The best VPNs strike a mix of functionality, server location, connection protocols, and pricing. Some are excellent for occasional usage, others are aimed at circumventing the location restrictions that businesses impose on their apps and services, while others are oriented towards individuals who engage in heavy downloads and need a modicum of privacy while doing so. This is what you should look for.
Logging: When you connect to a VPN, you entrust the VPN service provider with your data. While your conversations may be protected against eavesdropping, other computers on the same VPN—particularly the operator—can record your data if they so choose. If this concerns you (for example, if you are a privacy/security advocate or a downloader), ensure that you are well aware of your provider’s logging practices before signing up. This also relates to location—if your business does not maintain logs, it may not matter much where it is situated. There is a widespread notion that US-based VPN companies are obliged to log users’ data if the government so desires. While this is not true, the government may always seek any data they have if they do log.)
Price: Intеrасt уоur usеr аgreеmеnt with bоth eyes wide open. Please read the privacy statement for the service you’re considering and be very mindful of the distinctions between free and paid services. For instance:
While using a free VPN, providers are more likely to record your activity and provide contextual advertising while connected. Additionally, they are more likely to use your browsing history to target future advertisements for you, have fewer escape points, and have lax privacy promises. They may have some excellent features, but if you value logging and privacy, you may want to avoid them. However, if you need immediate, painless security while traveling on a budget, they are an excellent choice.
Subscription VPN providers, by definition, take your privacy a little more seriously, given that you are paying for the service. It’s uncommon for them to display advertisements, but whether they record or retain data about your use varies per business. They always provide free trials so you can give the service a try first, but keep in mind that just because you’re paying for a service doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your research. Even better, being able to purchase a VPN using Bitcoin is an excellent way to increase your privacy.
A decent VPN is a combination of functionality and pricing, yet there are lots of poor VPNs masquerading as excellent ones. Look for articles written by reputable sources that discuss the merits of each service based on its features, rather than simplistic rundowns and user testimonials, which are almost always tainted by a combination of fanatical users аnd corporate bootstrapping in an attempt to get their names out to potential customers.