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Do I Need a VPN?
A virtual private network (VPN) protects your online privacy and security. Security is an important consideration for anyone who uses the internet. We all want protection from hackers, malware and adware. However, VPNs are especially beneficial for certain types of online activity, such as:
- Public WiFi network use
- Streaming services
- Travel to foreign countries
VPN software is available with a variety of protective features. Read on to learn how VPNs work and how to find the best VPN 2025 for your needs.
How Do VPNs Work?
A VPN provides an encrypted connection between your device and the internet. When you want to access a website or app, the VNS hides your public IP address and replaces it with the VPN server’s address. This connection is known as an encrypted tunnel. It protects your privacy and security by hiding your public IP and encrypting your online activity. You may be browsing the internet from your computer at home, but your queries will look like they’re coming from a different location.
What Should I Look For in a VPN?
The best VPN 2025 for your needs will depend on your personal preferences and online activity. For example, you may need a platform that is compatible with multiple devices or that optimizes speed. VPN platforms have many similarities, but there are some differences. The following sections describe features that you should look for when shopping for a VPN.
Know Why You Want a VPN
Not all VPNs have the same features. Make sure you find the best VPN for your needs. Do you need a VPN for your entire household? Look for a VPN that allows multiple connections at the same time. If you plan to stream movies, speed is an important consideration. For frequent travelers who use public WiFi, security and servers in multiple locations are a must.
User-Friendly Interface
If you are not tech savvy, you’ll want a VPN that is easy to set up and use. Although some platforms have a complex interface, others are good for beginners. The best VPNs for beginners have simple and straightforward procedures. Some platforms do the configuring for you and set up your VNS online.
Device Compatibility
Look for a VPN that is compatible with the devices and platforms you use. For example, if you have a Mac computer and an Android phone, you’ll need a VPN that works with Mac and offers an Android app. Check for Chrome and Firefox extensions for browser-level control if needed. Some VPNs can be used with Apple TV, PlayStation, Roku and other apps and devices.
Security and Privacy
If you are searching for a VPN, security and privacy are no doubt important to you. Security is especially crucial when you are using public WiFi. For example, security features such as WireGuard and OpenVPN protect your streaming, gaming and web browsing. MultiHop provides several encryption layers by rotating your connecting among multiple VPN locations.
To protect your privacy, look for VPNs that have tools to block malware, adware and third-party trackers. When you use these tools, your computer doesn’t have to load ads or store unwanted data. Besides privacy protection, the result can be increased storage space and even improved speed.
A no-logs policy means that the VPN does not collect or store your real IP address, browsing activity or queries. As long as it goes through your VPN connection, your online activity will be protected. Exceptions may include data that the VPN provider needs to provide services to you.
Streaming Capabilities
Some online streaming services are restricted in certain parts of the world. If you want to stream geo-restricted online content, look for a VPN platform that includes smart DNS technology. This feature lets you bypass restrictions by logging in with the DNS platform’s credentials. The encrypted DNS protects your privacy while you stream your favorite movies or music.
Some server locations, such as the US and UK, are more widely used than others. For this reason, fast international speeds are another important consideration when choosing a VPN for streaming.
Number of Servers and Locations
If you plan on traveling to a less developed country, server location is a key consideration. Before you commit to a VPN, make sure it has servers in or near the country where you plan to travel. Some countries have especially heavy censorship and restrictions. If plan to spend time in a location with limited internet access, you’ll need a VPN with strong encryption that can unblock your internet access.
Speed
If speed is important for your internet use, you’ll need a VPN with features that optimize speed. Online streaming services, for example require speed. For reliable speed and performance, look for VPN platforms with bandwidths as high as 20Gbps. A large number of servers can also help maintain speed by letting you connect to a server near your location. Some VPN platforms have thousands of servers in 100 or more countries.
Reliable Customer Service
Once you’ve found a VPN that has all the features you need, there’s still one more consideration: reliable customer service. Troubleshooting guides and articles on the company website can provide some of the answers you need. You should be able to access customer service at least by email.
However, 24/7 live chat can give you quick access when you need it most. If you’re having trouble using a streaming service or accessing a website, you may not want to wait until the next day for an email response.
Fast VPN
Speed is one of the most important considerations for many people, especially those who plan to do more than just search online. A fast VPN can make streaming movies and shows a smoother experience by helping prevent buffering, which can take away from the viewing experience.
A high-speed VPN connection may also make downloading big files, watching videos, and gaming easier, faster, and, therefore, more enjoyable. Choosing a more secure, fast VPN for desktops, laptops, and smartphones is easier when you know how to find the best ones. The following information may help you with that.
How Do I Find the Best VPN 2025?
Internet security is a serious matter, and you want to choose a VPN that will protect your privacy. With so many brands and features available, searching for a VPN platform can be a daunting task. The following sections offer tips for finding the right VPN.
Shop Online
The internet is a great tool when it comes to finding VPN software. Although the software is available at brick-and-mortar stores, online shopping has several advantages. The internet lets you shop at a time that’s convenient for you, even if it’s after midnight. You can take your time reading product descriptions, without any pressure. And you don’t have to drive from store to store, looking for the best VPN software for your online use.
Read Reviews
Searching for the right VPN can be overwhelming, especially for a beginner. There are so many technological terms, features and considerations, it’s hard to know where to start. Just visiting multiple websites can be time consuming and frustrating.
We know how important it is to be able to make an informed decision. For that reason, we have researched and reviewed top VPN platforms for you. You can read reviews of multiple brands, all on one website. Just click the links at the top of this page to read the reviews. We’ll let you know the main features, benefits and disadvantages of the VPN platforms we review.
On the same page, we even include a VPN comparison chart that lets you compare VPN brands at a glance. Use the chart to find out if brands have the features you need.
Compare Payment Options
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices for VPN platforms, you’ll want to decide which payment options will work for you. Depending on the company, subscriptions are available in monthly, annual or multi-year plans. An initial low rate may be available when you start your subscription, but the renewal rate may be higher. Companies generally accept major credit cards, but some also let you pay with Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Look for Free Trials and Money-Back Guarantees
A free trial can take some of the pressure off choosing a VPN platform. It helps to be able to use the VPN and test the features that are important to you. Some companies will let you try their product for free up to 30 days or more. Depending on the company, you may not even have to provide a credit card number to start the trial.
You should also check refund policies and find out if there is a money-back guarantee. Some companies offer money-back guarantees that last 30 days or other period of time. It’s good to know that a company is willing to back its product with a money-back guarantee.
VPN Comparison
Easily compare and contrast leading VPN providers using the handy chart above on this page. The VPN comparison chart shows you the top features, ease of use, compatibility, our rating, and more for leading platforms. Our reviews are also accessible from there if you want more details on what to expect and our opinions.
Based on our team’s research, review, and VPN comparison, we consider the top choices to be:
Total VPN
Surfshark VPN
NordVPN