Just because a VPN is labelled the best, doesn’t mean it is the best at what you need it for. For example if you are new to VPN, choosing a budget-friendly VPN with long trial period is highly recommended. If you are looking for maximum privacy protection, then an expensive VPN with higher encryption grade and security features would be better.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at specific areas of VPNs you should consider when choosing one.
1. Security
From Encryption protocols to built in security features of client software, VPNs today offer security on many levels. However, the most critical is the security and integrity of the connection it maintains between you and the Internet though.
For best security, choose a VPN with high grade encryption and offers additional security features such as Double VPN and auto Kill Switch.
2. Anonymity
The best VPNs typically offer users a “No Logging” service. This means that they will not keep records of any of your activities online. However, some do break their word. If you happen to be relying on your VPN to keep you anonymous, this can be a major issue.
Also keep an eye on the country in which the provider registers its business when choosing a VPN. Many VPN providers state that they do not log user activity, but some countries have mandatory data retention laws and share surveillance data with their allies (i.e.. 5 Eyes, 9 Eyes, 14 Eyes Alliances). We recommend users to go with a VPN provider that is based in a country without mandatory data retention law. Examples of locations such as this are Panama (NordVPN) and the British Virgin Islands (ExpressVPN).
3. Connection Speed
Three primary factors dictate the speed of your VPN connection: Server capability, server locations, and connection protocols.
As a rule of thumb, pick a VPN with a good spread of server locations and multiple connection protocols. Take ExpressVPN for example, the provider has over 3,000 servers spread across 94 countries. The extensive network offers users from almost any country amazingly fast access points.
4. Unblocking
Do you wish to watch a news video on BBC iPlayer? Perhaps you’re in Japan and want to catch up on some streamed releases on the US version of Netflix? If you do, you’ll be out of luck since lots of services restrict content by region.
If you want to unleash the full power of streaming subscriptions, choose a VPN provider that explicitly states it works with those services.
5. P2P & Torrenting Support
Torrenting is always risky since it essentially occupies a grey area of online activities. While it is not generally illegal in most places, copyright infringement is. You will never be sure if your downloaded files are something that might get you into trouble with the authorities.
Using a VPN will help make torrenting a lot safer. It hides your real IP making you anonymous and encrypts all your data. Because all your traffic heads to the VPN server first, ISPs cannot track and will not know what you have been doing.
Because file sharing is often bandwidth intensive, some VPN service providers totally forbid P2P usage or limit P2P to certain servers. In case you plan to do torrenting frequently with your VPN, make sure you check before buying in to one.
6. Compatibility
Typically a good VPN supports mainstream operating systems, mobile devices, and other “smart” devices. This usually include different versions of MacOS, Windows, Android devices, as well as popular smart TVs and routers.
However if you’re using a less popular platform, you may find yourself in a situation where your VPN simply doesn’t support it. For example not all VPNs – even the very popular ones like IP Vanish, does not offer an usable Linux app.
Always be aware of limitations a VPN service provider has before you sign up for an extended contract. At the very least, ensure the devices you currently use are supported.
Make Use of Our VPN Reviews
Different VPN suits different varieties of use cases. We recognize this need for flexibility and want to help you identify the best solution that fits your unique use for a VPN. Not only do we examine the capabilities of VPNs themselves, but also explore various usage scenarios.
Whether you want to pay less monthly fees or connect to unlimited devices or the most secured connection, the right VPN is out there.