This article has been just updated: January 12, 2024

The use of a VPN service is critically important if you want your online privacy protected. If you are in the habit of using public WiFi hotspots, it is even more essential that you use a VPN when connecting to the Internet.

There are some features that you should look for when choosing a VPN service for your computer or mobile device.

 

What to Look for in a VPN Service

  • Server network – A VPN service employs VPN servers to hide your IP address and protect your privacy. You want a VPN with a large server network that is spread throughout many global locations.best vpn services
  • Connection speed – The connection speed that you achieve when using the VPN service is another important factor. Slow connections will defeat the purpose of using the service and limit its usefulness.
  • Data encryption – Strong data encryption is a key component of a VPN to keep your data safe when being transmitted online.
  • No logging policy – You want a VPN service that does not log your online movements.
 

The Best VPN Services

Based on the criteria discussed above, here are three of the best VPN services available today.

 

1. NordVPN

best vpn service

NordVPN is one of the most widely-used VPN services around, and for good reason. Some of the features that have lead to its popularity are:

  • The service protects your data with military-grade, 256-bit key AES encryption. Double encryption is available for further protection.
  • Your IP is hidden to keep you anonymous and you can opt for quick connect or select a server in the country of your choice to spoof your location.
  • One account allows you to use the service on six different devices simultaneously.
  • The ability to block malware and pop-up ads
  • High-speed connections
  • Large VPN server network of over 5,000 machines located around the world
  • Dedicated P2P servers to make it easier to access torrents
  • A 3-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Strict no logging policy
  • Kill switch to terminate your connection if the VPN goes down
  • Runs on Mac, Windows, iOS and Android
  • Connections to the dark web can be sent through the Onion router for additional privacy protection.
 

2. ExpressVPN

top vpn services

Another great option for those looking for a VPN service is ExpressVPN. Here are some of the features that make this service stand out from the pack.

  • A large network of VPN servers distributed in 94 different countries throughout the world
  • Optimized servers that deliver high-speed connections and unlimited bandwidth
  • No logging of your online activity
  • Fast connection speeds
  • Supports Windows, Mac, Android and iOS platforms
  • Data security is achieved through the use of 256-bit AES encryption.
  • A 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try the service risk-free.
  • Kill switch to preserve your online anonymity if the VPN connection suddenly drops
  • Use a single account on up to three devices at the same time.
 

2. IPVanish

top rated vpn service

Here is another quality VPN service that will protect your privacy and secure your data while online. Some of its features include:

  • A network of over 1,100 VPN servers spread out over 60 different countries.
  • No retention of logs that track your online activity.
  • Data protected with 256-bit AES encryption.
  • No limits on bandwidth or the P2P traffic that is essential for torrenting.
  • Connect up to ten devices simultaneously with one IPVanish account.
  • A 7-day money-back guarantee allows you to test drive the application.
  • Runs on Windows, Mac, iOS and Android devices.

Using any of these VPN services will provide you the online privacy and data protection that you are seeking. They all offer money-back guarantees so you can try them out and choose the one that suits you best.

FAQ

When selecting a VPN service for online protection, consider features such as strong encryption standards, a no-log policy, a large number of server locations, kill switch functionality, compatibility with multiple devices, ease of use, customer support, and the option for a dedicated IP address. In addition, check the service’s performance for speed and reliability.

A VPN protects your online privacy by masking your IP address, encrypting your data, and routing your internet connection through secure servers. This makes it harder for third parties to track your activities and steal sensitive information. By hiding your real location, a VPN also helps maintain anonymity online.

Using a VPN can sometimes result in slower internet speeds due to encryption overhead and server distance. However, a high-quality VPN may bypass ISP throttling and network congestion, potentially increasing your speed in specific scenarios. Generally, a VPN is not intended to increase internet speeds, but rather to provide security and privacy.

Paid VPN services generally offer more robust security features, faster speeds, a larger number of servers, better customer support, and no data usage limits. Free VPNs, on the other hand, may have slower connections, fewer servers, data caps, and could potentially compromise your privacy by logging your data or serving ads.

In most countries, using a VPN is perfectly legal as long as you are not engaging in illegal activities. Laws vary by country, so it is essential to be aware of local regulations concerning VPN use.

Yes, some VPN providers offer browser extensions that can encrypt browser traffic. However, these are typically not as comprehensive as full-fledged VPN services, as they may not protect data outside of your browser.

A VPN can help you access geo-restricted content by allowing you to appear as if you are browsing from a different location. This bypasses regional blocks and opens up a wider range of content from around the world.

Research and verify the VPN provider’s privacy policy to ensure that they commit to a no-logs policy. Look for third-party audits, user reviews, and industry reputations to evaluate the trustworthiness of their claims.

A VPN can hide your IP address and encrypt your data, but it does not protect directly against viruses or malware. You should use a VPN in conjunction with antivirus software for comprehensive online security.

A VPN encrypts all your internet traffic and routes it through remote servers, whereas a proxy simply masks your IP address and routes your browser or app traffic through a different server. VPNs provide more extensive security and privacy than proxies do.

The number of simultaneous connections varies by VPN provider. Some services may offer unlimited devices, while others might limit you to a certain number of devices connected at the same time. It’s important to check this if you plan to use the VPN across multiple devices.

Regardless of whether you’re using Wi-Fi or a wired connection, a VPN provides the same level of encryption and privacy protection. However, public Wi-Fi networks may pose additional security risks, making the use of a VPN even more important in those scenarios.

While a VPN greatly increases your privacy and anonymity online by hiding your IP address and encrypting your data, no service can make you completely anonymous. There are always other potential traces left by browser cookies, trackers, or if the VPN itself is compromised.

A VPN kill switch is a feature that immediately disconnects you from the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP address from being exposed. This feature is crucial for maintaining continuous privacy and security online.

If you require an IP address that is used only by you, then a VPN with a dedicated IP option might be vital. However, shared IPs provided by most VPN services enhance privacy by mixing your traffic with that of many other users.

A VPN may increase ping times and slow down your connection slightly due to the added encryption and routing of traffic through remote servers. However, it can protect against DDoS attacks and help you access games and servers in other regions.

Yes, you can install a VPN at the router level to cover all devices on your home network with encryption and privacy protection. This setup requires a router that supports VPN client mode.

Using a VPN while traveling can add significant protection for your sensitive data by encrypting your connection, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi hotspots that are more vulnerable to security breaches.

Setting up a VPN typically involves downloading and installing the VPN provider’s application on your device, logging in with your account credentials, and connecting to your preferred server. Specific setup instructions may vary based on the device and provider.

You should choose a VPN provider that has a strict no-log policy and has a reputation for respecting user privacy. It’s advisable to conduct thorough research and read independent reviews as well as user feedback. Some trustworthy VPN providers include NordVPN and ExpressVPN, known for their privacy commitments.