What Is a VPN and Why Use One?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. When connected, your internet traffic routes through the VPN provider's servers, masking your real IP address and location from websites, your internet service provider (ISP), and potential snoopers on public WiFi networks.
Common reasons people use VPNs include:
- Privacy: Prevent ISPs, advertisers, and websites from tracking your online activity
- Security: Protect data on public WiFi networks at cafes, airports, and hotels
- Streaming: Access content libraries from different regions
- Remote work: Securely connect to company resources from anywhere
- Bypassing censorship: Access blocked websites in restrictive regions
Step 1: Determine Your Primary Use Case
Different VPNs excel at different tasks. Identifying your main goal helps narrow your options:
Prioritize VPNs with verified no-logs policies, independent security audits, and headquarters in privacy-friendly jurisdictions. Look for Mullvad, ProtonVPN, or IVPN—they accept anonymous payment and collect minimal data.
Choose VPNs known for unblocking streaming services. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark regularly update their servers to bypass streaming blocks. Check if they work with your specific platforms before subscribing.
Look for reliable connections, split tunneling (to use VPN only for work apps), and team management features. Consider dedicated IP addresses if accessing corporate resources with IP allowlists.
Step 2: Check Essential Security Features
Not all VPNs offer the same level of protection. Here's what to look for:
Encryption Standards
Look for AES-256-GCM encryption, the same standard used by governments and security experts. Avoid VPNs using outdated protocols like PPTP.
VPN Protocols
- WireGuard: Modern, fast, and secure. The best choice for most users
- OpenVPN: Battle-tested and highly configurable. Slightly slower but proven secure
- IKEv2: Good for mobile devices, handles network switches well
No-Logs Policy
A genuine no-logs policy means the VPN provider doesn't store records of your browsing activity, connection timestamps, or IP addresses. Look for providers that have undergone independent security audits to verify their claims.
Kill Switch
A kill switch blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, preventing accidental exposure of your real IP address. This is essential for privacy-conscious users.
Step 3: Evaluate Speed and Performance
VPN speed depends on several factors:
- Server distance: Closer servers generally provide faster speeds
- Server load: More users on a server means slower speeds
- Protocol: WireGuard is typically 30-40% faster than OpenVPN
- Your base connection: A VPN can't make your internet faster than your ISP provides
Most reputable VPNs offer 30-day money-back guarantees. Test speed with servers you'll actually use before committing long-term.
Step 4: Compare Pricing and Value
VPN pricing typically ranges from $2-12 per month, with significant discounts for annual or multi-year plans:
- Budget options ($2-4/month): Surfshark, Private Internet Access, Atlas VPN
- Mid-range ($5-8/month): NordVPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost
- Premium privacy ($5-10/month): Mullvad, ProtonVPN, IVPN
Consider these factors beyond price:
- Simultaneous connections: How many devices can connect at once? (Range: 5-unlimited)
- Device support: Apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers?
- Server network: More servers in more countries means better performance options
Step 5: Red Flags to Avoid
Steer clear of VPNs that:
- Claim to be "100% anonymous" — No VPN can guarantee complete anonymity
- Are completely free with no premium tier — They're likely selling your data
- Won't disclose their ownership — Transparency matters for trust
- Have apps with excessive permissions — A VPN doesn't need access to your contacts
- Headquartered in 14 Eyes countries without audits — Higher government surveillance risk
- No clear privacy policy — You should know exactly what data they collect
Key Takeaways
- Identify your primary use case before shopping — privacy, streaming, and remote work have different needs
- Prioritize WireGuard or OpenVPN protocols with AES-256 encryption
- Look for independently audited no-logs policies
- Test performance with the money-back guarantee before committing
- Avoid free VPNs unless they're limited tiers from reputable paid services
Frequently Asked Questions
VPNs are legal in most countries including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU nations. However, some countries like China, Russia, UAE, and North Korea restrict or ban VPN use. Always check local laws when traveling. Note that using a VPN doesn't make illegal activities legal.
VPNs add encryption overhead that typically reduces speeds by 10-30%. Premium VPNs using WireGuard protocol minimize this impact to 5-15%. For most activities like streaming HD video, browsing, and video calls, modern VPNs are fast enough that you won't notice the difference.
Most free VPNs are risky. They often monetize by logging and selling user data, injecting ads, or having weak security. Some reputable services offer limited free tiers—Proton VPN offers unlimited free data on 3 countries, and Windscribe provides 10GB monthly. These are safer options if budget is a concern.