VPN Comparison: Compare the Best VPN Services of 2024

Before we take you on a journey of information and awareness about VPNs, let’s clarify that VPN comparison is the need of the hour.

Today’s digital world has become more of a bane than it’s a boon, as cybercrimes are increasing at supersonic speed. Starting from data theft to virus attacks, all sorts of nuisances are happening to internet users.

VPNs are certainly a great tool to use if one seeks end-to-end online security and 100% anonymity. However, not every VPN is supposed to do this. As the market is flooded with options, users can have a tough time making the right choice.

VPN options filtering and detailed comparison enable prospective users to figure out the actual viability of a VPN and understand whether or not the claimed qualities are present.

As we all know, there are certain qualities that the best VPN should have. In the absence of these qualities, a VPN is nothing but a headache. With a detailed VPN comparison, you’re able to find out the following:

• Which VPN aligns best with your requirements
• Which VPN options offer what
• How much is the average cost of using a VP
• Which security features you get
• How strong is the device support

Pay attention to all these aspects to ensure that you’re going to make the right choice and enjoy a seamless VPN usage experience. So, whether you’re a beginner or a pro of VPN usage, don’t forget to carry out a thorough VPN comparison with leading options in the market to fit the best fit.

As the task is highly extensive, we have done the job for you. We provided detailed VPN reviews in the post so that you can make a useful comparison.

What Is a VPN?

VPNs are software that allows you to hide your IP address or replace it with a virtual address. This is the best way to prevent your network security from being compromised.

How Does a VPN Work?

VPN works by mixing the network address with others and replacing each with a virtual address. Once the network address is replaced, tracing the request back to the original network becomes impossible.

There are multiple VPNs available in the market. Finding the best one or knowing what the best VPN service is would be difficult. To help you out, we have curated this review article on the top VPNs. But before that, let us help you get better insights on using VPNs wisely.

Run down the VPN list and find one that serves your interest best. Let’s compare VPNs:

ExpressVPN: Top-Rated VPN

One of the best VPNs, ExpressVPN poses a direct challenge to NordVPN. It is extremely popular and has nearly 3000 servers across 94 countries. 

With such a high number of servers and extensive coverage, this VPN service will be by your side no matter what. As all of its servers are functional using a RAM disk, no data is logged on the hard drive, and users enjoy utterly secured private internet access.

With top-class encryption standards, this has an array of VPN protocols. ExpressVPN is compatible with every device and offers excellent speed. 

What makes it a stunner is its seamless and powerful performance across the world. As its server locations are all over the world and every server is speed-optimized, users from any nook and corner of the world can enjoy a buffer-free online browsing experience.

As a VPN company, ExpressVPN has won many hearts with transparent ‘terms of services’, user-friendly solutions, 27*7 customer support, dedicated IP addresses, proprietary protocol ‘Lightway’, and many other offerings. It can bypass the internet censorship of countries like China, North Korea, and Russia. The only disappointment that we faced was the lack of unlimited simultaneous connection.

Also, it can be a bit pocket-heavy if you have a one-month plan. To save big, go with a long-term subscription. It offers two-year and three-year plans as well.

Features

• Zero-log policy to restrict data sharing
• The British Virgin Islands keep them away from all intelligence-sharing agreements
• Works flawlessly on Netflix and torrenting activities
• Kill switch to avoid all sorts of data breaches
• Malware-free installation files eliminate data leaks
• An option to choose from six different locations

Streaming capabilities

Well, we must admit that ExpressVPN is one of those rare VPN options that have made streaming of any kind better than before. Whether you need to unblock Netflix US library or need to pass the censorship imposed on Amazon Prime, this VPN will help streaming lovers watch their favorite TV shows and movies without any restrictions.

With obfuscation and streaming-optimized servers, things have become better than before. Once you are content with its app, a list of suitable streaming servers will be presented to you. You can pick as per your suitability.

During our VPN comparison, we figured out that ExpressVPN can unblock almost all the leading streaming services. Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube TV, Hotstar, and BBC iPlayer, you name it, and this VPN solution will lift the geo-restriction imposed on streaming lovers.

Device compatibility

While you’re using ExpressVPN, you don’t have to worry about your device type. It is capable of working on all the leading devices that are offered to us. Mobile, laptops, computers, routers, SmartTV, and gaming consoles are covered by ExpressVPN.

There is a dedicated solution for each device type at zero additional cost. Regarding the usability of mobile apps, we checked that they have high ratings on the Google Play Store and App Store. In a nutshell, you’ll have zero hassles in getting started with ExpressVPN. While there are apps for all the leading OS, you can’t use them on unlimited devices.

Security features

ExpressVPN has excelled at this front with multiple protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN, and L2TP/IPsec, the industry’s best encryption, and open-sourced Lightway protocol. These security features are available on all of its solutions.

With OpenVPN, one can enjoy the best of both worlds: speed and security. Lightway is the self-owned protocol of ExpressVPN that goes the extra mile to secure the connection, filter the malware, and hide the traces. Users seeking private internet access torrenting will be highly benefitted from this protocol. Considering this, we have no qualms about concluding that ExpressVPN is a secure VPN at all times.

Customer Support

ExpressVPN is concerned about its customer queries and wants to fix them immediately. This is why it offers a dedicated 24*7 live chat system, ticket-based query, tutorials, and many other means to resolve the resolutions.

The solution is simplified so that even a beginner will have no hassles at all. But if there are issues, the responsive team at ExpressVPN is here to help you instantly. It’s the top scorer in this section as well.

Pricing: $12.95/month

Get the Best Deal on ExpressVPN

CyberGhost VPN: Best VPN Protection

With more than 3000 servers spread across 160 countries, the VPN is best for streaming videos or any content for that matter. As a starter, you can test the VPN service on three different devices.  CyberGhost VPN doesn’t compromise the streaming performance; hence, it emerges as a game-changer.

This feature-loaded VPN is offered at an affordable cost. Whether you need a VPN to stream content or download torrent files, it will assist you in every motive. The one-time investments in this VPN pay off well for the users as excellence is delivered at every front: speed, security, support, streaming, and seamless experience.

CyberGhost, as a VPN client, offers unlimited bandwidth and unlimited server switching while having zero negative impact on the connection speed. There is a free version offered as well, which is no less than the paid version in terms of capabilities and features.

Features 

• Surpasses geo-restricted content and supports streaming channels like Hulu, Netflix, HBO GO, BBC iPlayer, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, etc
• Compatible with Windows, Android, Blackberry, Linux, Chromecast, iOS, macOS, Nvidia Shield, etc
• It is also suitable for torrenting activities, providing robust 256-bit encryption
• CyberGhost VPN has a no-log policy and supports nearly every P2P activity
• Simple and easy-to-use interface
• Kill switch to shut the session and prevent leaks

Streaming capabilities 

Let’s make one thing clear: CyberGhost is streaming-friendly and will improve your viewing experience by all means. But it’s not as good as ExpressVPN. During our streaming test, we have no hassles in unblocking streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Amazon, Hulu, iPlayer, and HBO. Netflix US, Netflix UK, and many other famous Netflix libraries can be accessed easily with CyberGhost.

While you use this solution for streaming purposes, keep two things in mind. First, you’ll get multiple add-ons to stream content on block websites easily. Secondly, Netflix Canada is generally not accessible.

If you want ultimate peace of mind while accessing restricted streaming content, then the NoSpy servers of CyberGhost are here for your rescue.

Along with streaming, torrenting is also possible with this VPN. Like many VPN services that we have included in the VPN comparison, CyberGhost also provides a list of torrenting-optimized servers as soon as you connect with the app.

There are many torrenting-supported virtual servers to choose from. Once connected with torrent-friendly servers, you can launch the BitTorrent client and download torrents without any fear, as data logs are not kept or stored.

Device compatibility 

The VPN solution is here to help you with all the leading devices. We tested its Windows app on an Intel desktop running on Windows 10 and faced hardly any hassles. It also features a Privacy Settings panel that can easily toggle between the kill switch and DNS leaks.

The Privacy Settings panel has toggles for preventing DNS leaks and a kill switch that prevents your computer from transmitting data if the VPN unexpectedly disconnects.

The same sort of ease and feature-richness can be experienced with its Android, iPhone, macOS, and other app solutions. The interface is kept simple and free from unwanted stuff. While each app is highly competent, we must give a huge round of applause to its Android app for offering a data compression feature. This way, you consume less bandwidth.

Also, there are multiple server filters on its app solutions. You can mark your favorite servers and connect with them instantly. There are very rare VPN companies that have managed to keep their app solutions so competitive, and gladly, CyberGhost is on the list.

Security features 

Any VPN is accountable for offering high-end security features to maintain data safety and online anonymity. CyberGhost has multiple ways to make this happen. We dig its Terms of Service and figured out that it adopts a zero-log policy. As the VPN is Romania-based, the ISPsare not forced to log the user activities and reveal them to third parties, when and as required.

There is a dedicated ad and malware blocker to keep the cyber nuisances at bay. But if you want Tor compatibility, then CyberGhost is not a good thing. It’s a well-designed VPN with split tunneling, OpenVPN and WireGuard protocol, DNS and IP leak protection, a kill switch, and many high-end facilities to enhance your online security.

It also features a Block Content toggle to block DNS domain ads, trackers, and malicious activity. What CyberGhost offers in the security vertical is the Gold Standard of the VPN industry.

Customer support 

The very fundamental customer support starts with detailed guides and assistance in setting up solutions on devices like iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and many more.

For detailed assistance, there is live chat support available 24*7. But it’s not as responsive as ExpressVPN. However, one support feature that makes CyberGhost outstanding is ‘Streaming Status’, which will educate the user about the streaming platforms’ unavailability. So you won’t waste much time connecting with a particular streaming site.

The website is full of basic getting-started content. The text is in simple and plain language. To sum up, CyberGhost may not have the best assistance. But, it certainly has what is required to suffice for general purposes.

Pricing: $12.99

Get the Best Deal on CyberGhost

VeePN: Best VPN App

Offering unlimited bandwidth and 10 simultaneous connections, VeePN is an excellent choice when it comes to personal VPN services. It has 2500 servers spread across 50 different locations. It is totally secured with AES-256 encryption. 

As VeePN is a new player in the VPN industry, not many of you have heard about it.

But, when we did the detailed analysis, we figured out that it’s far better than many other virtual private networks present in the market.

Global VPN server coverage, affordable cost, a feature-rich free version, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction that has legalized VPN use, and high-end security features are some of the most –promising offerings of this VPN. Step by step, VeePN is getting closer to becoming the best VPN service.

Features

• 24/7 customer support services
• VPN Net Guard adheres to the privacy and anonymity of the users
• One-click connection with minimal effort
• Blazing fast speed and top-notch performance
• Supports both torrenting and bypassing geo-restricted content on sites such as Hulu, BBC Player, etc

Streaming capabilities 

Both streaming and torrenting are supported by VeePN. There is a Smart DNS feature offered. When activated, it makes this VPN service compatible with Xbox, AppleTV, Fire TV Stick, Android TV, and PlayStation. You can alter the DNS settings from the dashboard and access geo-restricted content from streaming sites like Hulu, HBO, Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBCiPlayer YouTube TV, and many more.

With unlimited data and bandwidth with this VPN, there won’t be any ISP throttling on your VPN connection, and you can enjoy continuous streaming. Once you use the app and select ‘Streaming’ as a VPN use purpose, this VPN will automatically connect you to a fast-speed server.

Device compatibility

All the leading operating systems are supported by this VPN. Other than computers and mobile phones, it can work seamlessly on media players, routers, gaming consoles, and streaming platforms as well. There are dedicated browser extensions as well. Even though each solution is very simple to use, feature inconsistency is a huge issue. For instance, the Android app only features a Kill switch in the name of security features.

Security features 

Internet access with VeePN is utterly secure as it has a no-log policy, multiple security protocols passed the DNS leak test, protects the real IP address of the user, and is not a member of the 14, 9, and 5 Eyes alliance. The VPN tunnel is 256-bit AES encrypted and hides the real IP details. This way, enough protection against DDoS attacks is offered.

The DNS leak protection is there, but only for PC users. DNS requests won’t be in the hands of ISPs. Other than this, there is a custom DNS security feature as well. With the feature, you’re allowed to pick the DNS servers.

Speaking of protocols, you have OpenVPN UDP, IKEv2, and OpenVPN TCP. There are highly viable ad blockers, malware blockers, and WebRTC protection. All these features make it the most secure VPN to try in 2024.

Customer support  

We would be honest. The customer support of VeePN is not out of the ordinary. There is a claimed 24*7 live chat feature, which failed to help us. The knowledge base offered on the website is very basic. There is a VPN FAQ search engine that provides quick assistance if you enter appropriate keywords. There is a support ticket system as well.

Pricing: $6.99/month

Get the Best Deal on VeePN

IPVanish: VPN Solution for Home

Based out of the US, IPVanish is one of the VPN services that is considered to be the best in terms of security and performance. This VPN also got into the list of the best VPN providers for Windows with 1300 servers in and across 75 countries. Accessibility is granted to five different OS at the same time.

With a simple user interface, this option is winning hearts and is a great choice to make for beginners. This is one of the best VPNs of 2024 as it keeps no log connection information, prevents DNS leaks, has obfuscated servers and advanced features, unblocks Netflix, has a good app solution for just about every device, and highly encrypted tunnel to funnel the traffic.

Features: 

• AES-256 encryption standards ensure that it is practically impossible to track the location of your network
• Simultaneously, the VPN allows 10 different connections
• IPVanish has a decent network speed and a no-log policy
• 24/7 live support to all the customers and users of the VPN

Streaming capabilities 

Just like ExpressVPN, NordVPN also features streaming-optimized servers that will help you stream the content of your choice. You can unblock libraries of platforms like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and many more.

Secure streaming is possible on public W-fi networks as well. Geo-restrictions and content censorship are no longer an issue with this VPN option. Its US-based servers are best for streaming media.

Device compatibility 

Well, get ready to enjoy seamless device compatibility with IPVanish. It offered dedicated mobile apps for leading operating systems without being an expensive VPN.

You are allowed to work with platforms like iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, Linux, Routers, Amazon Fire devices, and any Android-based media devices with IPVanish. Unlimited connections are supported with the VPN. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, free trials, and multiple payment options, you can try all of its apps without any hassles and hurdles.

Security features 

The useful service of IPVanish ensures that your data is not at stake while you’re in digital space. Compared to other VPNs, which are new to the market, this VPN is feature-loaded.

There is a kill switch, quick connection time, end-to-end communication encryption, powerful ad blocking, split tunneling, robust security over public Wi-Fi connections, transparency report, DNS leak protection, and customized DNS servers. However, we are not sure whether or not it audits log policies.

Customer support 

With detailed tech tutorials and a responsive chat system, you’re all set to get immediate answers and assistance.

Pricing: $10/month 

Get the Best Deal on IPVanish

NordVPN: Best Paid VPN

Based out of Panama, NordVPN is one of the best-paid VPNs overall and for gaming. It has nearly 5600 servers across 60 countries. Also, it is regarded as one of the most popular VPNs and is dead serious about security.

During our VPN testing, we were impressed with what we got from NordVPN as this VPN passed all the speed tests with excellence. Tor servers have amazing upload and download speeds, work with major streaming services, are one of the cheapest VPNs in the market, and are capable of securing public Wi-Fi networks.

Features:

•  User-friendly interface with a kill switch to keep your data secured.
• Zero log policy to restrict data sharing with third-party agencies.
• Strong and robust connection with zero leaks.
• Works with torrenting and other content streaming sites such as Netflix.
• Connect up to six different devices.
• Has a feature called Double VPN for top-class encryption. 

Streaming capabilities  

As a top VPN provider, NordVPN delivers promising performance on the streaming front as well. It builds a secure connection to unblock geo-restrictions from the streaming sites by hiding the true IP address.

When we tested, we figured out its server location spread strategically across the world. Streaming sites like Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube TV, HBO, and many others are easy to access. With high-speed servers, it’s easy to play 4K videos without buffering.

Device compatibility 

A wide range of devices and operating systems are supported by NordVPN. There are dedicated browser extensions for Firefox and Chrome; the professionally developed apps for devices like Amazon Fire TV, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Android TV. You can install it on the router. With the SmartPlay feature activation, this VPN starts working on gaming consoles as well. At a time, it will work on 6 devices.

Security features 

NordVPN is the encryption powerhouse and offers everything that one needs to have a secure network. AES-256, 4096-bit RSA key and Perfect Forward Secrecy are at your service with this VPN company. It even lets you VPN with the Tor network for double secrecy and anonymity. As RAM disk servers are used, no logs of use are saved.

There are IPSec/IKEv2, OpenVPN, customized kill switch, NordLynx, a proprietary version of WireGuard, and privacy-friendly jurisdiction to make things better than before and highly secure. Traffic data has no dangers imposed on it. It even has private servers for better security. Double VPN, specialty servers, split tunneling, dark web access, and multi-factor authentication.

Customer support 

Your concerns and worries are well-heard of with NordVPN, as its customer support is highly responsive. There are some of the best tech tutorials offered to guide you. Whether you get an annual subscription or a free version, you’re all set to enjoy the 24*7 live chat feature. As per PC Magazine, its customer support is the best in the VPN industry.

Pricing: $11.95/month

Get the Best Deal on NordVPN

Which VPN is Most Secure?

VPNs that feature military-grade encryption are usually considered safer than others. The most acceptable encryption options are AES-128 Bit and AES-256 Bit. Additionally, a VPN with multiple security protocols is also regarded as safe. OpenVPN, IPSec/IKEv2, IPSec, and PPTP are widely used security protocols. Considering this, we can conclude that VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and many others quoted in this post are secure and safe to use. They come with watertight security features and leave no stone unturned to protect the end-users from various kinds of online hassles.

What’s the Fastest VPN?

It’s common to witness a speed drop while using a VPN as your web traffic passes through a highly secure route.  Some sluggishness in download and upload speed is expected. Using the various speed tools, we made the extension VPN speed test comparison and figured out that CyberGhost and ExpressVPN are great.

Which Is Better, NordVPN or ExpressVPN?

NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the two most famed contenders for the best VPN comparison.  When a comparison is made on parameters like server network, speed, VPN protocols comparison for security, dynamic IP address, and device compatibility, ExpressVPN surpasses NordVPN.

Can You Trust Your VPN Service?

Trust doesn’t just like that. Don’t directly trust a VPN just after viewing a VPN price comparison table, either. A service provider has to earn it. You can have faith in your VPN service provider if: 

• It has been around for a long time, and it is still going strong. It’s the mark of quality service, as no run-of-the-mill service provider will thrive for long.
• The service provider has a zero-compromise privacy policy. It shows that the service provider understands its responsibility and will not rat you out.
• There is a larger server network as it will allow you to make most of the availed VPN services.

There is comprehensive and responsive customer care support. Having dedicated customer support shows that the service provider is here to help its customers.

The service provider runs the organization under a legal framework.

We have seen many of the famed VPN service providers face charges of betraying customers’ trust. For instance, TorGuard servers were breached. So, one has to keep all of one’s senses open while choosing a VPN.

Detailed VPN service comparison and VPN provider comparison are great for gaining deeper insights into one’s actual performance.

Advantages of Using VPN Services 

Mask IP

A VPN gives you a virtual address instead of the original network address, which helps you keep your network private.

Geo-restricted Content

The best VPNs surpass the limitations imposed on specific content allowing you to gain access to the same.

Secure the network

VPNs allow you to hide your network, shielding it from external threats and keeping all your data hidden and protected.

Encrypt File Sharing

Once you have a VPN activated, all your internet activities are encrypted. VPNs help you with everything from browsing to sharing files.

Secure Wi-Fi connection

Don’t let the grubby hands of hackers and cybercriminals while you use public Wi-Fi connections. With a VPN, even a public Wi-Fi connection is free from malware, viruses, and other malicious elements.

Internet access in countries having strict censorships

Citizens of China. Russia, North Korea, UAE, Turkey, Cuba, and many others grant zero internet freedom and have blocked world-famous platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Google. With a virtual private network, you can get past these censorships.

Safe Torrenting

As VPN hides online activities, by all means, you’re allowed to carry on torrenting without being caught by the radar of the government and other third parties. Whether you download torrents or upload them, you are safe.

Watch your favorite sport

So, you like watching international boxing championships that are not streamed in your country. In that case, connecting to a VPN is of great help as you can connect to other servers and support your team.

Tension-free work-from-home

VPN brings high-end encryptions and security to end-users’ disposal and creates a secure work-from-home ecosystem for your home network. Share files, conduct meetings, open secret emails, and do other work-related online activities without the fear of data threats and being attacked by vulnerabilities.

Save big on your booking

Flights, service subscriptions, hotels, and many other services are charged as per the location. A one-month US Netflix plan will cost more than that for Netflix Indonesia. With a VPN, you can geo-spoof your location, connect with a server of a country offering cheaper plans, and save a huge deal of money.

Buffer-free internet

Are you fed up with the internet throttling by your ISP? Well, try a VPN and enjoy high speed. It will hide the real location details of the internet users and help them connect with servers in other countries.

Better gaming experience

Gaming online can be a headache for multiple reasons, such as poor connectivity, low speed, blocked gaming websites, etc. Also, accessing any random gaming website is like sending invitations to endless troubles like DDoS attacks, malware, and viruses.

Social media unblocking

Offices, schools, and other places have started blocking social media platforms, as they are huge disturbance creators. VPN will help you lift all those restrictions and have unlimited social media time.

Things to Consider When Choosing the Best VPN App 

After knowing about the best VPN services, you might be wondering which one to choose. Whether you are looking for the best VPN for a home network or official use, it is important to consider a few things when choosing a VPN service provider.

• Speed: The first thing to take care of is speed. Installing a VPN mustn’t compromise speed and performance.
• Security: Keep security at the top to get the best VPN protection. The VPN must adhere to the security terms of the network and ensure end-to-end encryption.
• Accessibility: Check whether the selected service provider bypasses restrictions on geo-specific content. 

How We Tested Top-Rated VPN Providers?

Testing the VPN service providers, we take into consideration a few parameters. Depending upon how each of the providers performs in the said areas, we rank them in ascending order.

1. User experience: Ease of use is an advantage not to be underestimated, especially if you have no experience with VPN services. Configuring and adding the desired devices should be step by step in a self-explanatory process.
2. Data protection: The transmission of data via a VPN should be completely encrypted and prevent the user from any leaks. 
3. Streaming: A good VPN should be able to access streaming content and bypass geoblocking. 
4. Convenient payment options: If the usual payment methods are available, this is an advantage. Some providers allow anonymous payments via vouchers or cryptocurrencies.
5. Privacy: It is advantageous if the VPN includes an ad blocker and tracking protection. With split tunneling, users can decide which programs should connect via VPN and which should not.
6. Speed: It is often claimed that a loss of speed is practically unavoidable with a VPN. But it doesn’t have to be. The best VPN providers can score points with fast, stable connections and ultra-fast speeds – whether on the computer or a mobile device. 

Tips for Secure Browsing

Besides installing and activating a VPN to keep your browsing activities safe and protected, here we have additional tips for your perusal. 

• Keep your browsers updated.
• Block unnecessary pop-ups.
• Ensure that you have blocked ads.
• Enable the option of doing no track in your web browser.
• Clear your cookies and browser history/cache. 
• Check VPN ratings and do a VPN price comparison before finalizing any.

Are There any VPN Limitations?

A lot has been said about VPNs in this post and many other posts. Considering this, we won’t mind saying that a VPN is certainly a blessing in disguise in the world of cyber vulnerabilities.

But it’s not always a great deal. It has certain limitations as well, and before you think of bringing it to your service, we strongly recommend knowing those VPN limitations.

The first limitation is that it won’t keep all sorts of threats at bay. Even with a VPN’s help, you can end up dealing with phishing or malware attacks. For complete protection, we would consider using the MFA, anti-virus software, and a password manager.

The next one is not a brainer, as we all know that a certain speed dip is possible and acceptable after using the VPN, as the traffic has to pass through encrypted tunnels. VPN services offering Double VPN, from a security point of view, will have a higher speed dip.

As the DNS resolution feature is a key offering of many VPN services, it gives threat actors/hackers a chance to carry on with DNS poisoning. When this happens, data theft is certain.

Even if a VPN is a great tool, certain countries like China, North Korea, Russia, Iran, and many more don’t support its usage. China even has a Great Firewall to block VPNs. So, internet users from these countries will have a tough time finding a VPN that can work in those areas. Also, if a VPN has any minute IP or DNS leak and you get caught while using a VPN, you can be charged heavily.

As far as complete anonymity in the online world is concerned, VPN does a great job. Professional and personal data safety is assured. But, the kind of online activity concealing and online identity hiding that activists or journalists demand only comes with the Tor network.

It’s a must when you try to access hidden dark websites. Alone, a VPN is not much of help.

However, there are some VPN service providers like NordVPN and ProtonVPN that allow their users direct access to Tor on certain servers. But, in that case, speed will be more sluggish.

Which VPNs Failed Big Time in VPN Comparison?

To bring you the right information and assist you greatly, we analyzed hundreds of VPNs. The top performers are mentioned above in the VPN comparison table.

Few were of mediocre types and doing the job right on the margin. But we also figured out certain VPNs that were the worst choice ever. We will present you with a quick description of those VPNs so that you don’t make the wrong choice.

• HolaVPN – Indeed, the worst choice of all time, Hola VPN is good for nothing as there is no proper security encryption, shady log policy, limited server network, and no adblocker. Using such a poor-quality VPN means putting your leg on the ax.
• HoxxVPN – Another awful choice to make, this VPN will do every possible harm to the end-users as IP addresses are leaked, user logs are stored and sold out to third parties, and online activities are tracked. To make things even worse, there is a slow and dying speed as server locations are limited. Use it at your own risk.
• VPNBook – To represent itself as a free VPN, VPNBook lures you into a trap of endless hassles. It sells the user data to others in an open digital space. There are no decent security features to keep the data safe. Don’t even expect unblocking of streaming services with its help.
• SuperVPN – When we were conducting our VPN comparison, we found nothing super about this VPN. Loopholes are many. The official website is not secured with HTTPS and can keep track of online activities. The server locations are only in 9 countries. So, it’s outrageous to expect good speed.
• Opera VPN – It’s just a shame as it tries to defame a famous browser, Opera. It has no qualities of a trusted VPN. So, don’t waste your time and resources on it.

What Are Reliable VPN Protocols?

If analyzed closely, you’ll be able to figure out that there are multiple VPN protocols to protect the end-user’s identity and online activities. However, a VPN provider doesn’t need to offer all of them. There are always certain protocol combinations. Here are some of the most common protocols for VPN services.

OpenVPN protocol – Known for its utterly secured ecosystem and open-source facility, Open VPN protocol is offered by all the leading VPN options like ExpressVPN and NordVPN. The in-built support in all the leading OS for this protocol. It works best on Chrome and Linux. It goes well with TCP and UDP modes.

L2TP/IPsec – Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with Internet Protocol Security is the full name of this protocol and is not utterly secured when alone. It should be paired with IPsec secure-networking standards to be strong. It’s a generation older than the OpenVPN protocol and receives native support from operating systems like Chrome, iOS, Mac, Windows, and Android. Most VPN services offer it.

IKEv2 or Internet Key Exchange version 2 – This is a new addition to the list of protocols and is paired with IPsec. Security-wise, it’s very secure. Windows, iOS, and recent versions of OS X/macOS offer native support for this protocol.

SSTP – SSTP stands for Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol, a proprietary Microsoft protocol that enjoys native support on Windows Vista and later versions.

PPTP or Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol – An old-school protocol, PPTP is not generally used in today’s modern era. Even though it has native support on Windows, it’s not preferred as it can’t deal with present-era vulnerabilities.

WireGuard – One of the most recent protocols, WireGuard offers everything from security and speed. It’s less code-intensive and provides a far simpler yet effective user experience. Only very few modern and high-end VPNs offer this protocol.

Conclusion

VPNs are not just a trendy term in the digital age. They are a crucial tool, offering a multitude of benefits. Beyond the ability to stream content from anywhere and bypass geo-restrictions, the best VPN services fortify your network, curbing unwanted data sharing and safeguarding your personal information. If you’re unsure about which VPN to choose, the above-mentioned VPN recommendation will guide you in the right direction.