Using a virtual private network (VPN) hides your online activity and true location from anyone watching. Once your traffic is routed through a VPN server your connection is secure and your traffic is encrypted. This makes a VPN the ideal way to increase your online privacy and security — especially if you frequently use less protected networks like public WiFi.
It can be hard to access critical accounts like banking or your corporate network when you're traveling. If you're studying abroad, some of your favorite sites and services from back home may be unavailable. With the right VPN, you can maintain uninterrupted access to financial, personal, and work tools wherever you are.
Unfortunately, hundreds of VPNs exist and they aren't all created equal. They have unique features and prices vary from affordable to expensive. If you want the most secure VPN possible, at the best price, there are a few key features you can look for to ensure you get a quality VPN. Read on to get tips on how you can ensure you get the best VPN for 2024.
How To Find the Best VPN for 2024
VPN encryption, protocols, logs policies, speed, server network size, price, and more can vary depending on which service you choose. So, how do you find the best VPN? Here are a few key features to look for, if you want to choose the best VPN.
Data Protection
A VPN with strong encryption, like AES or End-to-End, will mask your traffic and make it unreadable in the event it's intercepted.
Privacy
A strict No-Logs policy means the VPN won't collect or store any information about what you do online.
Servers Network
A large server network with locations worldwide means you're likely to have a server available when and where you need one.
Speed
VPNs that use network cards of 5-8 Gbps+ provide quicker load times and high-definition video for gaming, streaming, and file-sharing.
Protocols
OpenVPN and WireGuard are two of the most secure protocols used by VPNs. Many VPNs offer multiple protocol options, so you can customize your connection based on your needs.
Customer Support
Look for a VPN that provides 24/7 live chat, email, and/or ticket support. This ensures you'll have help any time you need it, regardless of your location.
Compatibility
Choose a VPN with apps for all major operating systems, so you can secure all of your desktop and mobile devices.
Pricing
Expensive doesn't mean quality when it comes to VPNs, so feel out your options, keep the features we listed in mind, and choose one that fits your budget.
Reputation
If users love a VPN and find it reliable, that's an excellent sign. You can also look to see if the VPN has had an independent security audit performed.
The Best VPN in 2024
Private Internet Access
- Security: 256-bit AES encryption, SHA-256 authentication, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, kill switch, ad-blocker, malware-scanner
- Logs: No logs
- Network: 30,000+ servers in 84 countries
- Connections: Unlimited simultaneous devices
- Support: 24/7 customer support with live chat
- Apps: Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Anonymous payment options: Yes
- 30 day money back guarantee: Yes
- Price: from $2.11/month + 3 months free
Private Internet Access (PIA) is the best VPN for 2024. It provides strong features to mask your online activity and secure your connection. Choose from default 128-bit AES encryption for faster streaming and gaming speeds, or switch it up and use military-grade 256-bit AES for added security while accessing sensitive accounts like banking or work emails.
You can also choose your protocols from industry-standard options including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 to customize your connection security and speed.
Both monthly and yearly plans are extremely affordable, and PIA VPN offers anonymous payment options like Bitcoin and PayPal for added privacy. It also provides 24/7 live customer support via chat or email too, and you can speak with like-minded peers by joining their Community Forum.
What Makes PIA the #1 VPN
Large Network of Reliable Servers
A larger network of reliable servers means you have more options when it comes to finding one in any location you need. More servers also means less server congestion, so there's a better chance you'll have a fast, stable connection.
PIA has multiple servers in 90+ locations worldwide, to help you avoid censorship and internet restrictions that prevent you from using your favorite services while traveling.
Fast Speeds
When you want seamless streaming, gaming, and file-sharing speed matters. PIA VPN uses 10-Gbps network cards, so the servers are lightning-fast. This makes PIA great for lag-free gaming and high-quality video resolution. The service also offers unlimited VPN bandwidth, so you never have to worry about hitting a cap.
A Strict No Logs Policy
It's bad enough that websites, cybercriminals, and other spies are trying to steal your online information, you don't want the VPN service you use to do it too — especially if you value data privacy. PIA has a strict, court-tested No Logs policy.
The VPN has been subpoenaed in the past and didn't have any information of use to hand over to the government. This is because it doesn't record what you do online while using their servers. This includes websites you visit, shopping habits, services you use, or anything else you do online.
Strong Encryption and Protocols
Encrypting your traffic is the best way to keep it private, but not all encryption methods and protocols are equal. PIA offers two unhackable forms of AES encryption. By default, it uses 128-bit AES encryption for faster speeds and data security, but you can switch to 256-bit AES to get enhanced security for accessing sensitive accounts online.
PIA also provides a variety of protocols you can choose from to secure your connection, that way you can customize your level of protection. You have the option of using the strongest protocols available: WireGuard for speed, OpenVPN for optimum security, and IKEv2 works well for mobile devices due to its fast reconnection times.
Affordable Pricing
PIA gives you the best prices and delivers on privacy, security, server access, and speed. Monthly plans start at just $11.95; the longer your subscription, the more affordable it gets. Right now you can get an annual subscription to PIA for $2.19/mo + 2 months free (that's 83% off). This makes it an excellent option for users who want to save money long-term.
All subscriptions come with unlimited device connections and it provides dedicated apps for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux (as well as compatibility with routers and gaming consoles.
PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you have plenty of time to test it risk-free. You can even pay using anonymous payment sources like PayPal and Bitcoin.
Its incredible privacy features and affordable pricing make PIA the best VPN for anyone looking for a secure, budget-friendly VPN in 2024.
Private Internet Access
- Security: 256-bit AES encryption, SHA-256 authentication, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, kill switch, ad-blocker, malware-scanner
- Logs: No logs
- Network: 30,000+ servers in 84 countries
- Connections: Unlimited simultaneous devices
- Support: 24/7 customer support with live chat
- Apps: Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Anonymous payment options: Yes
- 30 day money back guarantee: Yes
- Price: from $2.11/month + 3 months free
