VPN is an excellent tool for protecting your online privacy. Except for your VPN provider, no one outside can see what you do when VPN is enabled. A free VPN may sound appealing, but the truth is that all businesses must generate revenue to cover their expenses. Some free VPNs do this with advertisements, while others do so by selling their users' data. Consider which locations you require and don't just go with the vendor with the most servers. The lack of laws governing the collection and handling of user data can be dangerous, so think about where your VPN is based. That is why it is critical to understand where your VPN is coming from.
Here are 7 factors to consider when selecting a VPN service.
SpeedLet's be honest about it. Slow internet is the worst, especially when you're streaming videos or downloading files. While a VPN will inevitably slow down your connection, some providers allow for a very subtle change in speed, allowing you to continue to enjoy fast, reliable connections.
SecurityFinally, the goal of a VPN is to provide a secure connection with minimal risk. As a result, features such as AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN functionality should be considered. You should also look for VPNs that use open-source software and accept anonymous payments.
AccessibilityVPN providers must follow local laws, so it is critical to understand the country in which a VPN is based and how its regulations may impact your privacy. This is especially important if you live in a small or developing country or frequently travel to one. A good VPN will have many servers all over the world.
Utilization EaseYou probably have a busy life and don't have hours upon hours to spend learning a complicated VPN. The good news is that there are numerous VPNs available with user-friendly interfaces. Even if you're not tech-savvy, you should be able to use them with ease.
CompatibilityIf you use a variety of devices, the VPN you select should support all of them. It should provide a good connection on your desktop, laptop, and smartphone. Because there are numerous situations in which VPN access will be useful, limiting yourself to a VPN that only works with one device is a mistake.
Customer ServiceCustomer support is essential unless you are a tech expert or have extensive knowledge of VPNs. Find a VPN that provides useful information that can assist you when you get stuck. A comprehensive frequently asked questions (FAQs) section, live chat, and dedicated representatives are all indicators of excellent customer service.
How You PayHow you pay for a VPN is important. A VPN costs $5 to $12 per month. You can save $30 to $50 per year by prepaying for a few years.You may find a VPN that offers "lifetime access" for $50. This may seem like a good idea, but once you pay, the VPN has no incentive to keep providing a quality service.
Not sure what to pick? You can't go wrong if any of the above providers are in your area. They received the highest ratings, beating out stiff competition in categories such as speed, pricing, and customer service.