Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Unlocking Global Content and Enhancing Security
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) offer the capability to stream content from virtually anywhere, unlocking access to international streaming platforms that may not be available in your region. This feature proves invaluable for accessing exclusive content, such as certain BBC programs that are restricted in the United States. However, this is merely one of the many advantages VPN services provide. In addition to content accessibility, VPNs create a secure tunnel for your internet traffic, safeguarding your online activities from prying eyes, including your Internet Service Provider (ISP). We evaluated nine of the Best VPN services available today to assist you in selecting the best option for your requirements.
Best VPNs of 2024
ProtonVPN
- Simultaneous Connections: 10
- Number of Devices: 10
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux
- Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
- Dedicated IP Addresses: Yes (business users only)
- Trial/Money-Back Guarantee: None / 30-day money-back guarantee
Read our full ProtonVPN review
Among the VPNs tested, ProtonVPN consistently ranked high due to its robust security, usability, and privacy features. As part of the Proton Technologies suite, which includes mail, calendar, and drive services, ProtonVPN is renowned for its end-to-end encryption, making it a strong contender for overall security.
ProtonVPN’s no-logs policy has successfully passed audits, and the company has a proven track record of resisting law enforcement requests. Based in Switzerland, it is not subject to mandatory data retention laws, further enhancing its privacy credentials. Additionally, its open-source framework and commitment to transparency through a vulnerability disclosure program contribute to user trust.
While ProtonVPN offers a free version, it is limited to server access in three countries. The paid version starts at approximately $5.39 per month, providing access to over 65 countries and supporting up to ten devices simultaneously. Users of the entire Proton Technologies suite can subscribe for around $8.63 per month.
ProtonVPN excelled in our geoblock, streaming, and gaming tests, with minimal impact on connection speeds. The service also includes malware, ad, and tracker blocking, alongside a kill switch feature available on macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and the latest Android versions. It is compatible with most major operating systems, routers, and smart TVs, and has recently introduced a dedicated app for Linux users.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- No-logs policy
- Built on an open-source framework
- Kill switch feature available on multiple platforms
Cons:
- Limited features in the free version
Windscribe
- Best Free VPN Service
- Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited
- Number of Devices: Unlimited
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux
- Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
- Dedicated IP Addresses: No
- Trial/Money-Back Guarantee: None / None
Windscribe’s free plan offers users 10GB of data per month with unlimited connections across more than ten countries. It has been recognized as the best free VPN due to its strong security measures and extensive server locations, boasting over 500 servers in more than 60 countries. The service is also compatible with routers and smart TVs.
Although Windscribe has not undergone a recent independent security audit, it publishes a transparency report that reveals zero compliance with data requests and actively encourages vulnerability reporting.
The service is straightforward to use, passed our geoblock, streaming, and gaming tests, and the paid version ranges from $5.75 to $9 per month, providing unlimited data and access to all servers, along with an ad, tracker, and malware blocker. Users can also tailor their plans for $1 per location per month. Windscribe continues to expand its network, recently adding Japan to its server locations.
Pros:
- 10GB of data per month with the free version
- Unlimited connections
- Extensive server locations
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Lacks dedicated IP addresses
ExpressVPN
- Best for Streaming, Travel, and Gaming
- Simultaneous Connections: 8
- Number of Devices: 8
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux
- Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
- Dedicated IP Addresses: No
- Trial/Money-Back Guarantee: 3 free months / 30-day money-back guarantee
Read our full ExpressVPN review
We selected ExpressVPN as the top service for travel, gaming, and streaming due to its expansive location access, high-speed connections, and seamless performance. This premium VPN is recognized for its exceptional speed, even outperforming connections without a VPN, a rare feat among the services tested.
With over 2,000 servers in 160 cities globally, ExpressVPN achieved excellent results in our geoblock, streaming, and gaming assessments, alongside regular security audits. The service includes a “Network Lock” kill switch feature, ensuring data protection in the event of a connection drop. Subscription costs range from $8.32 to $12.95 per month, inclusive of a password manager, ExpressVPN Keys, to assist with login management.
While users can connect up to five devices simultaneously—fewer than many competitors—ExpressVPN supports a wide variety of devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles.
Pros:
- High-speed connections with minimal lag
- Network Lock kill switch feature
- Compatible with numerous devices
Cons:
- Relatively higher pricing
CyberGhost
- Best for Cross-Platform Accessibility
- Simultaneous Connections: 7
- Number of Devices: 7
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux
- Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
- Dedicated IP Addresses: Yes (additional purchase required)
- Trial/Money-Back Guarantee: 2 free months / 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost stands out for its cross-platform accessibility, allowing connections on multiple devices. With simultaneous connectivity for up to seven devices, subscription prices range from $2.11 to $12.99 per month, depending on the chosen plan. The service supports various gadgets, including routers and smart TVs, and provides comprehensive setup instructions.
CyberGhost has recently expanded its server network from 91 to 100 countries and completed an independent security audit by Deloitte. It also maintains a vulnerability disclosure program and a transparency report detailing data requests. Despite passing our tests, users reported challenges connecting to servers in the United Kingdom during gaming tests.
Pros:
- Supports multiple device types
- Detailed setup instructions available
Cons:
- Additional cost for dedicated IP addresses
Surfshark
- Best for Multiple Devices
- Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited
- Number of Devices: Unlimited
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux
- Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox, Edge
- Dedicated IP Addresses: Yes (additional purchase required)
- Trial/Money-Back Guarantee: 1 free month / 30-day money-back guarantee
Read our full Surfshark review
Surfshark is unique in its offering of unlimited simultaneous connections without bandwidth restrictions. Subscription costs range from approximately $2.49 to $12.95 per month, and the service has recently completed its first independent audit.
While initial attempts to connect via the WireGuard protocol were unsuccessful, the IKEv2 protocol was tested, yielding slower speeds and some challenges during the geoblock test, although it ultimately passed. Surfshark distinguishes itself by providing access to a large number of servers and compatibility with various devices.
Pros:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Extensive server options available
Cons:
- Higher pricing
- Slower speeds compared to competitors
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that masks your IP address and the identity of your computer or mobile device on the network. It creates an encrypted “tunnel” that prevents your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from accessing data about your browsing history. However, VPNs are not a one-size-fits-all security solution.
They are just one component of maintaining online privacy and security. According to Roya Ensafi, Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Michigan, VPNs do not protect against common threats like phishing attacks, nor do they safeguard your data from being stolen. Additionally, much of the data is stored with the VPN provider rather than your ISP. Therefore, using a poorly designed or inadequately protected VPN can still compromise your security. Nonetheless, VPNs are beneficial for online privacy when connecting to untrusted public networks, as they encrypt your traffic.
It’s important to be cautious about claims made by VPN services, such as “military-grade encryption” or “total digital invisibility.” Yael Grauer, Program Manager for Consumer Reports’ online security guide, recommends looking for features such as open-source software with reproducible builds, support for up-to-date industry-standard protocols like WireGuard (preferred by Consumer Reports), and protection against various attack vectors, including brute force attacks.
Understanding VPNs and Your Needs
Before considering a VPN, ensure that your online security measures are up to date. This includes using complex passwords, implementing multi-factor authentication, and managing your data-sharing preferences. Even then, a VPN may not be necessary at all times. As Jed Crandall, Associate Professor at Arizona State University, notes, “If you’re just worried about someone passively looking at your data, then a VPN is great.”
Some common use cases for VPNs include:
- Public Wi-Fi Security: If you frequently connect to public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops, using a VPN can provide you with private internet access.
- Geoblocking Bypass: VPNs help users access services that are geographically restricted, enabling them to view content available on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime in other countries.
Key Features to Consider:
- Split Tunneling: This feature allows you to route some of your traffic through the VPN while allowing other traffic direct access to the internet. This is useful when you want to protect specific activities without losing access to local network devices.
- Double VPN: Also known as multi-hop VPN, this feature routes your online activity through two different VPN servers sequentially, providing an additional layer of security.
Are VPNs Worth It?
The value of a VPN largely depends on how often you would use it for the aforementioned scenarios. If you frequently travel and rely on public Wi-Fi, wish to browse content outside your home country, or want to conceal your internet traffic from your ISP, investing in a VPN may be beneficial. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that even high-quality VPN services may reduce your internet speed, so they may not be suitable for all situations.
In today’s environment, it is advisable not to rely solely on a VPN as your primary cybersecurity tool. Using a VPN can create a false sense of security, leaving you vulnerable to attacks. Furthermore, not all VPNs are equally secure. Some may be based in countries with weak data privacy regulations and may be obligated to share information with law enforcement or adhere to inadequate data protection policies.
For individuals in sensitive professions, such as activists or journalists, alternatives like the Tor browser might be worth considering. Although it is less user-friendly, Tor is specifically designed for anonymity and privacy.
Testing VPNs
To evaluate the security specifications of various VPNs, we relied on existing research from sources such as Consumer Reports and VPNalyzer. Our assessment included reviewing privacy policies, transparency reports, and security audits made public, as well as considering past security incidents like data breaches.
We examined factors such as price, usage limits, impact on internet speed, potential use cases, ease of use, overall functionality, and additional features like multihop. The VPNs were tested across iOS, Android, and Mac devices, and we utilized the “quick connect” feature to determine the fastest connection available during our speed tests.
VPN FAQs
What are some common uses for VPNs?
VPNs are primarily used to protect internet traffic, especially on untrusted networks like public Wi-Fi. They conceal your activities from ISPs, ensuring that neither the network owner nor hackers can see your identity or browsing history. Additionally, VPNs can help bypass geographic restrictions to access content not available in your region.
What information does a VPN hide?
A VPN primarily hides your IP address, location, and browsing history. However, it does not provide complete anonymity, as the VPN provider still has access to this information. Users remain vulnerable to phishing attacks, hacking, and other cyber threats; hence, implementing strong passwords and multi-factor authentication is essential.
Are VPNs safe?
Generally, VPNs offer a reliable way to encrypt and protect internet data. However, safety varies among providers. It’s advisable to review third-party audits, Consumer Reports, transparency reports, and privacy policies to assess the security of your chosen provider.
What about Google’s One VPN?
Google One subscriptions include access to the company’s VPN, which functions similarly to others by concealing online activity from network operators. However, Google recently announced plans to discontinue the One VPN service due to low user engagement, with an unspecified shutdown date in 2024. Pixel phone owners will still have access to a free VPN on their devices.
