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Cybersecurity Software

Best VPN Services Of 2024 (Top Providers Tested)

If you’re looking for a way to protect your online privacy and access geo-restricted content, you might be interested in using a VPN service. A VPN, or virtual private network, encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in another location, making it appear as if you’re browsing from there. This can help you avoid censorship, surveillance, and hackers, as well as unlock streaming services and websites that are not available in your region.

There are hundreds of VPN providers on the market, each with different features, performance, and prices. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve tested and reviewed some of the most popular VPN services of 2024 and ranked them based on their security, speed, ease of use, compatibility, customer support, and value for money. Here are our top picks for the best VPN services of 2024:

NordVPN

NordVPN

The best overall VPN service

NordVPN is our top choice for the best VPN service in 2024. It offers a range of features and benefits for its users. In this post, we will review NordVPN and see what it has to offer, as well as its pros and cons, plans and pricing, and overall conclusion.

Key Features

  • Uses over 5400 servers in 59 countries, which means you can access any content you want from anywhere in the world. You can also switch between servers as many times as you want, without any limits or extra fees.
  • Advanced encryption and security protocols to protect your data and online activity from hackers, ISPs, governments, and other third parties. You can choose from OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard, or NordLynx protocols, depending on your needs and preferences.
  • Offers some unique features that enhance your online security and privacy, such as:

CyberSec: This feature blocks malicious websites, ads, and trackers, and protects you from malware and phishing attacks.

Double VPN: This feature routes your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of encryption and anonymity.

Onion Over VPN: This feature combines the benefits of VPN and Tor network, allowing you to access onion sites with ease and security.

Kill Switch: This feature automatically disconnects your internet connection if your VPN connection drops, preventing any data leaks or exposure.

Split Tunneling: This feature lets you choose which apps or websites to route through the VPN and which ones to access directly.

Like any other VPN service, NordVPN has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons of NordVPN:

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Pros:

  • Very fast performance
  • High level of security and privacy
  • Wide range of features and options
  • Easy to use interface and apps
  • 24/7 customer support
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Some servers may be slow or crowded
  • Some features may not work on all devices or platforms
  • Some users may experience connection issues or bugs

Plans and Pricing

NordVPN Pricing

NordVPN offers four different plans for its users, depending on the length of subscription. The longer you subscribe, the more you save. Here are the current prices of NordVPN plans:

  • Standard plan: $4.99 per month (39% off)
  • Plus plan: $5.99 per month (43% off)
  • Complete plan: $6.99 per month (57% off)

All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try NordVPN risk-free. You can also pay with various methods, such as credit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrencies, or other online payment platforms.

Overall Conclusion

NordVPN is a great choice for anyone who wants a secure, fast, and versatile VPN service. It offers a lot of features and benefits for its users, as well as a reasonable price and a generous refund policy. Whether you want to stream, torrent, browse, or work online, NordVPN can help you do it safely and smoothly.

If you are interested in trying NordVPN for yourself, you can visit their website and sign up for a plan that suits your needs. You can also use our exclusive coupon code to get an extra discount on your purchase.

CyberGhost

CyberGhost

The best VPN security suite

CyberGhost VPN is our top choice for the best security suit with over 6800 servers in 91 countries. It offers top-notch privacy and security for all your devices, whether you use Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, or other platforms. You can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously with one subscription and enjoy unlimited bandwidth and traffic.

Key Features

  • Strong encryption: CyberGhost VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption and various VPN protocols (such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard) to protect your data and hide your IP address from prying eyes.
  • No logs policy: CyberGhost VPN does not track, share, or sell your data. It is based in Romania, which has strong privacy laws and is outside the jurisdiction of the 14 Eyes alliance.
  • Large server fleet: CyberGhost VPN has a huge network of servers across the world, which allows you to access geo-restricted content and bypass censorship. You can also choose from specialized servers for streaming, gaming, torrenting, and more.
  • Fast speeds: CyberGhost VPN delivers high-speed VPN connections with its 10 Gbps servers and optimized protocols. You can stream live sports, download large files, and play online games without buffering or lagging.

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Pros:

  • Money-back guarantee: CyberGhost VPN offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee for its long-term plans and a 14-day money-back guarantee for its monthly plan. You can try it risk-free and get a full refund if you are not satisfied
  • 24/7 support: CyberGhost VPN has a friendly and helpful customer support team that is available around the clock via live chat or email. You can also find useful guides and FAQs on its website

Cons:

  • Inconsistent performance: Our tests indicated that CyberGhost VPN does not work well with certain platforms or websites, such as Netflix US or BBC iPlayer. The speed and reliability of the servers may also vary depending on your location and time of day
  • Limited configuration options: CyberGhost VPN does not offer much customization for advanced users who want to tweak their settings or use their own DNS servers. It also does not support split tunneling or port forwarding features
  • Expensive monthly plan: CyberGhost VPN has a high price for its monthly plan ($12.99 per month), which is not very competitive compared to other VPN services. However, you can save a lot if you opt for its long-term plans

Plans and Pricing

CyberGhost Pricing

CyberGhost VPN has four plans to choose from:

  • Monthly plans cost $12.99 per month.
  • Six-month plans cost $6.99 per month (billed $41.94 every 6 months).
  • 2-year plan costs $2.11 per month (billed $56.97 every 2 years).
  • 3-year plan costs $1.99 per month (billed $77.61 every 3 years).

You can pay with credit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin, or other cryptocurrencies. You can also get a free trial for 24 hours if you download the app from its website.

Overall Conclusion

CyberGhost VPN is a solid choice for anyone who wants a fast, secure, and anonymous VPN service with a large server network and a generous money-back guarantee. It has some minor drawbacks, such as inconsistent performance and limited configuration options, but they are not deal-breakers for most users. If you are looking for a reliable VPN service that works well with most devices and platforms, you should give CyberGhost VPN a try.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN

The best VPN privacy suite

ExpressVPN offers a perfect balance of speed, security, reliability, and features. It has over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, which means you can access any content you want from anywhere in the world. It also supports all major platforms and devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and more.

Key Features

  • Uses AES-256 encryption, the same standard used by the US government and military, to protect your data from prying eyes. It also has a strict no-logs policy, which means it doesn’t collect or store any information about your online activity or identity. It also offers features like split tunneling, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and TrustedServer technology to ensure your privacy and security at all times. It also supports multiple VPN protocols, such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, and Lightway. Additionally, ExpressVPN has a kill switch feature that prevents your traffic from being exposed if your VPN connection drops.
  • One of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested, delivering consistent and smooth performance across all servers. It can easily unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and more. It also supports P2P file sharing and torrenting on all servers. Plus, it has a 24/7 live chat support team that can help you with any issues or questions you might have.
  • Split tunneling: This feature allows you to choose which apps or devices use the VPN connection and which ones use your regular internet connection. This can help you optimize your bandwidth usage and access local and foreign websites simultaneously.
  • Unlimited devices: ExpressVPN lets you connect up to five devices simultaneously with one account. However, you can also install ExpressVPN on your router, which will protect all the devices connected to your network with one VPN connection.
  • Email deliverability: You can ensure that your emails reach your subscribers’ inboxes and avoid spam filters with HubSpot’s email health score. This feature gives you feedback on your email reputation and best practices to improve it. You can also use HubSpot’s own domain to send emails or connect your own domain for more branding control.

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Pros:

  • Fast and reliable performance
  • Strong encryption and security features
  • Wide server network and device compatibility
  • Excellent customer support
  • Unblocks most streaming services
  • Supports P2P and torrenting

Cons:

  • Pricey compared to some competitors
  • No built-in ad blocker or malware protection
  • No dedicated IP option
  • Limited business usage

Plans and Pricing

ExpressVPN Pricing

ExpressVPN has three pricing plans, but as with most VPN companies, the only difference between the plans is the length of commitment:

  • Monthly plans cost $12.95 each month
  • Six-month plans costs $59.95 ($9.99 per month)
  • 12-month plan which is the BEST VALUE, costs $80 ($6.67 per month) and comes with three extra months for free.

All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you can try ExpressVPN risk-free for a month and get a full refund if you are not satisfied.

Overall Conclusion

ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service that offers fast speeds, strong security, and a large server network. It is easy to use and works well with most devices and platforms. It can also unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Go, and more.

ExpressVPN is not the cheapest VPN service out there, but it offers excellent value for money due to its impressive features and capabilities. If you are looking for a professional and reliable VPN service that can protect your online privacy and security, ExpressVPN is a great choice.

Surfshark

Surfshark

Surfshark is a relatively new VPN service that has gained popularity among users who value privacy, security and speed. In this post, we will review some of the key features, pros and cons, plans and pricing and overall conclusion of Surfshark VPN.

Key Features

  • Secure and encrypted connection using AES-256-GCM encryption and various protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2 and Shadowsocks.
  • Large server network with over 3,200 servers in 100 locations across 65 countries.
  • Supports unlimited simultaneous connections on multiple devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire TV, routers and more.
  • Unlimited devices: ExpressVPN lets you connect up to five devices simultaneously with one account. However, you can also install ExpressVPN on your router, which will protect all the devices connected to your network with one VPN connection.
  • No-logs policy that ensures your online activity is not tracked or stored by the provider or third parties.
  • Excellent streaming performance and can unblock popular platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video and more.
  • Extra features such as CleanWeb (ad and malware blocker), Whitelister (split tunneling), MultiHop (double VPN), Camouflage Mode (obfuscation) and NoBorders Mode (anti-censorship).

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Pros:

  • fast speeds on most servers, especially when using the WireGuard protocol.
  • Affordable pricing plan with a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • User-friendly interface and a smooth user experience on all platforms.
  • Responsive and helpful live-chat support available 24/7.

Cons:

  • Some issues with the kill switch feature that may fail to protect your traffic in case of a VPN connection drop.
  • Weak social media presence and a lack of transparency about its ownership and location.
  • Inconsistent torrenting performance on some servers.

Plans and Pricing

Surfshark offers three subscription plans in 2024:

  • Monthly plans costs $10.99 per month
  • Yearly plan costs $3.49 per month (billed $48.84 every 12 months) with a 77% discount and +2 months for free
  • Biennial plan costs $2.29 per month (billed $59.54 every 24 months). 79% discount and +2 months for free

All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and access to all features and servers.

Overall Conclusion

Surfshark is a great VPN service that offers a lot of value for money. It has impressive features, fast speeds, unlimited connections and excellent streaming capabilities. It also has a strong privacy and security policy that protects your online activity from prying eyes. However, it also has some drawbacks such as a faulty kill switch, a low-profile company background and variable torrenting speeds. Overall, we recommend Surfshark for anyone looking for a reliable, cheap and easy-to-use VPN service.

IPVanish

IPVanish

You might have heard of IPVanish, it is one of the most popular VPN providers in the market, with over 1,600 servers in 75+ countries. But is it really as good as it claims to be?

Key Features

  • Unlimited bandwidth, data and server switching, which means you can enjoy streaming, downloading and browsing without any restrictions or interruptions.
  • Supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec and PPTP, so you can choose the best option for your needs and preferences.
  • Strict no-logs policy, which means it does not collect or store any of your online activity or personal information. This ensures your privacy and security online.
  • Kill switch feature, which automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your IP address and location from being exposed to third parties.
  • Allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account, which is more than most VPN providers offer. You can also use IPVanish VPN on various platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Fire TV and routers.

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Pros:

  • Large network of servers in different countries, which gives you access to geo-restricted content and websites from anywhere in the world
  • Fast and consistent speeds, which makes it ideal for streaming HD videos and gaming online
  • User-friendly interface and easy-to-use apps, which makes it suitable for beginners and advanced users alike
  • 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial, which gives you enough time to test the service and decide if it meets your expectations

Cons:

  • Based in the US, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance. This means it could be subject to government surveillance and data requests from law enforcement agencies
  • Does not have a live chat support option, which means you have to rely on email or phone support for any issues or queries. The response time can vary depending on the volume of requests
  • Does not work well with Netflix and other streaming services that use anti-VPN measures. You might encounter errors or buffering issues when trying to access these platforms

Plans and Pricing

IPVanish Pricing

IPVanish VPN offers three plans: monthly, quarterly and yearly

  • Monthly plans cost $11.99 per month.
  • Yearly plans costs $53.99 ($4.50 per month)
  • 2-Year plan costs $79.99 every 12 months ($3.33 per month).

All plans come with the same features and benefits. You can pay for IPVanish VPN using various methods, including credit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrencies and gift cards. You can also cancel your subscription at any time without any penalties.

Overall Conclusion

IPVanish VPN is a solid choice for anyone looking for a fast, reliable and secure VPN service. It has a lot of features that make it stand out from other VPN providers, such as unlimited bandwidth, data and server switching, multiple protocols, no-logs policy, kill switch feature and 10 simultaneous connections.

However, IPVanish VPN also has some drawbacks that might deter some users, such as being based in the US, not having live chat support and not working well with Netflix and other streaming services.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you value speed, privacy and flexibility over anything else, IPVanish VPN might be a good option for you. If you are more concerned about location, customer service and streaming compatibility, you might want to look elsewhere.

We hope this review helped you learn more about IPVanish VPN and its pros and cons. If you want to try it out for yourself, you can sign up for a free trial or a money-back guarantee and see how it works for you.

StrongVPN

StrongVPN

StrongVPN is a US-based VPN provider that has been in the industry since 2005. It has over 950 servers in 30 countries and 59 cities, covering most regions of the world. It also allows up to 12 simultaneous connections on multiple devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, and more.

Key Features

  • Speed: One of the main selling points of StrongVPN is its speed. It uses WireGuard as its default protocol, which is known for its high performance and low latency
  • Supports other protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec, and SSTP. In our tests, we found that StrongVPN delivered fast and consistent speeds on most servers, especially in North America and Europe. It also had no issues with streaming Netflix US, UK, Canada, Japan, and other popular libraries. It also supports torrenting and P2P on all servers.
  • Security and privacy: It uses AES 256-bit encryption, which is the industry standard for data protection.
  • Kill switch feature that prevents your IP address from being exposed if the VPN connection drops. 
  • DNS leak protection and IPv6 leak protection to ensure your online anonymity. 
  • Strict no-logs policy that states that it does not collect or store any information about your online activity or personal data. However, it does require your email address and payment information to create an account.

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Pros:

  • A unique bonus for its customers: 250GB of cloud storage from SugarSync. This is a great feature for backing up your files, photos, videos, and more. You can access your cloud storage from any device and sync it with your VPN connection. This adds an extra layer of security and convenience to your online experience.

Cons:

  • Small server network compared to other VPNs. It does not have servers in countries with strict internet censorship like China or Russia. It also does not have servers in Africa or South America. This may limit your options for accessing geo-restricted content or bypassing firewalls.
  • Outdated user interface. The apps are easy to use but they look dated and lack some advanced features like split tunneling or custom DNS settings. The website is also not very informative or user-friendly. It does not have a live chat support option or a FAQ section. You can only contact customer support via email or phone.

Plans and Pricing

StrongVPN Pricing

StrongVPN has two major pricing plans:

  • Monthly plans cost $11.99 each month.
  • 12-month plan which is the BEST VALUE, costs $47.69 ($3.97 per month).

Overall Conclusion

StrongVPN is a decent VPN service that offers fast speeds, Netflix unblocking, torrenting support, and a generous cloud storage bonus. It also has strong security and privacy features and a no-logs policy. However, it has a small server network, an outdated user interface, and a high price tag. It may not be the best choice for users who want more options, features, and value for their money.

Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield claims o be the “world’s fastest VPN” and offering over 3,200 servers in 80+ countries. But is it really worth your money and trust?

Key Features

  • Military-grade encryption: Hotspot Shield VPN uses AES-256 encryption to protect your online data and privacy from hackers, ISPs, and government surveillance
  • Hydra protocol: Hotspot Shield VPN has developed its own proprietary protocol called Hydra, which is optimized for speed, security, and performance. Hydra claims to deliver speeds more than 2x faster than the competition over long distances.
  • Global internet access: Hotspot Shield VPN allows you to access geo-restricted content and streaming services from around the world, such as Netflix, YouTube, Prime, Disney+, and more. It also offers 35+ city-level servers for more precise location selection.
  • Privacy you can trust: Hotspot Shield VPN does not log or track your VPN browsing activity in any way that can be associated to you. It also blocks 57 million malware and phishing sites a day with its WebRTC blocker and malware protection features.
  • 24/7 live tech support: Hotspot Shield VPN provides premium members with round-the-clock customer support via live chat and email. You can also find helpful guides and FAQs on their website.

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Pros:

  • Fast and reliable speeds on most servers
  • Easy to use interface and apps for various devices
  • Unblocks most popular streaming services
  • Offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee
  • Supports up to 5 simultaneous connections

Cons:

  • Based in the US, which is a member of the Five Eyes alliance
  • Some servers may not work well with Netflix or other streaming services
  • Does not support advanced features like kill switch, split tunneling, or custom DNS
  • Does not accept anonymous payment methods like cryptocurrencies

Plans and Pricing

Hotspot Shield Pricing

Hotspot Shield VPN offers four different plans to suit your needs and budget:

  • Free plan: This plan gives you access to one US server and 500 MB of data per day. It also comes with ads and limited customer support.
  • Premium plan: This plan costs $7.99 per month and gives you access to all servers and features. Optimized for Fortnite, Roblox, Netflix, YouTube, Disney+ & more. It also comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
  • Premium Family: This plan costs $11.99 per month (billed $143.88 every year) and gives you access via 25 devices to all servers and features. It also comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Overall Conclusion

Hotspot Shield VPN is a solid choice for anyone looking for a fast, secure, and easy-to-use VPN service. It offers a wide range of servers, unblocks most streaming services, and provides good customer support. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as its US jurisdiction, lack of advanced features, and high monthly price. If you are looking for a more privacy-focused or feature-rich VPN service, you may want to look elsewhere.

If you are interested in trying out Hotspot Shield VPN for yourself, you can download it from their website or app store.

PureVPN

PureVPN

PureVPN is one of the oldest and most popular VPN providers in the market, with over 6,500 servers in 140+ countries.

Key Features

  • Supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec, SSTP, and PPTP. You can choose the best protocol for your needs and switch between them easily.
  • Proprietary protocol called StealthVPN, which is designed to bypass VPN blocks and censorship in authoritarian regimes.
  • Kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your IP address and online activity from being exposed.
  • Split your traffic between the VPN and your regular internet connection. This can help you optimize your speed and access local services while staying protected.
  • Dedicated IP feature that lets you get a unique IP address that is not shared with other users. This can improve your security and access to certain websites and services that require a static IP.
  • DNS leak protection feature that prevents your DNS requests from being leaked to your ISP or third parties. This ensures that your online privacy is intact.
  • Malware protection feature that blocks malicious websites and ads from infecting your device. This can enhance your online security and browsing experience.
  • DDoS protection feature that protects you from distributed denial-of-service attacks that can disrupt your internet connection and online activity.
  • NAT firewall feature that adds an extra layer of security to your VPN connection. It blocks unwanted incoming traffic and prevents hackers from accessing your device.

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Pros:

  • Fast and reliable speeds on most of its servers. You can enjoy smooth streaming, gaming, and downloading with minimal buffering and lag
  • Large and diverse server network that covers 140+ countries and regions. You can access geo-restricted content and services from anywhere in the world
  • User-friendly and intuitive interface that makes it easy to use and customize. You can adjust the settings according to your preferences and needs
  • 24/7 live chat support that is responsive and helpful. You can get in touch with the customer service team anytime you have an issue or question
  • 31-day money-back guarantee that allows you to try the service risk-free. You can get a full refund if you are not satisfied with the service within the first month

Cons:

  • Does not have a strict no-logs policy. It keeps some logs of your connection time, bandwidth usage, and IP address for troubleshooting purposes. However, it does not log your browsing history or online activity
  • Does not support WireGuard, which is a new and advanced VPN protocol that offers faster speeds and better security than other protocols
  • Does not have a free trial option. You have to pay for a subscription plan to use the service

Plans and Pricing

PureVPN Pricing

PureVPN offers three subscription plans: monthly, yearly, and biennially.

  • Standard plan costs 3.74 per month.
  • Plus plan costs $69.84 per year ($5.82 per month).
  • Max plan costs $89.88 for two years ($7.49 per month).
  • The longer the plan, the more you save.

All plans come with unlimited bandwidth, data, and server switching. You can also connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account. You can pay with credit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrencies, or other payment methods.

Overall Conclusion

PureVPN is a reliable and affordable VPN service that offers fast speeds, strong security, and a wide range of features. It has a large and diverse server network that covers 140+ countries and regions. It also has a user-friendly interface and a 24/7 live chat support.

However, PureVPN does not have a strict no-logs policy and does not support WireGuard protocol. It also does not have a free trial option.

If you are looking for a VPN service that offers value for money and versatility, you might want to give PureVPN a try. You can take advantage of its 31-day money-back guarantee and see if it suits your needs.

TunnelBear VPN

TunnelBear VPN

TunnelBear is a popular VPN service that offers a simple and user-friendly interface, strong encryption and a global network of servers.

Key Features

  • GhostBear feature, which disguises your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic to bypass censorship and VPN blocking.
  • AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard for securing online traffic.
  • Kill switch feature called VigilantBear, which blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
  • Split tunneling feature called SplitBear, which allows you to choose which apps or websites use the VPN and which don’t.
  • No-logs policy, which means it does not collect or store any information about your online activity or personal data.

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Pros:

  • Easy to install and use, with a cute and intuitive design that appeals to beginners and casual users
  • Free plan with 500 MB of data per month, which is enough for occasional browsing or testing the service
  • Supports up to five simultaneous connections on different devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS and Linux
  • Good customer support team that responds quickly and professionally via email or live chat.

Cons:

  • Not very fast compared to other VPN services, especially on long-distance servers or during peak hours
  • Does not work well with Netflix or other streaming services, as it has a limited number of servers and IP addresses that are often blocked by these platforms
  • Does not offer advanced features or customization options for more experienced or demanding users, such as port forwarding, dedicated IP addresses or DNS leak protection
  • Based in Canada, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance, a group of countries that share intelligence and surveillance data.

Plans and Pricing

TunnelBear VPN Pricing

TunnelBear offers three plans: Free, Unlimited and Teams:

  • Free Plan gives you 500 MB of data per month and access to all servers except Australia, New Zealand and India.
  • Unlimited plan gives you unlimited data and access to all servers. It costs $3.33 per month if you pay annually ($39.99 per year) or $9.99 per month if you pay monthly.
  • Teams plan gives you unlimited data and access to all servers for up to five members. It costs $5.75 per member per month if you pay annually ($69 per year) or $10.99 per member per month if you pay monthly.

Overall Conclusion

TunnelBear is a reliable and user-friendly VPN service that offers strong encryption, a no-logs policy and a global network of servers. It is ideal for beginners and casual users who want to protect their online privacy and security with minimal hassle. However, it is not the best choice for speed, streaming or advanced features. If you are looking for a faster, more versatile or more customizable VPN service, you may want to look elsewhere.

Proton VPN

Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a Swiss-based VPN service that offers high-speed, secure, and private internet access.

Key Features

  • Secure Core architecture that routes your traffic through multiple servers before leaving its network, making it harder for attackers to trace your IP address or match your browsing activity
  • Strict no-logs policy and uses only the highest-strength encryption to protect your internet traffic.
  • NetShield feature that blocks ads, malware, and trackers from following you online.
  • VPN Accelerator feature that can boost your VPN speeds by over 400% by overcoming CPU limitations and using advanced networking techniques.
  • Stealth feature that can bypass censorship and VPN blocking by making your VPN traffic look like regular traffic.
  • Tor over VPN feature that allows you to access Onion sites without installing the Tor browser.
  • Supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, P2P file sharing, split tunneling, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and WireGuard protocol.

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Pros:

  • Free version that does not have ads or bandwidth limits
  • Open-source and audited apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chromebook, and Android TV
  • Unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer
  • Based in Switzerland, which has strong privacy laws and is outside the jurisdiction of the 14 Eyes alliance

Cons:

  • Higher-than-average prices compared to other VPN services
  • Relatively small server network with only 1,500 servers in 60 countries
  • Does not have live chat support or phone support; only email support and a knowledge base are available
  • The interface is not very user-friendly or intuitive; some features are hidden or hard to find

Plans and Pricing

Proton VPN Pricing

Proton VPN has four plans: Free, Basic, Plus, and Visionary:

  • Monthly plan costs $9.99 per month (billed annually) and allows you to use two devices and access servers in all countries.
  • Yearly plan costs $5.99 per month (billed annually) and allows you to use five devices and access all features except for the Visionary features.
  • 2-Year plan costs $4.99 per month (billed Biennially) and allows you to use 10 devices and access all features.

All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Overall Conclusion

Proton VPN is a solid choice for anyone who values security, privacy, and freedom online. It has some unique and advanced features that can protect you from network-based attacks, censorship, and surveillance. It also has a generous free version that does not compromise on quality or performance. However, Proton VPN is not very cheap or easy to use; it may not be suitable for beginners or budget-conscious users. It also has some limitations in terms of server network size and customer support. Overall, I would recommend Proton VPN to anyone who is looking for a reliable and trustworthy VPN service with excellent security features.

Why you need a VPN and how to choose the right one?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a technology that allows you to create a secure connection to another network over the internet. VPNs can help you protect your online privacy and anonymity by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address from third parties. VPNs can also help you access region-restricted websites and streaming services by changing your apparent location. Here are some of the benefits of using a VPN:

  • Bypass geographic restrictions: Some websites and online services are only available in certain countries or regions. For example, Netflix offers different content libraries depending on where you are. With a VPN, you can connect to a server in another country and access the content that is normally blocked for you.
  • Protect yourself on public Wi-Fi: When you use public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafes, airports, or hotels, you expose your online activity to anyone who might be snooping on the network. Hackers and cybercriminals can intercept your data and steal your personal information, passwords, credit card details, and more. A VPN encrypts your data and prevents anyone from seeing what you do online.
  • Gain some online anonymity: Your IP address is a unique identifier that reveals your location and internet service provider. Websites and online services can use your IP address to track your online behavior, preferences, interests, and more. A VPN masks your IP address and replaces it with one from the VPN server. This makes it harder for anyone to identify you or monitor your online activity.

There are many VPN providers that offer different features and prices. You should choose a VPN that suits your needs and budget. Some of the factors to consider when choosing a VPN are:

  • Speed: A VPN can affect your internet speed, depending on the encryption level, server location, and network congestion. You should look for a VPN that offers fast and consistent performance without compromising your security.
  • Security: A VPN should use strong encryption protocols and techniques to protect your data from hackers and government agencies. You should also look for a VPN that has a kill switch feature, which automatically disconnects you from the internet if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your data from being exposed in case of a VPN failure.
  • Privacy: A VPN should respect your privacy and not collect or share your personal data with third parties. You should look for a VPN that has a strict no-logs policy, which means that it does not store or monitor any information about your online activity or identity.
  • Ease of use: A VPN should be easy to install and use on any device you own. You should look for a VPN that has user-friendly apps and interfaces for different platforms, such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, etc. You should also look for a VPN that allows you to switch between servers and locations easily.

A VPN is a useful tool that can enhance your online experience and security. However, it is not a magic bullet that can solve all your online problems. You should still use common sense and good practices when browsing the web, such as using strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links and downloads, updating your software regularly, etc.

Disclosure: Please note that we may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links below, at no expense to you, should you decide to purchase a paid plan. This blog does not provide financial advice, it is purely for entertainment and fun.

retro
Internet freak and technology geek; Aspiring screenwriter, devoted tech blogger & Technologer chief editor . Early adopter with a keen interest in gadgets, technology, internet and mobile.