Virtual private networks (VPNs) encrypt your data and hide your IP address. But there is far more to VPNs than that: they are essential tools to stop others from spying on your online activities, and they can help protect your sensitive information from theft.
A VPN is vital when you are traveling or when you have to use public Wi-Fi networks. They forge an encrypted tunnel between your device and the service you are trying to access, which can prevent eavesdropping and stop you from being so easily tracked online.
Suppose you want to appear from somewhere else. In that case, VPNs are also great because they assign you an IP in a different area -- allowing you to unlock access to streaming content libraries, including movies and TV shows, that are locked to specific locations.
Also: The best VPNs for iPhone
While VPNs are not a silver bullet for security, they are invaluable in keeping your browsing activities hidden by routing traffic through the VPN provider's server network. Furthermore, some VPNs also offer additional privacy features, including ad-blocking, data breach scanners, password managers, and threat monitoring.
What is the best VPN service right now?
Our pick for the best overall VPN is NordVPN. Based in Panama and subject to strict data protection laws, NordVPN has always been a top contender in the VPN space. NordVPN offers the full package: fast speeds, stable connections, an expansive server network, and excellent streaming capabilities. It's not the cheapest VPN available, but if you want a solid VPN for the foreseeable future that is suitable for most use cases and is backed by solid customer support, NordVPN is for you.
Our second pick is ExpressVPN, one of the fastest options around, although the price might deter some users.
The ZDNET team has decades of experience in the VPN arena. We've tested all the best VPNs on the market, rigorously evaluating them through frequent speed tests and ranking them based on the number of servers, security features, price, and more.
Read on to find the best VPN for you in 2025.
Sort by All Countries and servers Usability Speed and performance Security Price
The best VPNs of 2025
Show less View now at NordVPN NordVPN is one of the most widely used VPNs around, and for most users, it ticks all the boxes. It's secure, fast, suitable for streaming, and has all the features you'll likely need. We've found it's one of the fastest VPNs with the most consistent speeds and rapid connectivity, although rival ExpressVPN tends to be slightly faster. In our tests with Netflix, NordVPN emerged as a top VPN for streaming content with a high success rate of accessing geo-blocked content. When setup with the Privacy Hero 2 router, it also did extremely well in accessing streaming services. NordVPN offers many features beyond the basics, including support for P2P sharing and an option for a second layer of encryption through Double VPN, which lets you set up a dedicated IP address to run a VPN that also acts as a server. In January, the company launched NordWhisper, a new protocol designed to allow users to connect to VPN servers from networks that typically limit traditional VPN traffic and have restrictive network policies. NordVPN also has a kill switch that activates if your connection suddenly drops, protecting your connection and data. Review: NordVPN: Consistent speed and performance NordVPN is compatible with all major platforms. NordVPN provides a server network of 111 countries, allowing you to connect 10 devices simultaneously to its service under one account. Subscription costs are on the pricier end, and prices can change from day to day. Still, customers enjoy its consistent and speedy service for home use and travel. You can pick between three types of plans with two-year, one-year, or one-month contract terms, depending on whether you want advanced features such as a password manager, data breach scanner, cloud storage, or file encryption. Prices start at $3.39 per month on a two-year plan or $4.99/month for a one-year subscription. A month of service costs $12.99. Alternatively, you can try out NordVPN for a month and take advantage of the organization's 30-day money-back guarantee. Also: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark vs. NordVPN: Which is best? NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 111 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android | Trustpilot rating: 4.1 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7 Countries and servers 10 Usability 9 Speed and performance 10 Security 8 Price 7 Pros Stable connections
Rapid speeds
Secure
Extensive server network Cons Doesn't offer unlimited simultaneous connections Price $14 per month, $60 for the first year or $81 total for the first two years (one- and two-year plans renew at $140 per year) Latest tests No leaks detected, 3% average internet download speed loss in 2025 tests Network 7,200-plus servers in 118 countries Jurisdiction Panama NordVPN Best VPN overall 4.4 / 5 Score NordVPN is one of the most widely used VPNs around, and for most users, it ticks all the boxes. It's secure, fast, suitable for streaming, and has all the features you'll likely need. We've found it's one of the fastest VPNs with the most consistent speeds and rapid connectivity, although rival ExpressVPN tends to be slightly faster. In our tests with Netflix, NordVPN emerged as a top VPN for streaming content with a high success rate of accessing geo-blocked content. When setup with the Privacy Hero 2 router, it also did extremely well in accessing streaming services. NordVPN offers many features beyond the basics, including support for P2P sharing and an option for a second layer of encryption through Double VPN, which lets you set up a dedicated IP address to run a VPN that also acts as a server. In January, the company launched NordWhisper, a new protocol designed to allow users to connect to VPN servers from networks that typically limit traditional VPN traffic and have restrictive network policies. NordVPN also has a kill switch that activates if your connection suddenly drops, protecting your connection and data. Review: NordVPN: Consistent speed and performance NordVPN is compatible with all major platforms. NordVPN provides a server network of 111 countries, allowing you to connect 10 devices simultaneously to its service under one account. Subscription costs are on the pricier end, and prices can change from day to day. Still, customers enjoy its consistent and speedy service for home use and travel. You can pick between three types of plans with two-year, one-year, or one-month contract terms, depending on whether you want advanced features such as a password manager, data breach scanner, cloud storage, or file encryption. Prices start at $3.39 per month on a two-year plan or $4.99/month for a one-year subscription. A month of service costs $12.99. Alternatively, you can try out NordVPN for a month and take advantage of the organization's 30-day money-back guarantee. Also: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark vs. NordVPN: Which is best? NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 111 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android | Trustpilot rating: 4.1 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7 Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at ExpressVPN ExpressVPN is our top choice for the fastest VPN service. It's one of the most popular VPN providers, offering a wide range of platforms, and is well-regarded and trusted. ExpressVPN has an expansive network with servers in 105 countries. Customers often say it delivers a speedy and consistent connection, and we agree. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are well-matched in speed, but we've found that ExpressVPN often comes above its closest competitor during speed tests. The company doesn't log your browsing history, IP address, or traffic destination and operates a no-logs policy. In ExpressVPN's latest transparency report, the firm said it received 163 government, law enforcement, and civil requests for user data, one warrant, and over 800,000 DMCA requests but says no user information was handed over. Compatible platforms include Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Fire OS, and tvOS. Considering the high price point of the subscriptions, however, we would like to see ExpressVPN support unlimited simultaneous connections in the future instead of just eight. ExpressVPN is also the developer of Aircove, a router product line with ExpressVPN built-in, saving you the legwork if you want blanket VPN coverage for all your home devices. Alternatively, you can manually set up ExpressVPN to work with gaming consoles and TVs that do not natively support VPN apps (you may need to install the VPN directly on your router). Review: ExpressVPN: Is it worth the price? While customer service is friendly and polite, they persist in customer retention, so you'll need to set aside some time if you wish to cancel after 30 days. Typically, subscriptions begin at $6.67 per month on a 12-month plan. However, ExpressVPN's current promotion allows new users to subscribe to a two-year plan for $4.99/month, plus four months of free service are added to the length of the contract. Alternatively, if you opt for the usual $6.67/month price, you will be given one year of access with three months free. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee. ExpressVPN has also recently begun to accept Google Pay and Apple Pay. ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 8 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.3 | Google Play rating: 4.4 | App Store rating: 4.7 Countries and servers 9 Usability 9 Speed and performance 10 Security 8 Price 5 Pros High speeds
User-friendly
Transparent privacy policy
Router available
Large server network Cons More expensive than many competitors
No unlimited simultaneous connections Price $13 per month, $100 for the first 15 months (then $117 per year) or $140 for the first 28 months (then $150 per year) Latest Tests DNS leaks detected, 35% speed loss in 2025 tests Network 3,000 plus servers in 105 countries Jurisdiction British Virgin Islands ExpressVPN Best VPN for speed 4.1 / 5 Score ExpressVPN is our top choice for the fastest VPN service. It's one of the most popular VPN providers, offering a wide range of platforms, and is well-regarded and trusted. ExpressVPN has an expansive network with servers in 105 countries. Customers often say it delivers a speedy and consistent connection, and we agree. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are well-matched in speed, but we've found that ExpressVPN often comes above its closest competitor during speed tests. The company doesn't log your browsing history, IP address, or traffic destination and operates a no-logs policy. In ExpressVPN's latest transparency report, the firm said it received 163 government, law enforcement, and civil requests for user data, one warrant, and over 800,000 DMCA requests but says no user information was handed over. Compatible platforms include Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Fire OS, and tvOS. Considering the high price point of the subscriptions, however, we would like to see ExpressVPN support unlimited simultaneous connections in the future instead of just eight. ExpressVPN is also the developer of Aircove, a router product line with ExpressVPN built-in, saving you the legwork if you want blanket VPN coverage for all your home devices. Alternatively, you can manually set up ExpressVPN to work with gaming consoles and TVs that do not natively support VPN apps (you may need to install the VPN directly on your router). Review: ExpressVPN: Is it worth the price? While customer service is friendly and polite, they persist in customer retention, so you'll need to set aside some time if you wish to cancel after 30 days. Typically, subscriptions begin at $6.67 per month on a 12-month plan. However, ExpressVPN's current promotion allows new users to subscribe to a two-year plan for $4.99/month, plus four months of free service are added to the length of the contract. Alternatively, if you opt for the usual $6.67/month price, you will be given one year of access with three months free. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee. ExpressVPN has also recently begun to accept Google Pay and Apple Pay. ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 8 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.3 | Google Play rating: 4.4 | App Store rating: 4.7 Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Surfshark VPN Surfshark should be on your radar if you are looking for an affordable, secure VPN. In our Surfshark VPN review and testing, we found this VPN offers reasonable speeds and a decent server network. While it's not the fastest option or the quickest to initially connect, it's a service with a cheap price point that provides excellent value for money. There were also no data leaks, which is precisely what you want to see from a quality VPN. With AES-256-GCM, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and RSA-2048 encryption, Surfshark prioritizes security. The organization also upholds a no-logs policy. With 100 countries in its server network, you have plenty of locations to choose from, making this VPN a good choice for streaming content at home or abroad. Also: NordVPN vs Surfshark: Which is better? We like its add-on features, such as anti-tracking, a search engine that doesn't log your information, and a scanner that searches data breach lists for your email. However, you can find more advanced security features with some other VPN providers. With Surfshark's multi-hop option, you can also connect through two VPN servers. Customers say that the support team is excellent and quick to respond. The cheapest option, a two-year subscription called Surfshark Starter, costs only $2.19/month. Alternatively, you can sign up for one year and pay $3.19 per month or $15.45 for just one month of access. One- and two-year contracts include three months of free access and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Ad blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch: Yes | Countries: 100 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, and routers | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.4 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7 Countries and servers 8 Usability 9 Speed and performance 6 Security 8 Price 9 Pros Unlimited simultaneous connections
Wide range of useful features
Available on all major platforms
Affordable Cons Can be slower than competitors Price $15.45 per month, $45 for the first year or $60 for the first two years (one- and two-year plans renew at $60 per year) Latest Tests No leaks detected, 17% speed loss in 2023 tests Network 3,200-plus servers in 100 countries Jurisdiction Netherlands Surfshark VPN Best value VPN 4 / 5 Score Surfshark should be on your radar if you are looking for an affordable, secure VPN. In our Surfshark VPN review and testing, we found this VPN offers reasonable speeds and a decent server network. While it's not the fastest option or the quickest to initially connect, it's a service with a cheap price point that provides excellent value for money. There were also no data leaks, which is precisely what you want to see from a quality VPN. With AES-256-GCM, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and RSA-2048 encryption, Surfshark prioritizes security. The organization also upholds a no-logs policy. With 100 countries in its server network, you have plenty of locations to choose from, making this VPN a good choice for streaming content at home or abroad. Also: NordVPN vs Surfshark: Which is better? We like its add-on features, such as anti-tracking, a search engine that doesn't log your information, and a scanner that searches data breach lists for your email. However, you can find more advanced security features with some other VPN providers. With Surfshark's multi-hop option, you can also connect through two VPN servers. Customers say that the support team is excellent and quick to respond. The cheapest option, a two-year subscription called Surfshark Starter, costs only $2.19/month. Alternatively, you can sign up for one year and pay $3.19 per month or $15.45 for just one month of access. One- and two-year contracts include three months of free access and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Ad blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch: Yes | Countries: 100 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, and routers | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.4 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7 Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Private Internet Access VPN Private Internet Access is an excellent option if you need a VPN long-term and support for multiple devices. The service offers unlimited simultaneous connections and is compatible with various operating systems and devices. PIA offers excellent security, too, given that it's open-source. Much of the VPN's code can be examined and audited publicly, which is always desirable when trusting your security to a third-party vendor. A strict no-logs policy also exists, and PIA publishes frequent transparency reports. PIA's network isn't the largest, with only 91 country options available, but customers note that the VPN is quick to install and very simple to use. However, our testing found that server upload speeds can be slow. PIA includes a free email breach monitor. Other features we like are the "snooze" button if you need to temporarily turn off the VPN and a tab displaying security elements, including port connections, protocols, and data encryption standards in use. You can also opt for a dedicated IP address or an antivirus scanner as a part of your package. Review: Private Internet Access Private Internet Access offers two plans, including a two-year subscription for $2.03 per month, making it a very affordable VPN. If you want to try out the VPN for a shorter period, you can sign up for $7.50 per month for six months. The best deal is the two-year subscription, as you also get four months of free access. Private Internet Access VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, and NAS | Countries: 91 | Logging: No-logs policy | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.3 | Google Play rating: 4.4 | App Store rating: 4.7 Countries and servers 7 Usability 7 Speed and performance 7 Security 9 Price 9 Pros Open source
Affordable
Solid performance
Unlimited simultaneous connections Cons Upload speeds can be slower than others
Limited server network
No annual plan Latest Tests No leaks detected, 49% speed loss in 2024 tests Network 35,000 servers in 91 countries Jurisdiction United States Price $40 per year or $12 per month (3-year plans available at $79 every three years) Private Internet Access Best open source VPN 3.9 / 5 Score Private Internet Access is an excellent option if you need a VPN long-term and support for multiple devices. The service offers unlimited simultaneous connections and is compatible with various operating systems and devices. PIA offers excellent security, too, given that it's open-source. Much of the VPN's code can be examined and audited publicly, which is always desirable when trusting your security to a third-party vendor. A strict no-logs policy also exists, and PIA publishes frequent transparency reports. PIA's network isn't the largest, with only 91 country options available, but customers note that the VPN is quick to install and very simple to use. However, our testing found that server upload speeds can be slow. PIA includes a free email breach monitor. Other features we like are the "snooze" button if you need to temporarily turn off the VPN and a tab displaying security elements, including port connections, protocols, and data encryption standards in use. You can also opt for a dedicated IP address or an antivirus scanner as a part of your package. Review: Private Internet Access Private Internet Access offers two plans, including a two-year subscription for $2.03 per month, making it a very affordable VPN. If you want to try out the VPN for a shorter period, you can sign up for $7.50 per month for six months. The best deal is the two-year subscription, as you also get four months of free access. Private Internet Access VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, and NAS | Countries: 91 | Logging: No-logs policy | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.3 | Google Play rating: 4.4 | App Store rating: 4.7 Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Proton VPN Proton is a Swiss company. Under the slogan "privacy by default," the organization is focused on developing services -- including encrypted email and a VPN -- to enhance the privacy of activists, journalists, and the public. Proton VPN has a solid approach to security, layering robust protocols on top of perfect forward secrecy and encryption. Not only does Proton VPN have a kill switch, but it also provides torrenting support and Wireguard and includes an ad blocker. All of Proton's apps are open-source, there's a no-logs policy, and the company reports that it is independently audited. The firm has also created its own protocol, Stealth, which has been designed to circumvent censorship blocks. Review: Proton VPN Proton offers a free VPN service that is supported by paid users. It allows one machine to connect without bandwidth limits and provides access to servers across five countries. We don't typically recommend using free VPNs, but if you want a service for casual browsing, you should consider this one. Unlike many less reputable free VPN services, it will not sell your information. Alternatively, if you want access to Proton VPN's full server network of 117 countries and over 11,000 servers, you will need to opt for a paid plan. Customers like Proton's attitude to security and privacy. We find it easy to use, and the speeds are reasonable. Although Trustpilot ratings are low, the feedback primarily relates to the firm's free plan limitations and customer support system. The best deal is $4.49 per month on a two-year plan. A one-year plan is priced at $4.99 per month, or you can opt for one month of access for $9.99. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee. Proton VPN features: Open-source | Simultaneous connections: One to 10, depending on the plan | Countries: 117 | Logging: No-logs policy | Security audits | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, Kodi, and routers | VPN accelerator | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Free option | Trustpilot rating: 2.3 | Google Play rating: 4.5 | App Store rating: 4.6 Countries and servers 8 Usability 6 Speed and performance 7 Security 9 Price 6 Pros Privacy-conscious
Many add-ons available
Modern, clean interface
Stealth protocol Cons Can be slow on some servers
Free plan only protects one device Latest tests No leaks detected, 21% speed loss in 2024 tests Network 11,400-plus servers in 117 countries Jurisdiction Switzerland Price $10 a month, $60 for the first year or $108 for the first two years (one- and two-year plans renew at $80 per year) Proton VPN Best free VPN 3.6 / 5 Score Proton is a Swiss company. Under the slogan "privacy by default," the organization is focused on developing services -- including encrypted email and a VPN -- to enhance the privacy of activists, journalists, and the public. Proton VPN has a solid approach to security, layering robust protocols on top of perfect forward secrecy and encryption. Not only does Proton VPN have a kill switch, but it also provides torrenting support and Wireguard and includes an ad blocker. All of Proton's apps are open-source, there's a no-logs policy, and the company reports that it is independently audited. The firm has also created its own protocol, Stealth, which has been designed to circumvent censorship blocks. Review: Proton VPN Proton offers a free VPN service that is supported by paid users. It allows one machine to connect without bandwidth limits and provides access to servers across five countries. We don't typically recommend using free VPNs, but if you want a service for casual browsing, you should consider this one. Unlike many less reputable free VPN services, it will not sell your information. Alternatively, if you want access to Proton VPN's full server network of 117 countries and over 11,000 servers, you will need to opt for a paid plan. Customers like Proton's attitude to security and privacy. We find it easy to use, and the speeds are reasonable. Although Trustpilot ratings are low, the feedback primarily relates to the firm's free plan limitations and customer support system. The best deal is $4.49 per month on a two-year plan. A one-year plan is priced at $4.99 per month, or you can opt for one month of access for $9.99. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee. Proton VPN features: Open-source | Simultaneous connections: One to 10, depending on the plan | Countries: 117 | Logging: No-logs policy | Security audits | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, Kodi, and routers | VPN accelerator | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Free option | Trustpilot rating: 2.3 | Google Play rating: 4.5 | App Store rating: 4.6 Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Best VPNs, compared Best VPN service Price Kill switch Countries Simultaneous connections NordVPN $3.39 per month on a two-year plan Yes 111 10 ExpressVPN $4.99 per month on a two-year plan Yes 105 8 Surfshark VPN $2.19 per month on a two-year plan Yes 100 Unlimited Private Internet Access $2.03 per month on a two-year plan Yes 91 Unlimited Proton VPN Free/$4.49/month on a two-year contract Yes 117 1-10, varies by plan Show more
How do we test the best VPNs? We ran a series of speed and connectivity tests in February 2025 on each VPN's paid service to see how they compare. We performed the tests using a broadband connection in the UK with an average starting speed, without a VPN, of 56.23 Mbps download and 17.4 Mbps upload. (Yes, they are terrible, but they are the best the UK currently offers where I live.) The following speeds are in Mbps. We also tested for the presence of DNS leaks. Please remember that results may differ for you and vary from country to country, so the below should be considered a snapshot. Your ISP provider and broadband subscription may also impact your speeds. For example, the starting speed is a snail's pace compared to some US offerings. The below results are not the exact speeds you should expect. You can instead use these results to get a general idea of how your speeds could change with a VPN. Remember that the further away the VPN server, the more your speed may be impacted. Speeds will typically be quicker when you connect to a local server, compared to selecting Australia, for example (unless you're in Australia!). Show more
Which is the right VPN for you? Choose this top VPN service... If you want... NordVPN The best VPN overall. NordVPN isn't the cheapest VPN available, but it remains one of the most consistently fast and stable connection providers. It's great for streaming and travel, too, with a great user interface on PC and mobile. ExpressVPN A robust, fast server network. ExpressVPN is a service we have used for years, and we consider it one of the fastest and least obtrusive available. You can expect multi-platform support and relatively minor speed downgrades when you are streaming. However, it isn't cheap. Surfshark VPN The least expensive top VPN. Surfshark is a consistent player in our top VPN lists, and for good reason. It might not always be the fastest, but for the price point, you can't argue against its value for money. Private Internet Access Unlimited simultaneous connections. Private Internet Access is a great choice if you want a set-and-forget, affordable VPN that can support and protect as many devices as you like -- but the interface won't suit everyone. Proton VPN A variety of add-on features and the comfort of open-source security. Proton VPN also offers a free plan and is one of the most privacy-focused VPN services out there. Show more
Factors to consider when choosing a VPN service These are the most important factors to consider when selecting a new VPN service. Speed: Every VPN performs differently, and every user experience differs. Your ISP will offer speeds that are not the same as someone in another location. Your favorite coffee shop has a different network connection than our local haunts. So, when you are testing a new VPN, keep your base speed in mind. Look out for VPN solutions with minimal speed loss.
Every VPN performs differently, and every user experience differs. Your ISP will offer speeds that are not the same as someone in another location. Your favorite coffee shop has a different network connection than our local haunts. So, when you are testing a new VPN, keep your base speed in mind. Look out for VPN solutions with minimal speed loss. Apps : VPN providers should offer compatibility for multiple platforms and operating systems. Take a look at the user interfaces, features, and compatibility offered by your chosen VPN provider before you commit.
: VPN providers should offer compatibility for multiple platforms and operating systems. Take a look at the user interfaces, features, and compatibility offered by your chosen VPN provider before you commit. Simultaneous connections : If you're paying for a VPN, you might want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop PC, smartphone, or smart TV. We recommend you sign up for a plan supporting at least six devices, and thankfully, most paid plans now offer at least this number.
: If you're paying for a VPN, you might want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop PC, smartphone, or smart TV. We recommend you sign up for a plan supporting at least six devices, and thankfully, most paid plans now offer at least this number. Trial periods: Before committing to a VPN provider, test them out -- that's what money-back guarantees are for. Remember that most VPN providers will give you 30 days to cancel and secure a refund. Some even offer up to 45 days.
Before committing to a VPN provider, test them out -- that's what money-back guarantees are for. Remember that most VPN providers will give you 30 days to cancel and secure a refund. Some even offer up to 45 days. Free VPN providers: Running a VPN is expensive, and if the VPN provider doesn't make money from your service fees, they're going to make money from your data -- sometimes even by selling your personal information. Stick with the trusted commercial vendors we've tested or the handful of free plans we recommend. There are also cases where "free" VPNs undermine what the software is meant to stand for -- data protection and security.
Running a VPN is expensive, and if the VPN provider doesn't make money from your service fees, they're going to make money from your data -- sometimes even by selling your personal information. Stick with the trusted commercial vendors we've tested or the handful of free plans we recommend. There are also cases where "free" VPNs undermine what the software is meant to stand for -- data protection and security. Contract terms : VPN providers constantly offer discounts, typically on longer-term plans, so you need to consider the fine print before you sign up. Remember to cancel before automatic renewal if you're no longer happy with the service or want to switch to a cheaper deal elsewhere.
: VPN providers constantly offer discounts, typically on longer-term plans, so you need to consider the fine print before you sign up. Remember to cancel before automatic renewal if you're no longer happy with the service or want to switch to a cheaper deal elsewhere. Use cases : Your VPN selection should relate to how you want to use a VPN. You may want one specifically for streaming geo-locked content, for example, or you may need a VPN that is likely to work in restricted countries. Consider these points before making your final choice, and test them out during your MBG time period to ensure the VPN is right for you.
: Your VPN selection should relate to how you want to use a VPN. You may want one specifically for streaming geo-locked content, for example, or you may need a VPN that is likely to work in restricted countries. Consider these points before making your final choice, and test them out during your MBG time period to ensure the VPN is right for you. Advanced features: You might like the idea of bundling your new VPN with antivirus software, a data breach alert tool, or a password manager. Check out the advanced features offered under different plans to make the right choice. Show more
How to use a VPN
Charlie Osborne | ZDNET
If you're interested in using a VPN, setting up the service will depend on the VPN provider, your contract, and the devices you want to protect. To set up a VPN, you will first need to subscribe to a VPN service and download the VPN software. You can visit the VPN service's official website, or you may receive a download link through email. Alternatively, visit Google Play or the App Store for mobile app options.
Open the software, provide any associated permissions the VPN needs, and sign in using your credentials.
ZDNET | Charlie Osborne
Choose a server location and connect to the VPN. In this example, you can select ExpressVPN's "..." button to select a server from its list of countries. Or, the majority of VPNs will give you a "smart" location set as default, typically located close to home.
It's that simple! Of course, you can check out your VPN's settings and tailor your experience to your liking. However, for many users, sticking to default options and having a few favorite servers will be enough.
How we test VPNs We tested and analyzed the best VPNs in 2025 using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision: Performance: Our top VPNs must have a minimum level of performance. After all, there's no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection continually drops or lags. We frequently conduct speed tests to stay up to date and informed of any service changes.
Our top VPNs must have a minimum level of performance. After all, there's no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection continually drops or lags. We frequently conduct speed tests to stay up to date and informed of any service changes. Simultaneous connections : Many VPNs limit how many devices you can connect to a service simultaneously. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, and possibly even a smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you need a service that allows at least six simultaneous connections.
: Many VPNs limit how many devices you can connect to a service simultaneously. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, and possibly even a smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you need a service that allows at least six simultaneous connections. Security : There's no point using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cares about making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs.
: There's no point using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cares about making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs. Kill switch : A kill switch prevents you from using an unprotected connection. This is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.
: A kill switch prevents you from using an unprotected connection. This is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop. Geo-blocks and streaming : We know VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations perform well given these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while you are streaming.
: We know VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations perform well given these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while you are streaming. Platforms : What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive mobile apps.
: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive mobile apps. Countries and servers : In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.
: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety. Trial length and price : Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee, and many will offer mobile users a seven-day trial.
: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee, and many will offer mobile users a seven-day trial. Support: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We list VPNs with an available support team. For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page. Show more
Alternative VPNs to consider