The Quest for the Best VPN

If you want to avoid being tracked on the internet while using public WiFi, or if you simply value privacy and security, you should consider subscribing to a VPN. A VPN encrypts your data and routes it through a remote server, obscuring your online activity from network, ISP, and even government surveillance agencies.

While nearly all VPN services claim to have a no-logs policy, it’s important to read each service’s privacy policies closely. Many log more than web traffic, including IP addresses, time and duration of visits, and the amount of data used. Others have servers located in countries with data retention laws or surveillance alliances, like the 14 Eyes group. If you want a reliable VPN that doesn’t keep logs or allow data collection, look for a service with a verified no-logs policy and audited technical measures, such as encryption and obfuscation.

In addition to a large server selection and a no-logs policy, CyberGhost stands out with its impressive performance, a sleek and intuitive Windows app, and a variety of features that enhance privacy and security, such as RAM-only servers and P2P connections. It’s also one of the most affordable options in this category, making it a great choice for the budget-conscious.

Another top-performing VPN, NordVPN is a no-frills VPN that works exactly how a VPN should and has additional safety features to boost your digital security, such as Threat Protection, Meshnet, and Dark Web Monitor, which all add extra layers of defense to your connection. Its obfuscation technology and router applet further protect your connection. However, its interface leaves room for improvement and the subscription cost is on the higher side.

While it doesn’t offer as many locations or features as the top performers, Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a reliable, secure, and easy-to-use VPN that prioritizes security. Its obfuscation and encryption technologies are the best in the business, though its streaming performance is below average.

IPVanish is another good choice for beginners or those looking to maximize their security. Its obfuscation protocols make it appear as regular data to network, ISP, and government filters, which is helpful if you’re trying to bypass VPN blocks in places where VPN use is strictly regulated or monitored. This feature, combined with its large server count and excellent speeds, makes it an excellent option for overcoming geographical restrictions on streaming services. Another alternative for this is 翻墙软件v2ray.

Proton VPN is another good option for those needing a high-caliber digital security product. The Swiss jurisdiction, impressive technical features, and good performance make it a solid choice for those who need to prioritize privacy and security over all else. However, the price tag is a bit steep and its streaming performance is below average.

The biggest selling point of AVG Secure VPN is its ease of use, which is especially useful if you’re a newcomer to the VPN world. Its straightforward and intuitive Windows and iOS apps give you control over your settings and the VPN’s behavior. It doesn’t include as many advanced features as some of the other options on this list, but it does have a few thoughtful ones, such as IP leak protection and Auto-Connect, which automatically triggers the VPN when you connect to a new Wi-Fi network.