A VPN provides security for the most frequent users of the internet, in addition to allowing access to applications and resources blocked in certain locations. Choosing the best application may seem complex, however, in this article we will explain everything you need to know to make a great decision.
In addition to free VPN, we present a selection of the best paid VPNs, both for Android, TV Box and PC, as well as for other devices. Discover the great Nord VPN, Express VPN, AVG VPN and more! Keep reading to learn how to choose the best service and discover the top 10 best VPNs right now!
With a doctorate in applied computing and automation from Universidade Federal Fluminense, Paulo Andrade has already coordinated several undergraduate and graduate courses in the areas of computing, digital games, information systems, cinema and audiovisual, graphic design and animation design. He currently coordinates undergraduate courses in computer engineering and computer science.
Paulo also acts as a digital content creator and has created more than 60 online courses, reaching more than 300,000 students in 149 countries. In addition, he also serves as the director of technology and planning for Bulks.ag agency.
What Is VPN?
The acronym VPN refers to a virtual private network that provides a direct and secure connection between devices over the internet . When using one of the best VPNs your data is encrypted and will not pass through the common internet provider, going straight to the destination server safely.
VPN allows you to access websites, streams, games and use online software without being intercepted or tracked , as the IP (identification of your connection) is changed. VPN is an open solution, but the easiest way to use it is to download a reliable application with servers for you to connect.
Why Use a VPN?
People use VPNs mainly to change connection server location and perform secure communication between 2 devices . In addition to strengthening user privacy and enabling safer interactions on the internet, VPN is used to release game and streaming content.
Anyone who is in a country that censors and restricts certain communication services , such as the most popular social networks, can use VPN to free access to these applications. In addition, many companies have needed to adopt this technology to provide remote work security.
How to Choose the Best VPN
Decide between free and paid VPNs , see how many servers and countries are supported, security features and bandwidth limitations. In addition to the functions available, see the ability to access the main streams, installation on multiple devices and the support provided by the company.
Between Free and Paid VPN, Consider Paying for More Security and Performance
A free VPN is very seductive, after all, imagine having access to a high-level security resource, without paying anything. However, we need to warn about the risks of trusting a free solution, as your data can be exposed , and when using it you will probably receive a lot of advertisements.
Prefer paid VPNs, as the free versions have many limitations. Paid services are dedicated to this purpose, so they invest in security and efficient server management , avoiding risks to your data and offering adequate performance for your use.
Check the Number of Available Servers
Servers are the foundation of free or paid VPN service, as you must choose one to connect. They are spread across the world, so they allow for different locations for your connection. The more servers the VPN has, the easier it is to connect . It is common to offer a few hundred.
There are VPNs with up to 8000 servers! Also, if you value internet speed it is important that there are servers close to your original location. Proximity directly affects connection performance. In addition to the number of server options to connect to, check out the available locations.
See How Many Countries VPN Is Present In
When we talk about server locations we are mainly referring to the countries where they are installed. A differential of VPN providers is the number of countries offered for the secure connection. It can range from just 1 to over 90 . The more options, the better!
In addition to being able to access specific resources available for that country, such as streaming catalogs , you also have the facility to establish a fast connection if you are in a place with restricted access. This is ideal for anyone who travels a lot!
Check which Security Features Are Applied
The best VPN, of course, is the most secure! Security features are the foundation of VPN technology , so it’s important that you check which ones are available on the service you want to subscribe to. There are 3 main security features that you should be aware of and make sure the tool has:
• Encryption : protects data during transmission, minimizing the risk of interception by hackers or malicious entities;
• Antilog : no data logging policy, ensures your digital footprint is secure;
• Kill Switch : disconnection in cases of system failure, this avoids the undue recording of your information.
These features are key to using a good free or paid VPN, and each provides an additional layer of security. If the tool does not even have encryption, do not use it, since the ideal is that the VPN has at least one layer of protection for your data.
Prefer VPNs without Bandwidth Limitation
Bandwidth capping restricts access via VPN when a certain amount of data is reached . For example, some tools indicate that you can access up to 500 MB per day, and the VPN service is cut off after that amount.
This is generally applied to free VPNs, as currently most paid versions do not have this limitation. So, if you want to get a free VPN, check if there is a bandwidth limitation so as not to be surprised by the service being cut off in the middle of using it.
Whitelist and Protocol Selection May Be Important for Your Usage
In the best VPNs, there are some functions that facilitate day-to-day use, but not all services make them available to users. The whitelist is one of them and consists of releasing certain websites and networks that would be blocked by the VPN , which is important in some cases.
You may not be able to use the app or access the bank’s website via VPN, so it’s important to whitelist them . Another relevant function is the protocol selection, which is often done automatically by the application.
The protocols (OpenVPN, IPSec/IKEv2, WireGuard and others) determine how the VPN technology will be applied on the connection. Several services offer more than one protocol, so if you are in a country and one of them does not work, you can use another one in its place.
Check if You Can Access Your Favorite Content
Many people want to find the best VPN to watch Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, ESPN and other streaming services. When using a VPN to connect to a server in another country, it will be possible to know the catalog of content available in that location .
However, not all applications work accurately for this function, or even report this capability in the description. So, it’s important to pay attention to user reviews about free or paid VPN capacity for the most diverse streaming services.Check if the VPN is Compatible with Your Device Systems
If you are looking for a VPN for Windows PC, macOS, Android, iOS, or even your TV Box system, know that most services are capable of the main operating systems. So you can download VPN on smartphone, PC and Mac with no worries .
However, some VPNs do not specifically support Linux, Android TV, tablets like the Kindle Fire, or consoles like the Playstation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Therefore, if you want to use the free or paid VPN on more specific devices, it is better to confirm the compatibility beforehand.
See How Many Devices You Can Install the VPN
Another relevant issue is the number of devices that can use the VPN simultaneously. Some providers only offer 1, others offer unlimited devices, which is a big advantage because with a single account you can connect as many devices as you want to the VPN . Watch out for it!
With 24-Hour Support, You Can Solve Problems Quickly
In technology, support is one of the most important areas, as you can clarify doubts and solve problems quickly. For those who use the VPN seriously and professionally , it is essential to observe the support capacity of the provider of this service.
Some VPNs have 24/7 support, so you’ll get fast service . However, others work with calls that can be answered in 1 day or more. Many free VPN services only offer access to the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) on their official website. Stay tuned!
Top 10 Best VPNs
Below we present which are the best VPNs for you to install on your devices. It has free and paid VPN, to be installed on your smartphone, PC and even on your TV Box. Check the ranking and choose yours to install today, just click on the links!
