Internet security is becoming more and more important for every user. But how to protect your data and identity from hackers, surveillance, and censorship? One of the most effective ways is to use VPN hosting. Services allow you to connect to the Internet through an encrypted tunnel, hiding your location and IP address.
This way, you can bypass geo-blocking, access blocked sites and services, and protect your privacy. In this article, we will tell you about the best VPN applications in 2023 that will help you make your online experience safe and convenient.
Affordable and convenient – Hostzealot
This service allows you to get a configured VPN with unlimited traffic at high speeds. Connection is via OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IPsec. These programs are compatible with many platforms and are guaranteed to work with Windows, Linux, and macOS computers, iOS, and Android smartphones.
The site offers two plans to choose from:
- personal – one device at €5.38 per month;
- family – up to 5 devices priced from €6.62 per month.
You can choose from 13 locations: Chicago, Seattle, Ashburn, Toronto, London, Amsterdam, Warsaw, Stockholm, Limassol, Tel Aviv, Tallinn, Dallas, and Hong Kong.
Benefits:
- compatibility with all popular platforms;
- unlimited traffic;
- affordable price;
- It connects and runs faster on cell phones than proprietary apps from other VPN providers.
Disadvantages:
- no in-house application, which makes initial setup a little more difficult, but they provide a detailed installation by installation in a few clicks.
Best VPN for Mac: NordVPN
It is one of the most popular and respected VPN services in the world, it has more than 5000 servers in 60 countries, which allows you to connect to any region and bypass any restrictions. You can watch streaming videos, play online games, download torrents, and do whatever you want without losing speed or quality. A separate Mac app is easy to install and use. You can connect to a VPN with a single click or select servers from a list or map.
NordVPN guarantees security and privacy on the Internet. It uses AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec protocols that protect traffic from any interference. It has a CyberSec function that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites.
It is possible to customize the app to your liking and include different functions:
- Kill Switch;
- Split Tunneling;
- Double VPN.
It is the best choice for those who want a powerful and reliable VPN service for their Mac.
Benefits:
- A large number of servers in different countries, which provides a wide range of locations and the ability to bypass geo-blocking;
- The ability to block ads and malicious sites.
Disadvantages:
- some servers may be overloaded or unavailable at certain times, which may reduce the speed or quality of the connection;
- sites and services can detect and block your VPN connection, which can limit your access to them.
Free VPN with unlimited traffic: Proton VPN
If you want to use a VPN but don’t want to pay for it, you should consider Proton VPN. This is one of the few services that offer a plan with unlimited traffic and no ads.
Proton VPN was created by the team of ProtonMail, a well-known Swiss email service with a high level of security and privacy. In the free version, you can connect to 3 servers in 3 countries and use 1 device on one account. To view streaming broadcasts and download torrents, you need to buy a paid plan. In this case, you will be able to connect to more than 1000 servers in 54 countries. Proton VPN has a Secure Core feature that redirects your traffic through multiple servers in different countries, enhancing your anonymity.
Benefits:
- free tariff with unlimited traffic and speed;
- the ability to enhance anonymity with SecureCore features;
Disadvantages:
- The free plan limits the number of servers, countries, and devices you can connect to;
- you cannot download torrents and watch streaming videos on the free plan.
Perfect for watching Netflix: Surfshark VPN
This VPN service allows you to access any Netflix catalog in the world, thanks to its wide network of servers (3,200 in 65 countries) and smart block avoidance technology. You can enjoy your favorite shows and movies in high quality and without delays, as Surfshark VPN provides high speed and unlimited traffic. You can connect an unlimited number of devices to one account, which makes the service ideal if you need an option for family or friends.
Benefits:
- unlimited number of connections;
- CleanWeb feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites;
Disadvantages:
- a small number of servers in some regions;
- not very responsive support.
Universal for any scenario: ExpressVPN
This VPN service has a huge network of servers in more than 90 countries, allowing you to access any content on the Internet, whether it’s Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, or others. You’ll be able to watch streams in HD quality and without buffering, as ExpressVPN provides incredibly fast and stable connections.
In addition, you can protect your privacy and security online because ExpressVPN uses strong encryption and does not store your activity logs. You can connect up to five devices to one account and use convenient apps for different platforms.
Benefits:
- high speed and stability of the connection;
- strong encryption and a zero-logging policy;
- support for up to five devices;
- convenient applications for different platforms.
Disadvantages:
- more expensive than other VPN services;
- There is no free rate or trial period.
Choosing the right VPN service is easy
The variety of providers allows you to find the perfect one for your needs and budget. You can find free solutions with some limitations, available paid services, or offers with unlimited features. Study the terms and conditions of each provider carefully so you don’t make the wrong choice.
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