Want to stay private online or access restricted content? A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Here’s the gist:
- Privacy Protection: Look for strong encryption (like AES-256) and a no-logs policy.
- Streaming Access: Choose a VPN that unblocks platforms like Netflix and offers fast speeds.
- Security on Public Wi-Fi: Ensure your VPN has features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection.
- Device Compatibility: Check if it supports all your devices and allows multiple connections.
- Cost: Premium plans often start around $2 to $8 per month. Annual plans save money.
Top Picks for 2025:
- NordVPN: Best for privacy and streaming. Starts at $3.39/month.
- Surfshark: Budget-friendly with unlimited connections. $2.19/month.
- IPVanish: Great for gamers and power users. $2.19/month.
Quick Tip: Match the VPN to your needs – security, streaming, gaming, or travel – to get the most out of it.
How to choose a VPN in 2024 | Key features
Figure Out What You Need from a VPN
Before you dive into comparing features and prices, take a moment to think about why you need a VPN. Your specific goals will help you identify which features are essential and narrow down your options. To start, let’s look at some common reasons people use VPNs – it might help you define your own priorities.
Common Reasons People Use VPNs
One of the top reasons people turn to VPNs is privacy protection. A VPN keeps your online activity hidden from internet service providers, advertisers, and even government surveillance. Whether you’re browsing, shopping, or searching, a VPN ensures your data stays private.
Another popular use is streaming content. VPNs allow users to access content libraries from different regions or continue watching their home country’s streaming services while traveling abroad.
If you often connect to public Wi-Fi – say at coffee shops, airports, or hotels – security becomes a big concern. Public networks are notoriously risky, making it easy for hackers to steal sensitive information like passwords or credit card details. A VPN encrypts your connection, adding a much-needed layer of protection.
For those working remotely, secure access to company systems is often a requirement. VPNs provide a safe way to connect to internal files, applications, and networks, no matter where you are.
In some parts of the world, censorship restricts access to certain websites, social media platforms, or communication apps. A VPN can bypass these restrictions by routing your connection through servers in regions without such limitations.
Lastly, online gamers can benefit from VPNs in several ways. Whether it’s reducing lag by connecting to servers closer to game hosts, accessing games that launch earlier in other countries, or protecting against DDoS attacks during competitive play, VPNs can be a helpful tool.
With these common uses in mind, you can start identifying which features are most important for your situation.
Rank Your Priorities
Once you’ve identified why you want a VPN, it’s time to rank your priorities based on what matters most to you. This step will guide your decisions around features, pricing, and service selection.
First, focus on your primary use case. If streaming is your main goal, prioritize speed and server locations in the countries you need. If privacy is your top concern, look for strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and a provider based in a jurisdiction with strong privacy laws. For business use, reliability, security features, and system compatibility are key.
Don’t forget secondary needs. For example, you might primarily want privacy but also stream content while traveling. In that case, look for a privacy-focused VPN that still offers decent streaming capabilities, even if it’s not the best in the category.
Your budget also plays a role. Premium VPNs with large server networks and advanced features cost more, while basic services are more affordable. If you’re looking to save, consider annual plans, which often come with discounts.
Think about how many devices you need to protect. A single-device plan might work if you’re only using a laptop, but if you want coverage for your phone, tablet, and other devices, a multi-device plan is the way to go.
Location matters too. If you’re based in the U.S. and rarely travel, a VPN with strong domestic server coverage might be enough. But if you frequently visit countries with restricted internet access or want to access content from multiple regions, global server options are essential.
Finally, consider your technical comfort level. Some VPNs are designed for simplicity, offering one-click connections that are perfect for beginners. Others cater to tech-savvy users with advanced configuration options. Be honest about your preferences – do you want something easy to use, or are you looking for more control?
Important VPN Features to Look For
Once you’ve identified your priorities, it’s time to dive into the technical features that can help you pick the right VPN. These features directly influence your security, connection speed, and overall browsing experience, so understanding what to look for is key to making an informed choice.
Encryption and Security Protocols
Encryption is the backbone of a secure VPN. It ensures that any intercepted data remains unreadable. The gold standard here is AES-256 encryption, a trusted method also used by banks and government agencies for its strong data protection capabilities.
When it comes to protocols, OpenVPN is a reliable, open-source option, while WireGuard offers faster speeds and better battery efficiency. For mobile users, IKEv2/IPSec is a solid choice due to its stability and performance.
A kill switch is another critical feature. It blocks all internet traffic if your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, ensuring your real IP address stays hidden. Together, these tools create the foundation of a secure VPN.
Privacy Policies and Company Location
A VPN’s privacy policy tells you how your data is handled. Look for providers with a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t store details like your browsing history, IP address, or connection times. Some providers even undergo independent audits to prove their no-logs claims.
Where the VPN company is based also matters. Providers in countries with strong privacy laws and no mandatory data retention requirements generally offer better protection. On the flip side, companies located in nations that are part of intelligence-sharing alliances might be required to hand over user information under certain circumstances.
Server Network and Connection Speed
The size and spread of a VPN’s server network can make a big difference in your experience. A larger network typically means less congestion and a better chance of finding a server close to your location, which often translates to faster speeds.
Server locations also play a role if you want to access content restricted to specific countries or improve performance. Some VPNs even offer specialized servers designed for tasks like streaming or added security. Proximity, server capacity, and overall load are all factors that can impact your connection speed.
Device Support and Extra Features
Your VPN should work seamlessly across all your devices. Look for providers that offer dedicated apps for platforms like Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, as native apps often provide the best performance and ease of use.
Check how many devices can connect simultaneously under one subscription. Some VPNs limit this number, while others allow unlimited connections, which can be a big plus if you have multiple devices.
Additional features to consider include:
- Split tunneling: Lets you decide which apps or websites use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet.
- Ad and malware blocking: Speeds up browsing and boosts security by stopping harmful or unwanted content.
- DNS leak protection: Keeps your DNS requests within the VPN, ensuring your online activities stay private from your internet service provider.
Choose the features that align with how you plan to use your VPN, whether for privacy, streaming, or general security.
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Best VPN Services for 2025
Cloud Explorer tested leading VPN services to help you find the best option for your needs. Here are three standout choices, catering to different priorities like security, affordability, and performance.
NordVPN: Top-Tier Security and Streaming Performance
NordVPN is a powerhouse when it comes to both security and streaming. With a massive network of over 7,000 servers worldwide, you’re almost guaranteed a fast and reliable connection, no matter where you are.
What sets NordVPN apart are its advanced features. Double VPN routes your traffic through two servers for extra protection, while Onion Over VPN combines VPN encryption with the anonymity of the Tor network. These tools make it a go-to choice for users seeking maximum privacy or operating in high-risk environments.
For streaming fans, NordVPN excels at unblocking major platforms and maintaining fast speeds, even during peak hours. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard technology, ensures smooth performance without compromising security.
Plans start at $3.39 per month, supporting up to 10 devices simultaneously. If you need consistent access to specific services, NordVPN also offers dedicated IP options.
Surfshark: Affordable and Unlimited Connections
Surfshark strikes the perfect balance between cost and functionality. Starting at just $2.19 per month, it’s one of the most budget-friendly VPNs, and it allows unlimited device connections – a big plus for families or gadget-heavy users.
Privacy is a priority with Surfshark. Its MultiHop feature routes your traffic through multiple servers for added anonymity, while the built-in ad blocker speeds up browsing by filtering out malicious content. For users in restrictive regions, the NoBorders mode ensures access to blocked websites and services.
Powered by the WireGuard protocol, Surfshark delivers fast and secure connections. It also maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities stay private.
IPVanish: Flexible and Built for Power Users
IPVanish is ideal for users who need flexibility and high-speed connectivity. It supports unlimited device connections, making it a practical choice for tech-savvy households.
This VPN shines in scenarios requiring speed, such as gaming, video calls, or large file downloads. It also includes SOCKS5 proxy support, giving advanced users the option to route specific apps differently for added control.
Another standout feature is split tunneling, which lets you decide which apps use the VPN and which access the internet directly. This is especially useful for protecting sensitive activities while keeping local services or gaming at full speed.
Starting at $2.19 per month, IPVanish offers a competitive price point. However, it lacks dedicated IP options and may struggle with some streaming platforms.
Comparison Table: VPN Features and Pricing
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $3.39/month | $2.19/month | $2.19/month |
| Device Limit | 10 devices | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Server Count | 7,000+ servers | Smaller network | |
| Best For | Security & Streaming | Budget-conscious users | Power users & gamers |
| Special Features | Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Dedicated IP | MultiHop, ad blocker | SOCKS5 proxy, Split tunneling |
| Streaming Performance | Excellent | Good | Fair |
Use this breakdown to find the VPN that aligns with your priorities, whether it’s security, cost, or performance.
Match VPN Features to Your Needs
Choosing a VPN that fits your lifestyle means focusing on three key aspects: pricing, device compatibility, and features designed for privacy, streaming, and travel.
Budget and Pricing Options
VPN pricing can vary widely, with plans ranging from $2.03 to $8.32 per month. If you’re managing multiple devices, options like Surfshark and IPVanish stand out, offering unlimited connections for just $2.19 per month. For users prioritizing advanced security features, NordVPN is a solid choice at $3.39 per month, though it limits connections to 10 devices.
At the premium end, ExpressVPN charges $8.32 per month, supporting up to 8 devices while delivering excellent performance through its proprietary Lightway protocol. If budget is your main concern, Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a very affordable plan at $2.03 per month, though some users report occasional slower speeds on specific servers.
When evaluating pricing, think about your long-term needs. Many VPN providers offer steep discounts on annual or multi-year plans, significantly lowering the monthly cost. Once you’ve narrowed down your budget, it’s time to see how these VPNs work across your devices.
Device Support and Multi-Platform Use
Device compatibility is crucial, especially if you’re juggling multiple gadgets. Some VPNs, like IPVanish, offer features such as the SOCKS5 proxy for specific apps and split tunneling, which allows you to decide which apps use the VPN connection. Split tunneling is also available with ExpressVPN, giving you more control over your internet traffic.
Check the number of simultaneous connections allowed. VPNs like Surfshark and IPVanish provide unlimited connections – a huge advantage for multi-device households. Additionally, many premium VPNs support router installation, protecting devices without native VPN apps, like smart TVs or gaming consoles.
Best Features for Privacy, Streaming, and Travel
Once you’ve addressed cost and compatibility, focus on features that match your needs. If privacy is your top priority, look for VPNs with strong no-logs policies and advanced tools. For example, NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN and Surfshark’s MultiHop add extra layers of anonymity. Both services also maintain high speeds, making them ideal for streaming and travel.
For streaming, you’ll want a VPN that bypasses geographic restrictions without compromising speed. NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol is designed for smooth streaming, while Surfshark’s NoBorders mode helps users access geo-blocked content with ease.
Frequent travelers should prioritize extensive server networks and dependable connections. NordVPN offers over 7,000 servers, ensuring fast connections in most regions, while CyberGhost boasts a massive network of 11,700+ servers optimized for streaming and gaming.
For business users, features like dedicated IPs and customizable encryption are essential. NordVPN provides dedicated IP options for added security, and PIA allows users to adjust encryption levels to meet specific needs. These tools can offer greater control and reliability for professional use.
Make the Right VPN Choice
Key Points to Remember
Choosing the right VPN starts with identifying your main priorities – whether it’s safeguarding your privacy, streaming content, gaming, bypassing censorship, or securing remote work setups.
Once you know your needs, match them with the VPN’s features and your budget. For privacy-focused users, look for services with audited no-logs policies and robust encryption protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard paired with AES-256 encryption. If streaming is your goal, prioritize VPNs with large server networks and reliable geo-unblocking capabilities. Budget-conscious users should explore long-term subscription plans, which often bring down monthly costs significantly – some plans drop from around $8.32 to as low as $2.03 per month.
Device compatibility is another key factor. For households with multiple devices, a VPN offering unlimited connections can provide better value. On the other hand, if you only need coverage for a few devices, a provider with a limited connection cap may still offer top-tier security.
Transparency matters, too. The best VPN providers make their policies clear and undergo independent third-party audits to verify their security claims. Additionally, consider the provider’s jurisdiction. Opting for a VPN based in a country with strong privacy laws and transparent ownership can further safeguard your data.
By weighing these factors, you can zero in on a VPN that aligns with your specific needs.
How Cloud Explorer Can Help
Cloud Explorer simplifies the process of finding the right VPN by offering detailed reviews and side-by-side comparisons of the top six VPN services for 2025. We focus on critical factors like security, server networks, and pricing to help you make an informed choice.
Our reviews break down complex features like Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, and customizable encryption settings into straightforward explanations. We also evaluate device compatibility, so you can balance performance and budget effectively.
For streaming enthusiasts, we assess each VPN’s ability to unlock content based on your location and preferences. With insights into server networks and streaming capabilities, you can find the service that best fits your needs. Cloud Explorer’s comprehensive comparisons highlight each provider’s strengths and limitations, giving you the confidence to choose a VPN that matches your priorities. Explore our insights to compare options quickly and make the best decision for your online security and convenience.
FAQs
What should I consider when choosing a VPN that fits my needs?
When picking a VPN, the first step is to figure out your main goal. Are you prioritizing privacy, access to streaming services, or just safe browsing? Knowing this will guide you toward the right features.
Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Encryption protocols: Make sure the VPN uses strong encryption to keep your data safe. This is the backbone of a secure VPN.
- Server locations: If you need to access content from specific countries, choose a VPN with servers in those regions.
- Speed and performance: For activities like streaming or gaming, a VPN with fast and stable connections is essential.
Don’t forget to consider how well the VPN works with your devices, your budget, and how user-friendly it is. By matching these factors to your needs, you’ll find a VPN that strikes the right balance between security, features, and ease of use.
How do VPN features like encryption and server networks affect my security and browsing experience?
VPN features are essential for safeguarding your online security and improving your browsing experience. With robust encryption protocols such as AES-256, OpenVPN, and WireGuard, your data stays shielded from hackers and prying eyes, ensuring your online activities remain private and secure.
A broad server network can enhance your connection speed, minimize lag, and unlock access to content from different regions. This is particularly handy for streaming or getting around geographic restrictions. These features work together to provide a safer, faster, and more dependable online experience designed to meet your needs.
Why does a VPN provider’s location matter for your privacy?
The location of a VPN provider is a crucial factor in how your data is managed and safeguarded. This is because the provider must comply with the laws of the country where it operates. Some nations have strong privacy protections in place, meaning companies aren’t required to store or share user data. This can give you an added layer of privacy.
However, VPN providers based in countries that are part of surveillance alliances, such as the Five Eyes or Fourteen Eyes, may face legal obligations to hand over user data to government agencies. If safeguarding your online activities is a priority, look for a VPN provider based in a jurisdiction that prioritizes user privacy and confidentiality.