The Best VPN of 2022

In a world where data has become a currency, staying anonymous online by getting one of the best VPNs is a must. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a service that encrypts your Internet traffic, making it unreadable for those trying to take a peek.

Aside from no one (not even your ISP or the government) being able to view what you’re up to on the web, a VPN software also gives you Internet freedom. This means that you can access geo-restricted content on streaming services or even bypass censorship.

However, choosing the best VPN is no easy task, especially when the market is overfilled with providers claiming to be the best. But that’s why we’re here to help.

Having tested and reviewed dozens of providers, we bring you our list with detailed reviews of the best VPN services in 2022. Read on to find the top ones in terms of security, privacy, streaming, pricing, and more.

Best VPN services for 2022

1. NordVPN – the best VPN overall in 2022
2. Surfshark VPN – best VPN for unlimited number of devices
3. IPVanish – best VPN for inexpensive, all-rounded protection
4. PrivateVPN – superb VPN for streaming
5. PureVPN – excellent VPN for security and privacy
6. Atlas VPN – affordable mobile-focused VPN
7. ProtonVPN – secure freemium VPN
8. VyprVPN – best VPN against censorship

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What is a VPN?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that secures your connection over the Internet. It encrypts your IP address and hides your activity from third parties – hackers, the government, or your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

The best VPN providers include a big array of servers all across the world. In order to change your IP to a different one anywhere, a VPN makes it as simple as clicking a button. Then, an encrypted tunnel acts as an intermediary between you and the ISP. Whoever tries to look you up, will see your brand new VPN IP – with no way to trace it back.

This is an excellent feature for several types of people: many use VPN to avoid spying and hacking that can happen when connected to an unsafe wireless connection. Journalists use it when working with sensitive information or accessing various online resources. Others need this functionality to access geo-restricted websites and see the content that is banned in their countries, either by copyright agreements or government censorship.

The best VPNs for 2022 – our detailed list:

The following list of the best VPNs of 2022 is consistently evolving and changing. But one thing is always true – the VPN services below cater to different needs but are all 100% secure and reliable. With that in mind, without further ado, let’s take a look at what we have.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN available today

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NordVPN is our best VPN of 2022. The reason behind this is simple: it is one of the top VPNs on the market that balances speed, security, and even entertainment. But let’s take a look at everything one step at a time.

So, NordVPN is full of features that you will find useful in your everyday life. For example, the VPN blocks annoying ads and infected sites, offers all kinds of server types (like obfuscated servers), and has an integrated SOCKS5 proxy for easy torrenting.

Also, its security measures don't disappoint – the tool uses the infamous AES-256 encryption, offers a good kill switch, and boasts an audited no-logs policy.

As for streaming, you’re surely in for a ride. NordVPN is capable of unblocking virtually any streaming service including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, and HBO Max. You can even use the VPN connection with devices that don’t support native VPN apps thanks to the SmartPlay technology.

Speaking of apps, NordVPN supports all the major platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. All of its applications are extremely easy to use, so you won’t have any problems even if it’s your first time using a VPN.

Oh, there’s one more thing – NordVPN offers a proprietary tunneling protocol called NordLynx, which is a variation of the infamous WireGuard. It allows you to experience super fast speeds without sacrificing your security.

The prices of NordVPN start at $3.29/month. And if you don’t fully enjoy the service, you have a way out thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Surfshark – best feature-to-price ratio VPN

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Surfshark is our second best VPN on this list because of the value it provides for the (little) money you pay. Its price starts at $2.30/month, which seems even lower when you take into consideration that Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections.

However, price isn’t everything – let’s look at what this VPN has to offer.

First of all – the features. For such an inexpensive tool, Surfshark offers a lot. For example, all of its servers support P2P connections, which is really convenient for those who torrent a lot. Next, the service offers server obfuscation and the double VPN feature – these can be helpful when you need extra security.

You also get a malware blocker, split tunneling, and GPS spoofing on Android. Doesn’t it sound like a little too much already? Well, there’s even more to discover!

So, in addition to everything mentioned above, Surfshark also allows you to access lots of different streaming platforms. And that includes not only the usual ones like Netflix or YouTube – you’ll also be able to enjoy DAZN, HBO Now, and Apple TV.

Now, when it comes to security, Surfshark has everything a reputable security tool must offer. It implements the unbreakable AES-256 encryption, offers lots of secure tunneling protocols (like WireGuard and OpenVPN), and has an audited no-logs policy.

What’s more, you’ll get to experience really fast speeds no matter what operating system you use. Surfshark offers apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS, and you don’t need to limit the number of devices you use.

And in case Surfshark doesn’t suit you, you can use its 30-day money-back guarantee. No questions asked!

3. IPVanish – affordable, feature-packed VPN option

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IPVanish is our third best VPN option due to its versatility – it's an optimal choice whether you need a VPN for protection, torrenting, or streaming. If none of the previous best VPNs scratched your itch the right way, then maybe IPVanish will be the VPN of your dreams.

To begin with, IPVanish offers some exciting features. For example, you can use split tunneling to decide which applications use the VPN tunnel. You also get a free SOCKS5 proxy for fast torrenting. Just like Surfshark and NordVPN, IPVanish offers obfuscated servers that will allow you to unblock the content you need while living in restrictive countries.

In addition to all this, IPVanish works perfectly fine when unblocking Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and YouTube. However, it may struggle with other streaming services, so keep this in mind if you want a VPN for the sole purpose of unblocking movies and shows.

Now, when it comes to security, there are no compromises. Like all the other best VPN services, IPVanish uses the military-grade AES-256 encryption with SHA-512 hash functions. It also implements the most secure tunneling protocols – OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard.

There’s also an audited no-logs policy and a functional kill switch. The only thing that might raise an eyebrow or two is the place of jurisdiction – the US, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance.

IPVanish will also provide you with high download speeds, a vast server selection consisting of more than 2000 servers in 50 countries, and a bunch of intuitive applications.

When it comes to price, you can pay as little as $3.99/month if you get a long-term subscription. And, as all good VPNs should, IPVanish has a 30-day money-back guarantee for its long-term plans in case it doesn’t fit your needs.

4. PrivateVPN – superb VPN for streaming

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Even though PrivateVPN isn’t as popular as our previously mentioned best VPNs, it’s actually a really good privacy tool that more people should know about.

Let’s start with the fact that PrivateVPN is really, really safe to use. It implements the revered AES-256 encryption, which is the security standard in the VPN world. BUT – it also lets you configure the encryption according to your needs. You can pick the more lightweight AES-128 and even choose between the CBC and GCM modes.

There’s also a high-quality kill switch that passed all our tests. In case you don’t know, the feature shuts down your Internet in case the VPN connection is compromised. In this way, your real IP address remains protected.

Another strength of PrivateVPN is streaming. It flawlessly works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and DAZN. However, keep in mind that, unlike NordVPN and Surfshark, this VPN doesn’t offer the SmartDNS feature that allows you to stream unblocked content on devices that don’t support VPN connections.

As far as the features go, PrivateVPN has a few aces up its sleeve. Namely, HTTP and SOCKS5 proxies, as well as the support for port forwarding for a faster online connection.

PrivateVPN is also very affordable. You can buy it for as low as $2.00/month, going for much lower than most major VPN providers. There’s a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Also, you get 6 simultaneous connections

5. PureVPN – constantly audited for security

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If security is your main reason for investing in a VPN, PureVPN may catch your eye. Not only does it offer comprehensive security features, it’s also the first VPN on the market that has the always-on audit.

PureVPN uses the AES-256 encryption, ensuring top-notch security. And what’s a first-rate VPN without a kill switch? PureVPN has a reliable one that will guarantee no accidental data leaks.

Android users get to enjoy the split tunneling feature as well. It’s a great solution when you want only certain apps to go through a VPN connection. There’s also the port forwarding feature, useful for remote device access or setting up gaming servers.

As for streaming, PureVPN is a great choice. Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu – you name it, PureVPN can unblock it. The provider can easily bypass restrictions on DAZN as well, which not many competitors can brag about.

And if this provider piqued your curiosity, great news! It has apps for all of the famous platforms – Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. And don’t worry – you’ll have no issues trying to figure the apps out. Everything is organized, clean, and ready to use.

While some time ago, PureVPN didn’t have impressive speeds, the implementation of the WireGuard protocol changed the game. The provider now offers solid speeds and doesn’t limit your browsing experience.

In terms of pricing, you won’t have to break a bank. With prices starting from $1.99/month, PureVPN is a wallet-friendly solution. And since there’s a 31-day money-back guarantee, you can try the service out without instant long-term commitment.

6. Atlas VPN – inexpensive everyday VPN

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No one said that a VPN has to be expensive to be good, and Atlas VPN offers great value for affordable prices. Starting from $2.05/month, the provider’s tiers are definitely on the cheaper scale.

But price isn’t the only perk – Atlas VPN also ensures next-gen security. Together with a strict privacy policy, the market-standard AES 256-bit encryption ensures top-quality data protection. Not to mention the kill switch it offers that helps prevent data leaks.

When it comes to features, you’ll be able to enjoy a malware-free experience – Atlas VPN SafeBrowse feature will simply block malicious websites. To ensure protection at all times, the SafeSwap feature will keep automatically rotating your IP address.

Some people only need a VPN for streaming purposes. If that’s the case with you, you’ll have a positive experience streaming with Atlas VPN. You’ll be able to Netflix and chill with shows from all over the world. And if you’re more of a YouTube or BBC iPlayer fan, Atlas VPN won’t disappoint you either.

While the best apps of most VPNs are desktop ones, Atlas VPN is more mobile-focused. Although the Windows and macOS apps are great, the Android and iOS apps run even smoother.

As for speed, the implementation of the WireGuard protocol accelerated the performance of Atlas VPN. It is now one of the fastest VPNs on the market – ideal choice for gaming, streaming, and other activities.

And even if Atlas VPN doesn’t live up to your expectations, you can always make use of their 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. ProtonVPN – best freemium VPN

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A great free version, strict no-logs policy, and robust security features – ProtonVPN is a great catch. It’s a versatile service suitable for both complete novices and tech masters.

Like many first-class VPN services, ProtonVPN uses the so-called unbreakable AES encryption. In case your VPN connection drops, the provider’s kill switch is going to keep your data safe.

It’s worth mentioning that ProtonVPN is a feature-rich service. There’s split tunneling, and the double VPN feature that basically lets you use 2 VPN servers at once. For additional privacy, Tor over VPN and alternate routing will help you browse peacefully in countries with restricted internet freedom.

And if you’re in need of a VPN for streaming, ProtonVPN will definitely do the trick. And Netflix is not the only service you can unblock with it. There’s also Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more streaming services to enjoy!

While Windows users will experience the best version of ProtonVPN, others, including macOS, Linux, and mobile users, won’t be disappointed either. The apps are very minimalistic, dark, and simple to navigate.

In the speed department, ProtonVPN is pretty fast. Although at times, there can be some speed inconsistencies, the overall performance is great. Thanks to WireGuard, and Proton’s own VPN Accelerator feature, this provider can compete with the speediest VPN providers.

ProtonVPN’s prices start from $4.99/month. You have four subscriptions to choose from, including a limited free version. And if this provider turns out to be not your cup of tea, there’s a month-long money-back guarantee.

8. VyprVPN – top VPN against censorship

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Speedy, very secure, and private – these are the first words that come to mind when describing VyprVPN. It’s focused heavily on bypassing censorship and giving the best overall browsing experience.

VyprVPN has one of the strongest encryptions on the market and a fully-functional kill switch. A zero-log service, VyprVPN also has its privacy policy audited independently, so your data is in safe hands.

In terms of features, with VyprVPN, you can enjoy public wifi worry-free. That’s because the VPN will automatically connect to a server if you connect to an unknown network. Also, the service has a feature called Malicious Site Block, which does exactly what it says – blocks malicious websites. And if you only want some of the traffic to go through a VPN, you can make use of the split tunneling feature.

Streamers will be happy to hear that VyprVPN is one of the top VPN choices for streaming. It’s capable of unblocking all of the most popular sites – Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, DAZN, and even more.

Whether you’re a Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS user – VyprVPN has apps for all of them. Both mobile and desktop applications are no nut-crackers – you’ll figure them out in minutes if not seconds.

The provider includes one of the fastest protocols out there – WireGuard, but the speeds depend on the server. Nearby servers can even be amazing for a buffering-free streaming or gaming experience.

The prices of VyprVPN are fairly hefty – starting from $8.33/month. But if you add your payment details, Android and iOS users can make use of the free 3-day trial. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you 33 free days in total! Plenty to know if VyprVPN is right for you.

9. Ivacy VPN – safe VPN with anonymous payment options

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Ivacy VPN offers a massive array of worldwide servers, as well as fully anonymous payment options, top security features, and good streaming functionality. All of that – for a very good price.

A simple and intuitive split tunneling function, AES-256 encryption, and no logs – something we’ve grown to expect from all premium VPNs by now. What’s more intriguing is the Ivacy’s Secure Download feature, which monitors your downloads for potentially harmful data. This additional layer of security separates this VPN from many others on the list.

Plus, with virtually untraceable cryptocurrency payments, privacy-conscious users can also purchase this VPN without giving away any of their private details.

Ivacy offers specialized streaming servers, and they work really well on Netflix, YouTube, and BBC iPlayer. Services like DAZN work a bit worse – but even then, we managed to connect by picking a different server.

You can use Ivacy VPN on 10 devices simultaneously, and the VPN offers applications for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Plus, there are multiple additional solutions for browser extensions, streaming devices, smart TVs, routers, and more.

Ivacy doesn’t offer the WireGuard protocol, which delivers faster speeds and additional security. However, it still does a solid job with OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols – the VPN offers above-average performance.

But perhaps the most intriguing thing about Ivacy is the price: you can sign up for a massive 5-year plan for just $1.19 a month – and you’ll get a solid password manager app thrown in for free. As usual, there’s a money-back guarantee in case you’re not happy with your purchase.

10. Norton VPN – VPN for all-around online security

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Norton is known more for its excellent antivirus. But the VPN gives an extra layer of security, with safe browsing via servers in 30 countries and a powerful ad blocker.

Norton VPN is all about browsing safety. The essentialities, such as the AES-256 military-grade encryption, the split tunneling feature, and a strict no-logs policy are all in place. There’s also a system-wide kill switch that will keep your Internet data from leaking.

There are some interesting additional safety features, too. The included ad blocker removes unwanted banners, pop ups, and redirects, improving the overall browsing experience and reducing your exposure to online threats. The wifi security feature launches Norton VPN whenever you’re connected to an unsafe online network, reducing some human error.

However, Norton VPN is only okay when it comes to streaming. HBO Max and BBC iPlayer both work perfectly but we had some issues getting reliable Netflix or Hulu connections.

There are no dedicated NortonVPN apps for streaming devices either. Nor are there any browser extensions – the apps are only available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

In terms of performance, Norton VPN uses the OpenVPN protocol, as opposed to the faster WireGuard, found on many other providers. But Norton VPN offers really good speeds, fully comparable to some WireGuard providers.

Norton VPN price will depend on how many simultaneous connections you wish to have, as well as whether you want to use other Norton products.

For one device only, Norton VPN starts at $2.49/month. For 5 or 10 devices, it will cost more – or you can go all-out, and pick up Norton 360, which includes Norton VPN, online identity protection, and a top antivirus – for $49.99/year.

11. CyberGhost VPN – great global coverage

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CyberGhost VPN has a massive worldwide fleet of servers and can unblock almost all geo-restricted content. It has issues – namely with its applications and company ownership, but it’s still a very solid VPN.

The security of CyberGhost is pretty good. The military-grade encryption, always-on kill switch, and a spotless leak track record are all there. Critics say it’s not enough and point to the fact CyberGhost is owned by Kape Technologies, a company with alleged past involvement in malware distribution.

But even with that in mind, you can’t ignore the product itself. And CyberGhost’s main strength is streaming. Servers are fully optimized for Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and several other major platforms.

You get 7 simultaneous connections, and the VPN fully supports torrenting, dedicated IPs, as well as split tunneling. Plus, Tor over VPN is an excellent privacy feature, especially if you’re in a country with restricted internet freedom.

CyberGhost offers apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire Stick. However, in our review, we found several functionality bugs in some of these apps – which is never a nice thing to see. Good thing there’s also 24/7 customer support via live chat, as well as entire tutorial sections dedicated to different platforms. So, help was never far away.

Plus, CyberGhost's performance is pretty good. The WireGuard protocol offers some of the industry’s top speeds. In fact, it’s going neck-by-neck with the fastest VPNs out there.

The service is pretty affordable, too. On a 3-year plan, CyberGhost VPN will cost $2.29/month. There’s a long 45-day money-back guarantee and a 24-hour free trial for you to try as well.

12. ExpressVPN – fast VPN with extensive features

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ExpressVPN is the darling of VPN reviews, and there are plenty of reasons for it. A solid all-round VPN for streaming with top security features is a good overall option, That is, if you’re okay with higher prices and some black spots in the company’s recent moves.

ExpressVPN offers IP address masking, integrated speed testing, and a kill switch. Plus, split tunneling and obfuscated servers help you customize and encrypt the connections even further.

With an independently tested no-logs policy and RAM-only servers, the security is great, too. Some people, however, point to ExpressVPN’s CIO having a history of covert surveillance tool misuse and the fact that ExpressVPN is owned by Kape Technologies – a company with alleged links to malware distribution.

But ignoring all that and focusing strictly on the product, there’s a lot to like. For instance, the streaming functionality is excellent. ExpressVPN can unblock Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and just about any other streaming service. There’s even the Smart DNS feature to use a VPN on devices that don’t directly support it, like gaming consoles.

Speaking of functionality, ExpressVPN offers apps for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and even Linux, as well as plenty of other integrations, including an option to download it directly on your router.

Performance-wise, ExpressVPN is pretty solid. The custom Lightway protocol offers above-average speeds and reliable overall connection reliability.

But it is when we see the price, that we realize that ExpressVPN is a premium product. Starting at $8.32/month on a long-term deal, it’s one of the more expensive options out there. Luckily, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee you can use.

How we test and rank these VPNs

Ranking VPN services is no easy feat. You have to consider a lot of factors, from the number of features to compatibility with various devices.

So what should you know before buying a Virtual Private Network? There’s more than a few things to check if you want to choose the best option for you.

Below is the VPN buying guide for 2022 with 7 crucial points we considered in making this list:

1. Speed. Unless your ISP is using bandwidth throttling, your connection with a VPN will be slower because of encryption, distance to the server, and other factors. That being said, it doesn’t have to be slow. If fast speed is a priority, search for a service that offers the WireGuard protocol and is often mentioned on fastest VPN lists.
2. Server list. Check if the VPN has enough servers around your location. Some concentrate their resources in North America and Europe, but others have solid presence in Asia as well. Also, make sure there are servers in the countries from which you’re planning to connect to. Finally, look for a VPN that has only physical servers with RAM-only storage.
3. VPN jurisdiction. You have to be a really bad girl or a bad boy to get noticed by the intelligence agencies. Nevertheless, it’s still better when your VPN is in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, such as Switzerland, and not in one of the 14-Eyes countries (US, UK, Australia, etc.) or, even worse, a country like China.
4. Streaming and torrenting. Some VPNs are unable to unblock Netflix and other streaming platforms, while others prohibit P2P traffic. If that’s what you need, make sure you’ll be able to do both.
5. Apps and supported devices. Most VPNs support the major OS types, but if you’re a fan of Linux, the list narrows down. Furthermore, you would want to protect all of your devices, so make sure your provider supports your router, game console, and smart TV. Finally, check if the number of simultaneous connections will be enough for you.
6. Customer support. Don’t settle for a VPN that doesn’t offer a 24/7 live chat. It’s an industry standard, not some premium feature.
7. Bang-for-the-buck. Finally, make sure you’re not overpaying. There are many VPNs with similar features and contrasting prices. Also, don’t forget to exercise your money-back guarantee – most providers give one month to test things out.

Best VPN services compared

	NordVPN	Surfshark	IPVanish	PrivateVPN	PureVPN	AtlasVPN	ProtonVPN	VyprVPN	Ivacy VPN	Norton VPN	CyberGhost VPN	ExpressVPN
Brand
Rating	4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4.6 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4.5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4.4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	4.3 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	4.2 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	4.1 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	4.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	4.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	3.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	3.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Free version	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	Yes	Yes (Android and iOS)	Yes (Android-only)	No	Yes	No	No
Price (lowest price per month)	$3.29	$2.30	$3.99	$2.00	$1.99	$2.05	$4.99	$8.33	$1.19	$2.49	$2.29	$8.32
Streaming	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, Youtube, Hulu, Amazon Prime, HBO Now, Disney+	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Youtube, Hulu, Amazon Prime, HBO Now, Disney+	Netflix, YouTube	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, Youtube	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, Youtube	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, HBO Now	Netflix, DAZN, YouTube, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime, HBO Now	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube	BBC iPlayer, HBO	Netflix, BBC iPlayer	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, DAZN
Logging	No logs, independently audited	No logs, independently audited	No logs, independently audited	No logs, not audited	No logs, audited	No logs, audited	No logs, not audited	No logs, audited	No logs, audited	No logs	No logs	No logs
Servers	5400+ servers in 60 countries	3200+ servers in 65 countries	2000+ servers in 50 countries	200+ servers in 63 countries	6500+ servers in 78 countries	750+ servers in 38 countries	1080+ servers in 54 countries	700+ servers in 70+ countries	5700+ servers, 100 countries	1000+ servers, 30 countries	7100+ servers in 89 countries	3000+ servers in 91 countries
Simultaneous connections	6	Unlimited	Unlimited	10	10	Unlimited	10	30	10	10	7	5
Country	Panama	The Netherlands	United States (part of 5 Eyes)	Sweden (Part of 14 Eyes)	British Virgin Islands	United States (part of 5 Eyes)	Switzerland	Switzerland	Singapore	United States	Romania	British Virgin Islands
Review	NordVPN review	Surfshark VPN review	IPVanish review	PrivateVPN review	PureVPN review	Atlas VPN review	ProtonVPN review	VyprVPN review	Ivacy VPN review	Norton VPN review	CyberGhost VPN review	ExpressVPN review

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How to choose the best VPN service?

The process of choosing the best VPN may differ for different users. That’s because while some people want a VPN primarily for security and privacy reasons, others just want to access global content libraries. No matter the reason, let’s take a look at the main criteria you should consider when looking for the best VPN solution:

• Security. Make sure the provider you’re interested in offers strong encryption, such as AES, that makes your data unreadable. Furthermore, a reliable kill switch is also a crucial feature because it helps prohibit any accidental data leaks.
• Privacy. Especially in countries that aren’t privacy-friendly, a VPN service with a reliable jurisdiction and a strict no-logs policy is a must. Even better if their policy is independently audited.
• Speed. Although security and privacy are top priorities, you don’t want to compromise your device’s performance because of it. Make sure you look through VPN speed tests before making any long-term commitments.
• Servers. The servers that are nearest to you will give you the best possible performance. So you should check whether there are some around your location. And if you wish to access content from a particular country, make sure the VPN offers servers in that location.
• Streaming and torrenting. Such activities are often the main reasons why users get a VPN in the first place. But not every provider supports P2P or is capable of bypassing geo-restrictions. Therefore, make sure that you choose a VPN that can meet your expectations.
• Customer support. You never know when you might run into issues – and when you do, you want to get support fast. The ideal solution is to pick providers that offer 24/7 assistance options.
• Price. Not everyone makes big bucks, and not every expensive VPN is necessarily good. Evaluate what the service offers and opt for the best price-quality ratio.

Why do I need a VPN?

There are several reasons why you could need a VPN: let’s talk about some of the main ones in detail.

• Protection against cyberthreats. Your digital footprints are scattered all around the web. Your browsing activity can be tracked and used against you. A VPN masks your IP, helping avoid certain cyber threats.
• Securing your online privacy. Your passwords, banking details, and other personal information can leak through an unsafe online connection – a VPN can help protect it.
• Improving connection speed. Your ISP might be throttling your connection to specific services, like streaming or torrenting. With a VPN, it can’t tell what connections you’re using: letting you hit full speed.
• Bypassing geo-restrictions. What we see online is merely a fraction of what’s there. Websites and streaming services have loads of geo-restricted content. By using a VPN, you can change your IP and access it all.

How does a VPN work?

Generally, when you're connecting to some website, your device sends a query to your ISPs DNS server asking for its IP address. Then, your ISP routes your request to the website's server. When your device crunches the data, it displays a website with videos and pictures once it fully loads. This is fast, but it leaves a lot of traces of what you were doing online. So, over time, ISPs can harness quite a lot of information about their users.

When you subscribe to a VPN service, you're entering an agreement to borrow their infrastructure. Such services own a large volume of servers, so your connection is no longer routed via your ISP when you connect to them. The VPN uses a tunneling protocol to connect to your selected remote server. However, this time you're not connecting directly.

The end website receives a different IP address than your own, and your ISP can only tell that you're using a VPN, but it doesn't know what you're doing. That way, your privacy becomes protected by a veil of shadow.

Benefits of using a VPN

Those new to this field may ask: "What can you do with a VPN?" It turns out, there are quite a few ways these tools can help you on a daily basis. Here's what you can do with a VPN:

• Protect your data. All reputable VPNs use military-grade encryption, which means that the information you’re sending over the Internet becomes inaccessible to decipher to third parties. For example, people living in restrictive countries use it to protect their identities. As such, VPN for China is a must.
• Hide your online activities from your ISP. A VPN hides your browsing activity from your Internet Service Provider. It can even help you if you’re using Comcast Xfinity or Verizon Fios.
• Protect your identity. If you absolutely need to disappear off the grid when you’re surfing the web, use a VPN for anonymity. They will effectively remove any ties between your browsing habits and your real identity. It doesn't matter whether you use VPN for Windows, Mac, or Linux – a good VPN will work on any device. There are even specialized VPN add-ons for Chrome and Firefox.
• Secure your wifi connection. Hotels and airports offer free but often unsecured wifi. Therefore, hackers might be snooping on your traffic. Luckily, thanks to the VPN's encryption, that is no longer a problem. It's an especially good pairing VPN with Android or iPhone devices.
• Beating geo-blocking. I bet you've seen a message "This content is unavailable in your country" at least once. Due to geo-blocking, you may not see the same Netflix shows that are available in the US or another country. The best VPN services can unblock Netflix, Hulu, and HBO, working on a variety of devices like Amazon Firestick and Kodi.
• Have better connections for gaming. Some ISPs are notorious for throttling gaming traffic. You can solve this by using a VPN with your PlayStation, Xbox, Nvidia Shield, or any other gaming device.
• Safe torrenting. P2P is legal in most countries, but that doesn’t mean downloading copyrighted content is. Using a VPN for torrenting will protect your identity and your location from both the ISP and the government.
• Access blocked websites. A VPN will allow you go to websites blocked by your connection administrator or ISP – for instance, it can be used to unblock Facebook and Instagram.

These are only a few ways of using a Virtual Private Network. Others may include avoiding bandwidth throttling, defending against malware, or finding the lowest prices when doing online shopping.

Are VPNs legal to use?

Yes, VPN usage is legal in most countries. The only places that prohibit or restrict VPN usage are China, North Korea, Iraq, Belarus, UAE, Egypt, Turkey, and Russia. In such locations, you should check whether VPNs are legal (or only restricted) beforehand, and what are the consequences of using one.

In other parts of the world, whether you want a VPN for streaming or keeping your data private from prying eyes, it’s perfectly safe to use it. That said, illegal activities don’t become legal with a VPN. This means that pirating copyrighted content, hacking, or cyberbullying don’t suddenly become acceptable just because your data is encrypted.

What are the limitations of a VPN?

Although VPN is a good tool to make your connection safer, this doesn't protect you from all possible dangers. Your connection will indeed be much safer with them, but if you enter your personal information on some sketchy website, your data will still end up in someone's hands.

You can still download malware when using a VPN, as they aren't intended to check your files. So it still matters to exercise proper cyber-hygiene when visiting websites, even when using a VPN.

Be mindful of your browser if you're using an outdated app that has Javascript vulnerabilities. This could also be used to inject malicious code into your system, which is also a cause for concern. Keeping your daily applications and installing important security updates is paramount.

How do I get a VPN?

If you prefer a DIY approach, you can rent a server somewhere far away and then self-host a VPN for yourself. You'd need a cloud hosting provider and some technical know-how. For everyone else, there are VPN service providers.

These are businesses that are lending their server fleet for a monthly fee. When you pay them, they give access to their global networks. Once you're their subscriber, you can just head to their website, download, and install their client. Once you log in, you get the list of all available countries where you're able to connect.

You can minimize the VPN to the background so it doesn't interfere with your browsing. However, if you head online to check your IP address, it would display a different one if you actually were teleported to a foreign country.

Can I use a VPN on mobile devices?

Yes, you not only can but you should always use a VPN on mobile devices. Since we often use them to access the Internet, it poses similar risks as laptops or other devices that aren’t connected to a VPN.

For instance, we connect our phones to public wifi. In such cases, data encryption can help prevent malware distribution or personal data theft. It can also secure your financial data and audio (or video) conversations from third-party peeks.

The best VPN providers for mobile devices offer comprehensive security of your personal information. Yet, it’s worth noting that mobile VPN apps are slightly different from desktop ones. What was initially promised on desktop might not be present on the mobile app. So you should always check before purchase.

Can VPN services be trusted?

All VPN providers claim to have no-logs policies, but this isn't often the truth. There are many reports of a no-logs VPN service which leaked its users' private information after a major data breach. So, even if you're not paranoid, it may be a bit hard to trust such claims.

However, there are ways to filter out untrustworthy VPN services. Here's what you should look for:

• Independent audits. If a service had its no-logs policy audited, it's a good chance that a VPN is trustworthy. Agencies like PwC are multi-million dollar industries that are outside the scope of bribery. So, if they're saying that a VPN adheres to privacy policy claims, you should probably take note.
• Court cases. There's no better method to prove its privacy policy claims than their response to the law requests. If a VPN service collaborates with law enforcement and shows up in court with a list of logs, don't think that it would be different in your case.
• Ownership. You should always take into account the owners of a VPN service. Chances are they manage several other products and look into how they are managed. Were there any data breaches or privacy scandals? This may also help to form a perspective on how your data will be treated.
• Privacy policies. You should carefully review what the policy includes and what information it collects. The less data it gathers, the more privacy you're ensured.
• Privacy-friendly headquarters. Some countries belong to the 5-Eyes, 9-Eyes, or 14-Eyes alliances. They are known to share personal data of their citizens and even attempt to force tech companies to provide them encryption backdoors.

Video review: Best VPNs of 2022

Free vs. Paid VPNs: which is the best for you?

In general, paid VPNs are better than the free ones. The latter have to rely on ads and selling your data (which is not always anonymized), unless they are offered by a premium VPN provider. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a good free VPN – it’s just that they will have one or more limitations that often are a deal-breaker.

The most common free VPN limitations are as follows:

• Speed. Most free services are slower than paid ones. While you might be able to stream in full HD using some VPNs, expect a serious drop-off in speeds.
• Servers. Free VPNs usually offer only a few servers in the US, the Netherlands, and some other countries. Also, those servers tend to be overloaded and have high latency, which is bad for gaming and VoIP calls.
• Data limit. Freemium VPN services will often give you a certain amount of GBs per month or MBs per day. Therefore, downloading large files or streaming high quality videos will soon leave you blocked until next month.
• Number of devices. Expect to get only one connection per account. This means that you won’t be able to use a free VPN on both your computer and your smartphone.
• Geo-blocking and P2P. You won’t be able to access worldwide content of Netflix or other streaming platforms with most free VPNs. What’s more, some of them also prohibit torrenting, especially if they don’t have a data limit.

If you choose a solid paid VPN, you won’t have to deal with the issues listed above. You won’t see any ads either, and your data won’t be sold to third parties. Also, you can expect priority customer support which will solve most of the problems right away.

What's the fastest VPN?

When we're talking about the VPN speeds, we're actually factoring in several different things.

• The distance from your location to a VPN server to your device
• The used tunneling protocol
• The VPN server's load
• Your baseline Internet speed

Even time of the day could also be an important factor. All of this makes the evaluation for the fastest VPN that much more challenging.

We usually calculate the drop-off speeds in our reviews and comparisons compared to the baseline speed test results. So the faster VPN is the one that reduces your baseline speed less. Among such services are NordVPN, Surfshark, Hotspot Shield, and ExpressVPN.

Can you be tracked if you use VPN?

In theory, you can be tracked even if you use a VPN. However, only governments hold such power and they likely won’t spend the necessary resources to get you.

But doing that won’t be easy if you use an anonymous payment and a throwaway email to create your account. The tracking also becomes much harder if you use Tor over VPN and your chosen provider doesn’t keep any logs.

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