Through the use of a secure VPN, it is possible to remain completely anonymous while browsing the internet. This is a wonderful thing in an age when hackers and thieves lurk around any corner and there is no way to know who else might be looking over your shoulder. For peace of mind and freedom all the time you are logged on, you can use a Virtual Private Network, or VPN, to make yourself completely secure and anonymous. This method does have some drawbacks, however, and there are a few things to consider before you begin using a VPN.
Read The Fine Print!
VPN providers are as varied and nuanced as it seems there are individuals to use them. These providers can vary on a number of factors. One of the most important aspects for anyone wanting to remain anonymous on the web to consider is whether or not your provider logs the data that is streaming through their servers. If you aren’t interested in Big Brother having all the access he likes in order to see what you looked at and where you went while you were surfing on the web, it would be better to get a provider who hosts servers outside of the US.
Protect Your Data Logs
Even if your VPN is hosted in another country, there is still a chance that the provider will turn over data logs to the US if asked. The best way to keep yourself secure in all circumstances is to go with a provider who doesn’t log their data. Some will log just the time that you logged on and the time you logged off, but other providers will keep data on everything you do while using the VPN. You will also want to consider what exit locations you have to choose from as well. If you’re using a VPN to access regionally restricted content such as video streaming you will need a provider who hosts an exit location in the country in question.
Security Is Paramount
The benefits of using a VPN extend beyond simply keeping your internet footprint anonymous. The VPN, or Virtual Private Network, that you use funnels your connection through its servers which will then assign you a new IP address. At the same time, it encrypts the data coming through it to keep you safe from prying eyes. When considering a VPN provider, you will want to keep in mind what protocols they have in place. Strictly speaking, any protocol a VPN uses is very secure but no security system is without faults. If such a thing is a concern to you as the consumer, you may want to pay the extra for the most secure provider.
Last but certainly not least to be considered when it comes to your internet security is whether or not your provider offers anti malware/spyware protection while connected to their network. The web is a wild place full of viruses and malware and, while this feature is no substitute for having robust anti virus software on your personal device, it is helpful to have extra security.
Accessibility Is Kind Of A Big Thing
Another feature of a VPN provider that needs to be considered when choosing the best one to secure your internet freedom is how accessible it is. The chances are that, if you’re willing to shell out the cash to have a secure connection, you will want to connect to it with more than one device. If you use smart phones or tablets to connect to the web while you are at home or out and about, you will want to ensure you are still protected on any front and in any place. Most providers offer free apps that can be downloaded to mobile devices, which makes connecting to your VPN as seamless as it can possibly be. Not all VPN apps were created equal, however, and some may not work with certain devices. For example, some devices will just outright not work with a VPN service and will require a substantial amount of work around that is not for the faint of heart.
You should also consider ease of use when deciding on a VPN provider. Whether it takes but a few simple steps to setup your VPN or what seems like several days will directly impact how often you use it or whether you use it at all. The price of the VPN service is usually the deciding factor for these things and as such must be considered fully before making a decision. Many providers offer free alternatives but these will almost inevitably have fewer features, may feature advertising (which could mean they’re logging your data to be able to tailor ads to suit you) and may have limited bandwidth or exit locations. Premium offerings tend to be more robust in terms of features, security and an ad free experience but naturally will cost you more.
We’ve Got All The Answers
The process of finding a good VPN provider can seem daunting to newcomers and veterans alike. With the sheer number of providers on the market, it would take several days just to trawl through the list. To make this process easier for you, our experts have performed an independent review that looks at the details of each provider and compares them in terms of reliability, cost, safety and anonymity and have put together a list of the top VPN providers for securing your freedom on the internet. With the comparison table below, a large amount of the footwork has been taken out of the process for you, to ensure that making a decision is so much more pleasurable.
| Rank | Provider Name | Starting Price | Money Back Guarantee |
Visit Provider Site |
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ExpressVPN | $6.67/month | 30 Days |  |
| 2 | IPVanish | $10.00/month | 7 Days | |
| 3 | Hidemyass | $11.52/month | 30 Days | |
| 4 | VyprVPN | $10.00/month | 7 Days | |
| 5 | StrongVPN | $21/ 3 months | 7 Days | |
