Guide to secure browsing and online privacy, based on expert reviews and user feedback
Guide to secure browsing and online privacy, based on expert reviews and user feedback
Here, you'll find reviews of the most popular VPN services and insights into whether free VPN options are available. We also cover VPN technology: what it is, why you need it, and how it works. Plus, you'll learn how to create your own VPN.
We analyzed thousands of user reviews on social media, forums like Reddit, and expert evaluations on sites like PCMag, TechRadar, CNET, and Security.org. To streamline this process, we automated the collection of user feedback from various platforms and used AI algorithms to filter out suspicious reviews — those likely generated by bots or paid for.
Our guide features some of the most popular and well-known VPN services of 2024, focusing on privacy, speed, streaming capabilities, and overall value. We’ve compiled a curated list of VPN providers, outlining their key strengths and weaknesses.
Unlike traditional rankings, we don’t rate or rank VPN providers. Instead, they are presented in a random order, which is periodically refreshed. Our primary goal is to provide you with accurate, unbiased information about VPN technology and services so you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Features: 5400+ servers, Double VPN, CyberSec, No-logs policy.
Pros: Robust security features, fast speeds, reliable streaming, and an audited no-logs policy.
Cons: Slightly higher price compared to some competitors, and the desktop app can occasionally be slow to connect.
Details: NordVPN is one of the most popular and trusted VPN services on the market, known for its strong focus on privacy, security, and performance. With over 5,400 servers in 60 countries, it offers excellent global coverage and fast connection speeds, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. One standout feature is Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers for added encryption.
The CyberSec suite blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, enhancing your overall browsing experience. NordVPN's strict no-logs policy has been independently audited, ensuring that your data is never stored or shared. The service supports a kill switch feature that disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
NordVPN works well with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions. It supports up to 6 simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for families or multiple devices. The user-friendly apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more.
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available on Android and iOS.
Features: 3000+ servers, TrustedServer technology, split tunneling, 256-bit AES encryption, no-logs policy.
Pros: High-speed connections, excellent security, reliable streaming access, and 24/7 customer support.
Cons: More expensive than many competitors, lacks a built-in ad blocker.
Details: ExpressVPN is renowned for its speed, reliability, and robust security features. With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, it provides excellent global coverage and consistently fast connections, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Its TrustedServer technology ensures that all servers run on volatile RAM, which means no data is ever written to a hard drive.
ExpressVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption and supports split tunneling, allowing you to route some traffic through the VPN while the rest accesses the internet directly. The service has a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited, guaranteeing your privacy. The Network Lock (kill switch) feature protects your data by blocking internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
ExpressVPN is compatible with major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+, making it an excellent choice for bypassing geo-restrictions. It allows up to 5 simultaneous connections and offers user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, routers, and more.
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available on Android and iOS.
Features: 3200+ servers, unlimited device connections, MultiHop, CleanWeb, No-logs policy.
Pros: Affordable pricing, unlimited simultaneous connections, strong security features, and a user-friendly interface.
Cons: Occasional slow speeds on some servers, smaller server network compared to competitors.
Details: Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN service known for its impressive features and excellent value for money. With over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, it offers reliable connections and decent speeds. One of its standout features is unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for families or users with many devices.
Surfshark includes MultiHop for routing traffic through multiple servers for extra security and CleanWeb for blocking ads, trackers, and malware. Its strict no-logs policy ensures your data stays private, and the service offers a kill switch for added protection.
Surfshark works with popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions. The apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even smart TVs and gaming consoles.
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available on Android, iOS, and macOS.
Features: 2900+ servers, Secure Core, Tor over VPN, no-logs policy, based in Switzerland.
Pros: Strong focus on privacy, Secure Core servers, Tor integration, and a generous free plan.
Cons: Limited features on the free plan, premium plans can be expensive.
Details: ProtonVPN is developed by the team behind ProtonMail and is known for its strong commitment to privacy and security. With over 2,900 servers in 65 countries, it offers reliable connections and advanced privacy features. Its unique Secure Core architecture routes traffic through multiple hardened servers, providing extra protection against surveillance.
ProtonVPN also supports Tor over VPN, allowing users to access the Tor network directly through the VPN for added anonymity. Based in privacy-friendly Switzerland, ProtonVPN operates under strict data protection laws and has a verified no-logs policy.
The service is compatible with major streaming platforms and supports up to 10 simultaneous connections on premium plans. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.
Free Trial: Offers a free plan with unlimited bandwidth and a 7-day premium trial upon registration.
Features: 35000+ servers, built-in ad blocker, open-source software, no-logs policy, 10 simultaneous connections.
Pros: Extensive server network, customizable security settings, affordable pricing, and strong privacy features.
Cons: Based in the US, which may concern privacy-focused users.
Details: Private Internet Access (PIA) is known for its extensive server network, offering over 35,000 servers in 84 countries. It provides strong privacy features, including a strict no-logs policy, customizable encryption settings, and a built-in MACE ad and malware blocker. PIA's software is open-source, allowing transparency and trust.
PIA supports up to 10 simultaneous connections on a single account, making it ideal for users with multiple devices. The VPN also includes a kill switch to prevent data leaks and supports advanced features like port forwarding and split tunneling.
It works with popular streaming services, though it may occasionally require switching servers to bypass geo-blocks. The apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers.
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available on iOS and Android.
Features: 9700+ servers, dedicated streaming servers, automatic kill switch, No-logs policy, 7 simultaneous connections.
Pros: User-friendly interface, large server network, optimized servers for streaming and torrenting, strong privacy protection.
Cons: Limited advanced features for power users, occasional connection delays.
Details: CyberGhost is a VPN service known for its ease of use and excellent streaming support. With over 9,700 servers in 91 countries, it offers a wide range of server options optimized for streaming, torrenting, and general browsing. The service includes an automatic kill switch and a strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy.
CyberGhost provides dedicated servers for accessing platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, ensuring smooth streaming without buffering. The apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and smart TVs.
The VPN allows up to 7 simultaneous connections and includes features like ad blocking, malware protection, and Wi-Fi security. CyberGhost’s interface is intuitive, making it a great option for beginners.
Free Trial: 24-hour free trial on desktop; 7-day free trial on iOS and Android.
Features: 2200+ servers, unlimited simultaneous connections, 256-bit AES encryption, no-logs policy, SugarSync cloud storage.
Pros: Unlimited device connections, strong encryption, fast speeds for streaming, and robust privacy features.
Cons: Based in the US, no optimized streaming servers, inconsistent performance with some streaming services.
Details: IPVanish is a reliable VPN service known for its strong encryption and privacy protection. With over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations, it offers fast and secure connections for browsing, streaming, and torrenting. One of the standout features of IPVanish is its support for unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for households with many devices.
IPVanish uses 256-bit AES encryption and follows a strict no-logs policy to ensure your data remains private. The service also includes a free 250 GB of SugarSync cloud storage with its annual plan, adding extra value.
While IPVanish works with some streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, it doesn't offer dedicated streaming servers, which can lead to inconsistent performance. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and routers.
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available on iOS and Android.
Features: 800+ servers, anonymous accounts, WireGuard support, no-logs policy, flat-rate pricing.
Pros: Strong privacy focus, anonymous payment options, transparent policies, and simple flat-rate pricing.
Cons: No free trial, fewer servers compared to competitors, limited streaming support.
Details: Mullvad VPN is a privacy-centric VPN service based in Sweden, known for its commitment to anonymity and security. Unlike most VPNs, Mullvad generates anonymous account numbers instead of requiring email addresses or personal information during signup. It supports the fast and secure WireGuard protocol for reliable connections.
Mullvad has a straightforward flat-rate pricing model of €5 per month, without discounts for long-term plans. It operates over 800 servers in 40+ countries and has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your data remains private.
While Mullvad offers robust security, it has limited support for streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. The apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Free Trial: No free trial, but offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Features: 2100+ servers, no-logs policy, split tunneling, 256-bit AES encryption, IPv6 support.
Pros: Generous free plan, strong security features, reliable speeds, and advanced privacy tools.
Cons: Limited streaming support, fewer servers compared to competitors.
Details: Hide.me is a reliable VPN service known for its strong security and privacy features. With over 2,100 servers in 80 locations, it offers secure and fast connections for browsing, streaming, and torrenting. The service uses 256-bit AES encryption and follows a strict no-logs policy to ensure your privacy is protected.
Hide.me supports advanced features like split tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN connection, and IPv6 support to prevent IP leaks. It also has a built-in kill switch to protect your data if the VPN connection drops.
The VPN works with some streaming services but may struggle with others like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Hide.me offers a generous free plan with 10 GB of data per month, making it a great option for casual use. The apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.
Free Trial: Free plan with 10 GB of data per month; 30-day money-back guarantee on premium plans.
Features: 2000+ servers, bank-grade encryption, ad tracker blocking, no-logs policy, integrated with Norton 360 suite.
Pros: Easy to use, strong encryption, integrated with Norton security products, and good for basic privacy needs.
Cons: Limited features compared to competitors, no support for torrenting, inconsistent speeds.
Details: Norton Secure VPN is a simple and user-friendly VPN service from the well-known cybersecurity brand Norton. With over 2,000 servers in 30+ countries, it offers basic protection for browsing and online privacy. The VPN uses bank-grade encryption to secure your data and includes ad tracker blocking to prevent advertisers from tracking your online activity.
Norton Secure VPN is ideal for users who already use other Norton security products, as it integrates seamlessly with the Norton 360 suite. It follows a no-logs policy to ensure your privacy is protected. However, it lacks advanced features like split tunneling and does not support torrenting.
The VPN works with popular streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, but speeds can be inconsistent. The apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available on all platforms.
Features: 6500+ servers, split tunneling, dedicated IP, 256-bit AES encryption, no-logs policy.
Pros: Large server network, dedicated IP option, affordable pricing, and robust security features.
Cons: Inconsistent streaming performance, occasional connection drops, and interface can be clunky.
Details: PureVPN is known for its extensive server network and wide range of features. With over 6,500 servers in 70+ countries, it provides global coverage for streaming, gaming, and browsing. PureVPN offers advanced features like split tunneling, allowing you to route specific traffic through the VPN, and a dedicated IP option for more stable connections.
The service uses 256-bit AES encryption to secure your data and follows a verified no-logs policy to ensure your privacy. It supports major platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, though streaming performance can sometimes be inconsistent.
PureVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and offers apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers. The interface may feel a bit clunky, but the service's affordable pricing makes it a good option for budget-conscious users.
Free Trial: 7-day trial available for $0.99.
Features: Free built-in VPN, unlimited data, no-logs policy, available on Opera browser. Opera VPN Pro offers system-wide protection, 3000+ servers, and advanced security features.
Pros: Free version with unlimited bandwidth, easy to use, no registration required, Pro version offers system-wide protection and access to a large server network.
Cons: Free version limited to browser use, fewer features compared to dedicated VPN services, Pro version requires a subscription.
Details: Opera VPN is a free, built-in VPN available within the Opera browser for desktop and mobile devices. It provides unlimited data, basic encryption, and a simple, no-registration experience. This makes it ideal for casual browsing and quick privacy needs. However, it only works within the Opera browser and offers limited virtual locations.
For more comprehensive protection, Opera offers Opera VPN Pro, a premium service that provides system-wide VPN coverage and access to over 3,000 servers in 30+ countries. Opera VPN Pro includes stronger security features and works across all apps and browsers on your device, not just within Opera.
The Pro version supports up to 6 simultaneous connections, making it suitable for multiple devices. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Free Trial: Free version with unlimited data; Opera VPN Pro offers a 7-day free trial.
| VPN Service | Price | Servers | Streaming Support | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $3.71/month | 5400+ in 59 countries | ✅ | 120 Mbps |
| ExpressVPN | $6.67/month | 3000+ in 94 countries | ✅ | 135 Mbps |
| Surfshark | $2.49/month | 3200+ in 100 countries | ✅ | 110 Mbps |
| ProtonVPN | $4.99/month | 2900+ in 65 countries | ✅ | 95 Mbps |
| Private Internet Access | $2.03/month | 35000+ in 84 countries | ✅ | 90 Mbps |
| CyberGhost | $2.19/month | 9700+ in 91 countries | ✅ | 115 Mbps |
| IPVanish | $3.33/month | 2200+ in 75+ locations | ✅ | 100 Mbps |
| Mullvad VPN | €5/month | 800+ in 40+ countries | ❌ | 85 Mbps |
| Hide.me | $3.84/month | 2100+ in 80 locations | ✅ | 88 Mbps |
| Norton Secure VPN | $4.99/month | 2000+ in 30+ countries | ✅ | 75 Mbps |
| PureVPN | $2.08/month | 6500+ in 70+ countries | ✅ | 92 Mbps |
| Opera VPN | Free / $3.99/month (Pro) | 3000+ in 30+ countries (Pro) | ❌ (Free) / ✅ (Pro) | 50 Mbps (Free) / 90 Mbps (Pro) |
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a tool that helps keep your internet connection private and secure. When you connect to a VPN, here's what happens:
- Connection to a Remote Server: Your device establishes a secure connection to a remote server operated by the VPN provider.
- Encrypted Traffic: All your internet traffic is encrypted (turned into unreadable data), so anyone trying to intercept it — like hackers or your internet provider — can’t see what you’re doing.
- Routing Through the Server: Your requests to access websites or services go through the VPN server. This server acts as an intermediary, making it look like the requests are coming from the server's location, not your own.
- Hidden Activity: Because your traffic goes through the VPN server, your internet provider can only see that you're connected to the VPN, not the websites or services you visit afterward.
A VPN protects your online activity by encrypting your connection and sending your traffic through a remote server. This process keeps your data secure, masks your real location, and helps you browse the internet with greater privacy and freedom.
A VPN serves several important purposes, enhancing security, privacy, and access to online resources. Here are the main reasons to use a VPN:
Secure Remote Access: VPNs allow you to safely connect to internal networks, such as your company’s office network, from anywhere. This ensures that sensitive data stays protected when you’re working remotely.
Access to Remote Servers: When connecting to a remote server, using a VPN helps secure the connection. You can safely disable external Remote Desktop (RDP) access, reducing the risk of unauthorized intrusion.
Bypassing Censorship: In regions where certain websites and services are blocked, a VPN can help you bypass these restrictions. By connecting through servers in other countries, you can access the open internet without limitations.
Network Security and Anonymity: When you browse the internet through a VPN, your real IP address is hidden. This makes it harder for websites or hackers to track your location or identify your device, reducing the risk of cyberattacks and privacy breaches.
A VPN is a useful tool for secure remote work, accessing blocked content, and protecting your privacy while you browse the internet. Whether for professional tasks or personal use, a VPN helps keep your online activities safe and private.
Free VPNs may seem like a great deal, but in reality, they often come with hidden costs. Operating a VPN service requires money for servers, bandwidth, maintenance, and staff. So, how do free VPN providers cover these expenses? They typically do it in one of two ways:
Ads and Tracking: Some free VPNs insert ads into your browsing experience or track your online activity to sell data to advertisers.
Risky Practices: Less reputable services might misuse your data, sell it to third parties, or even use your device as a proxy server for other users, exposing you to security risks.
Because of these potential dangers, it’s generally not advisable to use free VPNs unless you thoroughly review their privacy policies. If you need a free option, stick to well-known and reputable providers, such as Opera.
A virtual private network (VPN) protocol is a set of rules that determine how data is securely transmitted between a user's device and a VPN server. These protocols define the methods of encryption, authentication, and transmission, thereby ensuring the privacy and integrity of data during online activities.
| Protocol | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | Highly secure, open-source, customizable, works on most platforms | Slower due to strong encryption, complex setup |
| WireGuard | Fast, lightweight, easy setup, uses modern encryption | Limited long-term security testing |
| IKEv2/IPSec | Stable, fast, great for mobile devices, reconnects quickly | Blocked by some firewalls, manual setup can be tricky |
| L2TP/IPSec | Easy setup, widely supported | Slower due to double encryption, considered outdated |
| PPTP | Very fast, simple to set up | Weak security, vulnerable to attacks, not recommended |
| SSTP | Good security, bypasses most firewalls, works on Windows, Android, macOS, and Linux | Closed-source, mainly associated with Windows |
| Shadowsocks | Great for bypassing censorship, fast, lightweight | Encrypts only proxied traffic, not a full VPN |
| VLESS | Lightweight, good for bypassing censorship, supports obfuscation | Requires advanced configuration, mainly used with V2Ray |
| SoftEther | Multi-protocol support, high performance, open-source | Complex to set up for beginners |
| Trojan | Bypasses deep packet inspection, mimics HTTPS traffic | Less commonly supported, technical setup required |
Different protocols are designed to meet different needs. For strong security and flexibility, OpenVPN or WireGuard is ideal. If you need to get around censorship, Shadowsocks, VLESS or Trojan might be better to use. For mobile stability, IKEv2/IPSec works well. Choosing the right protocol depends on your specific use case.
Setting up your own VPN can be a budget-friendly solution compared to commercial services. For just $3–$5 per month, you can rent a VPS from providers like DigitalOcean or Contabo. With your own VPN, you can connect unlimited devices and use different protocols to meet your needs.
Easy VPN Setup Tools
- Outline. Developed by Jigsaw (part of Google), Outline is a user-friendly VPN solution. It simplifies VPN server deployment with an intuitive setup process, even for beginners. Outline supports strong encryption and offers easy client apps for major platforms.
- hwdsl2 GitHub Script. This script on GitHub lets you install IPsec, OpenVPN, and WireGuard on your server. It automates much of the process, making it easier to configure a secure VPN without deep technical knowledge.
Hosting your own VPN gives you control over security, privacy, and customization.
Please send your questions, feedback, and suggestions about this guide to [email protected]. Andrew Stevenson, Network Administrator.