VPN is the first thing that comes to our mind whenever we think of safe and secure online browsing. It helps you secure your data and identity while browsing online. It also helps you in bypassing geo-blocked content.
However, it sometimes becomes difficult when choosing the right VPN. The reason for that is each VPN has its pros and cons and choosing one depends on the individual’s choice.
So let us look at some of the best to finding the right VPN as per your needs and preferences.
Understanding VPNs
What is a VPN?
What is a VPN?A VPN helps you with browsing the internet on your device safely. It shields your internet traffic so that it becomes difficult for hackers to hack your device or track you.
This can happen anywhere and by any unknown entity. You could be targeted by hackers on a public Wi-Fi network, your internet service provider, or by government agencies.
Why Should You Use a VPN?
You get a lot of benefits when using a VPN like:
A. You Get to Stream Without Geo-restriction
Let us assume that you love to stream online content like movies, TV shows, web series, etc. However, you are not able to watch certain content that is restricted in your region. This is when VPN becomes super useful.All you got to do is switch on the VPN as per your desired location (i.e. depending on your restricted content) and start streaming.
B. Get Rid of Bandwidth Throttling
There are times when you might face a drop in internet speeds. This could spoil your online streaming experience or if your online client meetings.One of the main reasons could be bandwidth throttling. This could be avoided by using a VPN.
C. Safeguard Your Data
When you visit a random website or when you stream content on an unknown website, there are a lot of uncertainties. You wouldn’t be aware of which website is safe and which website is not safe. In these kind of cases, your data can be stolen by hackers and your ISP provider. Therefore, using a VPN in these cases can help you protect your personal data and information.
D. Stay Safe When Using Public Wi-FI
Nowadays, you find a lot of public Wi-Fi options that are easy to use and are available for free. However, chances are high that your data might get breached or there is a malware attack.
These kinds of issues make public Wi-Fi usage unsafe and are not recommended for business usage.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a VPN
1. Make Sure Your VPN Has Strong Security and Privacy Features
A. Strong Encryption Protocols
Strong encryption makes your connection private and secure. So use strong encryption protocols like AES-256. This will ensure your data remains safe and confidential.
B. No-logs Policy
A VPN should ideally not track or store your data. Therefore, ensure that the VPN that you choose follows a strict no-logs policy.
So choose a VPN with this feature.
2. Pricing and Value For Money
A. Various Pricing Plans
There are various VPNs in the market with each having its own pros and cons. Be sure about your requirements, budget, and what you want from a VPN. This clarity will help you choose the right VPN.
You can also consider longer subscriptions and money guarantee options which will help you gauge the VPN better and save money.
B. Paid VPN v/s Free VPN
Both free and paid VPNs have their own advantages and disadvantages. Free VPNs come with slower speeds, usage limits, and security risks. However, you don’t have to pay.
On the other hand, paid VPNs help you in securing the connection.
You also get faster speeds with wide server networks. So it all depends on your preferences as both add a lot of value but with some sacrifices that you need to be ready to make.
Speaking of paid VPNs, ExpressVPN tops the list. ExpressVPN has a great reputation when it comes to security and privacy. You also get features like a kill switch and a DNS leak protection option. Take the initiative in learning more about ExpressVPN to discover how it can safeguard your digital privacy and enhance your online freedom.
3. Choose a VPN With a Strong Server Network
A. Strong Geographic Coverage
Choose a VPN service provider with servers in the locations that you want. This becomes very important if you want to bypass geo restricted content or get good internet speeds.
B. More Number of Servers
A bigger server network gives you more options for connection. It also prevents overloading on one single server. If the load is more on a server, the speed drops automatically.
C. Server Speed and Reliability
You would ideally want to choose a VPN provider with consistent and faster server speeds. This becomes a crucial factor when you are planning to stream or want to download large files.
4. Top User Interface and Ease of Use
A. User Friendly Interface
A user interface plays a crucial role when choosing a VPN. If the user interface is easy to the eye, the usage becomes very easy for a nontechnical user who doesn’t have vast knowledge about VPN.
B. Easy to Set Up Process
Choose a VPN that is easy to set up and straightforward. It should not become an issue when you continue using a VPN.
C. Top Customer Support Option
The best of the best VPNs can get into trouble out of nowhere. This is why, customer support becomes a crucial aspect. So, choose a VPN with reliable customer service. They should ideally be responsive and be available 24/7 via live chat.
5. Make Sure Your Device is Compatible With the VPN
A. Device and OS Compatibility
The VPN service provider that you choose should provide apps and software that is compatible with your device. If the device is not compatible, then you might have to configure it on your router which makes things tough for you. So keep this in mind before choosing a VPN.
B. Multiple Connection Options
There are a few VPNs that let you connect to more than 2 devices at the same time. However, it’s not always the case with all the VPNs. Hence, choose a VPN with multiple connection options.
The Bottom Line
All in all, finding and choosing the right VPN depends on lots of factors as we saw earlier. The most important thing here is to keep your preferences in mind and then pick a VPN accordingly.
There are various VPNs in the market with each having its advantages and disadvantages. So consider all the top factors and then decide.
