6 things to consider when choosing a VPN (2024)

FAQs

6 things to consider when choosing a VPN? ›

The most important feature of any VPN provider is security, so it's essential to choose a service that uses an industry-standard protocol with 256-bit encryption—the same kind of encryption used by banks and military.

The most important feature of any VPN provider is security, so it's essential to choose a service that uses an industry-standard protocol with 256-bit encryption—the same kind of encryption used by banks and military.

Here are a few steps you can take to ensure your VPN program doesn't contain any malware: Choose a secure VPN. Check your VPN provider's reputation before purchasing a service. Read some reviews and comments, and check its privacy policy, no-logs policy, and encryption methods to ensure the VPN is trustworthy.

There are plenty of IP address check tools that detail the IP address location. If you know someone to be based in a specific location but the IP address location is different, it's likely they're using a VPN. You can also use IP address checkers to see the ISP.

OpenVPN and NordLynx

NordVPN offers two of the fastest, most reliable, and most secure VPN protocols: OpenVPN and WireGuard in the form of NordLynx. Here's a quick comparison, and for a more in-depth look, here's our comparison of the top VPN protocols. NordVPN worked well with OpenVPN and NordLynx.

Which is better, NordVPN or ExpressVPN? ›

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN are great options for streaming VPNs. They have powerful unblocking and streaming capabilities on various devices – from mobile to smart TV. However, NordVPN is our #1 pick overall because of better speeds and top-notch features.

TechRadar Verdict. NordVPN's blistering NordLynx speeds, top-of-the-range unblocking results, and audited no-logging policy make for an appealing service. We especially love its great and well-priced all-in security suite. Put simply, it's the #1 best VPN you can get right now.

Yes, you should leave your VPN on all the time. VPNs offer the best online security, so keeping it on will protect you against data leaks and cyberattacks, especially while you're using public Wi-Fi.

However, a VPN client must first be installed and configured on the computer. This involves the user not being connected to the internet via his own ISP, but establishing a direct connection through his/her VPN provider. This essentially shortens the tunnel phase of the VPN journey.

A VPN, which stands for virtual private network, establishes a digital connection between your computer and a remote server owned by a VPN provider, creating a point-to-point tunnel that encrypts your personal data, masks your IP address, and lets you sidestep website blocks and firewalls on the internet.

The most common VPN protocols are OpenVPN, WireGuard, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2/IPsec, PPTP and SSTP. These protocols offer different trade-offs between security, speed and compatibility, so the best option will depend on your specific needs.

Imagine the internet as a bunch of roads that connect your home (your device) to a variety of destinations (websites and services). A VPN uses three basic components to work: the tunnel, the encryption, and the server.