Best VPN services: I've tested countless VPNs to find the fastest and most secure services for your security, streaming, and travel needs
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Virtual private networks (VPNs) are essential security tools to stop others from spying on you online. A VPN is vital when traveling, streaming, or using public Wi-Fi networks as it encrypts your data and conceals your internet protocol (IP) address. VPNs route traffic through their own server network, assigning users new IP locations and preventing tracking, eavesdropping, and data theft.
VPNs are not a silver bullet for ultimate security, but the best VPN services will protect your privacy without significantly impacting your speed or browser sessions. They may also offer additional privacy features, including ad-blocking, data breach scanners, password managers, and threat monitoring.
What is the best VPN service right now?
My pick for the best overall VPN is NordVPN. Based in Panama and subject to strict data protection laws, NordVPN is a top contender in the VPN space. NordVPN offers the full package -- fast speeds, stable connections, an expansive server network, and excellent streaming capabilities. It's not the cheapest VPN, starting at $3.39 per month, but if you want a solid, versatile VPN backed by solid customer support, NordVPN is for you.
My second choice is ExpressVPN, a secure and easy-to-use VPN. ExpressVPN is one of the fastest options around, although it's on the pricier end at $5 per month on a two-year plan.
Also: The best VPNs for streaming: Expert tested
The ZDNET team has decades of experience in the VPN arena. I've tested all the best VPNs on the market, rigorously evaluating them through frequent speed tests and ranking them based on the number of servers, security features, price, and more. If you're interested in signing up for a VPN, pick a trustworthy service that doesn't vastly impact your speed or internet connection. You should also consider the size and variety of its server network and how the VPN provider treats user data.
Read on to find the best VPN for you in 2025.
The best VPNs of 2025
NordVPN is one of the most widely used VPNs, and for most users it ticks all the boxes. It's secure, fast, suitable for streaming, and has all the features you'll likely need.
Why we like it: I've found it to be one of the fastest VPNs with the most consistent speed measurements and rapid initial server connectivity. It's still worth noting that rival ExpressVPN is slightly faster.
In my tests with Netflix, NordVPN emerged as a top VPN for streaming content with a high success rate in accessing geo-blocked content. When set up with the Privacy Hero 2 router, it also did exceptionally well in accessing streaming services worldwide.
NordVPN offers many features beyond the basics, including support for peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing and an optional second layer of encryption through Double VPN. This allows you to set up a dedicated IP address to run a VPN that also acts as a server.
In January, the company launched NordWhisper, a new protocol designed to allow users to connect to VPN servers from networks that typically limit traditional VPN traffic and have restrictive network policies. In a new service update, NordVPN has revealed the release of a full graphical user interface (GUI) for Linux, which means users no longer have to rely on the command line.
NordVPN also has a kill switch that activates if your connection suddenly drops, protecting your connection and data. In its fifth independent audit, NordVPN says its no-logs policy has been verified.
Review: NordVPN: Consistent speed and performance
Who it's for: Those who want a fast VPN to use across different devices, and for a relatively affordable price. NordVPN is compatible with all major platforms and provides a server network of 111 countries, and it allows you to connect 10 devices simultaneously under one account. It's also excellent for streaming.
Who should look elsewhere: NordVPN will suit most users' needs, but if you want speed first, ExpressVPN might be the right alternative.
You can pick between three types of plans with two-year, one-year, or one-month contract terms, depending on whether you want advanced features such as a password manager, data breach scanner, cloud storage, or file encryption.
Prices start at $3.39 per month on a two-year plan or $5 per month for a one-year subscription.
Alternatively, you can try out NordVPN for a month and take advantage of the organization's 30-day money-back guarantee.
NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 111 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android | Trustpilot rating: 4.2 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7
ExpressVPN is my top choice for the fastest VPN service around.
Why we like it: Customers say it delivers a speedy and consistent connection, and I agree. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are well-matched in speed, but ExpressVPN often tops its closest competitor during the speed tests I perform every few months.
It's one of the most popular VPN providers, offering a wide range of platforms, and is well-regarded and trusted. The service also has an expansive network with servers in 105 countries and offers eight simultaneous connections. I think this is restrictive considering the higher price point of this VPN compared to many of its competitors.
Compatible platforms include Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire OS, and tvOS. The service also works with Linux, which has been recently updated with a GUI.
Review: ExpressVPN: Is it worth the price?
The company doesn't log your browsing history, IP address, or traffic destination and operates a no-logs policy. In ExpressVPN's latest transparency report, the firm received 163 government, law enforcement, and civil requests for user data, one warrant, and over 800,000 Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) requests, but says no user information was handed over.
While customer service is friendly and polite, they persist in customer retention, so you'll need to set aside some time if you wish to cancel after the 30-day period.
Who it's for: Individuals who see speed as king. This VPN has consistently secured the top spot in my speed tests over the past few years.
ExpressVPN is also the developer of Aircove, a router product line with ExpressVPN built in, saving you the legwork if you want blanket coverage for all your home devices. Alternatively, you can manually set up ExpressVPN to work with gaming consoles and TVs that do not natively support VPN apps, but you may need to install the VPN directly on your router.
Who should look elsewhere: VPN customers who want a budget-friendly option should consider Surfshark or another of my recommended VPNs. Considering the high price point of the subscriptions, I would eventually like to see ExpressVPN support unlimited simultaneous connections instead of just eight.
New users can subscribe to ExpressVPN's two-year plans for $5 per month with four months of free service added to the length of the contract. Alternatively, if you opt for $6.67 per month, you will receive one year of access with three months free.
There is a 30-day money-back guarantee. ExpressVPN has also recently begun to accept Google Pay and Apple Pay.
ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 8 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.1 | Google Play rating: 4.5 | App Store rating: 4.7
Surfshark should be on your radar if you are looking for an affordable, secure VPN.
Why we like it: In ZDNET's Surfshark VPN review and testing, we found this VPN offers reasonable speeds and a decent server network. I've also found that it's not the fastest option or the quickest to initially connect, but the cheap price point provides excellent value for money. There were also no data leaks, which is precisely what you want to see from a quality VPN.
With 100 countries in its server network, you have plenty of locations to choose from, making this VPN a good choice for streaming content at home or abroad.
Surfshark prioritizes security with AES-256-GCM, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and RSA-2048 encryption. The organization also upholds a no-logs policy, although this was last audited in 2023.
Also: NordVPN vs Surfshark: Which is better?
We like its add-on features, such as anti-tracking, a search engine that doesn't log your information, and a scanner that searches data breach lists for your email. With Surfshark's multi-hop option, you can also connect through two VPN servers. Customers praise the support team for being excellent and quick to respond.
In May, Surfshark also announced the launch of new domain name service (DNS) servers to provide additional anonymity to users and to potentially improve connection times.
Who it's for: Anyone on the hunt for a consistently affordable VPN without any unwelcome price hikes. The cheapest option, a two-year subscription called Surfshark Starter, costs only $2.19 per month.
Alternatively, you can sign up for one year and pay $3.19 per month or $15.45 for just one month of access. One- and two-year contracts include three months of free access and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who should look elsewhere: Surfshark provides excellent value for money, but it isn't the fastest or the most advanced VPN. If you want rapid speeds, a larger server network, or advanced customization, check out our other recommendations, including NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
Surfshark features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch: Yes | Countries: 100 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, and routers | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.5 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7
Private Internet Access (PIA) is an open source VPN solution with a solid security background.
Why we like it: Private Internet Access is an excellent option if you need a VPN long-term and support for multiple devices. The service offers unlimited simultaneous connections, is compatible with various operating systems and devices, and also includes a free email breach monitor
Review: Private Internet Access
PIA's network isn't the largest, with only 91 country options available, but customers note that the VPN is quick to install and simple to use. However, my testing found that server upload speeds can be slow.
Other features we like are the "snooze" button if you need to temporarily turn off the VPN and a tab displaying security elements including port connections, protocols, and data encryption standards in use. You can also opt for a dedicated IP address or an antivirus scanner as a part of your package.
Who it's for: PIA offers excellent security, given that it's open source, and so security-conscious individuals should consider it. Much of the VPN's code can be examined and audited publicly, which is always desirable when trusting your security to a third-party vendor.
A strict no-logs policy also exists, and PIA publishes frequent transparency reports. In its latest Q1 report, PIA said it received seven subpoenas and a number of government requests, but no user logs were produced.
Who should look elsewhere: If streaming, speed, or a large server network are more important than open source technologies, consider another option.
If you would like to give it a try, Private Internet Access offers two plans, including a two-year subscription for $2.19 per month, making it a very affordable VPN. If you want to try out the VPN for a shorter period, you can sign up for $7.50 per month for six months. The best deal is the two-year subscription, as you also get two months of free access.
Private Internet Access VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, and NAS | Countries: 91 | Logging: No-logs policy | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.3 | Google Play rating: 4.5 | App Store rating: 4.7
Proton is a Swiss company that adheres to the country's strict privacy laws and also provides a free VPN service.
Why we like it: Under the slogan "privacy by default," this organization is focused on developing services -- including encrypted email and a VPN -- to enhance the privacy of activists, journalists, and the public.
Proton VPN takes a solid approach to security, layering robust protocols on top of perfect forward secrecy and encryption. Not only does Proton VPN have a kill switch, but it also provides torrenting support, WireGuard, and an ad-blocker.
All of Proton's apps are open-source, there's a no-logs policy, and the company reports that it is independently audited. The firm has also created its own protocol, Stealth, which has been designed to circumvent censorship blocks.
Among its other services is the NetShield ad-blocker, which has been recently upgraded to block more phishing domains. Proton VPN has also refined its mobile apps to reduce battery consumption.
Customers like Proton's attitude to security and privacy. I find it easy to use, and the speeds are reasonable. Although Trustpilot ratings are low, the feedback primarily relates to the firm's free plan limits and customer support system.
There are free and paid options available, and if you need a free solution, this is one of the few trusted VPNs I recommend.
Review: Proton VPN
Who it's for: Proton offers a free VPN service that is supported by paid users. It allows one machine to connect without bandwidth limits and provides access to servers across five countries.
I don't typically recommend using free VPNs, but if you want a service for casual browsing, you should consider this one. Unlike many less reputable free VPN services, it will not sell your information -- but considering there are server and location restrictions for free accounts, you may not experience the true speeds of the overall network.
Who should look elsewhere: Anyone who wants more than a restricted, albeit free, service should consider another option or check out Proton VPN's paid offerings.
If you want access to Proton VPN's full server network of 117 countries and over 11,000 servers, you will need to opt for a paid plan. The best deal is $3.59 per month on a two-year plan. A one-year plan is priced at $4 per month, or you can opt for one month of access for $10. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Proton VPN features: Open-source | Simultaneous connections: One to 10, depending on the plan | Countries: 117 | Logging: No-logs policy | Security audits | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, Kodi, and routers | VPN accelerator | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Free option | Trustpilot rating: 2.1 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.6
Best VPNs, compared
Best VPN service | Price | Kill switch | Countries | Simultaneous connections |
NordVPN | $3.39 per month on a two-year plan | Yes | 111 | 10 |
ExpressVPN | $5 per month on a two-year plan | Yes | 105 | 8 |
Surfshark VPN | $2.19 per month on a two-year plan | Yes | 100 | Unlimited |
Private Internet Access | $2.03 per month on a two-year plan | Yes | 91 | Unlimited |
Proton VPN | Free or $3.59 per month on a two-year contract | Yes | 117 | 1-10, varies by plan |
How do I test the best VPNs?
I ran a series of speed and connectivity tests in April 2025 on each VPN's paid service to see how they compare.
I performed the tests using a broadband connection in the U.K. with an average starting speed, without a VPN, of 57.1 Mbps download and 16.6 Mbps upload. Yes, they are terrible, but they are the best the U.K. currently offers where I live. I also tested for the presence of domain name service (DNS) leaks.
Please remember that results may differ for you and vary from country to country, so the below should be considered a snapshot. Your internet service provider (ISP) and broadband subscription may also impact your speeds. For example, the starting speed is a snail's pace compared to some U.S. offerings.
The below results are not the exact speeds you should expect. You can instead use these results to get a general idea of how your speeds could change with a VPN. Remember that the further away the VPN server, the more your speed may be impacted. Speeds will typically be quicker when you connect to a local server, compared to selecting Australia, for example, unless you're in Australia.
Which is the right VPN for you?
Choose this top VPN service... | If you want... |
NordVPN | The best VPN overall. NordVPN isn't the cheapest service, but it remains one of the most consistently fast and stable connection providers. It's great for streaming and travel, too, with a great user interface on PC and mobile. |
ExpressVPN | A robust, fast server network. I've used ExpressVPN for years, and I consider it one of the fastest and least obtrusive services available. You can expect multi-platform support and relatively minor speed downgrades when you are streaming. However, it isn't cheap. |
Surfshark VPN | The least expensive top VPN. Surfshark is a consistent player in my top VPN lists, and for good reason. It might not always be the fastest, but for the price point, you can't argue against its value for money. |
Private Internet Access | Unlimited simultaneous connections. Private Internet Access is a great choice if you want a set-and-forget, affordable VPN that can support and protect as many devices as you like -- but the interface won't suit everyone. |
Proton VPN | A variety of add-on features and the comfort of open-source security. Proton VPN also offers a free plan and is one of the most privacy-focused VPN services out there. |
Factors to consider when choosing a VPN service
These are the most important factors to consider when selecting a new VPN service.
- Speed: Every VPN performs differently, and every user experience differs. Your ISP will offer speeds that are not the same as someone in another location. Your favorite coffee shop has a different network connection than our local haunts. So, when you are testing a new VPN, keep your base speed in mind. Look out for VPN solutions with minimal speed loss.
- Apps: VPN providers should offer compatibility for multiple platforms and operating systems. Take a look at the user interfaces, features, and compatibility offered by your chosen VPN provider before you commit.
- Simultaneous connections: If you're paying for a VPN, you might want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop PC, smartphone, or smart TV. We recommend you sign up for a plan supporting at least six devices, and thankfully, most paid plans now offer at least this number.
- Trial periods: Before committing to a VPN provider, test them out -- that's what money-back guarantees are for. Remember that most VPN providers will give you 30 days to cancel and secure a refund. Some even offer up to 45 days.
- Free VPN providers: Running a VPN is expensive, and if the VPN provider doesn't make money from your service fees, they're going to make money from your data -- sometimes even by selling your personal information. Stick with the trusted commercial vendors we've tested or the handful of free plans we recommend. There are also cases where "free" VPNs undermine what the software is designed for -- data protection and security.
- Contract terms: VPN providers constantly offer discounts, typically on longer-term plans, so you need to consider the fine print before you sign up. Remember to cancel before automatic renewal if you're no longer happy with the service or want to switch to a cheaper deal elsewhere.
- Use cases: Your VPN selection should relate to how you want to use a VPN. For example, you may want one specifically for streaming geo-locked content, or you may need a VPN that is likely to work in restricted countries. Consider these points before making your final choice and test them out during your money-back-guarantee time period to ensure the VPN is right for you.
- Advanced features: You might like the idea of bundling your new VPN with antivirus software, a data breach alert tool, or a password manager. Check out the advanced features offered under different plans to make the right choice.
How to use a VPN
If you're interested in using a VPN, setting up the service will depend on the VPN provider, your contract, and the devices you want to protect. To set up a VPN, you will first need to subscribe to a VPN service and download the VPN software. You can visit the VPN service's official website, or you may receive a download link through email. Alternatively, visit Google Play or the App Store for mobile app options.
Open the software, provide any associated permissions the VPN needs, and sign in using your credentials.
Choose a server location and connect to the VPN. In this example, you can select ExpressVPN's "..." button to select a server from its list of countries. Most VPNs will give you a "smart" location set as default, typically close to home.
Also: Best VPNs for Smart TVs
It's that simple! Of course, you can check out your VPN's settings and tailor your experience to your liking. However, for many users, sticking to default options and having a few favorite servers will be enough.
How I test VPNs
I tested and analyzed the best VPNs in 2025 using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision:
- Performance: My top VPNs must have a minimum level of performance. After all, there's no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection continually drops or lags. I frequently conduct speed tests to stay up to date and informed of any service changes.
- Simultaneous connections: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service simultaneously. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, and possibly even a smart TV, and want to connect to a VPN, you need a service that allows at least six simultaneous connections.
- Security: A VPN's security protocols and encryption levels must stay up to scratch. I want a recommended VPN's development team to care about making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs, and I look for evidence of transparency around security updates.
- Kill switch: A kill switch prevents you from using an unprotected connection. This is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop. All of my recommended VPNs provide this feature.
- Geo-blocks and streaming: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. I ensured that our top recommendations perform well given these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while you are streaming.
- Platforms: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? My VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive desktop software for at least Windows and macOS, alongside mobile apps.
- Countries and servers: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.
- Trial length and price: Each VPN I recommend has a solid money-back guarantee of at least 30 days, and many will offer mobile users a seven-day trial.
Support: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. I list VPNs with a support team available, although the communication channels on offer may vary.
For a more extensive breakdown, check out ZDNET's comprehensive VPN testing methodology page.
Latest information on VPNs in 2025
The latest news
Here are some of the recent headlines and most notable news stories in the VPN industry:
- Roskomnadzor, Russia's federal media agency and regulator, has sent a wave of VPN takedown requests to Google in an apparent effort to wage war against VPN use in the country.
- VPNs have formally been deemed a "key challenge" to investigative work and law enforcement agencies by the EU's HLG (High Level Group).
- The Financial Times reports that both Google and Apple's app stores have hosted 'VPN' software linked to a blacklisted Chinese cybersecurity firm.
- Windscribe founder Yegor Sak has been acquitted after a two-year legal battle in which he was personally charged in connection with "an alleged internet offence by an unknown user of the service."
- Proton VPN has implied it may leave Switzerland due to proposed surveillance law changes.
- Legacy VPN Secure customers have been told their lifetime access won't be honored, according to reports. The decision comes following an acquisition of the VPN provider's assets.
Is VPN software impacted by tariffs?
Recent tariff changes have not directly impacted Virtual Private Network software. Software is rarely considered in tariff alterations, and so subscription services should be safe, for now. However, this doesn't mean the industry as a whole will not be impacted, as associated hardware -- such as servers and networking equipment -- could be subject to higher costs.
The White House has imposed temporary exemptions for electronics, but this could change at any time.
FAQs on VPNs
What is a VPN?
VPN, short for virtual private network, lets you browse the internet privately and connect securely to open or public Wi-Fi networks. A VPN allows you to change your virtual location by redirecting the connection through one of its servers worldwide. A VPN encrypts your traffic, hiding you from hackers, internet service providers, and governments.
If your online activities are being monitored at the internet service provider (ISP) level -- say, by a government -- they may recognize the signature of a VPN, even if exactly what you are doing is hidden.
VPNs are useful in unblocking geo-restricted content and can be vital tools for accessing information in countries with repressive governments. They are important services for anyone who wants to maintain a high level of safety and privacy online. Because they are anonymous -- or at least should be -- they can also be used to hide illegal online activities, such as pirating content.
How can I tell if my VPN is working or not?
A fully functional VPN should protect your privacy and mask your location and IP address. If you're unsure if your VPN is working correctly, there are tools that make checking your service's performance easy.
You can find out your IP address and location by using whatismyipaddress.com. Compare the IP address and location when you're connected with and without a VPN. If they are different, then your VPN is doing its job.
It's possible that your VPN is leaking your data and potentially exposing your online activity. You can run tests on a site like DNS Leak Test to ensure your VPN has no issues with domain name service (DNS) leaks or IP leaks. Plenty of tools allow you to test for leaks, but VPN providers own many, and it may not always be clear who developed the tool, which could be a conflict of interest. You may want to run tests using different sites and compare the results.
Do I need a VPN if I'm traveling or using a Wi-Fi hotspot?
Native VPN support on Mac
If you're connecting to an existing corporate virtual private network, you may not need an additional service. MacOS comes with built-in native VPN support, although most consumers won't need to adjust these settings.
If you do, head over to System Settings, then the Network tab, and either import the configuration file you were provided or hit the plus button and add a VPN interface. Here's a handy tip sheet from Apple that will walk you through the process.
Native VPN support on Windows
If you're connecting to an established corporate VPN, all you need to do is add a new Windows VPN connection. Click the Start button, type settings, then select Settings, Network and Internet, VPN, and then Add VPN. Make sure you have the connection details provided by your work, and then click on "Add a New VPN Connection." Fill in the form and you're good to go. Here's a tip sheet from Microsoft with more information.
Windows also allows you to host a VPN server by creating a new incoming network connection, choosing the users who can connect, and telling Windows that the incoming connection is across the internet. You'll also have to configure your router to allow traffic to your computer.
Native VPN support on ChromeOS
If you're using a Chromebook, all you need to do is open Settings, Network, Add Connection, and then choose between OpenVPN and L2TP over IPSec. Google has a handy cheat sheet to guide you through the process.
See also: The best VPN extensions for Chrome - expert tested
Linux with WireGuard
WireGuard is Linux's baked-in VPN capability. Its code is relatively simple and small, making it far easier to maintain, test, and debug.
Most VPNs we spotlighted support WireGuard right out of the box. You can download it for Linux. You can also download a package for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and FreeBSD. It's like most open-source products in that you'll need to do some reading and thinking to make it work.
Can I use a VPN with Apple TV?
Apple announced support for third-party VPNs on tvOS in 2023. Since then, many top VPN providers have developed native apps for tvOS. VPNs with native Apple TV support include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark.
Check out our guide below for the best tvOS-supporting VPN options in the market today.
See also: The best Apple TV VPNs: Expert tested
Do I need a VPN for my smart TV?
It probably isn't worth it to invest in a VPN purely for use with your TV. You'll find that only some TV operating systems natively support VPN apps, whereas others -- such as Tizen -- do not, which means you will have to find a workaround, such as installing a VPN on your router or Amazon TV Firestick.
That said, if you want to use a VPN to access different streaming service libraries, a VPN provides the means to do so. This is a legally gray area, and you may only be able to access universally licensed content if VPN use is detected.
What's the best free VPN service?
I've highlighted paid services in this article, although some offer a free tier or a money-back guarantee during a trial period. For more, check out my picks for the best VPN free trials. In general, I don't recommend most entirely free VPN services because they may not be secure.
Operating a good VPN service requires hundreds of servers worldwide and vast networking resources. If you're not paying to support that infrastructure, who is? Probably advertisers or data miners. If you use a free service, your data will probably be sold. You wouldn't want your data to go to some company to sift through, it completely defeats the purpose of a VPN.
Before you choose a VPN service, free or paid, know that no single tool can guarantee your privacy. Anything can be compromised. A VPN protects your data from your computer to the VPN service. It doesn't protect what you put on servers. It doesn't protect your data from the VPN provider's VPN servers to whatever site or cloud-based application you use. Privacy and security require you to be diligent throughout your digital journey, and VPNs, while helpful, are not a miracle cure.
That said, if you would like to explore free options, I have compiled a guide of the best free VPNs available.
How much does a VPN cost?
A VPN's cost can vary depending on your needs. Basic plans often cost a few dollars per month, but pricing structures are often displayed as monthly equivalents, so you may have to pay upfront for the full contract at sign-up. Tax may also be added. If you need a specialized VPN, such as one able to circumvent blocks in countries like China, expect to pay more. Overall, expect to pay between $2 - $10 per month.
Why are month-to-month VPN plans so expensive?
In my opinion, VPN providers usually set extortionate pricing on one-month subscriptions to deter customers from opting for these plans.
While most VPNs are available month-to-month, they are usually priced at over $10 per month and aren't great value compared to one-year and two-year plans. The exception is Mullvad, which operates on a set monthly price, no matter how long you want the VPN for.
We recommend that you choose a VPN for a longer term, as you will pay less. You can use a VPN's 30-day money-back guarantee to see if the VPN suits you, or cancel before this period ends to receive a full refund.
Should you use a VPN on your phone or tablet?
If it's your data, and you want it to be secure, yes. The same choices are valid regardless of what kind of device you use to transmit and receive data over the internet.
Also: The best mobile VPNs
Is it legal to use a VPN?
Yes, in most countries, including the U.S., the U.K., and the majority of Europe. In some countries, VPNs are illegal, or severely discouraged and limited to state-approved software.
At the moment, countries including North Korea, Iraq, and Belarus have reportedly banned the use of VPNs entirely. As noted in NordVPN's country guide, others -- like China, Russia, and Egypt -- discourage VPN use and try to stop new adoption by demonizing VPNs as software widely used for criminal activity.
Workarounds do exist, but they may come with risks.
Should I leave a VPN on all of the time?
We recommend that you do because a VPN provides a blanket layer of protection for your online activities. If speed loss is problematic during some activities like gaming, at least use one during sensitive activities like accessing financial accounts. You should also always use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots.
Do VPN providers limit usage?
Some do, so check when you sign up. For non-free plans, none of the providers I recommended limit the amount of data you can use. Some will limit how many devices you can use at once, but for paid plans VPN providers tend to offer more connections than you will need.
As a general rule of thumb, free or trial offerings tend to restrict usage, speed, and/or the number of devices you can connect to the VPN, with access and speed increased for paying customers.
What does logging mean with regards to VPN services?
Logging is the recording of data about your usage, and it occurs everywhere. Every website, at minimum, records an IP address, time, and data accessed so they can track traffic. All VPN providers have to check credentials against recorded personal data to make sure you paid, but some let you sign up with Bitcoin, allowing you to hide your identity.
When I say a VPN doesn't log data, I mean they don't track which sites you visit and for how long, but they may track how much of their infrastructure you use.
What is a VPN kill switch?
Let's say you're surfing online, and your VPN connection suddenly fails. Your phone or computer will likely immediately try to reconnect and do so directly without going through a VPN. All of a sudden, your data is unprotected.
A kill switch is a feature in your device's VPN app that detects when a connection fails and immediately shuts down network access. It's not a 100% perfect solution, but we wouldn't recommend using a VPN that doesn't offer a kill switch.
What are simultaneous connections, and why should I care?
When you have multiple devices -- such as a tablet, a laptop, and a smartphone -- and you are using these devices for different tasks, you still want to keep your data and connections secure on each machine.
When you have enabled the VPN on more than one device at the same time, you are using simultaneous connections. It's always best to have this feature in a VPN to ensure your privacy isn't accidentally compromised through one device or another.
Does a VPN slow down your connection?
Using a VPN can often slow down your connection because your data is encrypted, decrypted, and sent through intermediate servers. Game responsiveness might suffer, for example, or you may notice your streaming service doesn't load as fast as usual.
With many high-quality VPNs now available, however, the negative impact is often unnoticeable, unless there is a problem with the VPN server you connect to. To fix this, try a server in a different location and see if that improves your connection.
What about protocol acronyms?
If you've been shopping for a VPN service, you've undoubtedly come across a bunch of names like SSL, OpenVPN, SSTP, L2TP/IPSec, PPP, PPTP, IKEv2/IPSec, and SOCKS5. These are all communication protocols. Essentially, they're the method's name by which your communication is encrypted and packaged for tunneling to the VPN provider.
While VPN enthusiasts can argue over protocols for hours, it's probably good enough to use the default setup from your provider.
What VPNs should I avoid?
You should avoid VPNs without a long-term customer base or strong customer feedback. Shady VPNs may offer you free services, but they may store or sell your information in return. You should also avoid VPN providers with known security problems and a lack of transparency around resolving them.
Will my VPN increase in price?
VPN providers often join in during sales events and offer holiday promotions, reducing the price of a subscription by a few dollars or more. The price will often jump after your promotional period ends, whether this is for an annual plan or a two-year contract. Remember to watch when your subscription ends to avoid costly renewal payments. It might be better to turn off auto-renewal and then sign back up.
Do I pay for a VPN monthly or yearly?
Typically, VPN providers model their pricing on a monthly basis, but you may have to pay for your contract upfront when you make your purchase. For example, a VPN available for $2 per month will likely equate to $24 upfront on a yearly contract, plus tax. One of the only exceptions in the market at the moment is Mullvad, which offers a month-by-month price.
You enjoy the best discounts when signing up for longer terms. Two years is usually the longest term you can sign up for, although some VPN providers offer five-year subscriptions.
What does a VPN not hide?
A VPN encrypts your traffic. This means the websites you visit and your online communication, as well as your original IP address. However, a VPN may not be able to hide that you are using a VPN, nor does it hide your device's physical details or information you may submit to a service, such as when you make a financial transaction.
Alternative VPNs I've tested
Latest updates
- In our April update, we retested every VPN we recommend and conducted new speed tests, alongside a series of streaming library access checks.
- In our May update, we performed copy improvements and refreshed pricing and deals.