A VPN, or virtual private network, is a service that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address from prying eyes. Whether you want to protect your online privacy, access geo-restricted content, or bypass censorship, a VPN can help you achieve your goals.
In This Article
Best VPN Service in 2023 – Paid and Free
But how do you choose the best VPN service in 2023? There are hundreds of VPN providers on the market, each claiming to be the best. To help you make an informed decision, we have tested and reviewed dozens of VPNs based on the following criteria:
- Security: How well does the VPN protect your data and identity from hackers, ISPs, and governments?
- Speed: How fast is the VPN connection and does it affect your browsing performance?
- Features: What extra features does the VPN offer, such as streaming optimization, kill switch, split tunneling, etc.?
- Price: How much does the VPN cost and does it offer a good value for money?
Based on our extensive testing and analysis, here are our top 5 picks for the best VPN service in 2023:
Top 5 Paid Best VPNs of 2024
ExpressVPN: The Best Overall VPN
ExpressVPN is our top choice for the overall best VPN in 2023. It offers excellent security, speed, and features that make it stand out from the crowd.
ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard for data protection. It also supports multiple VPN protocols, such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect or store any of your personal information or activity.
Check Also – Best Gmail Tips to Use Like A Pro
ExpressVPN is also one of the fastest VPNs we have tested. It has over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, which means you can always find a reliable and speedy connection. ExpressVPN can also unblock popular streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. You can also use ExpressVPN to torrent safely and anonymously.
ExpressVPN is very easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface. It works on all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more. You can connect up to five devices simultaneously with one account.
ExpressVPN is not the cheapest VPN on the market, but it offers great value for money. It costs $6.67 per month for a 12-month plan (plus three months free), which comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You also get a free subscription to Backblaze cloud backup service for one year.
If you are looking for a premium VPN that can do it all, ExpressVPN is the best option for you.
NordVPN: The Best for Premium Security
NordVPN is another best VPN that offers premium security and privacy features. It is ideal for users who want to enhance their online security and avoid surveillance.
NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and NordLynx (based on WireGuard). It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. NordVPN offers some unique features that boost its security level, such as:
- Double VPN: This feature routes your traffic through two encrypted servers for extra protection.
- Onion Over VPN: This feature combines the anonymity of the Tor network with the encryption of the VPN.
- CyberSec: This feature blocks malicious websites, ads, and trackers.
- Obfuscated Servers: This feature disguises your VPN traffic as regular traffic to bypass firewalls and censorship.
NordVPN is also very fast and reliable. It has over 5,400 servers in 59 countries, which provide consistent and stable connections. NordVPN can also access most streaming services, such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more. You can also use NordVPN for torrenting with dedicated P2P servers.
Check Also – Internet Download Manager
NordVPN is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more. You can connect up to six devices simultaneously with one account.
NordVPN is very affordable compared to other premium VPNs. It costs $3.49 per month for a two-year plan (plus three months free), which comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you are looking for a high-quality VPN that offers advanced security features, NordVPN is the best option for you.
Surfshark: The Best Cheap VPN
Surfshark is the best cheap VPN that offers excellent performance and features at a low price. It is ideal for users who want to get a VPN without breaking the bank.
Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. Surfshark offers some unique features that enhance its value, such as:
- CleanWeb: This feature blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts.
- Whitelister: This feature allows you to exclude certain apps or websites from the VPN connection.
- MultiHop: This feature routes your traffic through two encrypted servers for extra security.
- Camouflage Mode: This feature hides your VPN traffic from your ISP and other third parties.
Surfshark is also very fast and reliable. It has over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, which provide smooth and stable connections. Surfshark can also access most streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and more. You can also use Surfshark for torrenting with optimized P2P servers.
Check Also – Best Torrent Downloader Software
Surfshark is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more.
You can connect unlimited devices simultaneously with one account.
Surfshark is the cheapest VPN on our list. It costs $2.39 per month for a two-year plan (plus two months free), which comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly VPN that offers great performance and features, Surfshark is the best option for you.
Private Internet Access: The Best for Customizable Security
Private Internet Access is the best VPN for customizable security and privacy settings. It is ideal for users who want to have more control over their VPN configuration and preferences.
Private Internet Access uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and L2TP/IPsec. It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. Private Internet Access offers some unique features that allow you to customize your security level, such as:
- Encryption Level: You can choose between AES-128, AES-256, or no encryption for your VPN connection.
- Data Authentication: You can choose between SHA1, SHA256, or no authentication for your VPN connection.
- Handshake: You can choose between RSA-2048, RSA-3072, RSA-4096, ECC-256k1, ECC-256r1, or ECC-521 for your VPN connection.
- Port Forwarding: You can enable port forwarding to access remote devices or services through your VPN connection.
- MACE: This feature blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts.
Private Internet Access is also very fast and reliable. It has over 30,000 servers in 78 countries, which provide consistent and stable connections. Private Internet Access can also access some streaming services, such as Netflix US and UK. You can also use Private Internet Access for torrenting with dedicated P2P servers.
Private Internet Access is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account.
Private Internet Access is very reasonable compared to other VPNs. It costs $2.03 per month for a three-year plan (plus three months free), which comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you are looking for a VPN that offers customizable security and privacy settings, Private Internet access is the best option for you.
ProtonVPN: The Best for Web Freedom
ProtonVPN is the best VPN for web freedom and censorship resistance. It is ideal for users who want to access the internet without any restrictions or interference.
ProtonVPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2. It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. ProtonVPN offers some unique features that enhance its web freedom capabilities, such as:
- Secure Core: This feature routes your traffic through multiple encrypted servers in privacy-friendly countries before reaching your final destination.
- Tor Over VPN: This feature connects you to the Tor network via VPN, allowing you to access onion sites and browse the web anonymously.
- NetShield: This feature blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts.
- Plus Servers: These are premium servers that offer higher speeds and access to streaming services.
ProtonVPN is also very fast and reliable. It has over 1,200 servers in 54 countries, which provide smooth and stable connections. ProtonVPN can also access most streaming services, such as Netflix US and UK. You can also use ProtonVPN for torrenting with optimized P2P servers.
ProtonVPN is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account.
ProtonVPN is not the cheapest VPN on the market, but it offers great value for money. It costs $6.63 per month for a two-year plan (plus two months free), which comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You also get a free subscription to ProtonMail Plus, a secure and encrypted email service.
If you are looking for a VPN that offers web freedom and censorship resistance, ProtonVPN is the best option for you.
Top 5 Free Best VPNs of 2024
Windscribe: Best Free VPN for Data Allowance
Windscribe is the best free VPN for data allowance, as it offers 10 GB of data per month for free users. That’s more than enough for most casual browsing and streaming needs. Windscribe also has a generous policy of allowing unlimited simultaneous connections with one account.
Windscribe uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. Windscribe offers some unique features that enhance its functionality, such as:
- R.O.B.E.R.T.: This feature blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts.
- Split Personality: This feature rotates your user agent to prevent browser fingerprinting.
- Cruise Control: This feature automatically connects you to the best server based on your location and network conditions.
Windscribe is also very fast and reliable. It has over 400 servers in 63 countries, which provide smooth and stable connections. Windscribe can also access some streaming services, such as Netflix US and UK. You can also use Windscribe for torrenting with optimized P2P servers.
Windscribe is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more.
Windscribe is the best free VPN for data allowance, as it offers a generous 10 GB of data per month for free users.
ProtonVPN: Free Best VPN for Unlimited Bandwidth
ProtonVPN is the free best VPN for unlimited bandwidth, as it offers unlimited data without paying a penny. That means you can browse, stream, and download as much as you want without worrying about running out of data. ProtonVPN also has a strong reputation for privacy and security, as it is based in Switzerland and operates under strict Swiss laws.
ProtonVPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2. It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. ProtonVPN offers some unique features that enhance its web freedom capabilities, such as:
- Secure Core: This feature routes your traffic through multiple encrypted servers in privacy-friendly countries before reaching your final destination.
- Tor Over VPN: This feature connects you to the Tor network via VPN, allowing you to access onion sites and browse the web anonymously.
- NetShield: This feature blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts.
- Plus Servers: These are premium servers that offer higher speeds and access to streaming services.
ProtonVPN is also very fast and reliable. It has over 1,200 servers in 54 countries, which provide smooth and stable connections. ProtonVPN can also access most streaming services, such as Netflix US and UK. You can also use ProtonVPN for torrenting with optimized P2P servers.
ProtonVPN is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account.
ProtonVPN is the best free VPN for unlimited bandwidth, as it offers unlimited data without paying a penny.
Hide.me: The Best Free VPN for Customer Service
Hide.me is another best VPNs for customer service, as it offers 24/7 live chat support for both free and paid users. That means you can get help anytime you need it from friendly and knowledgeable staff. Hide.me also has a comprehensive FAQ section and a community forum where you can find answers to common questions and issues.
Hide.me uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, SoftEther, SSTP, and L2TP/IPsec. It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. Hide.me offers some unique features that enhance its performance and usability, such as:
- Stealth Guard: This feature allows you to choose which apps or websites will only work when connected to the VPN.
- Split Tunneling: This feature allows you to exclude certain apps or websites from the VPN connection.
- Auto Connect: This feature automatically connects you to the best server based on your location and network conditions.
- Kill Switch: This feature blocks your internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
Hide.me is also very fast and reliable. It has over 1,800 servers in 72 locations, which provide consistent and stable connections. Hide.me can also access some streaming services, such as Netflix US and UK. You can also use Hide.me for torrenting with dedicated P2P servers.
Hide.me is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more. You can connect up to five devices simultaneously with one account.
Hide.me is the best free VPN for customer service, as it offers 24/7 live chat support for both free and paid users.
TunnelBear: The Best Free VPN for Server Locations
TunnelBear is the best free VPN for server locations, as it offers a wide range of server locations for free users. You can choose from over 23 countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, Japan, Singapore, the UK, the US, and more. That means you can access geo-restricted content and websites from various regions without paying a dime.
TunnelBear uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2. It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. TunnelBear offers some unique features that enhance its functionality and fun factor, such as:
- Vigilant Mode: This feature blocks your internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
- GhostBear: This feature disguises your VPN traffic as regular traffic to bypass firewalls and censorship.
- Trusted Networks: This feature allows you to whitelist certain networks that you trust and don’t need a VPN for.
- Bear Themes: This feature allows you to customize the appearance of your TunnelBear app with different bear-themed skins.
TunnelBear is also very fast and reliable. It has over 3,000 servers in 23 countries, which provide smooth and stable connections. TunnelBear can also access some streaming services, such as Netflix US and UK. You can also use TunnelBear for torrenting with optimized P2P servers.
TunnelBear is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more. TunnelBear is the best VPN for server locations, as it offers a wide range of server locations for free users.
Atlas VPN: The Best Free VPN for Numerous Devices
Atlas VPN is another best VPN for numerous devices, as it offers unlimited simultaneous connections with one account. That means you can protect all your devices at once without paying extra. Atlas VPN also has a simple and user-friendly interface that makes it easy to use for beginners and experts alike.
Atlas VPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including IKEv2 and WireGuard. It also has a no-logs policy and an independent audit to verify its claims. Atlas VPN offers some unique features that enhance its value and functionality, such as:
- SafeBrowse: This feature blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts.
- Data Breach Monitor: This feature alerts you if your email or password has been compromised in a data breach.
- Streaming Optimizer: This feature allows you to access popular streaming services, such as Netflix US and UK.
- SmartReconnect: This feature automatically reconnects you to the best server based on your location and network conditions.
Atlas VPN is also very fast and reliable. It has over 700 servers in 28 countries, which provide consistent and stable connections. Atlas VPN can also access most streaming services, such as Netflix US and UK. You can also use Atlas VPN for torrenting with optimized P2P servers.
Atlas VPN is compatible with all major devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and more. You can connect unlimited devices simultaneously with one account.
Atlas VPN is the best free VPN for numerous devices, as it offers unlimited simultaneous connections with one account.
These are some of the best free and paid VPNs of 2023 that you can use to protect your online privacy and security. However, keep in mind that free VPNs have some limitations and drawbacks compared to paid VPNs. For example, free VPNs may have lower speeds, fewer servers, fewer features, more ads, or less reliable connections. If you want to get the best possible VPN experience, we recommend upgrading to a premium VPN service that offers more benefits and guarantees
We hope this article has helped you find the best VPN service in 2023 for your needs. A VPN is a must-have tool for anyone who cares about their online privacy, security, and freedom. With a VPN, you can enjoy the internet without any limitations or risks.
If you have any feedback or questions about this article, please let us know in the comments below. We would love to hear from you.
Also, if you are looking for more software and apps for all platforms (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS) with direct download links, check out our website softwarezone.dailyinfotainment.com. You can also find some useful tips and tricks on how to optimize your PC performance, protect your data, and enhance your online experience.