How we review: Each provider below was evaluated on server count, jurisdiction, logging policy, protocol support, and device limits. Pricing and features change frequently — confirm current details on each provider's website before subscribing.
Overview
What to look for in a VPN
Every VPN works by encrypting your internet connection and routing it through a server in a different location. Beyond that, providers differ significantly in the areas below — understanding these helps you choose a service that fits your situation.
Jurisdiction
Where the company is legally based affects what laws govern your data and whether the provider can be compelled to share it.
Logging policy
A no-logs policy means the provider does not record your browsing activity. Third-party audits offer independent verification.
Protocol
The VPN protocol affects speed and security. WireGuard and OpenVPN are widely regarded as reliable choices.
Server network
More servers and locations give you more IP choices and generally more stable connections in different regions.
Device support
Check how many simultaneous connections a subscription allows and whether apps are available for your devices.
Free tier / trial
Some providers offer free plans with data limits, and most paid plans include a money-back guarantee period.
Overview
5 well-known VPN providers
No ranking implied.
Most Popular Choice
NordVPN — Best for most users
Largest server network, audited no-logs policy, and apps for every device.
Get NordVPN
One of the most widely used VPN services globally, with a large server network and a no-logs policy audited multiple times by independent firms.
Key features
- 6,000+ servers in 111 countries
- No-logs policy audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers
- NordLynx protocol (WireGuard-based)
- Up to 10 simultaneous devices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Commonly used for
General privacy
Streaming
Business
Everyday use
One of the older VPN services, with a large global server network, an audited always-on no-logs policy, and port forwarding support.
Key features
- 6,500+ servers in 65+ countries
- Always-on audit (KPMG-verified no-logs)
- WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 protocols
- Up to 10 simultaneous devices
- 31-day money-back guarantee
Commonly used for
General privacy
Streaming
Port forwarding
Long-term subscribers
A long-running VPN service offering a broad server network, split tunneling, and a dedicated IP option at a budget-friendly price point.
Key features
- 5,700+ servers in 100+ locations
- No-logs policy
- Split tunneling and kill switch
- Up to 10 simultaneous devices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Commonly used for
Budget users
Streaming
Torrenting
General privacy
Offers unlimited simultaneous device connections and owns its entire server infrastructure, which the company says removes third-party data exposure.
Key features
- 2,400+ servers in 90+ locations
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Owns and manages all servers (no third parties)
- WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 protocols
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Commonly used for
Multiple devices
Families
Kodi / IPTV
General privacy
Built by the team behind Proton Mail, with fully open-source clients, Swiss privacy law protections, and a free tier with no data cap.
Key features
- 8,400+ servers in 112 countries
- Free plan available (no data cap)
- Fully open-source, independently audited
- Stealth protocol for censorship circumvention
- Up to 10 simultaneous devices
Commonly used for
Privacy-first
Free users
Open-source advocates
Proton ecosystem
Before You Choose
Questions to ask yourself
What is your main reason for using a VPN?
Privacy from your ISP, streaming geo-restricted content, security on public Wi-Fi, and bypassing censorship each have different requirements. Some providers optimise specifically for one area.
Where are you located?
VPN laws vary by country. In most countries VPNs are legal, but some restrict or ban them. Always verify your local regulations before signing up.
How many devices do you need to cover?
Device limits vary — some providers cap at 10 simultaneous connections while others (like IPVanish) allow unlimited. If you want to cover a whole household, this matters.
Is jurisdiction important to you?
Some users prefer providers outside the 14-Eyes intelligence alliance (e.g. Panama, BVI, Switzerland, Malaysia, Romania). Others prioritise audited no-logs policies regardless of location.
Free Tools on This Site
Check your current IP and privacy status
Before and after choosing a VPN, you can use our free tools to see what information your connection exposes.