Once you’ve decided that a VPN is the right solution to protect your online privacy and access any website you want while traveling, you might be overwhelmed by the number of options out there. However, you don’t need to worry. We’ll help you choose the best VPN for you with our checklist of what to look for when shopping for a quality VPN.
Whether you’re browsing for security, streaming global content, or accessing international learning resources such as STEM Diversity Programs, a reliable VPN ensures your connection stays private and unrestricted no matter where you are.
How to Choose a Quality VPN: Checklist
When it comes to VPNs, you have a lot of options. So how do you choose the right one? If you’re looking for a quick and easy answer, we recommend ExpressVPN. It’s our top choice for a number of reasons, including its speed, security features, and ease of use.
But if you want to do some more research before you make a decision, there are a few key criteria to consider. Here’s a checklist to help you pick the best VPN for your needs.
1. What Do You Want to Use a VPN For?
Your first step should be to think about what you want to use a VPN for. This will help you decide which features are most important to you. For example, if you want to use a VPN to access streaming services from other countries, you’ll need a provider with fast servers in multiple locations. If you want to use a VPN to protect your data while you’re on public Wi-Fi, you’ll need a provider with strong encryption.
2. Security and Encryption
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a VPN is its security features. Look for a provider that offers strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch. These features will help keep your data safe and private.
3. Speed
Another important factor to consider is the speed of the VPN. If you’re using a VPN with slow servers, you’ll notice a decrease in your internet speed. Look for a provider that offers fast servers in multiple locations.
4. Server Locations
The number and location of servers is also an important factor to consider. If you want to access content from other countries, you’ll need a provider with servers in those locations.
5. Device Compatibility
Make sure the VPN you choose is compatible with all of the devices you want to use it on. Most providers offer apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, but not all of them offer apps for less common devices.
6. Simultaneous Connections
Some providers limit the number of devices you can connect to the VPN at the same time. If you have a lot of devices, make sure to choose a provider that offers enough simultaneous connections for your needs.
7. Customer Support
Finally, make sure to choose a provider with good customer support. Look for a provider that offers 24/7 live chat support, as well as other ways to get in touch, like email and phone.
1. Where Is It Based?
The location of a VPN provider is crucial. The country a company is based in can have a significant impact on how it operates.
Laws in some countries may require VPNs to store user data and hand it over to authorities if necessary. On the other hand, some countries have strict privacy laws that prevent VPNs from logging your data.
The best VPNs are usually based in countries with strong privacy laws. Some good examples include Switzerland, the British Virgin Islands, and Panama.
2. What Information Does It Log?
A no-logs policy is a must for any VPN you’re considering, but not all no-logs policies are created equal.
A no-logs policy means the VPN does not record or store any of your activity while you’re connected to the VPN. This includes your IP address, the websites you visit, the files you download, and more.
If a VPN does log any of your data, it could be forced to turn that information over to law enforcement agencies if it’s requested.
Make sure you read the VPN’s privacy policy to see what information, if any, it logs.
3. How Does It Make Money?
This is a simple question, but it can be quite revealing. After all, if you’re not paying for the product, you are the product.
A VPN is a business, and it needs to make money to survive. If it’s not charging you for its services, it has to make money in other ways.
Many free VPNs make money off their users by selling their data to third-party advertisers. This is a huge privacy risk, and it’s the main reason why we don’t recommend using free VPNs.
Other free VPNs make money by bombarding their users with annoying ads. Some even use pop-ups and interstitial ads that can be difficult to close.
The bottom line is that you should avoid free VPNs at all costs. They are not worth the risk.
Instead, look for a VPN that offers a free trial or a money-back guarantee. This will allow you to test the VPN’s services without committing to a long-term subscription.
4. How Many Simultaneous Connections Does It Support?
This is important if you have several devices that you want to protect with a VPN. Most providers offer 5-7 connections, but some offer more, and some offer fewer.
The number of connections a VPN supports is also important if you want to share your subscription with family or friends.
Just keep in mind that the more simultaneous connections a VPN supports, the more likely it is that the provider will limit the number of devices that can connect to a specific server at any given time.
5. How Fast and Reliable Is Its Network?
Speed is important when choosing a VPN. A slow VPN can make your online activities a drag. You want a VPN that will not only keep your data secure, but also won’t slow down your connection speed.
The best way to determine the speed of a VPN is to try it out. But if you don’t have time to test out a VPN, you can read reviews to get an idea of how fast it is.
You should also make sure the VPN has servers in your area. If you’re using a server that’s far away, it can slow down your connection.
A good VPN will have a large network of servers in many different countries, so you can always find one that’s close to you.
6. Can It Unblock Geo-Restricted Content?
Many streaming services, like Netflix and Hulu, put geo-restrictions on their content. This means that you can only access certain shows and movies if you’re in a specific country.
Geo-restrictions can be a real pain, but a good VPN can help you bypass them. By connecting to a server in the country where the content is available, you can trick the streaming service into thinking you’re located there.
Not all VPNs are able to unblock geo-restricted content. Streaming services are constantly updating their restrictions to keep VPNs out. Make sure to choose a VPN that’s known for its ability to bypass geo-blocks.
7. Is It Compatible With Your Device(s)?
It’s a good idea to choose a VPN that’s compatible with all of your devices.
Most VPNs support the most popular devices (like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android). But if you have other devices (like a smart TV, gaming console, or router) that you want to use the VPN on, you’ll need to make sure the VPN you choose supports them.
Be sure to check how many devices you can connect to the VPN at the same time. Most VPNs allow you to connect multiple devices with a single subscription. However, the number of devices you can connect varies depending on the VPN.
8. What Kind of Customer Support Does It Offer?
No matter what you’re buying, you should always consider the kind of customer support the company offers. But it’s especially important when it comes to VPNs.
After all, if you have a problem with your VPN, you won’t be able to access the customer support website if your VPN isn’t working. And if you can’t access the customer support website, you’ll need another way to get help.
Look for a VPN with a 24/7 customer support team. And make sure the company offers support through multiple channels, like live chat, email, and a ticketing system.
9. Is It User-Friendly?
The best VPNs are intuitive and easy to use, even if you’re a total beginner.
Look for VPNs with simple apps and software that are easy to navigate, even on small screens.
And, if you’re new to VPNs or you’re not a tech whiz, you’ll want a VPN that’s quick and easy to set up.
Apps with one-click connect buttons and automatic server selection are ideal for beginners.
If you’re a more advanced user, you might have specific features and settings you’re looking for.
For example, you might want a VPN that allows you to customize your connection settings or change your encryption protocol.
In this case, look for a VPN with advanced features that are still easy to use.
Ideally, the VPN will include a basic and an advanced view of the app or software, so you can choose the level of complexity that suits you.
10. How Much Does It Cost?
When it comes to VPNs, the old adage “you get what you pay for” is usually true. That being said, there are many excellent VPNs that are also affordable.
Most VPNs offer monthly and annual subscription plans. The longer your subscription, the more you can save. For example, you might pay $12.95 for a monthly subscription, $5.99 for a 1-year subscription, and $2.99 for a 3-year subscription.
Some VPNs also offer a free trial or a money-back guarantee so you can try the VPN before you commit to a long-term subscription.
The most important thing is to choose a VPN that offers the features you need and fits your budget. After all, a VPN is only useful if you can afford it.
Conclusion
Overall, a VPN is a great tool that you can use to protect yourself and your information while you’re online. With a little research, you can find a VPN that works for you, and you can use it to browse the internet safely and securely.
