When it comes to choosing a VPN for private web browsers, there are a lot of choices. There are easy-to-use options for beginners, like Private Internet Access (PIA), and more advanced choices, such as NordVPN, which I used before discovering Proton VPN. I’ve been a massive fan of Proton’s products and zero-knowledge architecture. Their products are end-to-end encrypted, providing peace of mind for even the least important content. Proton VPN is a cross-platform and open-source client that makes it easy to ensure secure and encrypted communications, regardless of the computer or mobile device you use.
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Government surveillance protection
It’s not part of the Five, Nine, or 14 Eyes alliances
The countries that are part of the 5+ Eyes security alliance are designed for security monitoring and threat intelligence sharing. The countries in these alliances conduct communication surveillance worldwide and share the findings with other allies. Proton VPN provides you with extra peace of mind by ensuring your data isn’t shared with anyone.
Since it is based in Switzerland, the VPN operates under Swiss privacy laws and is outside the jurisdiction of the United States and the European Union. In contrast, PIA and other popular VPNs are based in the US and other countries known to spy on everything—does the NSA ring a bell? This is important to consider if you have a VPN that you want to ensure is truly private.
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Advanced features
In addition to end-to-end encryption, Proton VPN has some cool extras that make it a pleasure to use. It includes helpful advanced security features, including a permanent kill switch, which ensures your PC or phone is the only one connecting through the VPN. So, if you’re using it on your phone, you can toggle the switch to prevent other devices from being connected. This ability prevents data leaks.
Speaking of leaks, it includes always-on DNS leak protection to ensure private browsing. The NetShield ad blocker stops trackers and malicious content in their tracks. Another essential feature for many VPN users is Tor over VPN, which provides an extra layer of anonymity while using Tor browsers. These are just a few additional security features that make Proton a great VPN.
Another critical feature is double-hop routing between servers to improve privacy while using it. It also includes other advanced VPN functionality, like split-tunneling, custom DNS, P2P downloads, double-hop connectivity, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and more. It also includes its own “Stealth” protocol to bypass government censorship.
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Audited privacy
Feel comfortable with transparency and trust
All Proton apps are open-source, which provides a level of trust since anyone can view the source code to check for vulnerabilities. In addition, independent security professionals audit it regularly, so it is ready for public trust. This is not only because of an easy-to-read privacy policy but also because of the audits. Independent tech professionals ensure no user log traffic sharing, device, protocol, app discrimination, or speed throttling of your VPN connection. Auditors also ensure successful no-logs policies, in which the company has passed the audit for the past three years.
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Affordable plans
Find the subscription that works best for you
Let’s start with the good news. Proton VPN is free, has medium speed, and has unlimited data/bandwidth. Most free VPNs are untrustworthy. They aren’t secure, contain malware, perform poorly, leak data, and more. However, you get the same trust, security, and reliability with the free version as a premium subscription. You can use it for free on one device at a time and connect to servers in five countries. There are other limitations, like advanced features, but the price can’t be beat when connecting to a public network.
A paid plan starts at $9.99-4.49/month, depending on whether it is on sale. I like all of Proton’s products, so I subscribe to Proton Unlimited, which includes Mail, Drive, Calendar, Drive, and Wallet, all with advanced features. Proton also includes plans for families and business customers.
ProtonVPN
- Servers
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3,000
- Countries
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69
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Straightforward usability
Easy to connect and use advanced protections
Proton VPN includes a straightforward and responsive user interface on your computer or phone. Since it is part of a larger ecosystem, access to Proton VPN, Docs, Drive, Mail, and other products is seamless. For instance, if you have the web version of Proton Mail open, you can access the VPN. You can also launch the desktop app or use it on your iPhone or Android device while on the go, when you need privacy.
Regardless of the platform, using Proton VPN on any device, including Linux or Chromebook, is a breeze. I also run the VPN and manage my Proton Drive. Yes, Drive (and all Proton services) already includes end-to-end encryption, but I have more peace of mind knowing the VPN is giving me an extra layer of protection. This is especially helpful when my device is connected to public or unfamiliar Wi-Fi networks.
Proton VPN is the one everyone should use
I can honestly say that I chose Proton VPN over all others, and you might want it too. I have used several different VPNs on the market, each with its pros and cons. However, I trust the entire Proton ecosystem of apps and services, and it’s now my preferred VPN. Using it is straightforward, and its performance is remarkable. Proton stands out for its security, no-log policy, and advanced feature set. Unless there is some major breach or malfunction, I can’t see myself returning to NordVPN, Express VPN, PIA, or anything else in the near future.
However, it is worth noting that Proton has fewer countries to connect to. However, the VPN’s usability, privacy-focused nature, and security options make up for fewer connections in my book. Even if you already have a preferred VPN, try the free version and see what you think. You have nothing to lose, plus with a Proton account, you have free limited access to its other products.
