The need for a safer internet has never been more pronounced. There is a global pandemic of cyber vulnerabilities, and people constantly seek ways to evade them. Virtual Private Networks are a popular in-demand approach, and Forbes data shows that about 77% of people use these tools to protect their data. Surely, if it doesn’t work, we won’t have as many people resorting to it daily. Users are also being more creative with utilizing these tools, like gaining access to websites like Ice Casino that are unavailable in their location. If you’ve considered joining this majority of individuals and you’re on the hunt for the best VPN services to use, then you’ve found the right article. Here’s all you need to know about these security service systems.
An Overview of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
VPNs or virtual private networks are tools to secure and encrypt your IP address on public networks and protect your personal information. It protects your online activities and shields your data from malicious user exploitation. It also has a variety of other uses, like accessing regional content without location restrictions and bypassing censorship and surveillance. Listing indispensable security services today is impossible without highlighting virtual private networks. We can attribute this to how these tools have gone from being an obscure networking utility to a go-to alternative for personal usage and big businesses. When most people talk about VPNs, they usually mean subscribing to a commercial VPN for day-to-day use. However, the scope of these tools goes beyond that, and they’ve also developed broader applications that have extended to corporations. For example, companies allow employees to work remotely and access certain resources through these private connections.
5 Best VPNs to Use
Considering how widespread VPNs are today, it is an unwritten rule to be vigilant when selecting. There are numerous options out there, and while this might be good for having choices, it also equates to exposure to a high risk of compromised or bad services. We will discuss 5 safe and effective options for you, namely:
- Nord;
- Proton;
- SurfShark;
- Express;
- Norton
Nord
Nord is an all-in-one protection system with numerous features like privacy, antivirus services, and other premium offers that can be gotten at a low cost. It has 5200 servers, can offer 6 simultaneous connections, and is also used to block ads. The subscription fee is $3.09 monthly, and users can get 69% off if they opt for the annual package. Yet, some of the cons of using Nord include lackluster malware-blocking outcome and restricted utility of free Meshnet traffic routing.
Proton
Proton is another excellent choice and is particularly popular for its enticing free subscription services. This is a significant plus because most providers are notorious for offering highly limited services to users when they are not on a paid plan. Proton has over 500 servers, offers about 10 simultaneous connections, and can also be used to block ads. In addition, the platform provides impeccable customer service. The only major disadvantage of the platform is that it sometimes has an awkward ChromeOS implementation. Proton’s subscription fee is $3.29 monthly.
SurfShark
SurfShark’s monthly plan is a bit on the high end, but it makes up for this in its other offerings. These include an expanding collection of privacy tools, an easy-to-use mobile application, and several simultaneous collections. The service fee is $12.95 per month for a yearly plan. The cons of this VPN are its high cost and the privacy policy. SurfShark is based in the Netherlands and operates under the 9 Eyes alliance, which means the government can compel them to share customer data when necessary.
Express
Express is fast, anonymous, and has over 3,000 servers in 94+ countries. The platform has a 24/7 customer support service and a live chat for inquiries and complaints. Express is another industry-leading VPN that is worth considering. Another major plus is that customers have a 30-day 100% money-back guarantee on their subscription. The primary known disadvantage of Express is that it only allows 5 simultaneous connections. The fee is $12.95 monthly.
Norton
Norton protects against viruses, malware, and other security threats. It is a secure private network that can keep sensitive information like passwords, bank details, and credit card numbers safe on any of your devices. Yearly subscription costs $49.99 with a 58% off on the first year. There is a 60-day money-back guarantee as well as bank-grade Wi-Fi security.
Maximizing Virtual Private Networks for Premium Security
Ultimately, the right VPN service can help you evade security vulnerabilities and several malware attacks on the internet today. You can start with the free subscription plan for some options listed above. If the service works fine, you can consider a fully paid plan. Remember to do some additional research based on your preferences and personal needs before making a final decision.