’s new

Mozilla has shipped **Firefox 149** with a **built-in VPN** feature that includes a free tier capped at **50GB per month**. This is positioned as an easy on-ramp for users who want extra privacy when browsing—without installing separate VPN software.

## Why it matters

A VPN can reduce exposure on untrusted networks (e.g., public Wi‑Fi) and limit certain forms of tracking tied to IP address. But it’s not a complete privacy solution, and it does not automatically protect every app on a device unless configured at the OS level.

## What the built-in VPN can (and can’t) do

**Helps with:**

- Encrypting traffic between your device and the VPN provider

- Reducing ISP-level visibility into visited domains (depending on DNS settings)

- Safer browsing on public Wi‑Fi

**Doesn’t automatically solve:**

- Phishing, malware, or compromised websites

- Tracking via cookies/fingerprinting

- Data collection by the sites/services you log into

## Recommendations

- Use the VPN for **travel/public Wi‑Fi** and sensitive sessions.

- Keep Firefox protections enabled: tracking protection, HTTPS-only mode, and strong password hygiene.

- For organizations: document when VPN is appropriate vs. when corporate ZTNA/secure web gateways are required.

## Local takeaway

For teams and students in Rwanda, a simple built-in VPN can be useful when working from cafés or shared networks—but it should be paired with MFA, endpoint security, and safe browsing practices.