8 Best VPN You Should Check Out

A virtual private network (VPN) has become an absolute necessity in this day and age. As we all know the digital world is becoming more dynamic day by day. More and more advanced technologies are being introduced every other moment. Even though all of this apparently seems beneficial at first it comes with its own setbacks.

For instance, with technological advancements, we also get to see an increase in cyberattacks and security breaches. According to a report by Statista, there were 6.06 billion malware attacks recorded globally in 2023. Therefore, using a VPN is no longer a choice, it’s a must! However, there are hundreds of VPNs in the market and it is crucial to find the best VPN that perfectly fulfills your requirements.  

Therefore, in this article, we offer you a detailed breakdown of the best free VPN so that you can pick the one that fits your requirements. 

Name	Pricing (Average Monthly Cost)	Server Locations	Key Highlights
NorVPN	$12.99	111 plus	Meshnet, Dark Web Monitor, Threat Protection Pro	Join NordVPN
SurfShark	$15.45	100 plus	Camouflage mode, No-Boarder Mode, Dynamic Multi-hopping	Try SurfShark
ExpressVPN	$12.36	105 plus	Dedicated IP Address, Adblocker, Free password manager	Start with ExpressVPN
CyberGhost	$11.99	100 plus	Automatic Kill Switch, no-spy server,	Explore CyberGhost
Private Internet Access (PIA)	$11.69	80 plus	Adjustable Encryption, Corporate VPN Feature, Customizable settings	Check out Private Internet Access (PIA)
PrivadoVPN Free	$10.99	49	Control Tower Smart DNS, Antivirus, SOCS5proxy	Join PrivadoVPN
IPVanish	$12.99	75 plus	Multiple Protocols, Unlimited Device Connections	Visit IPVanish
Windscribe Free	$9	11	Ad-blocker, Customizable plan option	Sing up for Windscribe Free

8 Best VPN to Know

Choosing the best VPN is undoubtedly a challenging task. All of the VPNs in this list come with their own strengths and limitations. Let’s explore each of them in detail: 

1. What is NordVPN?

NordVPN secures the first position in our list of the best virtual private network because of its functionality and advanced set of features. It is one of the most popular VPNs in the market with the largest customer base. It was founded by Tom Okman and Eimantas Sabaliauskas in 2012 with the vision of creating a safer internet. 

The name of this VPN is inspired by Nordic ideals that advocate for trust, innovation, and confidence. Hence, NordVPN incorporates these values in its mission and strives to deliver internet security solutions in more than 111 locations worldwide with over 6000 servers. 

NordVPN provides all the basic features of a VPN such as it encrypts your internet connection to protect your data from unauthorized access. Likewise, it also allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and enables you to access services that are not available in your region. 

Key Features

NordVPN is renowned for its robust security features. Let’s explore its features in detail:

• Kill Switch: NordVPN features a kill switch that enables the VPN to drop the internet connection whenever any time-out error occurs in the VPN connection. This kill switch provides ultimate protection as it halts all internet traffic to prevent exposure to your real IP address. 
• Strict no-log Policy: This VPN service does not keep any information related to your browsing activity. In order to ensure this NordVPN goes through independent audits that are performed by reputable firms like Deloitte, and VerSprite. 
• Meshnet: Users can connect multiple devices securely through the Meshnet feature. It is as if they are on the same local network even though their physical location is different. 
• Threat Protection Pro: This feature provides an extra layer of protection against online threats. It works like an anti-virus software.     
• Dark Web Monitor: This feature offers an additional layer of security to NordVPN users. It checks all the dark websites and forums for any leaked credentials or sensitive information of its users.

Price

NordVPN offers a range of pricing plans ranging from monthly to two years. Long-term subscriptions often come with more discounts. It basically features three main pricing plans. All of these plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. All of these plans basically offer the same type of features, however, the complete and plus plan has some additional features. 

• Complete Plan: 

1. Monthly – $14.99/mo 
2. Yearly – $6.99/mo
3. 2-Year – $5.49/mo + 3 Extra months 

• Plus Plan:

1. Monthly – $13.99/mo
2. Yearly – $5.49/mo
3. 2-Year – $4.49/mo + 3 Extra months 

• Basic Plan:

1. Monthly – $12.99/mo
2. Yearly – $4.59/mo
3. 2-Year – $3.59/mo + 3 Extra months  

Right now the Black Friday sale is going on and it offers up to 70% discount. Click here to avail this opportunity.

Speed

NordVPN is known for its fast and reliable speeds. it is an ideal option for streaming, gaming, and downloading large files. It has recently incorporated a new NordLynx protocol that provides a more stable connection which ultimately contributes to its speed. 

It is also tested by independent IT security firms like AV-TEST which regard NordVPN as the fastest VPN in the market. It has an average downloading speed of 225 Mbps. 

Pros 

• 256-bit AES advanced encryption
• 24/7 customer support 
• Dedicated IP Address
• Offers router installation for complete network protection 
• Allows up to 6 device connections simultaneously 

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than competitors 
• The dedicated IP address is costly 

2. What is SurfShark?

SurfShark is another feature-packed VPN that is designed to enhance your online security and privacy. Just like NordVPN, it also provides all the basic VPN features. However, SurfShark stands up as a direct rival to NordVPN by offering additional cybersecurity tools like webcam protection and antivirus software. 

Moreover, SurfShark is a great option for corporate businesses as it allows connecting unlimited devices at once. However, SurfShark’s Netherlands location can prove to be a bit of a drawback. The reason is the jurisdiction of the Netherlands that allows it to access sensitive information of customers. 

Nevertheless, SurfShark has a no-log policy but it does store the user’s IP address. However, it is only for 15 minutes so it’s not that big of a deal. Moreover, your browsing activity done through the VPN can not be traced by your original IP address and there is nothing to fret about. 

Key Features

• Camouflage Mode: This feature allows SurfShark to hide the fact that a VPN is being used. This mode is specifically designed for countries like China and Russia where VPNs are not allowed. It makes your VPN traffic appear as the usual internet traffic. 
• No-Boarder Mode: This is another advanced feature of SurfShark that allows it to automatically connect you to servers that are designed to bypass censorship whenever you are in restrictive areas. 
• Dynamic Multihopping: This feature makes SurfShark stand out among its competitors. It does not just allow you to use pre-determined server pairs as double VPN like the others. It also gives you the ability to choose the servers you want to use as double VPN. 
• Split-tunneling: SurfShark also offers split tunneling that allows the user to use services both inside and outside of the VPN connection at the same time. 

Price

SurfShark mainly offers three pricing plans that include basic to advanced-level features. All of these plans offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. Moreover, you can also avail of their Black Friday sale which gives up to 87% discount on long-term plans. Let’s look at their plans in detail:

• SurfShark Starter

1. Monthly – $15.45/month
2. Yearly – $2.99/month
3. 2 – Year- $1.99/month

• SurfShark One 

1. Monthly – $17.95/month
2. Yearly – $3.39/month
3. 2-Year – $2.49/month

• SurfShark One+

1. Monthly – $20.65/month
2. Yearly – $5.99/month
3. 2-Year – $3.99.month

Speed

SurfShark also performs well with regard to the speed. It has an average downloading speed of 228 Mbps but it was inconsistent in terms of uploading. However, the average uploading speed ranges between 167 -91 Mbps. Hence, despite some inconsistencies, SurfShark proves to be a fast VPN for general use. 

Pros  

• Unlimited device connection 
• Quite affordable for long-term use
• Excellent for streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu
• Available in 100-plus countries

Cons

• Not an ideal option in terms of Torrenting 
• Kill switch requires manual setup on Windows

3. What is ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is another best VPN that is widely trusted by users all over the world. It was originated by Peter Burchhardt and Dan Pomerantz in 2009. Moreover, it has a large user base of over 4 million with secure VPN servers in over 105 countries. 

One of the features that makes ExpressVPN stand out is its ability to bypass the Great Firewall of China. In addition, ExpressVPN offers a high-level AES-256 encryption to protect your data. Moreover, It also has a no-log policy and it offers 24/7 live chat support. 

The most amazing thing about ExpressVPN is its user-friendly interface. It is almost the same on all devices which makes it perfect for beginners. Moreover, it allows connecting up to 8 devices simultaneously. 

Key Features

• Ad-Blocker: ExpressVPN features an exceptional ad blocker. It instantly blocks all the ads on the websites you are visiting.  
• DNS leak protection: It provides ultimate DNS protection with the use of its advanced trackers. It instantly blocks all the DNS requests before they have the chance to reach the server. 
• Express Keys: This is an additional security feature offered in ExpressVPN. It works like a password manager for your devices which uses the same security protocols as in the VPN itself. 
• Parental Control: This features allow the user to limit the access to some website for their children’s devices.  
• Dedicated IP Address: ExpressVPN is the first VPN that assigns dedicated IP addresses that are completely anonymous and cannot be traced back to the user. 

Price

Express VPN offers only one plan that includes all of its features. However, the discount may vary on the basis of short-term and long-term subscriptions. For instance, you can save up to 61% on a 2-year plan on their Black Friday sale. Moreover, a 30-day money-back guarantee is applicable in all three:

1. 1 Month –  $12.36/month
2. 12 Months – $5.96/month
3. 2-year Months – $4.75/month

Speed

ExpressVPN is a relatively fast VPN as it uses its innovative light protocol. However, it proves to be slower as compared to NordVPN and SurfShark in terms of distant serves. It performed quite well in streaming in 4k and ensured lag-free gaming. Moreover, it showed an average downloading speed of 475 Mbps using its light protocol on the closest server.  

Pros 

• Lightning-fast speeds for streaming and gaming
• User-friendly Interface
• Free Password management tool in all subscriptions. 

Cons

• Higher price compared to other VPNs

4. What is CyberGhost? 

CyberGhost stands out as one of the most secure VPNs in the market. They were the first ones to introduce transparency in the world of VPNs. Moreover, they believe in a free society and regard privacy as an integral human right.  

In addition, CyberGhost claims to be one of the largest VPN networks with over 10,000 servers in 100-plus countries.  Likewise, it is considered one of the most reliable VPN networks because of its location ( Romania) which does not have any surveillance alliance.

Key Features

• Zero-log Policy: This feature ensures that none of your browsing activity is saved on VPN servers. CyberGhost is completely transparent about the information it stores. For instance, they store all the basic details of their users like Gmail and username. Moreover, they also save connection requests and attempts. 
• No Spy-Server: These servers are located in Romanis. This ensures that all the browsing activity or data transfer that is done on these VPN servers is out of reach of any higher authority.
• Automatic Kill Switch: CyberGhost offers an automatic kill switch that instantly cuts the internet connection whenever the VPN connection drops. However, this feature cannot be turned off which might cause some disturbance while torrenting. 

Price

CyberGhost also offers a single pricing plan that contains all of its features. There are three variants of this plan ranging from short-term to long-term subscriptions. Moreover, CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for its long-term programs. Moreover, it is offering an 83% discount on the 2-year plan on its Black Friday Sale.

1. 1 Month – $11.99/month
2. 2 Years + 2  Months – $2.03/month
3. 6 Months – $6.99/month

Speed

CyberGhost features lightning-fast VPN speed. It has 10-Gbps servers that effectively deliver smooth streaming and lag-free gaming. However, it showed some significant differences in the uploading and downloading speed. While the uploading speed was quite slow the average downloading speed remained good around 223 Mbps.

Pros 

• Allows connecting up to 7 devices simultaneously
• 24/7 Support 
• Multi-device Compatibility

Cons

• No camouflage mode 
• Split tunneling is not available on all devices.

5. What is Private Internet Access (PIA)?

Private Internet Access (PIA) is another best VPN that is highly customizable and known for its strong privacy features. It was launched in 2010 by Kape Technologies. It is based in the United States which is sort of a drawback in itself. However, despite this PIA has a strong reputation regarding its robust privacy features.  

Moreover, it is another largest VPN networks with over 35,000 servers located in 80-plus countries. In addition, PIA uses up-to-date VPN protocols that ensure ultimate security. 

Key Features

• Geo-block-busting Technology: PIA allows you to access all the content that is restricted in your area with the help of this technology. 
• Corporate VPN feature: This feature is specifically designed for businesses so that they protect the complete office network with a single VPN. 
• Adjustable Encryption: PIA adjusts the VPN protocol according to the device for ultimate security. For instance, it uses the WireGuard protocol for iPhones.
• Customizable settings: it allows you to customize the user interface according to your needs. For instance, if you are using it for gaming you can customize it according to that and if you are using it for torrenting you can opt for a desired customized interface for that as well.

Price

PIA also offers three pricing plans that include all of its features and a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

• 1 Month – $11.69/month
•  Yearly – $3.10/month 
• 3 Years (+ 3 Months) – $1.75/month 

Speed

PIA is one of the fastest VPNs in the market and it performs really well in terms of speed. It has an average downloading speed of 236 Mbps and an average uploading speed of 223 Mbps. 

Pros 

• Highly Customizable 
• Flexible and user-friendly apps with automation options.
• Unlimited device connectivity simultaneously

Cons

• Based in the US ( privacy-sensitive jurisdiction)

6. What is PrivadoVPN Free?

PrivadoVPN was established in 2019 in Switzerland. It is considered highly secure because of its location which has privacy-friendly laws that ensure user protection at all costs. The VPN comes with both free and premium subscription plans. 

Moreover, it features a user-friendly interface that is suitable for beginners. It is an excellent free option for secure browsing or streaming.  

Key Features

• SOCS5proxy: This feature enables you to hide your IP address while giving you super fast speed. It allows you to mask your physical location without utilizing all the unnecessary features of a VPN. This proxy serves as an intermediate between your computer and the internet to keep your identity private. 
• Kill Switch: This feature blocks all of your internet activity the moment your VPN connection drops. It prevents your IP address from getting exposed to third-party invaders. However, you might have to reboot your VPN system because it does not automatically connect even if the connection is restored. 
• Control tower smart DNS: This feature reduces online threats by blocking all intrusive ads and tracing activities on your device. 
• Antivirus: This VPN comes with integrated anti-virus software that protects your device from malware by performing regular scans. 

Price

PrivadoVPN is the best free VPN  for free but it also offers subscription plans with more advanced features. It has mainly three plans ranging from short to long-term. The long-term plan is a 90% discount on the Black Friday Sale. Moreover. You also get 3 free months on it as well. Lastly, both of the long-term plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

1. Monthly – $10.99/mo
2. Yearly – $1.33/mo
3. 2-Year – $1.11/mo

Speed

PrivadoVPN offers impressive speed across various platforms. It has an average download speed of 240 Mbps and an upload speed of around 210 Mbps. Moreover, it maintained an average latency under 70 ms. 

Pros 

• High-speed performance with the WireGuard protocol.
• Streaming-optimized servers
• Generous Free Plan
• Strict zero-log policy

Cons

• Fewer server locations.

7. What is IPVanish?

IPVanish is another best virtual private network that stands out among its competitors because of its exceptional customer support service. It not only claims but realistically offers both 24/7 live chat and phone support. 

There is a small setback of this VPN is that it was found to record its user’s logging activity in the past. However, their privacy policy has changed since then and they have been completely transparent about it. Moreover, multiple independent audits have been performed on this VPN to ensure it adheres to what it claims. 

Key Features

• No-Log Policy: In their new privacy policy, IPVanish ensures a strict no-log policy that has been audited by several independent firms. 
• Unlimited Device Connections: IPVanish offers unlimited device connections at one time. You can easily connect your whole system including laptop, router, mobile etc with it to enjoy ultimate online protection. 
• Large VPN Network: It has a large VPN network with over 2400 servers in 130-plus locations. 
• Multiple Protocols: IPVanish also offers a diverse range of VPN protocols to ensure utmost security. 

Price

IPVanish mainly offers two pricing plans that come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

• IPVanish Essential

1. Monthly – $12.99/mo
2. Yearly – $3.33/mo
3. 2-Year – $2.19/mo

• IPVanish Advanced

1. Monthly – $14.99/mo
2. Yearly – $4.49/mo
3. 2-Year – $3.29/mo

Speed

IPVanish is among the best VPN in terms of its speed. It has a very fast upload and download speed. Likewise, it features a very low latency of around 80 ms. 

Pros 

• Easy-to-use mobile application
• 24/7 customer support 
• Unmetered device connections

Cons

• Based in the US
• Low speed on Windows

8. What is Windscribe Free?

Windcribe is another amazing privacy-focused VPN service that is designed to ensure online security. It is based in Canada and was launched in 2016 by Yegor Sak. It has also faced some backlash because it is based in the five-eye jurisdiction. 

However, it has maintained a good reputation because of its robust security features and privacy policy. Moreover, the thing that makes it stand out is that it offers all the basic VPN features completely free of cost. It also has a subscription option that comes with more advanced features. 

Key Features

• Strong Privacy Measures: Just like other VPNs it also utilizes up-to-the-mark AES-256 encryption for secure data transfer. Moreover, it also employs Perfect forward secrecy in its encryption. 
• Double Hop: This feature allows the user to use two VPN servers simultaneously for ultimate anonymity. 
• Ad-blocker: This VPN also incorporates a customizable ad blocker. It traces and then blocks not just the ads but also malware that could harm your device. 
• Customizable plan option: Windscribe also gives you the option to build a specialized plan for yourself in which you just have to pay for the services that you are availing. 

Price

Windscribe is a free VPN but it also offers three subscription plans ranging from basic to advanced.

1. Monthly Plan – $9/mo
2. Yearly Plan – $5.75/mo
3. Buil-a-plan – A customized plan in which you only pay for the services you avail. 

Speed

Windscribe offers a competitive speed that is suitable for all sorts of activities such as streaming or browsing. It gave an average download speed of Mbps and upload speed of 190 Mbps. Moreover, the average latency was under 70 ms. 

Pros 

• Generous free plan
• Highly customizable 
• Split-tunneling 

Cons

• Based in the US
• Fewer server locations than competitors.

What is a VPN? 

A VPN ( Virtual Private Network) is a sort of technology that creates a secure and private connection between your device and the internet. It is like a protective shield that routes your internet traffic through a private tunnel. This process makes your online activity anonymous by hiding your IP address. 

This makes sure that your data and browsing activity remain protected from hackers, ISPs, government organizations, and third parties. Moreover, it also prevents advertising companies from tracking your online activity. 

Apart from security, VPN is also used for other purposes as well. For instance, to access geo-restricted content and bypass censorship. Hence, VPN has become an essential tool in this digital age that everyone must possess. 

Why Use a VPN? 

Using a VPN is highly crucial in modern times because there are higher online security concerns today than ever before. According to a recent report on cyberattacks, a cyber attack occurs every 39 seconds.

It is the right of every individual to have digital freedom. For instance, when the idea of the internet was first introduced, its vision was that it would be an open and safe space for everybody that is free from any sort of censorship. However, now the reality is the complete opposite.

We even see censorship and surveillance in social media platforms that claim to be open and safe spaces. Their algorithms are controlled by higher authorities and they can easily track down our activities. Therefore, it is essential to use a VPN to protect your sensitive information. 

Conclusion – Best VPN to Know

Selecting the best VPN that is suitable for you according to your needs is the key to achieving online security and privacy. All of the VPNs that we have discussed above come with their own set of features. Some offer robust security features like NordVPN and others attract users with their affordable prices like Windscribe. 

It is important to note that before choosing a VPN, you should identify your requirements such as what type of security features you need. Do you need to access content from different regions or do you just want anonymity? And What is your budget? 

After identifying your requirements you can move forward and select the one that fits your specific needs. It will not only save you time and effort but will also prevent you from making the wrong decision. 

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