Using A VPN is Secure? What is a VPN? Looking for the best VPN to ensure your online privacy at an affordable price? In today’s internet-driven world, protecting your personal and financial data from cybercriminals has become more critical than ever. Identity thieves, hackers, and other digital wrongdoers cause significant economic losses to businesses and individuals worldwide every year.

The good news is that a reliable VPN is one of the simplest, cost-effective, and most effective ways to protect your online activities from malicious online intruders. However, choosing the right VPN that suits your specific needs and budget can be challenging. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.

Our comprehensive guide about the best VPN services and what a VPN is covers pricing, features, and all the information you need to make an informed decision. Virtual Private Network (VPN) services can help protect your identity, location, and keep your online activities anonymous. When searching for a VPN, there are some considerations you need to take into account.

It should be able to guarantee the privacy and security of your internet usage, with speed being essential. While privacy and security are crucial, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice internet speed. If you’re concerned about anonymity, look for a VPN with a clear and transparent data collection policy. Lastly, the number of available servers and server locations in different countries/regions is crucial if you want to bypass region locks.

We have tested numerous VPNs and handpicked a list of the best VPNs in various categories, so you can choose the VPN service that suits your needs, whether you prioritize anonymity, streaming content from other countries/regions, speed, or price.

Below our selections, you will find information on how we test and what to consider when choosing a VPN. While not everyone may want or need an advanced VPN service, we believe online privacy should be a priority.

Our top recommendation is NordVPN. It offers a plethora of features and has a very user-friendly application. Its servers are diskless and run everything in RAM. NordVPN also boasts extensive device support and includes a Smart DNS feature for devices like set-top boxes and smart TVs. It’s one of the most well-known companies in the VPN industry, offering a highly secure and stream-friendly service at a reasonable price of just $3.49 per month. Plus, a 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to try the service risk-free.

If you’re looking to save money, we recommend Surfshark. for less than $2.50 per month, you’ll have unlimited data and simultaneous connections, rock-solid security, and in-depth features that free VPNs don’t have. Access is fast and all major streaming sites are unlocked. Surfshark is the best value for money.

How to get a free VPN for 30 days:
If you need a VPN for a short period of time while traveling abroad, get our top-ranked VPN for free. NordVPN offers a 30-day money back guarantee, which is real. You’ll need to pay upfront to use the subscription, but the subscription allows full access for 30 days. If you don’t like it you can cancel at any time and get a full refund, so you can try it with confidence.

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What is a VPN? Using A VPN is Secure?

What is a VPN? As previously mentioned, VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. VPNs originated from the need for businesses to allow people to remotely access computer systems using the same credentials as they would if logging in from the office network. This was often difficult or impossible without extensive cabling and technical expertise.

By setting up a special program, a VPN client, you can trick the computer you’re communicating with into thinking you’re a member of the same network. Essentially, you’re creating a network within the internet space, which means it’s virtual and not physically connected to each other.

Because it’s password-protected, it’s also private, giving you an online space that you can use without others having access to it. Essentially, having a VPN is like having your own small private internet that nobody else can access.

Why Do I Need a VPN? How Does a VPN Work?

The internet is rife with unnecessary risks to your online privacy and security. Most notably, malicious parties can collect your data, track your online activities, and intercept your connections. Some networks also restrict access to certain websites, greatly limiting your online freedom.

If you take your online privacy and security seriously, a VPN is a worthwhile investment. It can protect you from privacy infringements, grant you access to blocked websites, and encrypt your connection, making it difficult for entities like Google, Facebook, or your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to track your online activities. Given this, here are some reasons why you should get a VPN.

1. VPN Encrypts All Your Data

A VPN, as the name suggests, encrypts all your data. When you connect to a VPN’s dedicated server, it encrypts your connection. In simple terms, encryption uses a key (or code) to transform regular data. Without the original key, it’s impossible to read it; the original key is used to decrypt it. This makes it impossible for outsiders to read your online behavior and activities.

Since most VPNs use military-grade encryption, it’s virtually impossible for anyone to see what you’re doing online. So, no one can see your browsing activity or intercept your connection (including your ISP), as it looks like a random string of numbers.

Most VPNs use AES 256-bit encryption, the highest level available. The longer the encryption key, the longer it takes to decrypt it. Leading security agencies and governments use it to protect highly sensitive data.

2. VPN Hides Your Actual Location

Your actual IP address is visible without a VPN. This means unwanted individuals can use it to determine your real location. Your IP address is somewhat like your phone number, but for your internet connection. When combined with other personal data, it’s dangerous because it can quickly identify you and make you an easy target for online attacks and advertisers can use this information to serve you ads. Your ISP may also store and hand over this information without your knowledge.

What is a VPN? A VPN hides your actual IP address by replacing it with another address, protecting your online privacy. So, you can use a VPN to hide your real location and online identity wherever you are. But please remember that VPNs still prohibit illegal activities, so be cautious.

3. VPN Offers Additional Benefits

Some VPNs can block ads and prevent malicious websites from infecting your devices with malware and trackers. These features are usually available in your VPN settings. They can allow you to enjoy websites like YouTube without annoying ads and further protect you from hacker attacks and tracking, which is handy when downloading torrents.

Another benefit is the ability to bypass geographic restrictions on websites, even defeating region-locked sites. The content you can access on these platforms depends on your IP address’s location. Changing it allows you to access different content. This is especially useful when traveling abroad and wanting to watch shows from back home.

A VPN can let you access international game servers and unlock region-restricted games, enhancing your gaming experience. Additionally, you can access various game packs and bonuses that may not be available in your region.

VPNs also help bypass online restrictions and network firewalls, restoring your online freedom. This even includes firewalls like China’s, which they overcome through obfuscation techniques and tunneling through the firewall.

You can also save money when shopping online. For example, flight and accommodation websites display different prices based on your location. International streaming services do the same. For instance, subscribing to Disney+ is cheaper in Turkey than in the United States. If you connect your VPN to a country/region with lower prices, you can save a few dollars.

How Does a VPN Ensure My Security?

The primary security functions of a VPN include encrypting your connection and concealing your actual IP address (as well as your real location). Typically, you’ll also share the VPN’s IP address with other VPN users, which adds another layer of anonymity because a single IP cannot be linked to a single user.

While these measures can protect your connection and personal data, a VPN should also have other privacy and security features to ensure that these basic functions actually guarantee your security.

1. Strict No-Logs Policy

Obtaining a VPN that takes your privacy seriously is crucial because it can access your online activities entirely. The most important privacy feature is a strict no-logs policy, which ensures that your VPN does not track or collect your data. This means that if government authorities request data as part of an investigation or if their servers are compromised, there will be nothing to hand over.

Many VPNs claim to be no-log VPNs, but in reality, only some of them are. The most trustworthy VPNs are regularly audited by security companies to assess their practices based on their privacy policies. This ensures that VPN providers are indeed adhering to their commitment to protecting your data privacy.

Another factor to consider is the VPN’s jurisdiction, as it must always comply with data retention laws in its country or region. It’s best to choose a VPN that is in a privacy-friendly location and not part of the 14 Eyes Alliance. This means that even if the government demands your data from the VPN, the VPN is not obligated to comply.

2. Leak Protection

There is always a possibility that your DNS requests and IP address could accidentally leak because any software may have vulnerabilities. IP/DNS leaks contradict the purpose of using a VPN because this is the information that it should hide. The most secure VPNs have built-in leak protection systems to prevent any DNS/IP leaks from occurring.

To test your DNS/IP leak protection, visit websites like ipleak.net after connecting to a server. Wait a few seconds until it shows the IP address your device is connected to. If it displays only the VPN’s IP, it means you are adequately protected.

3. Kill Switch

VPNs form an encrypted tunnel to protect the data between your device and the server. As your security depends entirely on this connection, if it disconnects unexpectedly or you switch servers, your privacy may be compromised.

If your VPN encounters connection issues, a kill switch will automatically block your internet access, making it your last line of defense. It will then wait for your device to re-establish the connection and reconnect to the VPN. So, you are essentially always protected, which is especially important when downloading torrents or using insecure public Wi-Fi.

A quick tip: Not every VPN has a kill switch enabled, so it’s a good practice to check the settings menu to ensure it’s turned on. It’s particularly useful when changing networks as it stops your internet traffic when you do so.

4. Advanced Security Protocols

Protocols determine how a VPN transmits data between your device and the VPN server. They are a set of rules that decide the balance between security and stability. A good VPN can let you choose from different protocols, which provide different speed and security balances. Some are more advanced and better than others, so choosing the right one is crucial.

Here are some of the most common VPN protocols, listed from most secure to less secure:

5. Wireless Network Protection

Some VPNs offer additional Wi-Fi protection to ensure your safety on public networks. If you intend to use the internet while away from home, this feature is a must. It means that even when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks (e.g., in a coffee shop), your data remains secure.

VPNs are designed to protect you on public networks just like they do at home. However, some VPNs come with additional features, such as automatically connecting when detecting a public Wi-Fi connection or sending you notifications about unsafe networks.

Further reading:
➤ How to iOS VPN Settings on your iPhone
➤ Top 3 VPN iOS Best for iPhone（iOS 16 & Older）
➤ The Best VPN Korea server
➤ Best Japan VPN for Watching Japanese Netflix
➤ Top 3 Best VPN in Hong Kong｜fast and secure

Disadvantages of Using a VPN

First, you should be aware that the benefits of using a VPN far outweigh any potential drawbacks. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind before connecting to a VPN server.

1. Speed Reduction: Using a VPN can potentially reduce your internet speed. Some VPNs might slow down your internet more than others. The best VPNs, though, won’t have any noticeable impact. This reduction in speed is due to the need to encrypt your data and transmit it to the VPN server.

2. Privacy Concerns: Some VPNs may compromise your privacy, especially free VPNs. Even some paid VPNs have been found to falsely claim they are “no-logs” VPNs. It’s best to choose a VPN that adheres to a strict no-logs policy and undergoes independent audits by security companies.

3. Cost: VPNs come with a cost. VPN services are typically subscription-based and require ongoing payments. Most VPNs charge only a few dollars per month, making them quite affordable. Additionally, they usually offer a refund guarantee, allowing you to test the service and get a refund within a specified time frame, so you don’t have to commit to a subscription until you are sure you’re satisfied.

4. Limited Servers and IP Addresses: Some VPNs may have a limited server network or outdated infrastructure. If a VPN cannot update its IP and servers, it can significantly decrease your speed and may not provide access to a wide range of streaming content. High-quality VPNs like NordVPN continuously update their networks, swiftly replacing blocked IP addresses.

5. Legal Restrictions: Some countries or regions may restrict or ban VPN usage. Places like China, Russia, and Iran may limit or prohibit VPN usage, which could cause trouble if you plan to use a VPN while visiting one of these areas. It’s advisable to read the latest local laws on VPN usage before using a VPN, especially in regions where VPN websites may be blocked.

If you are interested in using a VPN, consider the following top recommendation:

Recommended and Ranked VPN Reviews

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1. NordVPN – The most secure VPN available

NordVPN is an outstanding VPN service with the best mobile apps among all VPNs on this list. The mobile app is available for both iOS and Android, making it exceptionally easy for beginners to connect for the first time. If you’re unsure about using a VPN, NordVPN allows you to easily find servers worldwide and change your location.

Your frequently visited countries or regions will always appear at the top of the app. For instance, you can easily jump back to your favorite series on the US-only Netflix. NordVPN permits subscribers to connect to six different devices simultaneously.

This is particularly convenient as NordVPN offers apps for nearly all devices you can think of, including smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, Chromebooks, Fire TV Stick adapters, Windows, and Mac. You can even install NordVPN directly on your Wi-Fi router. This way, every device connected to your home Wi-Fi network will be routed automatically through the VPN and encrypted, or rerouted through different countries or regions if you wish, making it appear as if you’re abroad. This is incredibly convenient!

Regarding the number of available countries or regions, NordVPN offers an impressively wide selection, with over 60 countries or regions to choose from. It covers the most popular destinations, including the US, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia, and South Korea.

For most of us, NordVPN’s sheer number of servers globally (with over 5,600 servers available) ensures that you will always find a reliable connection, even during peak times when some servers might become crowded. In speed tests, NordVPN had only a slight impact on download speeds, making it an excellent choice for streaming videos.

NordVPN isn’t just a VPN provider; the company offers many additional services, including a password manager, 1TB of cloud storage, malware protection for your devices, an ad-blocker, and a dark web monitoring service to check if there are potential leaks of your login information and data. Both of these features are included with the NordVPN Complete subscription, which is significantly more expensive than the NordVPN Standard subscription, which covers access to their VPN and nothing else.

For those who want only VPN access, NordVPN is an excellent choice. NordVPN offers multiple payment options, including all major credit card providers (Mastercard, VISA, AMEX, and Discovery). PayPal and Amazon Pay are also accepted.

Unlike most other providers on this list, you can also pay for NordVPN using Apple Pay and Google Pay. This allows you to breeze through the checkout process, filling in all payment details with your iPhone or Android device (and keeping your credit card details secure). You can also subscribe to NordVPN using various popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum.

NordVPN offers a choice between a 2-year, 1-year, or monthly subscription plan, each with varying features, depending on whether you want access to a password manager, data breach scanner, and encrypted cloud storage service. NordVPN is a solid choice that you can try risk-free for 30 days and get a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

I’ve tested this to make sure you can indeed get your money back. Initially, the support team tried to extend my trial period, but when I told them I wasn’t interested in an extension, they promptly initiated the refund process. I got my money back within 4 business days. Make sure you buy NordVPN and get another 3 months free >>

How to use NordVPN VPN

To use NordVPN, perform the following simple steps:

Go to the NordVPN website and sign up for a subscription.
Download the NordVPN app for the device you want to use.
Enter your login password in the app.
Enable the Obfuscation Server by going to: Settings > Show Advanced Settings > Obfuscation Server (toggle it on).
Now, connect to one of the obfuscation servers by clicking on the “Servers” tab, and then click to automatically connect to the fastest VPN server, or manually select the server location.
Use NordVPN and unlock all online content.

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2. Surfshark – Recommend the cheapest VPN

One of the advantages of choosing Surfshark VPN is the ability to use an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. This means you can connect from anywhere on Earth with as many devices as you want. Surfshark provides a variety of applications, including iOS, iPadOS, Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and more. These can all be freely downloaded as part of your monthly subscription.

For those with many devices at home, Surfshark eliminates the need to worry about which devices are logged in. Surfshark also offers a password manager for subscribers (for an additional fee), so you can protect various aspects of your digital life through your monthly bill. The password manager allows you to create unique alphanumeric passwords for each online account, with all these hard-to-remember passwords stored in an online repository.

All you need to remember is the password for the software repository. This means that if a worse-case scenario happens, and a website gets hacked, exposing your email address and password combination, you only need to change the login information for that site. Hackers won’t be able to use the leaked login credentials to access other websites, including online banking, email, social networks, and other more sensitive services.

Surfshark also offers secure protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN), robust encryption, and a kill switch to prevent your traffic from being exposed if the VPN connection drops. But that’s just the beginning; the service also uses private DNS to protect your browsing activity and employs multi-hop VPN to make it harder for anyone to track you. Additionally, it has ad, tracker, and malware blocking features to guard against other privacy invasions.

If you’re tired of streaming services blocking your access to overseas content, Surfshark can help. It immediately gives us access to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, C4, 9Now, and BBC iPlayer in the US, UK, Australia, Japan, and Canada.

If you need assistance setting up Surfshark or if it doesn’t meet your expectations, their support website is available to help you. You can initiate a live chat session, and we typically chatted with a customer service representative within one or two minutes, receiving helpful and accurate responses to most of our test questions.

Currently, Surfshark has over 3,200 servers in more than 90 countries and regions. In terms of pricing, Surfshark is the best value for what it provides. It is affordable and can secure all your devices from anywhere and provide secure streaming. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

You can personally try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and its plans start as low as $2.30. Requesting a refund is easy using Surfshark’s live chat feature. While the support team asked me why I wanted to cancel initially, they promptly processed my request, and I had my money back in under 4 days! Make sure you buy Surfshark and get 3 months of service for free>>

How to Download and Install Surfshark

To use Surfshark VPN, perform the following simple steps:

Go to the Surfshark website and sign up for a subscription.
Download the Surfshark app for the device you want to use.
Enter your login credentials in the VPN app.
Enable the NoBorders feature by going to: Settings > Advanced > NoBorders (toggle on).
After activating the NoBorders feature, you can use the VPN as normal.
Enjoy using Surfshark VPN now.

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3. ExpressVPN – The fastest VPN in the world.

ExpressVPN is an excellent VPN service offering incredibly fast downloads, making it ideal for streaming, online multiplayer gaming, video, VoIP calls, remote work, and global server locations.

ExpressVPN has an entire team dedicated to ensuring their servers are not blocked when attempting to stream Netflix. This means you can be assured of having the chance to bypass geographic restrictions to unlock new TV shows and movies as part of your existing subscription.

ExpressVPN also provides a free password manager (ExpressVPN Keys) that allows subscribers to create unique, secure alphanumeric logins for each website and app, and ExpressVPN Keys remembers everything for you.

Firstly, ExpressVPN boasts a robust server network, covering 94 countries with over 3,000 servers, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to unlock content from around the world. ExpressVPN is also highly secure, utilizing AES-256-bit encryption and Perfect Forward Secrecy to ensure the safety of your data.

Additionally, it has a kill switch to prevent your traffic from being exposed if the VPN connection drops. Moreover, their no-logs policy ensures your activities are never tracked or monitored. It also has P2P support and built-in DNS leak protection to ensure your security when downloading torrents. Overall, ExpressVPN provides a variety of security features to ensure your data is safe and private.

ExpressVPN is a secure VPN service that meets most security standards and regulations. Apart from more advanced features such as MediaStreamer or Threat Manager, you also get industry-standard VPN features like split tunneling and stealth mode. Split tunneling allows you to more accurately route VPN traffic, making it possible to route some traffic through the VPN while keeping other traffic unaffected. This is a good way to enjoy the benefits of a VPN without affecting online security or experience.

On the other hand, ExpressVPN‘s stealth mode disguises your VPN traffic as regular HTTP traffic, making it difficult for others to detect your VPN use. This is especially useful in countries or regions with strict censorship laws. The drawback of ExpressVPN is that it is also quite expensive; you’ll need to pay twice as much as many other high-quality VPN services, including their main competitor, NordVPN.

You will be limited to connecting five devices simultaneously, which is common for many VPN providers. It’s important to note that Surfshark allows an unlimited number of devices to be connected with any subscription, whereas NordVPN supports six connections for $3.29 per month.

When I personally tested ExpressVPN’s refund process, the support representative responded to my request in less than a minute via 24/7 live chat. I wasn’t even asked to reconsider or troubleshoot the issue. In fact, my request was processed immediately, and most importantly, I had my money back in less than 5 days! Make sure you get another 3 months free with your ExpressVPN purchase>>

How to set up ExpressVPN VPN

To use ExpressVPN, simply perform the following steps:

Go to the ExpressVPN website and sign up for a subscription.
Log in to your account and download the software for the device you want to use the VPN for.
Open the ExpressVPN app and enter the activation code (from your account page).
Now, connect to one of the nearest servers and use the internet normally.
Instantly use ExpressVPN and unlock all your online content.

How to Set Up NordVPN on iOS

Before setting up NordVPN on iOS, please create a VPN account:

Visit the official NordVPN website, and you’ll find a menu on the right side of the screen.
Click on it and select “Pricing.” The website will redirect you to NordVPN’s subscription page.
Choose a subscription plan based on your needs.
Register your details on the pop-up website by providing your email address and setting a password.
Choose your preferred payment method.
NordVPN will send a confirmation email to your provided address. Confirm it, and you can start enjoying your NordVPN subscription.

Once you’ve successfully created a NordVPN account, follow these steps to install the NordVPN app on your iOS device. Open the App Store on your iOS device.

In the App Store’s search bar, enter “NordVPN.”

Click the download button to install the NordVPN app.

After the installation is complete, you’ll find the app on your device’s home screen. Open the NordVPN app. To set up NordVPN on your iOS device, follow these steps within the app:

When you open the NordVPN app, you will be presented with a privacy notice. Click “Agree and Continue” to accept the privacy terms and policies.
Click “Log In” and enter your credentials (created during the account setup). You are now ready to proceed. Congratulations, you have successfully configured NordVPN on your iOS device.

To connect to the VPN, follow these steps:

After successfully installing the app, follow these steps to connect to your VPN: Open the NordVPN app. You will see a map with markers. Click the “Quick Connect” button. This will connect you to the fastest available server nearby. Alternatively, you can use the search option to choose a specific server.

A notification will appear asking if you allow NordVPN to add VPN configurations. Click “Allow.”

Authenticate yourself on your iOS device using TouchID or your password. You will now be connected, and the country or region at the top of the screen will turn green, showing the server you’re connected to.

You can also choose the country/region server you wish to connect to by sliding up from the bottom and selecting it.

That’s it! You can now use NordVPN on your device to stay connected or disconnect as needed. You’re fortunate to be using one of the top VPN services to protect your online privacy. Feel free to test their service, as they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to use VPN?

Yes, using a VPN is entirely legal. However, it won’t exempt you from legal consequences if you use a VPN to hide illegal activities. Using a VPN to bypass region-locked services might violate the terms of those services, but such violations are typically not enforced through punitive action.

What streaming channels can I watch with an Australian IP address?

With an Australian IP address, you can access several Australian streaming services, including:

Will using a VPN improve my privacy on social media?

To some extent, yes. A VPN can hide your IP address from social networks, preventing third parties, such as your ISP, from monitoring your social media activity. However, social networks still require you to log in to your account, so a VPN won’t hide your identity. Additionally, many social media websites use tracking cookies on your device, which VPNs do not affect.

Can a VPN prevent identity theft?

Identity theft is a broad term encompassing various criminal activities. While a VPN can help by protecting data during transmission, it is not a cure-all for preventing identity theft. VPNs can prevent data theft if identity thieves lurk on your Wi-Fi network. However, identity theft can occur in many different scenarios, and VPNs cannot safeguard against all of them. They won’t prevent data breaches, phishing attempts, or thieves rummaging through discarded documents.

Which VPN is best for watching Australian Rules Football (AFL)?

The most cost-effective way to watch Australian Rules Football (AFL) online is through Kayo, an Australian sports streaming service. NordVPN has a substantial number of servers in Australia that can unblock Kayo. Kayo’s starting price is $25 AUD per month and allows streaming on two devices.

You can also access WatchAFL.com to watch AFL Premiership games from abroad, but it’s pricier, starting at $33 USD per month. If you are outside Australia, you will need to connect to a VPN server in another country/region to use WatchAFL.com. Subscribing to NordVPN and Kayo might be cheaper than purchasing WatchAFL.com alone.

Can I watch British TV programs?

Yes! By connecting to a VPN server in the UK using one of the recommended services, you can access BBC iPlayer, All 4, ITV, Sky Go, and more British content.

How can I watch American Netflix shows on a smart TV?

Smart TVs typically don’t support VPNs. You have a few options:

Are there ways to achieve faster internet speeds with a VPN?

In most cases, a VPN slightly slows down your connection due to the encryption and decryption processes and the extra time needed to route traffic through VPN servers. A VPN can bypass some bandwidth limitations imposed by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). For example, if your ISP limits BitTorrent downloads, VPN encryption can conceal this activity, preventing your ISP from discriminating against it.

However, a VPN will not bypass indiscriminate limitations, such as when you exceed monthly data caps. In some cases, a VPN connection may use routes with less congestion or retrieve data from less congested sources, which can improve speed. Nevertheless, in most situations, this is not the case.

Using A VPN is Secure? Why You Need a VPN & How to Choose