Best VPN: What is a VPN and How it Works

Jake sat at KFC, enjoying his meal and browsing his bank app over the free WiFi. Without realizing the risks, he logged in, unaware that a nearby hacker was intercepting his data. Moments later, he received a notification: unauthorized withdrawals from his account. If only he had used a VPN service, his connection would have been encrypted, keeping his details safe from cybercriminals.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, keeping your data private and secure from hackers, ISP tracking, and online surveillance. A VPN helps you access content safely, avoid censorship, and maintain your online privacy by masking your IP address and routing your connection through secure servers worldwide. In this guide, we’ll explain how VPNs operate and why selecting the right one matters for security and online flexibility.

The Importance of Choosing the Right VPN

VPN is essential for safeguarding your online privacy, data security, and freedom to access the internet without restrictions. With an increase in cyber threats and data breaches, a reliable VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, protecting you from hackers, ISPs, and surveillance. The right VPN can prevent unwanted tracking, ensuring your online activities remain private.

Not all VPNs are created equal; factors like speed, server locations, and data policies impact your overall experience. Selecting a trustworthy VPN with strong encryption and a clear no-logs policy ensures you enjoy a fast, secure, and private internet connection wherever you are.

The Do’s when choosing the Best VPN

Understand the Importance of Encryption and Privacy

Encryption ensures that your data is securely hidden from hackers, ISPs, and other prying eyes by scrambling it into unreadable code during transmission. The best VPNs use advanced encryption protocols like AES-256 to provide a high level of security, protecting your sensitive information from being intercepted or tracked. By selecting a VPN with strong encryption and robust privacy policies, you can browse, stream, and shop online with confidence, knowing your online activities are shielded from unwanted access.

Consider Server Locations and Network Size

A VPN with a large network of servers in multiple countries allows you to access content around the world. The VPN bypasses geo-restrictions and censorship. This is especially important if you want to stream, game, or access websites that are limited to certain regions. More server locations can also help improve speed by reducing congestion on any server, ensuring smoother, faster browsing.

Evaluate Connection Speed and Performance

VPN speed can directly impact your streaming, gaming, and downloading activities, so selecting a VPN known for high-speed servers is crucial. Look for VPNs that offer unlimited bandwidth and minimal speed drops, this allows you to enjoy fast connections without buffering or lag. Checking user reviews and speed test results can give you real-world insights into performance, helping you choose a VPN that won’t slow down your browsing, even during peak usage times.

Check Device Compatibility and Platform Support

A good VPN should be compatible with major operating systems like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, allowing you to protect your data on a desktop, smartphone, or tablet. Many VPNs also offer support for routers, gaming consoles, and smart TVs, enabling you to extend security across your entire network. Make sure the VPN allows multiple simultaneous connections, to secure all devices under one account for added convenience and comprehensive online protection.

Review Pricing Plans and Customer Support

When selecting a VPN, reviewing pricing plans and customer support is crucial to ensure you’re getting the best value and assistance. Many VPNs offer flexible pricing, with monthly, annual, or multi-year options, often with discounts for longer commitments. Look for a VPN with a money-back guarantee so you can test the service risk-free. Reliable customer support is also essential; choose a VPN with 24/7 support via live chat, email, or phone to resolve issues quickly. Checking reviews for customer service quality can help ensure you’ll receive prompt, helpful assistance when needed.

The Don’ts When Choosing the Best VPN

Don’t Choose Free VPNs

Many free services log and sell user data to third parties, lack strong encryption, and often have limited server networks, which leads to slow speeds and unreliable connections. Additionally, free VPNs may display intrusive ads or even contain malware, putting your device at risk. Investing in a reputable paid VPN offers enhanced security, privacy, and a better online experience.

Avoid Limited Server Networks

When a VPN has only a few servers, especially in popular regions, users may experience sluggish performance during peak times. Additionally, limited server locations restrict your ability to access geo-blocked content from different countries. Choosing a VPN with a broad server network ensures faster speeds, better reliability, and more flexibility in accessing content globally.

Don’t Ignore Customer Support

Reliable customer support can make a big difference, especially if you encounter connection issues, billing questions, or need help setting up the VPN on different devices. Look for VPNs that offer 24/7 support through multiple channels, like live chat and email. This ensures you can quickly resolve issues, maximize your VPN’s performance, and maintain your online privacy without interruptions.

Avoid Overlooking Privacy Policies

Some VPNs may log or share user data, undermining the privacy they’re supposed to protect. By carefully reading the privacy policy, you can verify whether the VPN truly has a no-logs policy and doesn’t retain or sell your personal information. A transparent privacy policy ensures your data stays private and that the VPN aligns with your security needs.

Best VPN Service for You

Overall Best VPNs

These services balance speed, security, and features

NordVPN: Robust security, wide server network, and affordable long-term plans. 

Surfshark: Budget-friendly, unlimited device connections, and strong features. 

ExpressVPN: Exceptional speed, top-notch security, and strong geo-unblocking capabilities. 

Best for Streaming

VPNs optimized for unblocking streaming platforms 

NordVPN: SmartPlay technology for smooth streaming.

ExpressVPN: Consistently unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. 

CyberGhost: Pre-configured streaming servers. 

Best for Privacy and Security

VPNs with advanced encryption and privacy policies

NordVPN: Includes Double VPN and Onion over VPN.

ProtonVPN: Strong focus on privacy with a no-logs policy and Swiss jurisdiction. 

Mullvad: Anonymous payment options and open-source client. 

Best for Speed

VPNs that offer minimal impact on connection speeds 

NordVPN: NordLynx protocol optimized for speed.

ExpressVPN: Lightway protocol ensures high performance. 

Hotspot Shield: Catapult Hydra protocol for fast speeds. 

Best for Budget

Affordable VPNs with strong features

Surfshark: Budget-friendly and supports unlimited devices. 

Private Internet Access (PIA): Cost-effective with customizable features. 

Atlas VPN: Competitive pricing for basic needs.

Best for Gaming

VPNs with low latency and gaming-focused features 

ExpressVPN: Reliable low-latency servers. 

CyberGhost: Gaming servers to minimize ping. 

ExitLag: Tailored for gamers, it’s more of a network optimization tool with VPN features.

Best Free VPNs 

Limited but functional free options

ProtonVPN Free: Unlimited data with reduced speed. 

Windscribe Free: 10 GB/month with access to multiple locations. 

PrivadoVPN Free: 10 GB/month and solid privacy features.

Best for Specific Needs

Best for China: Astrill VPN, ExpressVPN, NordVPN (reliable for bypassing censorship). 

Best for Torrenting: NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost (P2P-optimized servers). 

Best for Businesses: Perimeter 81, NordLayer (enterprise-focused solutions).