Using a VPN is a smart idea because it protects you from the nefarious bad actors of the world. Hackers know exactly how to steal your data, and if it is unprotected when it travels over the internet, you will be in trouble. They can steal social security data, your credit card info, or worse — your entire online identity. Fortunately, these apps and services help [protect you when you are online. They also help you stream apps like Netflix when you are traveling, and can help you stay private when you surf online by securing all of your data from prying eyes.
1. ExpressVPN: Best overall
The gold standard of VPN clients, ExpressVPN is powerful, easy to use, and comprehensive. I also like the clean interface and, like NordVPN, is incredibly easy to use and configure. Of course, being so comprehensive means there are features to explore and the pricing might be a little more than some would want to pay.
What makes it unique:
- ExpressVPN is known for their TrusterServer technology, which is a way to ensure that your data is never stored locally where it could be tracked or misused.
- Because it is so comprehensive, ExpressVPN offers servers in a whopping 105 countries, which is higher than most VPN clients.
- ExpressVPN is optimized for streaming movies and television shows, using fast protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its proprietary Lightway protocol.
2. NordVPN: Best for speed
NordVPN is one of my favorite VPN apps because of how easy it is to use. Within seconds you can install the client on your computer or use the app on your phone or tablet, and the security protection just works. There aren’t a lot of hoops to jump through to figure out how to use the app or configure the settings.
What makes it unique:
- NordVPN offers a Double VPN, which means your data goes through two servers to maintain a high level of security. Not many VPN clients offer this type of protection.
- The CyberSec feature is also unique in that it is a malware blocker that runs in conjunction with the VPN client to secure your data.
- The client offers 5,500 servers all over the world, so no matter where you travel, you can expect to connect.
- Speed is also a major bonus — lesser VPN clients don’t offer the same speed when you connect. Slowdowns are common with a VPN, but not so with NordVPN.
3. Surfshark: Best for multiple users
This low-cost option has the advantage of offering unlimited connections and users for the one account. That means you can share the client with anyone, anywhere.
What makes it unique:
- Surfshark is a powerful VPN that doesn’t cost as much as other options.
- Camouflage Mode is handy because it hides all traces that you are even using a VPN, which helps with detection engines that look for a VPN connection.
- The MultiHop feature is interesting because it can send your data connection through multiple countries as a way to further protect your identity and security.
- The Whitelister feature allows you to identify which apps and websites should bypass the VPN altogether.
4. CyberGhost: Best for media streaming
CyberGhost is one of the most intuitive clients I’ve found, one that is so easy to use it is more likely you will explore more of the features.
What makes it unique:
- CyberGhost is best for streaming because it has specific, dedicated servers for specific apps. You can stream Netflix over a specific server, for example.
- The client also has a dedicated server for P2P servers, which is ideal for torrenting since it can speed up the downloads in a noticeable way.
- You can easily configure a dedicated IP address to make sure you can connect easily and with better security.
- The app is also known for its kill switch feature, which automatically disconnects you if there is a potential hack or security invasion.
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