The Best VPN Service in 2021

# The best VPN service in 2021
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The best VPN – short for 'virtual private network' – is software traditionally used
to keep your online activity private and virtually change your location. However,
as VPNs become more mainstream, more and more users are discovering what the
software can offer beyond keeping you anonymous online.
From securing your sensitive information and avoiding trackers to circumventing

content blocks put in place by streaming providers like Netflix, you don't have to
be a hardcore techy to appreciate their potential. Plus, the top providers have
apps for just about any device, so even if you're mobile-first, you can stay secure
and stream more.
The only problem is choosing the best VPN for the job – and we're here to help you
find a balance between speeds, streaming, security and, of course, value for money.
## How do they work?
The best VPN works by tunneling your connection through its own encrypted servers,
which hides your activity from your ISP and anyone else who might be watching –
including the government and nefarious hackers. This also allows you to access
restricted sites, stream a wider range of shows, and avoid network throttling.
For example, if Facebook or YouTube is banned at your school, you'll be able to

access them through your VPN. If you're traveling to the UAE or China, you can use
a VPN to access restricted sites and apps you use daily, like Gmail and WhatsApp.
And, if you're on holiday anywhere outside your home country, you can use the best
VPN to access the Netflix shows you love, as they may be unavailable overseas.
The competition to be crowned best VPN gets tougher every day, but there's still a
clear winner that's head and shoulders above the rest – ExpressVPN.
One of ExpressVPN's main assets is that it's incredibly easy to use on any platform
– be it your phone, PC, or even PlayStation. It also performed well in our
streaming tests, easily getting around the geo-restrictions of Netflix, Hulu and
Amazon Prime Video – and, because it provides such swift connections, you'll be
able to watch in HD or 4K just like usual.
To top it off, you'll also be covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee which means
you can effectively test-drive the service and its 3,000+ servers for a whole month
before you buy – you can find out all the details in our full independent
[ExpressVPN review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/expressvpn-review).
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*1.* [ExpressVPN – hands-down the best VPN available]

(https://xvtelink.com/offer/tomsguide?
offer=3monthsfree&a_fid=744&data1=tomsguide-us-3499938980057925000)
We think ExpressVPN is the best VPN on the market, with great performance in just
about every area. Its 30-day money-back guarantee *lets you trial the service risk-
free*, and Tom's Guide readers can claim *three months free* – plus 1 year free of
backup software Backblaze.
[View Deal](https://xvtelink.com/offer/tomsguide?
[image:414435DC-7681-4E31-B57A-FE2BAEE6C4A0-28710-
00009703E37B00D5/Kts7iiY6JLvQm9RQ9qqs7a.jpeg]
*2.* [NordVPN – big name offers serious security](http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?

offer_id=564&url_id=10992&aff_id=3013&aff_click_id=tomsguide-us-
1105741355314494200&aff_sub2=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tomsguide.com%2Fbest-picks
%2Fbest-vpn)
Arguably the biggest name in the VPN industry, it's quite likely you'll have heard
of NordVPN. Thankfully it's not all hot air, as Nord delivers a premium service
that's hugely secure and great for streaming – and at *just $3.71 a month*, it's
decent value, too.[View Deal](http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?
%2Fbest-vpn)
[image:8568CD3F-47F6-4DF9-8B23-DBF53210A9F2-28710-
00009703E32CB74F/NT2ETeUvYBCuRnN2scd4SC.jpg]
*3.* [Surfshark – best-value VPN on the market](https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?

offer_id=61&aff_id=1691&aff_click_id=tomsguide-us-
%2Fbest-vpn)
If you're after a premium service for as little money as possible, Surfshark will
be right up your street. With top streaming performance and intuitive apps on just
about every device, it's the best VPN on a budget at *just $2.49 a month*.[View
Deal](https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?
%2Fbest-vpn)
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00009703E2EB41A9/6qEBTMcuih6dNBxgQrHpVD.jpg]
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[(Image credit: ExpressVPN)](https://xvtelink.com/offer/tomsguide?
ExpressVPN is simply the best VPN available thanks to its fantastic apps, ease of
use, superb speeds, excellent 24/7 customer-service support, and wide compatibility
across devices. You can use the service on Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, even Linux
or BlackBerry, and you can also install it on your Android TV, games console, or
your home router.
With a kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection and military-grade
encryption as standard, your data will stay secure, plus its no-logging policy
assures your anonymity in any situation. And, Express's stellar 24/7 live chat
support will help if anything goes awry.
Even if you're not interested in all that techy stuff, though, Express is perfect
for newbies and experts alike. You'll be able to change settings if you want to,
but you can also get started with a single click.
Fancy watching US Netflix when you're abroad? Express can sort you out with that –
plus any other regional library you might be interested it. It'll also get you
stuck into Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Go, Sky Go, and Disney+.
The only thing close to a criticism we'd have of ExpressVPN is the fact that it's a
little pricier than the competition. However, a Tom's Guide exclusive is now
offering 1 year of [cloud backup](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-cloud-
backup) software Backblaze for free with every 12-month ExpressVPN plan. If that's
something you're looking for, it offers an excellent alternative to runner-up
NordVPN's NordLocker add-on, and actually works out a little cheaper in the long
run.
But regardless of freebies, all we need to say is that ExpressVPN is the best VPN
service available for pretty much any purpose. However, if you're not sure, the 30-
day money-back guarantee gives you plenty of time to test so you can make sure it's
right for you. If it isn't, you'll be able to get a refund – no questions asked.
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[Get three months FREE of the very best VPN on the market]
(https://xvtelink.com/offer/tomsguide?
Tom's Guide readers can claim both 1 year of Backblaze /and/ three months free on
a 12 month plan with ExpressVPN – that's *15 months for the price of 12*. But if
you want to try before you buy, you'll still be covered by that 30-day money-back
guarantee to make sure it's the right VPN for you.
[View Deal](https://xvtelink.com/offer/tomsguide?
[image:F9C2E018-6432-46F3-BF41-BB9CC5377BBD-28710-
00009703E17F584E/k5YjRLobCJz2fHUC2VeM7F.jpg]
If you're on this page then you probably know about NordVPN – and yes, the security
giant you've seen on TV /is/ one of the best VPN services around. While it can't
quite match ExpressVPN in terms of all-round excellence, it's hot on its heels and
provides a seriously secure, privacy-focused experience – and you can find out more
in our full [NordVPN review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/nordvpn-review).
You'll be covered by military-grade encryption alongside all the usual extra

features we've come to expect, like a kill switch and a choice of protocols to let
you choose if you want extra speed or safety. You'll also have a great selection of
apps for pretty much any device you want covering.
Those apps do present one of Nord's downsides though – on desktop and larger
screens the map-based interface is quite useful, but on handheld devices it's much
more clumsy than a server list. While you can access one with a swipe, we'd like to
see one immediately.
That's a small quibble, though, because otherwise NordVPN provides a great

experience. You'll be able to stream overseas Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu and more,
plus its excellent connection speeds won't leave you buffering.
Nord was subject to a well-publicised data breach in 2018, but has taken great
steps to remedy this, not least a second full [independent audit]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/news/independent-audit-confirms-nordvpns-no-log-policy-
for-the-second-time) in two years of its internals and no-logs policy. All this
comes together to make an excellent VPN service that only misses out on the top
spot due to a couple of app issues – and the fact that the competition is so
strong.
[image:DD97C556-EADB-46BE-B816-0BB98492FFB8-28710-
00009703E1051311/_Kts7iiY6JLvQm9RQ9qqs7a.jpeg]
[Save big on NordVPN's longest plan](http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?

%2Fbest-vpn) If you want to save some money when signing up to Nord, you're best
off going for its longest two-year plan. You'll get a price of $4.13 a month which
makes Nord super affordable – especially considering it's such a close runner-up to
the best VPN ever made.[View Deal](http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?
%2Fbest-vpn)
[image:C0483683-9496-41C0-B105-82E5B7CF1FAD-28710-
00009703E0C204F6/BXiw6YDaNEkUovtSV44WEM.jpg]
In our [Surfshark review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/surfshark-vpn-review),

we found that the BVI-based VPN delivered a seriously powerful product for less
than half the price of some leading competitors. No, you won't have every single
bell and whistle, but for those that just want reliable internet security and
speeds good enough to stream with, it's got all you need.
While they're not incredibly in-depth, Surfshark's apps look great and are easy to
use. All you need to do is tap the quick connect button and you're off. You'll also
be able to get apps for plenty of devices including Android, iOS, Windows, Mac and
Linux.
On that note, with Surfshark you really /will/ be able to protect every device you
own, because it offers unlimited simultaneous connections with a single
subscription. That means you can cover 10, 20, even 50 devices with one plan.
Surfshark's no slouch in the privacy department, with a kill switch, split

tunneling and AES-256 encryption. If you want seriously powerful configuration in
your VPN then it's probably not for you, but it'll keep you secure – it wouldn't be
on this list if it wouldn't.
Value is what makes Surfshark really shine, though. Right now, signing up to a 24-
month plan will get you an extra three free, which works out at just $2.21 a month
– and you can cover everything you own with one plan. It's that simple.
[image:DFBEBCEB-D0DA-4D4F-AE6B-928A264C5DE3-28710-
00009703E07F5C3A/A984E7HLRUJebRYWdEQET9.jpg]
[A thoroughly premium service at a bargain price](https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?

%2Fbest-vpn)
Surfshark is a great option for those who want a simple VPN to set and forget.
It's perfect for streaming almost any service, the apps are super simple, and
you'll get a 30-day money-back guarantee as standard so you can test-drive the VPN
before you commit.[View Deal](https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?
%2Fbest-vpn)
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[(Image credit: Hotspot Shield)](https://trk.aclktrkr.com/aff_c?
%2Fbest-vpn)
While it's probably best-known for its [free VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-

picks/best-free-vpn), our [Hotspot Shield review]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/hotspot-shield-review) found that its paid-for
VPN really delivers the goods. It offers incredibly [fast VPN]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-fast-vpn) speeds available for a fair
price, and it's pretty easy to use as well.
While those maximum speeds come with a few drawbacks – namely the fact that
Hotspot's proprietary protocol Catapult Hydra can't be manually set up on routers
like OpenVPN can – the service has really improved since we last tested it and has
now become one of our most highly recommended VPNs.
Improvements include the addition of a Linux app, a tasty price-cut for the annual
plan, and a boost in the number of countries covered (up to over 80, now). You'll
also get some freebies – 1Password being the best.
There are still a few issues with logging, but if we're honest they're not huge.
While more data is collected than with, say, ExpressVPN, there's still nothing here
that could potentially link you to your activity – and that's a compromise many
people will be willing to make for speeds of over 400Mbps.
So, if you're after seriously fast streaming in just about any service, or want to
download torrents in safety as quickly as possible, Hotspot Shield is definitely
one to watch.
/*Sign up now on*/ [the Hotspot Shield website](https://trk.aclktrkr.com/aff_c?

%2Fbest-vpn)
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[(Image credit: CyberGhost)](https://ho-app.cyberghostvpn.com/aff_c?
offer_id=135&aff_id=1020&source=tomsguide&aff_click_id=tomsguide-us-
%2Fbest-vpn&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Foffer%2Ffutpl_ottvxmlvg)
CyberGhost has a feature-loaded, user-friendly interface, with convenient buttons

in the Windows client software for streaming media, torrenting files, protecting
your Wi-Fi transmissions and evading censorship – read our [CyberGhost VPN review]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/cyberghost-vpn-review) for more info.
Those streaming and torrenting features are really useful, as it takes out the
trial-and-error of testing individual servers to see if they work with Netflix and
the like (although iPlayer still poses a problem). While ExpressVPN's just always
seems to work, individual servers of many other providers can drop Netflix support
as they get detected, so CyberGhost makes it super easy to get streaming.
And, on that note, there are over 6,100 CyberGhost servers in around 90 countries
worldwide, so there's always a great selection to choose from.
CyberGhost is also transparent about its company structure, posting photos and bios
on its website of everyone from the CEO to the cleaning person, and privacy
fanatics will like that the company is based in Romania rather than in the US.
Plus, you don't need to provide your real name to sign up – all you need is a
working email address, and you can pay in Bitcoin to remain nearly anonymous.
While CyberGhost's short plans are amongst the most expensive on the market, it's
three-year plan has recently dropped to a record low of just $2.25 a month.
CyberGhost's performance isn't quite up there with the best, and the apps are a
little fickle at times, but it's still a top-tier VPN that we strongly recommend.
/*Sign up now on the*/ [the CyberGhost website](https://ho-

app.cyberghostvpn.com/aff_c?
%2Fbest-vpn&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Foffer%2Ffutpl_ottvxmlvg)
[image:A7DF5027-A9C3-40C6-B5AB-C8639524A7A6-28710-
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[image:6C256069-EE31-4AAB-871F-DDABB7A46CC3-28710-
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[(Image credit: Private Internet Access)]
(https://privateinternetaccess.com/offer/future_60e7q6mk5?aff_click_id=tomsguide-
us-4777382252771749000&aff_sub2=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tomsguide.com%2Fbest-picks
%2Fbest-vpn)
In our most recent round of testing, we were seriously impressed with Private
Internet Access's performance, and subsequently it's earned itself the sixth spot
on our best VPN list - check out our [Private Internet Access review]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/private-internet-access-review) for all the
details.
One of the standout features has to be the provider's vast network of servers –
over 32,000 to be precise. In short, this is the biggest selection of servers
available from any consumer VPN provider, and while at the time of writing over
17,000 of those are in the US alone, it means you'll have no problem finding a
decent connection in the location you want.
PIA's desktop apps have seen a few tweaks to improve privacy and performance, with
encryption tightened, alongside Automation Rules to help you safely change networks
when reconnecting. We've lost a couple of features like having a choice of
handshakes, but in reality these were legacy features that introduced
vulnerabilities, and we doubt many users actually made the most of anyway.
Compared to much of the competition, though, PIA's [mobile VPN]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-mobile-vpn-apps) apps are stellar.
they're much more in-depth than some other options, are smartly engineered, and
have recently been certified by the ioXt Alliance, alongside ExpressVPN's and
NordVPN's offerings.
PIA's is decent for unblocking US Netflix, but in our testing it couldn't get
access to more 'niche' libraries like Japan or Australia. And, while speeds are
certainly usable, they're not a swift as class leaders.
Overall, though, PIA has tightened up its game and is now more of a contender than
ever – well worth a look.
/*Sign up now on*/ [the PIA website]

(https://privateinternetaccess.com/offer/future_60e7q6mk5?aff_click_id=tomsguide-
us-1043519464497720800&aff_sub2=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tomsguide.com%2Fbest-picks
%2Fbest-vpn)
[image:96874A28-CF12-493F-B983-3C58038FCF07-28710-
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[image:11C4369C-FC30-43D7-A062-1CA33C2E078A-28710-
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[(Image credit: Windscribe)](https://windscribe.com/upgrade?
promo=WS50OFF&affid=fghzq9e1)
#### The best VPN for browser extensions
Our [Windscribe review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/windscribe-vpn-review)

found the provider's free service that gives users 10GB of data a month very
useful, but it also offers a fairly-priced paid service that delivers unlimited
data and lets you connect as many devices at once as you like. Most other VPN
services permit only five to 10 at a time.
Windscribe is compatible with many platforms – including routers and Amazon Fire
and Kodi TV set-top boxes. The service offers a great variety of connection
options, has a wide geographic reach with hundreds of servers, and presents an
appealing, if minimal, user interface. It's also good for watching overseas
Netflix, and has dedicated 'Windflix servers' to enable this.
The service's [Chrome VPN extension](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-

chrome-vpn-extension) is a standout feature. As one of the best on the market, it
offers tons of features and can be used without installing the desktop client –
great for work computers of other devices you can't install software on. For those
that do install the desktop client, you'll notice the brand-spanking Windscribe 2.0
software has tidied up the interface and offers a few nifty features.
However, Windscribe's network performance wasn’t quite as impressive, and in our

testing it delivered slower connection times than its competitors. It's still good
enough to stream with, but it's got nothing on the very fastest providers out
there.
You can pay for a Windscribe subscription with Bitcoin, you don't even have to
provide an email address, and the service is based in Canada, which may appeal to
users wary of US authorities.
Overall, for those looking to test out a VPN with a free service and then sign up
once you know it works, Windscribe is an excellent option.
[image:FF25D510-46E6-4734-A373-B38836B57CFD-28710-
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[(Image credit: IPVanish)]
(https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/8900245/type/dlg/sid/tomsguide-us-
3024997319387191000/https://www.ipvanish.com/top-vpn-service?
a_aid=t2a9&chan=i1d)
US-based IPVanish is an old hand in the VPN game, and has always been a favorite
for more 'techy' users. Its green and black interface certainly looks the part,
and with a smart map interface (better than NordVPN's, in our opinion) and more
server info than most, it's still a great choice – read our full [IPVanish review]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/ipvanish-review) for more
IPVanish has recently increased its server count to 1,600, and a major hardware
update saw all of its servers cards upgraded to 25Gbps models – that might not mean
much a change for users right now, but it's certainly futureproofed.
In daily use you'll find IPVanish is fairly quick, delivering acceptable speeds
across the board. However, it still hasn't integrated the new WireGuard protocol,
and in this respect it's not quite up to date. We can't help but imagine this will
be the next thing on the provider's to-do list.
If you're a Netflix binger, you'll be pleased to hear that IPVanish has no trouble
unblocking the US library from abroad, but unfortunately that's all you'll get –
other geographic libraries proved out of bounds, as did Amazon Prime and BBC
iPlayer.
In terms of value, IPVanish offers some seriously good introductory offers,

especially its [monthly VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-cheap-
monthly-vpn) plan, and all subscriptions come with an excellent unlimited
simultaneous connections policy.
However, while it's still definitely in the top tier of providers, in our last
round of testing IPVanish fell behind the curve. It hasn't dropped to eighth in
this guide because it's a poor service – it's still very capable – it's because the
competition has upped its game while IPVanish has seemingly stood still.
/*Sign up now on*/ [the IPVanish website]

1105323444070274700/https://www.ipvanish.com/top-vpn-service?
a_aid=t2a9&chan=i1d)
[image:F2854EA3-DDBB-4CDF-8B97-E08693EDA247-28710-
00009703DE90FE33/____VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg]
[image:61E98BE9-0DF3-4EAF-96CA-206E8B3C6387-28710-
00009703DE62AD8F/Gw2vqzCVqBSs4Vqp8Qi8wn.jpg]
[(Image credit: ProtonVPN)](https://go.getproton.me/aff_c?
1323518321477489400&url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotonvpn.com%2F%3FvisitorId%3Dho-
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partners_program%26utm_medium%3Dlink%26utm_source%3Daid-tune-%7Baffiliate_id%7D
%26utm_content%3D%7Boffer_id%7D%26hfp%3Dfalse%26spl%3D%7Baffiliate_id
%7D&aff_sub2=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tomsguide.com%2Fbest-picks%2Fbest-vpn)
#### The best no-fee VPN around
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
Thanks to improvements made that we outline in our [ProtonVPN review]

(https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/protonvpn-review), the Swiss service has come
more and more to the forefront of our attention of late. It's a good VPN provider
with some real pros that make it a tempting option.
One of the standouts is how effective it is at unblocking the catalogues of TV

streaming services when abroad. Netflix? No problem. Amazon Prime Video? Easy. BBC
iPlayer? A doddle. So, if your main reason for being here is to find a good
[streaming VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/streaming-vpn), then Proton is
a decent fit.
However, streaming support is only available on the Plus plan which, to be honest,
is a little expensive. On its longest-term contract (two years) you'll be paying
about the same as you would be for ExpressVPN, except you won't get live chat
support and you'll miss out on over 2,000 servers worldwide.
If you're somebody who's likely to need an [iPhone VPN]

(https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-iphone-vpn) or [Android VPN]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-android-vpn-apps), then ProtonVPN's apps
are really a joy to use. They're basically as feature-filled and easy to use as its
desktop clients.
We must say that we expected faster speeds when we tested Proton's servers around
the world, and if this was improved it'd move the service up a little in our
estimations. But, we really love the provider's commitment to privacy, and features
like Secure Core and its rock-solid privacy policy are great.
If you just want to give it a go before buying, we'd thoroughly recommend its free
version. If you like that, there's not a huge amount of reasons not to upgrade.
/*Sign up now on*/ [the ProtonVPN website](https://go.getproton.me/aff_c?

1341289721568801800&url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotonvpn.com%2F%3FvisitorId%3Dho-
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partners_program%26utm_medium%3Dlink%26utm_source%3Daid-tune-%7Baffiliate_id%7D
%26utm_content%3D%7Boffer_id%7D%26hfp%3Dfalse%26spl%3D%7Baffiliate_id
%7D&aff_sub2=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tomsguide.com%2Fbest-picks%2Fbest-vpn)
[image:56E929C1-21D5-4E56-8A1F-B31A860983BA-28710-
00009703DE29ADD3/_____VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg]
[image:C63BBA8B-F86C-4DB8-92E3-9E67EA6D6072-28710-
00009703DDFF9F25/FitGkuWECthXnNpUrkmhxg.jpg]
(Image credit: VyprVPN)
VyprVPN is a useful service that has a lot going for it. A standout of our [VyprVPN
review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/vyprvpn-review) is its watertight no-
logging policy, which has also been publicly audited. This is a great start if
you're after a VPN to keep your info private.
You'll also get wide device support, as Vypr offers a a plethora of apps for pretty
much any device you could ask for, including QNAP, TVs and BlackPhone, with
additional guides for Blackberry phones, OpenWRT, Boxee and others. However, with
only 5 simultaneous connections, you might have to pick and choose.
If you're after a blazing fast VPN, though, VyprVPN might disappoint a little. In
our tests it performed well in the UK, but in the US it didn't come close to making
the most of our ultra-fast line. Still, it does provide usable speeds, and if you
don't have top tier internet you're unlikely to notice the difference
With prices starting from as low as $1.66 a month it's also incredible value, but
as an all-round package, we'd probably recommend spending a a small amount more for
a lot in return.
/*Sign up now*/ [on VyprVPN's website](https://powerhouse.go2cloud.org/aff_c?

9947938252961817000&url=https%3A%2F%2Fget.vyprvpn.com%2Frefer%2F%3Foffer_id
%3D119%26aff_id%3D3380%26transaction_id%3D%7Btransaction_id%7D%26offer_id%3D
%7Boffer_id%7D%26aff_id%3D%7Baffiliate_id%7D&aff_sub2=https%3A%2F
%2Fwww.tomsguide.com%2Fbest-picks%2Fbest-vpn)
[image:3A4EE620-62AF-4330-8BC4-34B8D29CB436-28710-
00009703DDC132AD/______VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg]
[image:2F19FD65-6589-49A2-9BC9-F075B8BFA2B0-28710-
00009703DD97BE99/dyRGLmehQFDwvTbisuRygb.jpg]
[(Image credit: Future)](https://strongvpn.com/?tr_aid=t2a9&data1=tomsguide-us-
3174622120436232700)
#### Strong on streaming and support
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
StrongVPN is a solidly performing VPN, perfect for bypassing region locks. However,
in our [StrongVPN review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/strongvpn-excellent-
performance) we found out that it goes beyond the basics, offering some unique
extra benefits while missing out on some more obvious others.
A really attractive feature is that you can have up to 12 devices running StrongVPN
at once, which is more than enough to cover all of your devices and still have some
left over. But this is balanced out by a lack of detail in the client, which
doesn't include information in the server browser or DNS settings.
Making a up a little for that is the excellent monthly /and/ annual prices,
alongside the free 250GB of SugarSync storage, and as the storage provider is
usually pretty expensive, this is a good deal. However, StrongVPN have missed a
trick here, as if you visit the homepage you simply won't see anything about this
partnership until you check out the pricing plans.
You'll get 24/7 customer support, including a phone line with more limited opening
times, plus decent speeds in almost every server location, which makes it pretty
usable. For those looking for secure storage plus a simple, easy VPN, StrongVPN
isn't a bad option.
/*Sign up now on*/ [the StrongVPN website](https://strongvpn.com/?

tr_aid=t2a9&data1=tomsguide-us-3725197303067902000)
[image:AFE04441-FF44-4FB5-A5B6-65655C922908-28710-
00009703DD71120E/_______VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg]
[image:4637958B-B4C0-4746-9D13-0C5D4768413A-28710-
00009703DD4EEAB9/6VUQaUpq8zouG8UGiFuF79.jpg]
[(Image credit: TunnelBear)]
1245038694851525600/https://www.tunnelbear.com/pricing)
#### A great option for total VPN newbies and technophobes
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
For those who've never used a VPN before – and perhaps are a little intimidated by
the prospect – TunnelBear could be the perfect choice. You can start off with a
limited free plan (which admittedly only gives you 500MB of data /a month/ ), or
upgrade to the full service which gives access to over 1,000 servers in around 20
countries. Check out the full [TunnelBear review]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/tunnelbear-review) for more detail.
Network performance is acceptable and prices are par for the course. However, the
biggest draw is its comprehensive privacy policy and regular audits, which will
appeal to you if you're looking for a VPN to genuinely keep your information safe.
TunnelBear's simplicity, though, is also its downfall. While it's easy to use, so
are ExpressVPN and most of the other top-rated providers, but once you get used to
using them, you'll have the choice to explore in-depth options if you want to. No
such luck with TunnelBear, though, as there's a dearth of configuration.
You've also got no choice but to run TunnelBear's client software – unless you use
Linux – which may concern some privacy-minded users, and there's no option to set
up TunnelBear connections on routers or other devices. Finally, this tiny Canadian
firm is now owned by US antivirus giant McAfee, which may mean TunnelBear is
subject to US search warrants.
But, if you're after a VPN to set and forget, TunnelBear's not a bad option.
/*Sign up now on*/ [the TunnelBear website]

6939044973953739000/https://www.tunnelbear.com/pricing)
[image:89F46E15-7346-49D9-8277-1B19BEC371BA-28710-
00009703DD2642E4/________VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg]
[image:43E1065C-6D2F-4FAB-ACCB-1A078C79932B-28710-
00009703DCFDAC82/e2NedwmQ4QeMhcuNT8VMGC.jpg]
[(Image credit: Future)](https://go.redirectingat.com/?
id=92X1584493&xcust=tomsguide_us_6449790521537942000&xs=1&url=https%3A
%2F%2Fcheckout.hidemyass.com%2Faffiliate.php%3FACCOUNT%3DPRIVAXLT%26AFFILIATE
%3D102100%26PATH%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.hidemyass.com%252Faffiliate
%252Favangate&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tomsguide.com%2Fbest-picks%2Fbest-vpn)
#### This 15-year-old VPN is still alive and kicking
TODAY'S BEST DEALS
Started way back in 2005 by a boy named Jack Cator, HideMyAss (which has recently
shed itself of its schoolboy origins by semi-censoring its name to HMA) has become
a stalwart of the VPN industry.
With servers in 190 countries, HMA boasts the widest network of any VPN on this
list, and with apps for plenty of devices you'll have plenty of options here.
However, those servers are spread a little thin, and we'd like to see each location
populated with more than just a few.
HMA has recently undertaken a no-logging audit by VerSprite, which has been passed
– although we're not entirely sure of the true scope of this, and the final report
isn't available to the public to inspect. Still, though, that's good news.
HMA isn't perfect for streamers, unless you only watch Netflix – Amazon Prime
Video, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ all remain blocked – but P2P is allowed, so
torrenting is still on the table. Overall, it's a good VPN that it might be worth
taking a look at.
[Sign up now on the HMA website](https://go.redirectingat.com/?

id=92X1584493&xcust=tomsguide_us_1359015281425192400&xs=1&url=https%3A
%2F%2Fcheckout.hidemyass.com%2Faffiliate.php%3FACCOUNT%3DPRIVAXLT%26AFFILIATE
%3D102100%26PATH%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.hidemyass.com%252Faffiliate
%252Favangate&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tomsguide.com%2Fbest-picks%2Fbest-vpn)
[image:85F71EC9-70E6-4AE6-BA98-493A182E0E82-28710-
00009703DCCE6202/_________VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg]
[image:D92628EF-7EE9-4B04-9CA2-0306D65331D1-28710-
00009703DCAB682A/2JpLMKt2xX7dcjGMEg2Mme.jpg]
[(Image credit: Bitdefender)](https://bitdefender.evyy.net/c/221109/278689/4466?
subId1=tomsguide-us-3926415897939115500&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bitdefender.com
%2Fsolutions%2Fvpn.html%23choose-plan)
One of the [best antivirus](https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-antivirus,review-

2588.html) providers Bitdefender has launched a standalone VPN product. Bitdefender
VPN used to come bundled with the antivirus package, but now it's available on its
own, and for a very reasonable price.
Built around Hotspot Shield's Catapult Hydra protocol, Bitdefender VPN offers some
seriously fast speeds, only matched by Hotspot Shield itself, and this is a huge
draw for the VPN. However, that reliance on Hotspot Shield does mean Bitdefender
doesn't have much control over its logging policy, and it's also impossible to
manually set up as a [router VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-router-
vpn), too.
Bitdefender's app is about as simple as possible – which will be positive or

negative depending on what kind of user you are. You'll get an on/off button, a
choice of 30 or so server locations, a nifty checkbox you c an use to make sure
you're protected if you start P2P traffic, and fully-functional kill switch to
protect you from drop-outs. That's it.
While we'd prefer to see a bit more configuration available, for newbies or those
looking to get access to Catapult Hydra without paying Hotspot Shield's premium
pricing, Bitdefender VPN could look tempting – read more in our full [Bitdefender
VPN review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/bitdefender-vpn-review).
[Sign up now on the Bitdefender website]

(https://bitdefender.evyy.net/c/221109/278689/4466?subId1=tomsguide-us-
9622261503246580000&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bitdefender.com%2Fsolutions%2Fvpn.html
%23choose-plan)
[image:B18359DD-D81A-42BB-8EFC-8CC5FCFC6080-28710-
00009703DC6B9B76/__________VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg]
[image:4EA6F8DA-A671-474D-A894-EB91C783506C-28710-
00009703DC4734B0/g2CiPNaonaeqnoG5QPSoER.jpg]
[(Image credit: Ivacy)](https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?
awinmid=15371&awinaffid=103504&clickref=tomsguide-us-
7009678533820230000&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ivacy.com%2Fbuy-vpn%2F)
#### Long plans are incredibly cheap, but there are a couple of bugs
If you don't mind signing up for a massive five years, Ivacy is just about the
cheapest VPN you can pick up. At just $1.41 a month it's incredibly good value, but
you do have to ask yourself: will Ivacy have kept up with the competition in five
years' time?
Beyond that, Ivacy is a pretty decent VPN overall, and quite unlike Bitdefender,
its apps are full to the brim with interesting additions. You can filter your
servers for the best ones to use with any particular streaming provider, save your
favorites, choose between a number of protocols, and the app even claims to scan
downloaded files for viruses. You'll also get a kill switch and split tunneling.
However, there are a few usability issues that we weren't hugely impressed with.
Automatic server selection didn't often give us the server we'd usually choose, and
Streaming Mode threw up a host of problems like hidden IP addresses and
unswitchable servers. Plus, while we know it's cheap, we didn't appreciate being
served ads in a commercial product.
Overall though, you can't sniff at that price, and if that's your only concern,
Ivacy might be for you.
[Sign up now on the Ivacy website](https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?

awinmid=15371&awinaffid=103504&clickref=tomsguide-us-
5969485726830173000&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ivacy.com%2Fbuy-vpn%2F)
[^ Back to the top](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-vpn#main)
## Best VPN FAQ
Choosing the best VPN for can be a tricky process – that's why we've put together
this comprehensive guide. However, for most people, we'd recommend our [#1 VPN
ExpressVPN](https://xvtelink.com/tomsguide?
offer=3monthsfree&a_fid=744&data1=tomsguide-us-1371072499548835300) as the
best choice.
It works great as a [Netflix VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-

netflix-vpn), a [torrenting VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/torrenting-
vpn-torrents), and even a [China VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-
china-vpn), so whatever you need your VPN to do, it's got you covered – all the
while keeping you protected with its rock-solid encryption.
If you're after a [cheap VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/cheap-vpn), we'd

also recommend [bargain VPN Surfshark](https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?
offer_id=61&aff_sub=tgfaq&aff_id=1691&aff_click_id=tomsguide-us-
%2Fbest-vpn) as a great option. It's not as fully-featured a ExpressVPN, but now
available for just $2.21 a month it's a little more affordable.
As a middle ground, [fan-favorite NordVPN](https://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?
offer_id=18&aff_sub=tgfaq&aff_id=3013&aff_click_id=tomsguide-us-
%2Fbest-vpn) is also useful. It offers serious security for a decent price, and has
apps for tons of devices.
When testing VPNs, we check every aspect that might be of concern. To begin with,
we look at what personal details a service needs, and any essential features like
encryption. Then we consider pricing, and whether money-back guarantees are on
offer, and whether it works on other operating systems as a [Mac VPN]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-mac-vpn) or [Linux VPN]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-linux-vpn) as well as on Windows.
During the physical testing, we test speeds over a number of servers, check for DNS
leaks, test kill switch functionality plus any and all other additional features,
and measure connection time and if the apps crash.
Finally, we review how easy the apps are to use, and test the services on desktop
and mobile devices.
Short answer – no.
Using a VPN is not illegal, and it's perfectly legitimate to want to protect your
data and activity. Having one on your computer and using it regularly in pursuit of
watertight web security and location spoofing is in no way unlawful.
However, using a VPN to hide illegal activity doesn't make you above the law, so
downloading copyrighted material is still illegal even with a VPN. Similarly, using
a VPN goes slap bang against Netflix's Ts&Cs, and the provider has the right to
terminate your subscription if they catch you – although that's never actually
happened.
Countries like China and the UAE have made laws against VPN use, but due to their
use in business it's impossible to outlaw VPNs outright. However, in those cases
it's well worth reading up on what you may or may not be permitted to use a VPN
for, and consider if the very small risk is worth taking.
The best VPN can make it look like you're located somewhere you're not. It's a
well-worn practice to evade online censorship, as is done in some countries, or to
tap into US streaming services while in Europe or Asia. We've used VPNs to read the
New York morning paper in Beijing, and watch US TV in London.
But there are some caveats. A VPN will give you more privacy, but not more
security. If you end up on a website harboring malware, the VPN can't prevent you
from being infected.
If you just want to evade geographical restrictions on streaming content such as

BBC iPlayer or Hulu, you don't necessarily need a VPN to do so. You just need a
proxy service that will make it look like you're in the right country. There are
many free proxy services available, but do your homework before choosing one – some
are a bit dodgy.
Finally, Netflix and the BBC are cracking down on VPNs and proxy services. There
are no guarantees that a particular service will evade geographical restrictions on
a particular day.
The most basic qualities you should look for are speed, privacy and ease of use.
These might seem like basic attributes, but in reality few providers have found a
happy medium.
Connection speed relies on having a wide range of well-maintained servers. This

allows the VPN to provide excellent speed and bandwidth to everyone using its
servers.
Having excellent security is a fairly basic requirement, but hard to get right. If
you're concerned about that, make sure your VPN has an airtight privacy policy, and
a no-logging policy is even better. Some services like ExpressVPN and NordVPN have
also been independently audited to prove their claims.
Finally, although many users might be au fait with tech, more and more newbies are
looking to start using VPNs. If that's you, it's definitely worth making sure that
your provider has well-designed apps on all the devices you expect to use with the
service.
Naturally, free services are very popular products because everyone likes to save
their money. And, they /can/ be handy bits of software if you're not somebody
that's likely to keep their VPN turned on all the time and just want it for
occasional use for staying safe on public Wi-Fi. Oh, and if you don't mind ads...
For most people, though, free services provide a false economy. They tend to have
limited servers in just a handful of locations, often restrict you to a single
device and almost always have a limit on the amount data you can use per day or
month.
Those data limits rule out using your VPN for streaming or torrenting, and if you
want to keep your VPN running 24/7 for a permanent privacy layer, a no-fee VPN just
isn't going to work.
There are several different VPN protocols, not all of which are used by all of the
VPN services we reviewed. Most operating systems have built-in support for at least
one of these protocols, which means you can use that protocol – and a willing VPN
service – without client software. The full-fledged VPN services have online
instructions for how to do this, as well as how to set up routers to connect
directly to the services.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN is very secure, open-source and widely used. Most VPN services
support it, but except for Chrome OS and Linux, few operating systems do. This
protocol can be used in either TCP (web) or UDP (streaming) mode; the latter is
sloppier but faster. You'll need either the VPN service's client software or one of
the many free alternatives. Either way, you'll still need to pay for the VPN
service.
L2TP/IPsec (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with Internet Protocol Security): L2TP is

not secure itself, so it's generally paired with the IPsec secure-networking
standard. The combination of the two was once thought to be very secure when
properly implemented, but some VPN services suggest that you use OpenVPN instead.
L2TP/IPsec has native support in Windows, OS X/macOS, Android, Chrome OS and iOS.
Most VPN services support it.
IKEv2 (Internet Key Exchange version 2, generally with IPsec): This is a new-ish
standard that is very secure when properly implemented. It has native support in
Windows, iOS and recent versions of OS X/macOS.
SSTP (Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol): SSTP is a Microsoft protocol with native
support on Windows Vista and later versions. It's thought to be quite secure, but
only Microsoft knows for sure.
PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol): This standard is largely obsolete, with
many known security flaws, but it's fast. It has native support built into Windows,
Android and older versions of Mac OS X and iOS; Apple dropped support with macOS
Sierra and iOS 10. Use PPTP only for streaming content, as it won't protect your
data.
WireGuard: The newest of these protocols, WireGuard combines reportedly excellent

security with great speeds. Developed from the ground up, it uses far less code
than its predecessors, meaning a better, simpler user experience. However, it's not
yet supported by many VPN services, although as it gains traction more and more are
beginning to implement it. Some, like [Mozilla VPN]
(https://www.tomsguide.com/features/firefox-vpn), solely use WireGuard.
*Read more:*
[image:117DB7E0-3BC3-4E50-9EC9-621A31703D8C-28710-
00009703DBFC87A7/ebGZgkd4qVX7mUuvz3WNkH.jpg]
[The best VPN service in 2021](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-vpn)
#Web #Clipped #Resource #Info

The Best VPN Service in 2021

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# The best VPN service in 2021

From securing your sensitive information and avoiding trackers to circumventing

## How do they work?

For example, if Facebook or YouTube is banned at your school, you'll be able to

*1.* [ExpressVPN – hands-down the best VPN available]

*2.* [NordVPN – big name offers serious security](http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?

*3.* [Surfshark – best-value VPN on the market](https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?

You'll be covered by military-grade encryption alongside all the usual extra

That's a small quibble, though, because otherwise NordVPN provides a great

[Save big on NordVPN's longest plan](http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?

In our [Surfshark review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/surfshark-vpn-review),

Surfshark's no slouch in the privacy department, with a kill switch, split

[A thoroughly premium service at a bargain price](https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?

While it's probably best-known for its [free VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-

/*Sign up now on*/ [the Hotspot Shield website](https://trk.aclktrkr.com/aff_c?

CyberGhost has a feature-loaded, user-friendly interface, with convenient buttons

/*Sign up now on the*/ [the CyberGhost website](https://ho-

/*Sign up now on*/ [the PIA website]

#### The best VPN for browser extensions

Our [Windscribe review](https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/windscribe-vpn-review)

The service's [Chrome VPN extension](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-

However, Windscribe's network performance wasn’t quite as impressive, and in our

In terms of value, IPVanish offers some seriously good introductory offers,

/*Sign up now on*/ [the IPVanish website]

#### The best no-fee VPN around

TODAY'S BEST DEALS

Thanks to improvements made that we outline in our [ProtonVPN review]

One of the standouts is how effective it is at unblocking the catalogues of TV

If you're somebody who's likely to need an [iPhone VPN]

/*Sign up now on*/ [the ProtonVPN website](https://go.getproton.me/aff_c?

(Image credit: VyprVPN)

/*Sign up now*/ [on VyprVPN's website](https://powerhouse.go2cloud.org/aff_c?

#### Strong on streaming and support

TODAY'S BEST DEALS

/*Sign up now on*/ [the StrongVPN website](https://strongvpn.com/?

#### A great option for total VPN newbies and technophobes

TODAY'S BEST DEALS

/*Sign up now on*/ [the TunnelBear website]

#### This 15-year-old VPN is still alive and kicking

TODAY'S BEST DEALS

[Sign up now on the HMA website](https://go.redirectingat.com/?

One of the [best antivirus](https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-antivirus,review-

Bitdefender's app is about as simple as possible – which will be positive or

[Sign up now on the Bitdefender website]

[Sign up now on the Ivacy website](https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?

[^ Back to the top](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-vpn#main)

## Best VPN FAQ

It works great as a [Netflix VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-

If you're after a [cheap VPN](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/cheap-vpn), we'd

Short answer – no.

If you just want to evade geographical restrictions on streaming content such as

Connection speed relies on having a wide range of well-maintained servers. This

L2TP/IPsec (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with Internet Protocol Security): L2TP is

WireGuard: The newest of these protocols, WireGuard combines reportedly excellent

[The best VPN service in 2021](https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-vpn)

#Web #Clipped #Resource #Info

You might also like

1. [ExpressVPN – hands-down the best VPN available]

2. [NordVPN – big name offers serious security](http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?

3. [Surfshark – best-value VPN on the market](https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?

/Sign up now on/ [the Hotspot Shield website](https://trk.aclktrkr.com/aff_c?

/Sign up now on the/ [the CyberGhost website](https://ho-

/Sign up now on/ [the PIA website]

/Sign up now on/ [the IPVanish website]

/Sign up now on/ [the ProtonVPN website](https://go.getproton.me/aff_c?

/Sign up now/ [on VyprVPN's website](https://powerhouse.go2cloud.org/aff_c?

/Sign up now on/ [the StrongVPN website](https://strongvpn.com/?

/Sign up now on/ [the TunnelBear website]