Compare the Best VPN Services

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, protecting your online activity from hackers, ISPs, and other prying eyes. You need a VPN to enhance privacy, secure data on public Wi-Fi, bypass geographic restrictions, and prevent bandwidth throttling by your ISP.

Consider these factors when choosing a VPN: strong encryption and security protocols, a strict no-logs policy, server locations that match your needs, connection speed, device compatibility, user-friendly interface, reliable customer support, and reasonable pricing. Different VPNs excel in different areas, so prioritize based on your specific requirements.

Free VPNs often come with significant drawbacks. Many have weaker encryption, data caps, fewer server options, slower speeds, and intrusive advertising. More concerning, some free VPNs log and sell your data or may contain malware. While services like ProtonVPN offer limited free options from reputable companies, paid VPNs generally provide far better security, privacy, and features.

VPN protocols differ in how they encrypt data and establish connections. OpenVPN is highly secure and widely supported. WireGuard is newer, faster, and secure with less code. IKEv2 offers good security and connection stability for mobile devices. L2TP/IPsec provides decent security but can be slower. PPTP is fast but has serious security vulnerabilities and should be avoided. Most premium VPNs now offer multiple protocol options.

Yes, VPNs typically cause some speed reduction due to the encryption process and the distance to servers. However, top-tier VPNs minimize this impact with optimized networks and protocols like WireGuard. Some VPNs may actually improve speeds if your ISP is throttling certain types of traffic. The impact varies based on your original connection speed, server distance, server load, and the VPN provider's infrastructure.

Yes, many VPNs work with streaming services, allowing you to access content from different regions. However, streaming platforms actively block VPN connections, so not all VPNs are effective. Services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark regularly update their systems to maintain access to Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and other platforms. Premium VPNs typically offer better streaming performance with faster speeds and specialized streaming servers.

The number of simultaneous connections varies by provider. NordVPN allows 6 devices, ExpressVPN allows 5, while Surfshark and IPVanish offer unlimited connections. Some VPNs let you install the service on your router, which counts as one device while protecting all connected devices in your home. Check the specific limits of each provider before subscribing, especially if you have many devices to protect.

VPNs are legal in most countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and most of Europe. However, they are restricted or banned in countries with strict internet censorship such as China, Russia, Turkey, UAE, Belarus, and North Korea. Even where VPNs are legal, using them for illegal activities remains illegal. Always check the specific laws of your country and any countries you're traveling to before using a VPN.