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Best VPNs of 2023

Nowadays, most of our information lives on the web. If you’re working from home or in a public space, such as your local coffee shop, you need an extra layer of security to keep your data and interests safe from hackers. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) give protection by encrypting your online data and ensuring your online anonymity. The following are the best VPNs for keeping you safe online.

List of the Best VPNs

  • NordVPN – Best VPN
  • Surfshark – Best VPN for Mobile Devices
  • CyberGhost – Best No Logs Policy

NordVPN

NordVPN has top-of-the-line encryption and more than 5,550 servers. Customers have a verified “no-logs” policy to keep browsing and information private. Other popular features include worldwide access to all streaming services without blocking, advanced encryption to protect your browsing data, and peer-to-peer (P2P) capabilities to share files securely. Best of all, NordVPN masters streaming videos with its SmartPlay feature using DNS technology and NordVPN’s apps.

NordVPN is considered one of the best VPNs due to several factors:

  • Strong security features: NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is currently one of the most secure encryption methods available. It also offers additional security features such as double VPN, Onion over VPN, and CyberSec.
  • Large server network: NordVPN has a vast network of over 5,500 servers located in 59 countries. This extensive network allows users to connect to servers in different locations worldwide and access geo-restricted content.
  • User-friendly interface: The NordVPN app has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, making it simple for users to connect to a server and start using the VPN.
  • No-logs policy: NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, meaning that they do not store any user data, ensuring that users’ online activity remains private.
  • Competitive pricing: NordVPN offers competitive pricing for its service, making it an affordable option for those looking for a reliable VPN.

However, NordVPN only lets you connect to six devices simultaneously. And its lowest price requires a 2-year commitment. Customers aren’t fans of NordVPN’s customer service when needing help with their connection and mobile app glitches. If you’re on the fence, NordVPN offers a 30-day risk-free trial period.

Surfshark

Surfshark is one of the most popular VPN options, especially for Android users. You’ll be free of hacking, malware, identity theft, and ads based on your browsing history. Surfshark’s VPN technology and privacy also prevent businesses from price discrimination based on your city.

Surfshark is considered one of the best VPNs due to several factors:

  • Strong security features: Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which is a highly secure encryption method, and also offers additional security features such as multi-hop VPN, ad-blocking, and malware protection.
  • Large server network: Surfshark has a global network of over 3,200 servers in more than 65 countries, allowing users to access geo-restricted content from around the world.
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections: Surfshark allows users to connect an unlimited number of devices to their VPN service with a single account, making it an excellent choice for families or individuals with multiple devices.
  • No-logs policy: Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that users’ online activity remains private and secure.
  • Competitive pricing: Surfshark offers affordable pricing for its service, especially considering the high level of security and number of features it provides.

Every Surfshark plan includes a kill switch and MultiHop to send your data through multiple servers to protect your data and browsing history further. Surfshark also offers CleanWeb to let you browse without fear of malware or pop-ups, or you can use Whitelister to let websites bypass Surfshark. You’ll also be able to connect unlimited devices simultaneously.

As with most VPN providers, you’ll get the most significant savings with a two-year commitment. The main drawback of the service? Customers haven’t been totally satisfied with Surfshark’s unblocking features for streaming services including Hulu and Netflix in other countries.

CyberGhost

CyberGhost gives you everything you need in a VPN with a “No-Logs” Policy, AES 256-bit encryption, an automated kill switch, and unlimited bandwidth. It also offers 24/7 customer service and 6,800 VPN “NoSpy” in-house servers to stay safe in 88 countries. CyberGhost lets you hide your IP address and use one of there’s for better browsing security. Mac users are fond of the company because it is committed to security and privacy with its traffic encryption when using public WiFi networks.

CyberGhost is considered one of the best VPNs due to several factors:

  • Strong security features: CyberGhost uses AES-256 encryption, which is one of the most secure encryption methods available. It also offers additional security features such as DNS and IP leak protection, automatic kill switch, and ad-blocking.
  • Large server network: CyberGhost has a network of over 7,400 servers located in more than 90 countries. This vast network allows users to access geo-restricted content from around the world.
  • User-friendly interface: The CyberGhost app has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, making it simple for users to connect to a server and start using the VPN.
  • No-logs policy: CyberGhost has a strict no-logs policy, meaning that they do not store any user data, ensuring that users’ online activity remains private.
  • Competitive pricing: CyberGhost offers competitive pricing for its service, making it an affordable option for those looking for a reliable VPN.

CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for most of their longer-term plans.

Why You Need a VPN

Whether you’re just browsing the web at a coffee shop or handling proprietary data at home, you need a VPN to secure your personal information. Some of the benefits you’ll get:

  • Boost security: When browsing or streaming, you shouldn’t have to worry about your data being shared or compromised. VPN encryption keeps your information secure from others.
  • Avoid hackers through encryption: Cybercriminals are less likely to access your information when it’s encrypted. They won’t be able to decode your data for their gains.
  • Secure passwords, usernames, and bank information: VPNs are great ways to keep your data safe and prevent identity theft.
  • Access private networks: A VPN is the safest way to access and share files, data, and applications conveniently.
  • Maintain anonymity online: The less information you share on the web, the better. You’ll be able to browse and share without a trace to prevent hacks and cybercrimes.

The Best VPN Features to Consider

If you’re looking for the best VPN for your needs, you’ll want to have a few top features whether you’re working, shopping, or streaming.

  • The number of servers: The more servers a VPN has, the better. A high number of servers gives customers better upload and download speeds because one server won’t be too crowded. Keep in mind that the more servers a company has, the more expensive maintenance is for the company, so subscription costs tend to scale up with server count.
  • Available platforms: Before you decide which VPN you want to use, it’s essential to make sure it works with your preferred platforms. You can find out by checking the VPN’s website or asking the customer support team. You’ll also want to make sure the VPN has a browser extension and mobile app to connect to your mobile device conveniently.
  • The number of connected devices: If you have a family, you’ll want something with a high number of simultaneously connected devices to cover gaming consoles, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and more if needed.