Do VPNs Protect Against Hackers?

VPNs can provide a significant layer of protection against hackers by encrypting your internet traffic and creating a secure tunnel for your data to travel through. This encryption helps shield your sensitive information (passwords, financial details, and personal communications) from being intercepted or accessed by hackers and cybercriminals. Additionally, VPNs hide your IP address, making it more difficult for hackers to target your device or track your online activities. While a VPN is an essential tool for improving your online security, it is not a comprehensive solution against all types of cyber threats. It is crucial to complement your VPN usage with other security measures, such as strong, unique passwords, updated software, and reliable antivirus protection, to ensure a more robust defense against hackers.

How Much Does a VPN Service Cost?

The cost of a VPN service can vary significantly depending on the provider and the features it offers. Typically, VPN services are available through subscription plans, with monthly, yearly, or multiyear options. Monthly plans can range from as low as $2 to $12 or more, while longer-term plans often come with discounts that lower the effective monthly cost. Some VPN providers also offer free plans with limitations.

What's the Best Type of VPN?

Determining the best type of VPN largely depends on an individual's specific needs, preferences, and technical expertise. Some users may prioritize ease of use and a user-friendly interface, making VPNs with simple setup processes and intuitive designs more appealing. Others may seek advanced features, robust security protocols, or a vast server network for maximum performance and customization. The best type of VPN for you is the one that strikes the right balance between security, performance, and user experience while fitting within your budget. Conducting thorough research and comparing various VPN services based on your priorities will help you find the most suitable option for your specific needs.

Should You Use a VPN on All of Your Devices?

Using a VPN on all of your devices is highly recommended to ensure consistent protection of your online privacy, security, and access to geo-restricted content. As our daily lives increasingly involve multiple devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, connecting all of them to a VPN helps safeguard sensitive information and maintain anonymity across various platforms. By using a VPN on all your devices, you minimize the risk of exposing your data to hackers, third-party trackers, and government surveillance, regardless of which device you are using to access the internet.

Should You Leave VPN on at All Times?

Whether you should leave your VPN on at all times depends on your specific needs and online activities. If privacy, security, and anonymity are top priorities for you, keeping your VPN connected continuously is a good idea, as it ensures that your internet traffic is always encrypted and your IP address remains hidden. This is particularly important when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often targeted by hackers and cybercriminals. However, there might be situations where you may choose to temporarily disconnect from your VPN, such as when accessing local websites or services that require your actual location, or if you experience a significant decrease in connection speed due to the VPN. Ultimately, the decision to keep your VPN on at all times depends on your personal preferences and the level of protection you desire while browsing the internet.

When Should You Not Use a VPN?

There are certain situations where using a VPN may not be ideal or necessary. For example, if you need to access websites or services that require your actual location for accurate results, such as local search results or weather forecasts, a VPN might hinder your experience. Additionally, some online banking platforms and streaming services have strict security measures in place to detect and block VPN connections, which could prevent you from accessing these services while using a VPN. In instances where a VPN might cause a significant decrease in connection speed, such as when downloading large files or engaging in online gaming, you may choose to temporarily disconnect from the VPN to improve performance. Finally, if you are in a region where VPN usage is restricted or illegal, you should exercise caution and consider the potential risks before using a VPN service.

Can You Be Tracked Through a VPN?

While using a VPN significantly improves your online privacy and anonymity, it is not a foolproof solution against all tracking methods. A VPN effectively hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for third parties to monitor or intercept your online activities. However, certain tracking techniques, such as browser fingerprinting, cookies, or malware, can still be used to identify or track users even when connected to a VPN. Additionally, the level of privacy offered by a VPN depends on the provider's policies and practices, particularly in terms of logging user data. Some VPN services may keep logs of user activities, which, if compromised or requested by law enforcement, could expose your online actions. To minimize the risk of being tracked through a VPN, it is crucial to choose a reputable provider with a strict no-logs policy and to employ additional privacy measures, such as using privacy-focused browsers, disabling cookies, and keeping your software up to date.

Does a VPN Slow Down Your Internet?

Using a VPN can sometimes result in slower internet speeds due to factors like the encryption process, server distance, and server load; encrypting and decrypting data requires processing power, which can impact connection speeds. Additionally, connecting to a distant VPN server may increase latency and slow down data transmission. However, high-quality VPN providers invest in robust server infrastructure and optimization techniques to minimize the impact on connection speeds, ensuring a smooth and responsive browsing experience for most users.

Can Internet Providers See VPNs?

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can detect when you are using a VPN, as VPN traffic has distinct patterns and characteristics that can be identified. However, they cannot see the content of your internet traffic when you are connected to a VPN, since it is encrypted. This means that your ISP cannot monitor or log your online activities, browsing history, or specific websites you visit while using a VPN, which helps protect your privacy and prevent potential throttling or targeted advertisements based on your browsing habits.

12 Best VPN Services of 2023

As our digital lives continue to expand, the need for online security has never been greater. Virtual private network (VPN) services have emerged as a popular solution to protect online security and privacy. These services create a secure connection between your device and the internet, allowing you to browse the web anonymously and preventing unauthorized access to your personal information.

With so many VPN services available, choosing the right one for your needs can be a daunting task. There are tons of VPN services to choose from, and they're not all created equal. That's why we've put together this guide on the best VPN services out there. From top-rated services with advanced features to affordable options for those on a budget, there should be something on the list for your needs. Here are the best VPN services.

Best VPN Services of 2023

Best User Experience: ExpressVPN
Best for Multiple Devices: Surfshark
Best Premium Security Features: NordVPN
Best for Streaming: Hotspot Shield
Best for First-Timers: TunnelBear
Best for Travel: CyberGhost VPN
Easiest to Use: IPVanish
Best Free Trial: ProtonVPN
Best Free VPN: Windscribe
Most Customizable: TorGuard VPN
Best Budget-Friendly VPN: Mullvad VPN
Best for Experts: Hide.me

Best User Experience: ExpressVPN

Key Specs

Price Range: $8.32–$12.95 per month
No. of Connections per User: 5
Includes Ad Blocker? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Very simple interface suitable for first-time users
Over 3,000 servers to choose from
Strong privacy-focused feature set

Cons

A little expensive
Not as fast as some others

Why We Chose It

ExpressVPN has gained considerable attention for its easy-to-use interface, large server selection, and robust privacy features. One of its main advantages is the user-friendly design, which allows even those with limited technical knowledge to navigate the platform with ease. Additionally, the service boasts an extensive network of more than 3,000 servers across 94 countries, ensuring users have access to a wide range of options for connecting to different locations around the world. This large server selection is particularly beneficial for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content that might be blocked in certain regions.

On the privacy front, ExpressVPN employs strong encryption, a no-logs policy, various advanced security features like DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. These measures work together to keep users' online activities secure and anonymous. Furthermore, ExpressVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, a jurisdiction with strong privacy laws and no data retention requirements, further bolstering the service's commitment to user privacy.

However, one of the primary drawbacks of ExpressVPN is its relatively high price point compared to some competitors. Additionally, while ExpressVPN is known for its reliable connections and consistent performance, it may not be the fastest option available. Still, despite those drawbacks, ExpressVPN is a reliable and easy-to-use VPN worth checking out.

Best for Multiple Devices: Surfshark

Surfshark VPN

Key Specs

Price Range: $3.99–$12.95 per month
No. of Connections per User: Unlimited
Includes Ad Blocker? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Unlimited device connections
Over 3,200 servers to connect to
Split tunneling feature

Cons

Also more expensive than some competition
Interface is a little more complicated

Why We Chose It

Surfshark is another top-rated VPN service that has gained recognition for its support of unlimited device connections per user, making it an ideal choice for those with multiple devices or large households.

In addition to its generous device policy, Surfshark offers a solid server selection, with more than 3,200 servers in over 65 countries. This extensive network ensures users have plenty of options for connecting to different locations and bypassing geo-restrictions. Another noteworthy feature is Surfshark's split tunneling capability, which allows users to route certain applications or websites through the VPN while maintaining direct access to the internet for other activities. This can be particularly useful for optimizing network speeds.

There are some negative aspects of Surfshark to note. The service falls on the more expensive side of the VPN market, with pricing ranging from $3.99 to $12.95 per month, which isn't as budget-friendly as some competitors. Additionally, Surfshark's interface is a little more complicated than that of ExpressVPN, which could pose a challenge for users who prioritize simplicity and ease of use. Still, the interface is far from complicated, and if you want the ability to connect to unlimited devices, it's well worth spending the time to learn the interface.

Best Premium Security Features: NordVPN

Key Specs

Price Range: $3.49–$14.49 per month
No. of Connections per User: 6
Includes Ad Blocker? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Smart and extensive security features like double VPN encryption
Excellent data speeds that outperform competitors
Included antivirus tools for extra protection

Cons

Can be expensive

Why We Chose It

NordVPN is a well-known VPN service that has earned a reputation for its advanced premium security features and impressive data speeds. Among its standout offerings are cutting-edge security protocols, such as its double VPN feature, which routes users' traffic through two separate VPN servers for an added layer of encryption and anonymity. NordVPN also supports the latest WireGuard protocol, known as NordLynx, which combines high-speed performance with robust security, making it an excellent choice for users who demand both speed and privacy.

In addition to its strong security measures, NordVPN offers premium features that further enhance the user experience. One such feature is the inclusion of antivirus tools, which provides an extra layer of protection against malware and other online threats. This integrated approach to security makes NordVPN a comprehensive solution for users seeking a secure and feature-rich VPN service.

However, NordVPN's extensive offerings come at a higher price compared to many competitors in the market. For those who prioritize top-notch security and additional features, however, the higher price may be justified for a product that has become one of the best-rated VPNs.

Best for Streaming: Hotspot Shield

Key Specs

Price Range: $0–$19.99 per month
No. of Connections per User: Up to 25
Includes Ad Blocker? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Well-designed interface
Advanced features include split tunneling
Lots of advanced features

Cons

Expensive
Ads on some platforms

Why We Chose It

Hotspot Shield is another service that's an excellent option for streaming services. One of its primary strengths is its well-designed interface, which makes the service easy to navigate and use, even for those who may be new to VPNs. It also includes advanced features like split tunneling, which allows users to route specific applications or websites through the VPN connection without losing access to the internet for other activities. This can be particularly useful for streaming content or accessing geo-restricted websites without affecting the performance of other online tasks.

Despite its appealing features, Hotspot Shield has a relatively high pricing structure that may deter potential subscribers on a tight budget. Additionally, the presence of ads on some platforms can be intrusive and may complicate the privacy promises of the service. While the ads may help support the free version of the VPN, users who prioritize privacy and a seamless, ad-free experience may find this aspect of the service concerning.

Best for First-Timers: TunnelBear

Key Specs

Price Range: $0–$9.99 per month
No. of Connections per User: Unlimited
Includes Ad Blocker? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Extremely easy-to-use service
Unlimited connections
Annual audits strengthen privacy claims

Cons

Split tunneling only available on some platforms
Free monthly plan caps at 2GB data

Why We Chose It

First-time VPN users will appreciate TunnelBear's intuitive interface, which combined with its simple setup process, ensures that even those with limited technical knowledge can easily navigate and use a VPN. The "bear" theme also makes it equally as fun as it is effective in establishing a VPN connection. And with unlimited connections, users can protect multiple devices with a single subscription. In terms of its own security, TunnelBear conducts annual privacy audits, providing users with increased confidence in the service's privacy claims and showcasing the company's commitment to transparency.

One limitation with TunnelBear, though, is that the split tunneling feature is only available on certain platforms. This restriction may affect some users' experience, especially those who rely on split tunneling for streaming and accessing geo-restricted content. And while there is a free monthly plan, users will be limited to 2GB of data when connected. Still, if you don't plan on using that feature, or only plan on using it on Android or iOS, TunnelBear may be worth considering.

Best for Travel: CyberGhost VPN

Key Specs

Price Range: $2.11–$12.99 per month
No. of Connections per User: 7
Includes Ad Blocker? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Over 6,000 servers in 91 countries
Great add-ons like an antivirus
Great speeds

Cons

Monthly plan is expensive compared to competitors

Why We Chose It

If you're seeking a VPN service with an extensive server network and a good selection of add-ons, CyberGhost VPN is an option worth considering, with over 9,000 servers spread across 91 countries. The server also has a "Best Server Location" feature to make a default selection on the user's behalf, in addition to categorizing servers best suited for various online activities like streaming and gaming. Plus, the expansive server network ensures users have a wide range of options for bypassing geo-restrictions while traveling while maintaining optimal connection speeds. Additionally, CyberGhost provides a variety of add-ons, such as antivirus protection, which enhances users' overall online security and offers a more comprehensive protection package.

The vast number of servers comes at a relatively high price of $12.99 a month, but CyberGhost VPN runs specials for long-term plans, like three months free with a two-year commitment (comes out to $2.11 a month). Despite the higher cost, the extensive server network, good download speeds, and additional features like antivirus protection make CyberGhost an appealing option for users who prioritize a comprehensive VPN experience.

Easiest to Use: IPVanish

Key Specs

Price Range: $3.33–$11.99 per month
No. of Connections per User: Unlimited
Includes Ad Blocker? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Very simple interface with unlimited connections
Great security features like a kill switch and no-logs policy
24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and phone

Cons

A little basic

Why We Chose It

IPVanish's straightforward interface ensures that even those new to VPNs or with limited technical knowledge can easily navigate and use the service. The developers created dedicated apps for all devices and platforms, from desktop computers and mobile phones to streaming devices and routers. Once downloaded, users will find a map and list of over 75 available locations and more than 2,200 servers to connect to, along with the option to add a list of favorite servers. And with unlimited connections, every device can be protected with a single subscription. In addition, IPVanish provides a solid range of security features, including support for various security protocols, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy.

On the other hand, IPVanish could be considered somewhat basic compared to some of its competitors, particularly when it comes to advanced features or additional functionalities. Nevertheless, for those who prioritize a user-friendly interface, unlimited connections, and essential security features, IPVanish may be a suitable choice for their VPN needs.

Best Free Trial: ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN

Key Specs

Price Range: $0–$8.57 per month
No. of Connections per User: Up to 10
Includes Ad Blocker? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Excellent free plan with no advertising
Lots of advanced features
Includes free plans for both Proton Mail and Proton Drive

Cons

Not as many server options as some others
Only includes one device

Why We Chose It

ProtonVPN has gained significant recognition for its excellent free plan, making it an attractive option for users seeking a secure and reliable VPN without the added expense. Unlike many other free VPNs, ProtonVPN's free plan maintains a strong commitment to user privacy and security, without imposing data caps or displaying intrusive advertisements. The free plan also gives users access to Proton Mail and Proton Drive (both on free plans), as well as some access to Proton Calendar.

In addition to its popular free plan, ProtonVPN provides advanced features and good speeds for its paid users. These features include strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and support for the WireGuard protocol, which ensures both fast and secure connections. This combination of advanced features and performance makes ProtonVPN a competitive option for users seeking a comprehensive VPN solution.

Despite its attractive features and performance, ProtonVPN is not without its drawbacks, the most notable being its customer service response time. While the company offers a comprehensive knowledge base, email support, and social media channels for users to reach out with their queries, some users have reported slow response times.

Best Free VPN: Windscribe

Key Specs

Price Range: $0–$9 per month
No. of Connections per User: Unlimited
Includes Ad Blocker? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Free, or relatively cheap
Unlimited connections
Some advanced features, like an ad blocker

Cons

Not as many servers

Why We Chose It

Windscribe is a popular VPN service known for its fully free tier and affordable paid plans. The free tier is particularly attractive for users who are new to VPNs or those on a tight budget, as it offers a decent amount of monthly data and access to servers in 11 countries. While the free plan has some limitations, it still provides a good level of privacy and security for casual users, plus it doesn't limit the number of devices you can use—so even free users can use unlimited personal devices.

While there are limitations to the free plans, all the basics are still there. You'll still get access to advanced features like access to advanced security protocols like WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN, and you'll get up to 10GB of traffic per month, as long as you verify your email address. Paid plans remove this limitation and offer access to R.O.B.E.R.T., a customizable domain and IP-blocking tool.

Windscribe does have some drawbacks though, one of which is the relatively limited number of servers compared to some of its competitors. On the free plan, you'll only get access to servers in 11 countries (while the free plan upgrades to 62 countries). This limitation may affect some users' experience, especially those who require access to a diverse range of server locations to bypass geo-restrictions or maintain optimal connection speeds.

Most Customizable: TorGuard VPN

ProtonVPN

Key Specs

Price Range: $9.99–$32.99 per month
No. of Connections per User: Up to 12
Includes Ad Blocker? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Good support for security protocols
Can customize user experience
First month is free

Cons

A little expensive

Why We Chose It

TorGuard VPN stands out in the market for its strong focus on security and highly customizable features, supporting multiple security protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, L2TP/IPsec, and SSTP. This allows users to tailor their VPN experience to suit their needs and preferences.

Additionally, TorGuard offers a free first month on all plans for those switching from other VPNs, enabling potential customers to thoroughly test the service before committing to a subscription. This generous trial period helps users make informed decisions and explore all the features without any financial risk. However, one notable drawback of TorGuard is its comparatively higher pricing structure, which might deter those on a tight budget or seeking a more cost-effective solution.

Most Budget-Friendly VPN: Mullvad VPN

Key Specs

Price Range: 5 euros per month (~$5.42)
No. of Connections per User: 5
Includes Ad Blocker? Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

Inexpensive flat-rate pricing
Advanced features included like WireGuard and no-logs policy
30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

App interface isn't the best
Limited number of servers

Why We Chose It

Priced at just 5 euros (around $5.42 ) per month, Mullvad offers an affordable solution for users seeking robust online protection without breaking the bank. The service comes with advanced features, such as support for WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, IPv6 support, and a strict no-logs policy, catering to users with varying security and privacy requirements. Users can connect to up to five devices on 718 servers from 42 countries, and if unsatisfied with the service, are ensured a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For those unfamiliar with using VPNs, the app interface is not the easiest to navigate, especially for users with limited technical knowledge. Nevertheless, if you prioritize affordability and advanced features over ease of use and server variety, Mullvad VPN may be a suitable choice for your VPN needs.

Best for Experts: Hide.me

HideMe

Key Specs

Price Range: $0–$9.95 per month
No. of Connections per User: 1-10
Includes Ad Blocker? No

Pros & Cons

Pros

Advanced features like double VPNs and IP leak protection
Good server
Great speeds

Cons

Expensive

Why We Chose It

Expert VPN users will appreciate Hide.me for its large selection of advanced features and the ability to set user-specific configurations. The features include IPv6 support, Multihop Double VPN, split tunneling, uncensored DNS, IP leak protection, and no-logs. Users also have access to system-specific features like VPN Bolt, which increases the internet speed for Windows users.

Hide.me provides 2,100 servers in 78 locations on a paid plan, which also includes 10 simultaneous connections and unlimited data. The company's free service, on the other hand, limits users to just five locations and one connection with 10GB of data. The three paid subscription plan durations are the following: three months for $6.65 a month, six months for $4.99 a month, and 36 months for $3.33 a month. Hide.me's strong download speeds are also fast enough for uninterrupted gaming and streaming, making it suitable for users who prioritize fast and reliable connections for data-intensive activities.

Final Verdict

Finding the best VPN service ultimately depends on each individual's specific needs and preferences. ExpressVPN offers a well-rounded, easy-to-use service with a comprehensive set of features that cater to a wide range of users. Services like Surfshark are also excellent choices for those who prioritize unlimited connections, while Mullvad appeals to users seeking a low-cost VPN solution. Ultimately, it's important to carefully consider the unique features and offerings of each VPN service, as well as your personal needs and budget constraints, to determine the optimal choice for your online security and privacy.

Compare the Best VPN Services

Company	Price Range	No. of Connections per User	Includes Ad Blocker?	Free Trial?
ExpressVPN Best User Experience	$8.32–12.95 per month	5	No	Yes, 7 days
Surfshark Best for Multiple Devices	$3.99–12.95 per month	Unlimited	Yes	Yes, 7 days
NordVPN Best Premium Security Features	$3.49–$14.49 per month	6	Yes	Yes, 30 days
Hotspot Shield Best for Streaming	$0–$9.99 per month	25	No	Yes, 7 days
TunnelBear Best for First-Timers	$2.11–$12.99 per month	7	Yes	Yes, up to 3 days
CyberGhost VPN Best for Travel	$0–$0.99 per month	Unlimited	Yes	Unlimited length free tier
IPVanish Easiest to Use	$3.33–$11.99 per month	Unlimited	No	Yes, 7 days
ProtonVPN Best Free Trial	$0–$8.57 per month	10	Yes	Unlimited length free tier
Windscribe Best Free VPN	$0–$9 per month	Unlimited	Yes	Unlimited length free tier
TorGuard VPN Most Customizable	$9.99–$32.99 per month	12	Yes	Yes, 7 days
Mullvad VPN Best Budget-Friendly VPN	5 euros ($5.36) per month	5	Yes	No
Hide.me Best for Experts	$0–$9.95 per month	1-10	No	Unlimited length free tier

What Is a VPN and How Does It Work?

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a technology designed to provide a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the internet. By routing your internet traffic through a remote server, a VPN hides your IP address by assigning a new IP address to hide your original location, thus masking your online activities. This ensures privacy and security when browsing the web, protecting your data from being intercepted, monitored, or tampered with by hackers, government agencies, or other third parties.

What Are the Benefits and Limitations of a VPN?

VPNs offer several benefits, including enhanced privacy, security, and access to geo-restricted content. By masking your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic, VPNs protect your online activities from being tracked, monitored, or intercepted by third parties. They also help safeguard sensitive information, such as passwords and financial details, from hackers and cybercriminals. Moreover, VPNs allow users to bypass geographical restrictions and censorship by connecting to servers in different countries, enabling access to region-specific websites, streaming services, and promoting freedom of information and expression.

However, there are some limitations to using a VPN. One common issue is slower internet speeds, as your data is routed through a remote server and encrypted. Additionally, compatibility issues may arise with certain devices or operating systems not supporting all VPN services. Some websites and streaming services actively block VPN connections, making it challenging to access their content even when using a VPN. Furthermore, not all VPN services offer the same level of security and privacy, with some providers logging user activity, potentially compromising privacy.

How to Choose the Best VPN Service

Choosing the best VPN service can be a daunting task, given the multitude of options available in the market. To make an informed decision, it is crucial to consider various factors that contribute to the effectiveness and reliability of a VPN service. Consider the following factors when selecting the best VPN to meet your specific needs and requirements.

Security Features

First and foremost, consider the level of security and privacy offered by the VPN service. Look for features such as strong encryption protocols, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. These features help ensure that your online activities remain private and your data is protected from potential threats, such as hackers or government surveillance.

Server Selection

A larger server network with a diverse range of locations allows for better performance, as it increases the likelihood of finding a server near your desired connection point. Additionally, a wider server selection enables you to bypass geo-restrictions more effectively and access content from various regions worldwide.

Performance

As VPNs route your internet traffic through a remote server and encrypt your data, they can sometimes slow down your connection. For streamers and gamers, look for a VPN that consistently delivers high speeds with steady connections for uninterrupted performance. Those using VPNs for basic internet needs like browsing and searching may require less speed.

Device Compatibility

Not all VPNs are available on all device operating systems. While the majority are supported on Windows, macOS, and Linux, streaming devices and routers may not be. Check that the VPN service you choose supports the devices and operating systems you use, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Customer Support

The quality of customer support can also play a significant role in your overall VPN experience. Choose a VPN provider that offers reliable, timely, and accessible customer support through various channels, such as live chat, email, or phone. This ensures that you can get assistance when you encounter issues or have questions about using the service.

Price

While free VPNs may be tempting, they often come with limitations in terms of bandwidth, server selection, and extra security features. Paid VPN services generally offer a more comprehensive and reliable experience. However, it's essential to balance the cost with the features and performance you require, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

FAQ

Do VPNs Protect Against Hackers?

VPNs can provide a significant layer of protection against hackers by encrypting your internet traffic and creating a secure tunnel for your data to travel through. This encryption helps shield your sensitive information (passwords, financial details, and personal communications) from being intercepted or accessed by hackers and cybercriminals. Additionally, VPNs hide your IP address, making it more difficult for hackers to target your device or track your online activities. While a VPN is an essential tool for improving your online security, it is not a comprehensive solution against all types of cyber threats. It is crucial to complement your VPN usage with other security measures, such as strong, unique passwords, updated software, and reliable antivirus protection, to ensure a more robust defense against hackers.
How Much Does a VPN Service Cost?

The cost of a VPN service can vary significantly depending on the provider and the features it offers. Typically, VPN services are available through subscription plans, with monthly, yearly, or multiyear options. Monthly plans can range from as low as $2 to $12 or more, while longer-term plans often come with discounts that lower the effective monthly cost. Some VPN providers also offer free plans with limitations.
What's the Best Type of VPN?

Determining the best type of VPN largely depends on an individual's specific needs, preferences, and technical expertise. Some users may prioritize ease of use and a user-friendly interface, making VPNs with simple setup processes and intuitive designs more appealing. Others may seek advanced features, robust security protocols, or a vast server network for maximum performance and customization. The best type of VPN for you is the one that strikes the right balance between security, performance, and user experience while fitting within your budget. Conducting thorough research and comparing various VPN services based on your priorities will help you find the most suitable option for your specific needs.
Should You Use a VPN on All of Your Devices?

Using a VPN on all of your devices is highly recommended to ensure consistent protection of your online privacy, security, and access to geo-restricted content. As our daily lives increasingly involve multiple devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, connecting all of them to a VPN helps safeguard sensitive information and maintain anonymity across various platforms. By using a VPN on all your devices, you minimize the risk of exposing your data to hackers, third-party trackers, and government surveillance, regardless of which device you are using to access the internet.
Should You Leave VPN on at All Times?

Whether you should leave your VPN on at all times depends on your specific needs and online activities. If privacy, security, and anonymity are top priorities for you, keeping your VPN connected continuously is a good idea, as it ensures that your internet traffic is always encrypted and your IP address remains hidden. This is particularly important when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often targeted by hackers and cybercriminals. However, there might be situations where you may choose to temporarily disconnect from your VPN, such as when accessing local websites or services that require your actual location, or if you experience a significant decrease in connection speed due to the VPN. Ultimately, the decision to keep your VPN on at all times depends on your personal preferences and the level of protection you desire while browsing the internet.
When Should You Not Use a VPN?

There are certain situations where using a VPN may not be ideal or necessary. For example, if you need to access websites or services that require your actual location for accurate results, such as local search results or weather forecasts, a VPN might hinder your experience. Additionally, some online banking platforms and streaming services have strict security measures in place to detect and block VPN connections, which could prevent you from accessing these services while using a VPN. In instances where a VPN might cause a significant decrease in connection speed, such as when downloading large files or engaging in online gaming, you may choose to temporarily disconnect from the VPN to improve performance. Finally, if you are in a region where VPN usage is restricted or illegal, you should exercise caution and consider the potential risks before using a VPN service.
Can You Be Tracked Through a VPN?

While using a VPN significantly improves your online privacy and anonymity, it is not a foolproof solution against all tracking methods. A VPN effectively hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for third parties to monitor or intercept your online activities. However, certain tracking techniques, such as browser fingerprinting, cookies, or malware, can still be used to identify or track users even when connected to a VPN. Additionally, the level of privacy offered by a VPN depends on the provider's policies and practices, particularly in terms of logging user data. Some VPN services may keep logs of user activities, which, if compromised or requested by law enforcement, could expose your online actions. To minimize the risk of being tracked through a VPN, it is crucial to choose a reputable provider with a strict no-logs policy and to employ additional privacy measures, such as using privacy-focused browsers, disabling cookies, and keeping your software up to date.
Does a VPN Slow Down Your Internet?

Using a VPN can sometimes result in slower internet speeds due to factors like the encryption process, server distance, and server load; encrypting and decrypting data requires processing power, which can impact connection speeds. Additionally, connecting to a distant VPN server may increase latency and slow down data transmission. However, high-quality VPN providers invest in robust server infrastructure and optimization techniques to minimize the impact on connection speeds, ensuring a smooth and responsive browsing experience for most users.
Can Internet Providers See VPNs?

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can detect when you are using a VPN, as VPN traffic has distinct patterns and characteristics that can be identified. However, they cannot see the content of your internet traffic when you are connected to a VPN, since it is encrypted. This means that your ISP cannot monitor or log your online activities, browsing history, or specific websites you visit while using a VPN, which helps protect your privacy and prevent potential throttling or targeted advertisements based on your browsing habits.

Methodology

In picking the best VPN services, we considered dozens of options. Each service was evaluated based on a variety of factors, including price, number of simultaneous connections, logging policies, and additional features, like ad blockers. Extra consideration was given to VPNs that provide free trials or $0-cost plans, user-friendly platforms, and money-back guarantees.