You probably already know the advantages of using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service. With a VPN, you can get a virtual IP address and connect to the Internet from a location other than your own. By masking your position, you can protect your privacy and circumvent geo-blocking software that video streaming platforms, shopping websites, and gaming websites use to control their content.
In other words, you can use a good VPN to watch movies and TV shows on Netflix USA, even if you’re in Europe. Additionally, you enjoy some extra security with a VPN because it encrypts your data. But, of course, not all VPNs are that effective.
Free VPNs Can Be Frustrating and Dangerous
You may have noticed that most free VPNs are slow, especially during peak hours. It’s not unusual for streaming to turn into a slideshow on these services. You may not know this, but many free VPNs also spy on users and sell their bandwidth to make money. Some popular free VPNs are even hosted in countries where the state does not respect personal freedoms.
The Signs of a Good VPN Service
The best VPN services do things differently to ensure that your security and privacy are intact, even from them. They also offer a fast and reliable connection.
1. They Don’t Spy on You:
A quick Google search will show you how many free VPNs spy on users. Avoid those services and look for a company with a no-log policy. A no-log VPN has procedures in place to ensure that no one tracks, stores, or shares your data, including the VPN company itself.
2. They Use the Latest Protocol
When you use a VPN client to connect to a VPN server, it’s routed through an encrypted tunnel. A VPN protocol is the set of instructions that shapes how your data routes through the tunnel. The quality of a VPN protocol can determine the speed, stability, and security of a connection.
There are dozens of VPN protocols you can learn about. One of the most popular protocols is Open VPN. It’s an open-source technology and offers good security. However, Open VPN can be challenging to set up correctly. Additionally, many Open VPN connections are slow and unreliable. That’s why some top VPN companies use WireGuard. This protocol is secure, lighter, and faster than Open VPN.
3. They Have Many Servers
Let’s look at some benefits of using a VPN service with many servers:
- The servers are less likely to be clogged.
- You can always connect to a new server if you’re not satisfied.
- You have more options in terms of geographical locations.
4. They offer a trial run
Undoubtedly, VPNs can slow down your Internet connection while encrypting your data and shielding your privacy. If you’re concerned about this, try a VPN that offers a trial run to check how fast and stable their connection is.
To check a VPN’s speed, run an Internet speed test before and after connecting to a VPN server. With a modern VPN service, the difference in speed should be hardly noticeable. Indeed, the benefits are worth the slight performance hit.