Detailed Review and Tests of the Top 10 VPN
Best for Unlimited Devices:
9.2
Total Score
The next participant in the rating offers a 30-day trial period for familiarization. The private network has provided a so-called "camouflage mode" that hides user information. Surfshark is suitable for Windows and MacOS computer owners. However, one should not expect flawless stability from the "shark": speed sometimes drops three times from the maximum indicator (228 Mbps). Addresses can be set to change every 5-10 minutes for public networks. As for watching movies and series, the service is suitable for Disney+ and Hulu customers.
Pros:
- Offers a 30-day trial period.
- Camouflage mode to hide user information.
- Suitable for Disney+ and Hulu.
Cons:
- Speed drops significantly (up to three times from the maximum indicator).
- Stability issues
General specification:
Servers:
Over 3200
Countries:
65+
1 month:
$12.95
1 year:
$3.99/month
5 years:
$2.49/month
Connected devices:
Unlimited
Free plan:
No
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | You can choose between light and dark themes. | 4/5 |
| Ease of Use | The large number of functions sometimes confuses users. | 4/5 |
| Performance | The service is not always stable - "slowdowns" are possible. | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | Excellent solution for using the Internet in China and Russia. | 5/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | With "camouflage mode," encrypted traffic cannot be distinguished from regular traffic. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Specialists can be contacted via email or phone. | 4/5 |
| Price | Low fee for 1 and 2-year tariffs. Monthly offers, however, are considered more expensive than annual ones. | 4/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No-logs policy
Jurisdiction:
British Virgin Islands
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
Shared/Dynamic
Protocols:
OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2
FEATURES:
Support:
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, browsers
Money Back Guarantee:
30 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 80 Mbps
- Connection speed: Rapid, typically takes a few seconds
- Ping Almaty: 25-35 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Best for Advanced Users:
8.9
Total Score
The "bronze medalist" among the best services stands out for its flexibility and versatility. PIA has open-source code - vulnerabilities can be easily found and fixed. Not only regular computer owners can use this private network but also programmers.
Pros:
- Open-source code for easy vulnerability detection and fixing.
- Flexible and versatile.
- Suitable for both regular users and programmers.
Cons:
- The user interface is less intuitive and user-friendly compared to competitors.
- Occasional connection drops and speed issues.
- Based in the US, which may concern privacy-focused users due to jurisdiction.
General specification:
Servers:
Over 35000
Countries:
78+
1 month:
$11.95
1 year:
$3.33/month
5 years:
$2.19/month
Connected devices:
10
Free plan:
No
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | The design is similar to the Windows 10 settings menu. If necessary, you can change the "picture". | 4/5 |
| Ease of Use | PIA is suitable not only for simple users but also for programmers. | 5/5 |
| Performance | High and stable connection speed observed for Windows. Small "slowdowns" possible with MacOS. | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | Servers are scattered around the world, convenient for accessing most sites. | 5/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | Flexible system blocking ads. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Assistance available anytime. | 5/5 |
| Price | Advantageous use of annual tariffs at a reduced fee per month. | 4/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No-logs policy
Jurisdiction:
United States
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
None reported
Protocols:
OpenVPN, WireGuard
FEATURES:
Support:
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, browsers
Money Back Guarantee:
30 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 75 Mbps
- Connection speed: Fast, within a few seconds to connect
- Ping Almaty: 35-45 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Fastest VPN:
8.8
Total Score
The fourth option is used by a large audience - 650 million people as of 2024. The functionality includes hiding the IP address, anonymous browsing, and virus protection. HS works equally well on devices of the "big three": Windows, Linux, MacOS. Two plans are available: Free and Premium ($8 per month). The latter is convenient for watching Netflix movies or series, as well as for gaming sessions of Fortnite or Roblox.
Pros:
- Large user base (650 million as of 2024).
- Provides anonymous browsing and virus protection.
- Works well on Windows, Linux, and MacOS.
Cons:
- Speed may decrease with distance from the server.
- Not recommended for prolonged gaming sessions or video conferences
General specification:
Servers:
3200+
Countries:
80+
1 month:
$12.99
1 year:
$7.99/month
Connected devices:
5
Free plan:
Yes, with limited data
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Simple design without unnecessary elements: speed graphs, world map with connected server. | 4/5 |
| Ease of Use | Basic functions are open regardless of the chosen plan. | 5/5 |
| Performance | At high connection speed, loading significantly suffers: for networks at 250 Mbps, the value drops 5 times. Hotspot is not suitable for people creating content on YouTube. | 3/5 |
| Unblocking | The Free version is limited to US servers. For international access, you need to purchase the Premium package. | 3/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | Reliable encryption and data leak protection using the Hydra protocol. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Don't expect advice from consultants. | 2/5 |
| Price | Discounts are possible for subscriptions longer than a year. | 4/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No-logs policy
Jurisdiction:
United States
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
Shared
Protocols:
Hydra VPN
FEATURES:
Support:
Not specified
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, browsers
Money Back Guarantee:
45 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 85 Mbps
- Connection speed: Very fast due to its proprietary Hydra protocol
- Ping Almaty: 20-30 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Best Integrated with Other Security Products:
8.7
Total Score
A universal equivalent suitable for Windows and MacOS operating systems. Servers are concentrated in 29 countries worldwide (including the USA, Singapore, Brazil, the UK). During operation, the service does not keep logs: information is not retained in the system. Despite reliable protection, Norton lags behind several rating candidates in several parameters. For example, for some connection points, the speed does not exceed 70 Mbps - it decreases depending on the distance from the computer to the selected server. This indicator is quite enough for regular Netflix movie viewing or YouTube videos. Due to low download speed, VPN is not recommended for prolonged gaming sessions or video conferences.
As for prices, the network allows saving on annual tariffs. The connection cost for five devices will be $40. If the user purchases the Norton Deluxe 360 package (which includes antivirus), the total price increases to $50. Users can try the free product version before purchasing the packages. Refunds are processed within 2 months after cancellation.
Pros:
- Does not keep logs.
- Cost-effective for annual tariffs.
- Users can try the free product version before purchasing.
Cons:
- Speed can be low (not exceeding 70 Mbps).
- Not suitable for prolonged gaming sessions or video conferences.
General specification:
Servers:
Not disclosed
Countries:
30+
1 month:
$4.99 (1 device)
1 year:
$39.99 (5 devices)
Connected devices:
1, 5, or 10 depending on plan
Free plan:
No
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comment | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Simple design without unnecessary elements, includes search for options and their configuration. | 5/5 |
| Ease of Use | Each function is in its place. For some parameters, you need to open the settings menu. | 4/5 |
| Performance | The speed is insufficient for conferences or prolonged gaming sessions. | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | A small number of available locations means limited access to resources. | 3/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | Users need not worry about leaks or IP address disclosure. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Specialists are always available. | 5/5 |
| Price | Most functions are unlocked with the rather expensive Norton Deluxe 360 package (including antivirus). | 4/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No sensitive logs
Jurisdiction:
United States
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
Dynamic
Protocols:
OpenVPN (Windows), IKEv2 (iOS & macOS)
FEATURES:
Support:
Not specified
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Money Back Guarantee:
60 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 70 Mbps
- Connection speed: Moderate, can take some seconds
- Ping Almaty: 40-50 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Best for Kodi and Streaming:
8.5
Total Score
The sixth position in the best private networks ranking of 2024 prioritizes customer support.
Consultants help solve user problems 24/7. They can be contacted by phone or through chat.
IPVanish's reputation was somewhat "tarnished" in 2016: the service provided information to the US government about a criminal. Since then, protection protocols have been updated: any user information "disappears" from logs. Over 1600 servers from 75 countries are under the control of the "disappearing" network. In addition to monthly and annual tariff plans, an additional 250 gigabytes of storage are offered in the SugarSync system.
As for speed, IPVanish provides a stable connection with servers. "Slowdowns" are almost nonexistent, and the speed approaches 240 Mbps. The computer application has a basic set of functions: an emergency switch, selection between several connection protocols, and a speed indicator. The program is convenient to use: it helps determine which server "accelerates" faster than the rest - which is convenient for gaming sessions or evening Netflix series viewing.
Pros:
- 24/7 customer support via phone or chat.
- Stable connection with speeds up to 240 Mbps.
- Offers 250 GB of additional storage in SugarSync.
Cons:
- Past reputation issues (provided information to the US government in 2016).
- Basic set of functions compared to some competitors.
General specification:
Servers:
1500+
Countries:
75+
1 month:
$10.99
1 year:
$3.75/month
Connected devices:
Unlimited
Free plan:
No
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comment | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Free choice between white and black themes with green accents for tools. | 5/5 |
| Ease of Use | Server search is simplified - you can determine the optimal connection speed with one click. | 5/5 |
| Performance | Acceptable indicators regardless of the OS used. | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | More than a thousand connection points: enough to access many sites. | 5/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | After the 2016 incident, protection measures have only strengthened: no third-party tracking occurs. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Consultants can be contacted by phone or chat. | 5/5 |
| Price | The tariffs are quite expensive, but the additional 250 gigabytes of storage are worth it. | 4/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No sensitive logs
Jurisdiction:
United States
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
Shared
Protocols:
OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP, SSTP, PPTP
FEATURES:
Support:
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux
Money Back Guarantee:
30 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 80 Mbps
- Connection speed: Quick, usually under a few seconds
- Ping Almaty: 30-40 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Best for Security Features:
8.3
Total Score
This option does not require installation on the device. When subscribing, you can add additional features to taste, such as protection against external threats like viruses or hacking.
Pros:
- The service blocks suspicious sites and ads.
- Encryption methods are regularly updated, and IP addresses are not kept in the registry.
- Speed indicators are impressive: with improved protection, data transfer accelerates to 225 Mbps.
- Data exchange occurs steadily: no "slowdowns" were observed during tests.
- The distance of the servers does not particularly affect the connection.
Cons:
- Some servers can be slow or unreliable.
- Past security breach in 2018, which may concern some users.
- The double VPN feature can significantly slow down connection speeds.
- Users can choose between two protocols: OpenVPN or NordLynx.
General specification:
Servers:
Over 5400+
Countries:
60+
1 month:
$12.99/month
1 year:
$59.88/year ($4.99/month)
5 years:
Not typically offered often limited to 2 years at $99.00 ($4.13/month) with discounts
Connected devices:
Up to 6 simultaneously
Free plan:
No free plan available
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Simple and clear design without unnecessary elements. Dark mode available for night surfing. | 5/5 |
| Ease of Use | Servers are displayed on a world map, simplifying selection. Protection and data exchange are enabled with one button click. | 5/5 |
| Performance | High speed even when connecting to remote servers. | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | Most websites, depending on the tariff plan. | 5/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | User information leaks are excluded thanks to private DNS. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Consultants are not always available to solve issues. | 3/5 |
| Price | Offers are expensive, but investments justify the costs. | 4/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No-logs policy
Jurisdiction:
Panama
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
Shared
Protocols:
OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, NordLynx (WireGuard)
FEATURES:
Support:
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, browsers
Money Back Guarantee:
30 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 85 Mbps
- Connection speed: Quick, usually within a few seconds
- Ping Almaty: 20-30 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Best for Speed and Reliability:
8.3
Total Score
This option is most often promoted by bloggers and content reviewers on YouTube. The "big three" computer systems (Windows, Linux, MacOS) are not the only platforms compatible with such a popular network in 2024. Compatibility is also confirmed for browsers (Opera, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge), "smart" TV (Apple TV, Android TV), and the latest generation gaming consoles (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch).
In addition to installation on routers, a special router called ExpressVPN Aircove is offered. It is a powerful tool for blocking trackers and ads. Another option is the portable version of the Aircove Go router, convenient for travel and quick connections to public Wi-Fi networks.
Pros:
- Compatible with a wide range of platforms (including smart TVs and gaming consoles).
- Offers a special router (ExpressVPN Aircove) for blocking trackers and ads.
- Portable Aircove Go router for quick connections to public Wi-Fi networks.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to other VPN services.
- Limited advanced configuration options for experienced users.
- Some servers can be inconsistent in speed and performance.
General specification:
Servers:
3000+
Countries:
94+
1 month:
$12.95
1 year:
$8.32/month
Connected devices:
5
Free plan:
NO
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comment | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Simple appearance without unnecessary "frills". | 4/5 |
| Ease of Use | All available information about the connection status and server list is visible to the user. | 5/5 |
| Performance | One of the best options in its class, suitable for watching 4K videos on Windows computers. MacOS owners may experience "slowdowns". | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | A large selection of countries means limitless possibilities for site access. | 5/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | Advanced encryption algorithms exclude detection. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Consultations are conducted in many languages, convenient for millions of users. | 5/5 |
| Price | Quite an expensive option, but promo codes from YouTube bloggers help acquire tariffs with discounts. | 4/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No sensitive logs
Jurisdiction:
British Virgin Islands
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
Shared
Protocols:
OpenVPN, Lightway, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec
FEATURES:
Support:
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers
Money Back Guarantee:
30 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 90 Mbps
- Connection speed: Very fast, typically within a few seconds
- Ping Almaty: 15-25 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Best for Streaming Services:
7.9
Total Score
The "ghost" is perfect for MacOS desctop, but when working with the more popular Windows system, "slowdowns" occur. CyberGhost has the same flexibility as ExpressVPN: it freely connects to mobile phones, gaming consoles, and "smart" TV like Apple TV.
The "ghost network" uses system RAM during operation - the processed information disappears after each device reboot. Thousands of servers from 100 countries are available: most sites become accessible for viewing. Reliable encryption is provided by the AES-256 protocol: unauthorized users cannot hack the advanced algorithm. Processed traffic is transmitted through a special VPN tunnel. The function set is the same as competitors: an emergency switch, tunnel splitting (available only in the Android smartphone version), and automatic connection.
CyberGhost's pricing policy follows this rule: the longer the subscription period, the lower the monthly fee. For example, the total cost for 2 years of use will be $56.94 - the monthly fee is reduced to $2.19. If a user needs a private network for just one month, they will have to "splurge" on $13.
Pros:
- Uses system RAM, ensuring information disappears after each reboot.
- Reliable encryption with AES-256 protocol.
- Flexible subscription pricing.
Cons:
- Slowdowns when working with Windows.
- More expensive for a one-month subscription.
General specification:
Servers:
7700+
Countries:
91+
1 month:
$12.99
1 year:
$3.99/month
Connected devices:
7
Free plan:
No
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comment | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | In many aspects, the design is similar to standard Windows and MacOS programs. | 4/5 |
| Ease of Use | Country list for connection, "Favorites" menu, and settings are available anytime. | 5/5 |
| Performance | Not recommended for Windows owners due to slow connection. | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | About 10,000 connection points - a rich choice of sites for viewing. | 5/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | Popular sites (Netflix, YouTube) practically do not detect IP addresses. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Available only through the official CyberGhost website. | 4/5 |
| Price | Users should purchase tariffs for more than 1 year due to the economical monthly fee. | 4/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No-logs policy
Jurisdiction:
Romania
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
Shared
Protocols:
OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard
FEATURES:
Support:
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers
Money Back Guarantee:
45 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 75 Mbps
- Connection speed: Generally fast, connects within seconds
- Ping Almaty: 30-40 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Best for Privacy Focus:
7.8
Total Score
The ninth recommendation of 2024 for computer users is also a high-speed and reliable option. The network's development was aided by leading institutes worldwide (MIT, CERN). Proton VPN thoroughly hides IP addresses from prying eyes. Confidentiality is particularly strictly observed according to Swiss standards. The standard functionality includes the advanced NetShield ad blocker: connections to suspicious sources do not occur. Each address request is processed directly by Proton, and providers do not receive browser history.
Proton VPN can conditionally be called a "speed record holder". Connection with individual points reaches up to 10 Gbps: this parameter exceeds similar parameters of competitors. Analogous to ExpressVPN and CyberGhost, reliable information encryption is assisted by the AES-256 protocol with the RSA algorithm.
Pros:
- High-speed connections (up to 10 Gbps).
- Strict confidentiality standards.
- Advanced NetShield ad blocker.
Cons:
- Limited free plan options, which may not include all features.
- The interface can be complex for beginners.
- No native app for some platforms, requiring manual setup.
General specification:
Servers:
1700+
Countries:
63+
1 month:
$5.00 (Basic), $10.00 (Plus)
1 year:
$4.00/month (Basic), $8.00/month (Plus)
Connected devices:
2 (Basic), 10 (Plus)
Free plan:
Yes, with limited features and servers
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comment | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | All necessary information is visible on a dark background: speed graph, world map with server locations, settings menu. | 5/5 |
| Ease of Use | The user can visually assess the connection status and change its configuration in the tabs. | 5/5 |
| Performance | Optimal loading but slowdowns observed with downloads. High-speed servers are not always available. | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | Access to some popular sites may be intermittently blocked. | 4/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | Information processing occurs directly with Proton's participation. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Works for Windows and MacOS owners but unavailable for browser versions. | 4/5 |
| Price | High prices regardless of subscription period. | 3/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No-logs policy
Jurisdiction:
Switzerland
Encryption:
AES-256
Data Leaks:
None reported
IP addresses:
Shared
Protocols:
OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard
FEATURES:
Support:
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux
Money Back Guarantee:
30 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 70 Mbps
- Connection speed: Fast, connection times are quick
- Ping Almaty: 40-50 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
Best Newcomer:
7.5
Total Score
The last participant in the rating is significantly simplified compared to previous positions. Despite the minimal set of functions, the network is equipped with everything necessary for reliable user protection. For example, in addition to the 256-bit encryption protocol, there is an IKEv2, UDP, or TCP configuration. An emergency switch is also provided if the computer owner needs an urgent connection break. However, a drawback is noted: UltraVPN lacks a virus blocker. Another issue is the 2024 privacy policy. On the one hand, the private network does not log user activity, but on the other, it guarantees the transmission of information to local law enforcement agencies.
Prices for using the network are quite low - $8 per month. The most advantageous offer (2 years) costs only $2 per month. The number of available servers is reduced compared to competitors - only 100 points from 60 countries worldwide.
Pros:
- Minimal set of functions for reliable user protection.
- Cost-effective pricing.
- Emergency switch for urgent connection breaks.
Cons:
- Lacks a virus blocker.
- Privacy policy allows transmission of information to local law enforcement agencies.
- Fewer available servers compared to competitors.
General specification:
Servers:
1000+
Countries:
100+
1 month:
$7.99
1 year:
$3.75/month
Connected devices:
6
Free plan:
No
SUMMARY TABLE:
| Feature | Comment | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Basic set of functions without protocol switching capability. | 4/5 |
| Unblocking | Wide access despite a limited number of servers. | 5/5 |
| Protection and Privacy | Advanced encryption methods: hacking attempts are not scary. | 5/5 |
| Technical Support | Available only via email. | 4/5 |
| Price | Advantageous cost for both monthly and 2-year subscriptions. | 5/5 |
Security and anonymity:
Logging:
No-logs policy
Jurisdiction:
United Kingdom
Encryption:
Switzerland
Data Leaks:
AES-256
IP addresses:
None reported
Protocols:
OpenVPN, IKEv2
FEATURES:
Support:
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Money Back Guarantee:
30 days
Test result (average):
- Download Speed: 65 Mbps
- Connection speed: Moderate to fast
- Ping Almaty: 30-50 ms
Applications for mobile devices:
Applications for PC and laptops:
FAQ
Conclusions
In this section, we summarize all services and consider some frequently asked questions. If you are interested in which VPN is the best, we suggest starting from the tasks it solves. Are you more interested in games? Perhaps you need a VPN for streaming? Think about your goal and don't rush to buy a subscription to the top-1 from the list. The service should solve your tasks and not just be a well-sold service. Below we consider the questions that often arise for VPN buyers.
How to Check Your VPN?
To check VPN speed, the most commonly used service is Speedtest. Simply turn on your VPN, go to the main page, and click the "GO" button, after which the service will calculate the main parameters: download speed, upload speed, and ping. It is important to understand that when using a browser VPN, the service may not always calculate the data correctly. If the service has difficulties, the main page with the "GO" button simply will not load. In this case, try using a desktop client or switch from Android to iOS.
What is Ping?
Ping is an indicator of the time it takes for data to be transmitted and is a measure of latency. A low ping indicates a fast response time, which is essential for gaming in 2024. Ping is measured in milliseconds (ms).
What are Download Speed and Upload Speed?
Download Speed: This is the time it takes to receive data. It is measured in megabits per second (Mbps) and indicates how fast web pages and content load.
Upload Speed: This measures the speed of sending data, such as uploading videos, sending emails, transferring files, etc. Like download speed, it is measured in Mbps but is generally lower since users typically receive more data than they send.
Upload Speed: This measures the speed of sending data, such as uploading videos, sending emails, transferring files, etc. Like download speed, it is measured in Mbps but is generally lower since users typically receive more data than they send.
Does VPN Reduce Internet Speed?
Unfortunately, even in 2024, the best VPN will negatively impact your internet connection speed. This is because you connect through a "gateway" in another country. The closer the gateway is to you as a user, the less likely your connection speed will drop. However, there will still be some loss of speed. The more expensive the VPN, the more "gateways" it has in different countries, reducing the overall speed loss. To understand the speed and what affects it, we suggest using the table below.
OpenVPN
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: Slower speed. Requires third-party software.
L2TP/IPSec
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: Closed source. Firewall limitations.
WireGuard
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: New, not extensively tested. Traffic shaping due to lack of TCP support.
PPTP
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: Less secure. Easy to block. Known vulnerabilities.
IKEv2
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: Closed source. Firewall limitations.
OpenVPN
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: Slower speed. Requires third-party software.
L2TP/IPSec
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: Closed source. Firewall limitations.
WireGuard
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: New, not extensively tested. Traffic shaping due to lack of TCP support.
PPTP
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: Less secure. Easy to block. Known vulnerabilities.
IKEv2
Pros:Open source. Wide configuration options.
Cons: Closed source. Firewall limitations.
Are VPNs Legal?
It depends on the country where you are using it. In 2024, there is no law prohibiting the use of VPNs for home use. However, no one guarantees that this will not change in the future. While using VPNs is not punishable, you may still face prosecution if you use VPNs for illegal activities such as selling drugs or spreading fake news about armed forces. Therefore, VPNs should be used cautiously.
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TOP VPN for Windows get a USA IP: reviews & tests
In this article, we will look at VPNs that change the IP of users. VPN (virtual private network) is a virtual private network. It is important for us to have a client for Windows, as well as relatively high speed when exchanging data. After all, when we use an operating system, we want to unlock the full potential of the platform.
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Top VPN Apps for mobile in 2024 | Reviews and tests
Sometimes, there is a need to use the public Internet in some place, or to visit a website or download an application that is not available in your country or region. What to do in such a case? The answer is simple - you need to use a VPN. But which one is the best? Let's try to figure it out.
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TOP VPN for Laptops | Secure and Fast Connections
VPN or Private Virtual Network is a very good assistant when working at your laptop, completely encrypting your data and preserving your anonymity on the Internet. It helps to bypass the blocking of most applications and services that are not available in your country for one reason or another. VPN helps not only in cases of bypassing the blocking of services, but also if you need to connect to a public WI-FI network and you are afraid for your data. A VPN can also help you with this, keeping your personal data completely private and protected.
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