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.
... continue reading