About this page: The VPN providers listed below are presented in alphabetical order. This is an informational reference — we do not rank, endorse, or recommend any specific provider. We are not currently affiliated with any of the companies listed. Pricing and features are subject to change; always verify details directly on each provider's website.
Overview

What to look for in a VPN

Every VPN works by encrypting your internet connection and routing it through a server in a different location. Beyond that, providers differ significantly in the areas below — understanding these helps you choose a service that fits your situation.

Jurisdiction
Where the company is legally based affects what laws govern your data and whether the provider can be compelled to share it.
Logging policy
A no-logs policy means the provider does not record your browsing activity. Third-party audits offer independent verification.
Protocol
The VPN protocol affects speed and security. WireGuard and OpenVPN are widely regarded as reliable choices.
Server network
More servers and locations give you more IP choices and generally more stable connections in different regions.
Device support
Check how many simultaneous connections a subscription allows and whether apps are available for your devices.
Free tier / trial
Some providers offer free plans with data limits, and most paid plans include a money-back guarantee period.
Overview

5 well-known VPN providers

Listed alphabetically. No ranking implied.

CyberGhost
Romania Since 2011
Known for one of the largest server networks in the industry, with dedicated streaming and torrenting profiles.
Key features
  • 11,000+ servers in 100+ countries
  • Dedicated streaming and P2P servers
  • No-logs policy (independently audited)
  • Up to 7 simultaneous device connections
  • 45-day money-back guarantee
Commonly used for
Streaming Torrenting Beginners General privacy
ExpressVPN
British Virgin Islands Since 2009
Widely recognised for fast connection speeds and a broad server footprint across regions where other VPNs may underperform.
Key features
  • 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
  • Proprietary Lightway protocol (speed-optimised)
  • Audited no-logs policy
  • Up to 8 simultaneous devices
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
Commonly used for
Speed Travel Streaming Business
NordVPN
Panama Since 2012
One of the most widely used VPN services globally, with a large server network and a no-logs policy that has been independently audited multiple times.
Key features
  • 6,000+ servers in 111 countries
  • No-logs policy audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers
  • NordLynx protocol (WireGuard-based)
  • Up to 10 simultaneous devices
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
Commonly used for
General privacy Streaming Business Everyday use
ProtonVPN
Switzerland Since 2017
Built by the team behind ProtonMail, with a focus on Swiss privacy law, fully open-source code, and a generous free tier with no data limits.
Key features
  • 8,400+ servers in 112 countries
  • Free plan available (no data cap)
  • Fully open-source clients
  • Stealth protocol for censorship circumvention
  • Up to 10 simultaneous devices
Commonly used for
Privacy-first Free users Open-source advocates Proton ecosystem
Surfshark
Netherlands Since 2018
Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections under one subscription, and includes a built-in ad and malware blocker (CleanWeb).
Key features
  • 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
  • Unlimited simultaneous device connections
  • CleanWeb ad and malware blocker included
  • No-logs policy (independently audited)
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
Commonly used for
Families Multiple devices Budget-conscious Ad blocking
Before You Choose

Questions to ask yourself

What is your main reason for using a VPN?

Privacy from your ISP, streaming geo-restricted content, security on public Wi-Fi, and bypassing censorship each have different requirements. Some providers optimise specifically for one area.

Where are you located?

VPN laws vary by country. In most countries VPNs are legal, but some restrict or ban them. Always verify your local regulations before signing up.

How many devices do you need to cover?

Device limits vary from 5 (TunnelBear) to unlimited (Surfshark, IPVanish, PIA). If you want to cover a whole household, this matters.

Is jurisdiction important to you?

Some users prefer providers outside the 14-Eyes intelligence alliance (e.g. Panama, BVI, Switzerland, Malaysia, Romania). Others prioritise audited no-logs policies regardless of location.

Free Tools on This Site

Check your current IP and privacy status

Before and after choosing a VPN, you can use our free tools to see what information your connection exposes.

Check My IP Address IP Lookup Tool VPN Beginner's Guide