How to choose the perfect VPN service

In the modern digital world, where internet security and privacy are paramount, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) has become not just a convenience but a necessity. A VPN provides an encrypted connection between your device and the internet, hiding your real IP address and ensuring the anonymity of your online activities. Whether you aim to protect your data from prying eyes, bypass geographic restrictions, or simply seek a more secure way to use the internet, choosing the right VPN service is a crucial step toward achieving these goals.

Security

One of the main aspects to consider when choosing a VPN service is security. Your personal information, banking data, and other confidential details should be protected at the highest level. Let’s look at two key elements that ensure this security: data encryption and the no-logs policy.

Data Encryption

Encryption is the process of converting sent and received information into a code that cannot be read without the proper key. The most reliable encryption protocols currently are AES-256, used by military and government organizations worldwide. This level of encryption ensures that even if data is intercepted, attackers cannot decrypt and use it for their purposes. Ensure that the VPN service you choose uses this encryption standard.

No-Logs Policy

A no-logs policy is a commitment by the VPN provider not to collect, store, or share data about your internet activity with third parties. This means that even if law enforcement requests data about your internet activity, the company cannot provide this information because it is not retained. When choosing a VPN service, look for such a policy and seek user reviews or audit results that confirm its adherence.

Connection Speed

When it comes to using a VPN, connection speed plays a critical role. The impact of a VPN on internet speed can be significant, as all traffic passes through additional servers and is encrypted, which can theoretically increase page load times and slow down the connection. However, by choosing a high-quality VPN service, you can minimize speed loss. Let’s examine how a VPN affects internet speed and what can be done to ensure optimal performance.

Encryption ensures the security of your information but requires additional time and resources for both encryption and decryption. This impact is most noticeable with high-level encryption such as AES-256. Choosing a VPN service that allows you to select the encryption level can help balance speed and security according to your needs.

Distance to the Server

The farther the physical distance to the server you’re connecting to, the higher the latency (ping) and the lower the connection speed. To improve connection speed, choose a VPN server that is as close as possible to your location or to the target resource server.

Server Load

Connection speed also depends on the load of the VPN server. The more users connected to a single server simultaneously, the slower the speed for each user. Quality VPN providers offer information about the current server load, allowing you to select the least crowded server for connection.

Bandwidth

Some VPN providers may limit bandwidth or connection speed for users. When choosing a service, ensure that the provider does not impose such limits or that they are acceptable for your needs.

Number of Servers and Countries

Choosing a VPN service with a wide geographical range of servers offers significant advantages:

• Proximity of Server to User: The closer the server to your physical location, the faster and more stable the connection. This is due to lower signal latency (ping) and reduced data loss during transmission.
• Bypassing Geographical Restrictions: Connecting to servers in different countries allows you to bypass regional content restrictions. This is especially relevant for streaming services, news sites, and social networks that may be restricted in certain regions.
• Avoiding Censorship: In countries with strict internet censorship, access to many web resources may be blocked. Using VPN servers located in countries with more open access to information helps bypass these restrictions.
• Load Distribution and Connection Reliability: Having multiple servers helps distribute the load among them, reducing the likelihood of overload and providing a more stable connection for users. In case of technical issues with one server, you can easily switch to another.
• Changing IP Address: The ability to choose servers in various countries gives users more options for changing their IP address, enhancing anonymity and security online.

User Interface and Usability

One key aspect to consider when choosing a VPN service is how simple and intuitive the user interface is, and whether the VPN supports all your devices. Even the most advanced security and speed features are of little use if the service is not user-friendly. Here’s what to consider regarding usability and device support:

• Intuitive Interface: The VPN app or client should have a clean, simple, and intuitive interface that allows easy connection to servers, changing settings, and checking the status of your connection. Quick access to frequently used features like server selection or turning on the VPN simplifies the use of the service.
• Multiplatform Support: The VPN service should offer apps or clients for all your devices and operating systems, whether Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, or Linux. This ensures that you can protect all your devices with the same high level of security and privacy.
• Ease of Installation: The process of installing and setting up the VPN should not require specialized technical knowledge. The best VPN providers offer detailed guides and automated installers that make this process as simple and quick as possible.
• Customization of Settings: The ability to customize the app to your needs significantly enhances usability. This may include selecting the connection protocol, automatic server selection, startup settings, etc.
• Number of Simultaneous Connections: Consider how many devices can connect to the VPN simultaneously. Some services limit the number of concurrent connections, which may be inconvenient for large families or for use across all your devices.
• Interface Language: For Russian-speaking users, it’s important that the interface and technical support are available in Russian. This makes the service easier to use and helps with any questions or issues that may arise.

Top Recommended VPN Services

Choosing a reliable VPN service is a key step in ensuring your online security and anonymity. There are many VPN providers, each offering various features and benefits. To simplify your choice, we’ve prepared a brief overview of several popular VPN services that have received high ratings from users and cybersecurity experts:

• NordVPN

  • Servers and Countries: Over 5400 servers in 59 countries.
  • Features: Strong encryption, no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, automatic Kill Switch, Double VPN support.
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome and Firefox extensions.
  • Pros: High connection speed, ease of use, large number of servers.
  • Cons: Some servers may experience occasional speed drops.

• ExpressVPN

  • Servers and Countries: 3000+ servers in 94 countries.
  • Features: Military-grade encryption, strict no-logs policy, Split Tunneling, Lightway protocol for increased speed.
  • Supported Platforms: Almost all major platforms, including routers.
  • Pros: Very high speed, stable and reliable connection, wide geographical server coverage.
  • Cons: Higher cost compared to some other VPN providers.

• Surfshark

  • Servers and Countries: 3200+ servers in 65+ countries.
  • Features: Unlimited simultaneous connections, no-logs policy, AES-256-GCM encryption, CleanWeb (ad and malware blocker).
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
  • Pros: Unlimited device connections, affordable price, simple and user-friendly interface.
  • Cons: Some servers may experience moderate speed reductions.

• CyberGhost

  • Servers and Countries: 7000+ servers in 90+ countries.
  • Features: Wide server selection, user-friendly interface, no-logs policy, automatic server switching.
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux.
  • Pros: Ease of use, good speed and connection stability, support for streaming services.
  • Cons: Some features are limited in the free version, above-average pricing for some plans.

• ProtonVPN

  • Servers and Countries: 1200+ servers in 55+ countries.
  • Features: Based on strict privacy principles, no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, Secure Core (additional traffic encryption through protected servers).
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux.
  • Pros: High level of security and privacy, free plan with unlimited traffic, user-friendly interface.
  • Cons: Speed on the free plan may be limited, higher speeds available on paid plans.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a VPN

When selecting a VPN service, users often encounter a range of mistakes that can lead to dissatisfaction with the service, decreased security, and loss of privacy. To avoid these mistakes, it’s crucial to approach the VPN selection process carefully. Here are some of the most common errors:

Ignoring Logging Policies: Users often neglect the logging policies of the service. It’s important to choose VPN providers that clearly state their no-logging policy to ensure privacy.

Overlooking Trial Periods: Users do not take advantage of trial periods or money-back guarantees. Most reliable VPNs offer trial periods or money-back guarantees, allowing users to evaluate the service before making a final purchase.

Choosing Free VPNs Without Analysis: Relying on free VPNs without examining their policies and limitations. While some free VPNs may be reliable, many might sell user data, display ads, or offer limited functionality.

Underestimating the Importance of Servers and Their Locations: Users ignore the number and location of servers. It’s essential to choose a VPN with a sufficient number of servers in needed locations to ensure fast and stable connections.

Ignoring Device and Platform Support: Failing to check compatibility with their devices and operating systems. Ensure the chosen VPN supports all the devices and platforms you use.

Neglecting Connection Speed: Not considering the impact of the VPN on internet speed. It’s important to select services that offer high connection speeds and minimal performance impact.

Disregarding User Interface and Usability: Ignoring the user interface and ease of use. The interface should be intuitive and user-friendly, so you can easily manage settings and connections.

Ignoring Reviews and Recommendations: Not reading reviews and recommendations from other users and experts. Reviews can provide valuable information about the reliability, speed, and service quality of the VPN provider.

Choosing the right VPN service is a crucial step toward ensuring your online security, privacy, and freedom on the internet. Given the variety of available options, it is important to carefully consider criteria such as logging policies, number and location of servers, connection speed, device support, and usability. By avoiding common mistakes and thoroughly analyzing your needs and available options, you can find a reliable VPN service that will not only protect your data but also provide high-quality access to the global internet space.