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. It’s safe to say that anyone can benefit from using a VPN.
List of the Best VPNs
- NordVPN
- Surfshark
- CyberGhost
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.
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.
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 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.
VPN Features to Consider
If you’re looking for a VPN, 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.