Are you worried about your online privacy and security? Do you want to access any website or content without any restrictions? If the answer is yes, then you need a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs provide you with the ability to connect to the internet securely and privately. They also let you bypass geo-restrictions and censorship, making it possible to access any content from anywhere in the world.
But with so many VPN providers on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for you. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top VPN providers in 2021. We’ve done the research for you, so you can make an informed decision and protect your online privacy and security.
Why Do You Need a VPN?
In today’s digital age, online privacy and security are more critical than ever. Here are some reasons why you may need a VPN:
1. Protect Your Privacy
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your personal information from prying eyes. This can prevent hackers, cybercriminals, and government agencies from intercepting your data.
2. Bypass Geo-Restrictions and Censorship
Some content is only available in certain countries due to geo-restrictions. A VPN allows you to bypass these restrictions and access any content from anywhere in the world. It also lets you circumvent censorship in countries where online content is restricted.
3. Secure Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is often unsecured and can put your personal information at risk. A VPN encrypts your data, protecting you from potential threats on public Wi-Fi networks.
4. Anonymity Online
A VPN can hide your IP address and location, making it difficult for third parties to track your online activities.
5. Avoid Throttling
Your internet service provider (ISP) may throttle your internet speed if you’re using too much data. A VPN can prevent this by encrypting your data and making it more difficult for your ISP to track your usage.
6. Save Money on Online Shopping
Some online retailers charge different prices depending on your location. A VPN can help you save money by allowing you to shop around and find the best deals from different countries.
The Top VPN Providers in 2021
Now that you know why you need a VPN, here are the top VPN providers in 2021:
VPN Provider |
Simultaneous Connections |
Price |
Server Locations |
Logs |
Torrenting |
Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NordVPN |
6 |
$3.71/month |
59 countries |
No logs |
Yes |
Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer |
ExpressVPN |
5 |
$6.67/month |
94 countries |
No logs |
Yes |
Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer |
Surfshark |
Unlimited |
$2.49/month |
65 countries |
No logs |
Yes |
Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer |
CyberGhost |
7 |
$2.25/month |
90 countries |
No logs |
Yes |
Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer |
Private Internet Access |
10 |
$2.08/month |
75 countries |
No logs |
Yes |
Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer |
NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN providers on the market. It offers excellent security and privacy features, including military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch. It also has a large server network, making it easy to bypass geo-restrictions and access any content from anywhere in the world.
One of the standout features of NordVPN is its ability to unblock streaming services. It can access Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, and more. NordVPN also allows torrenting on its servers, making it an excellent choice for P2P file sharing.
With NordVPN, you can connect up to six devices simultaneously, and it’s compatible with most operating systems and devices. It also offers excellent customer support, including live chat and email support.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another popular VPN provider that offers excellent security and privacy features. It uses AES 256-bit encryption, has a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch. It also has a vast server network, with servers in 94 countries.
ExpressVPN is known for its fast speeds, making it an excellent choice for streaming and online gaming. It can also bypass geo-restrictions and access content from anywhere in the world. ExpressVPN is compatible with most devices and operating systems and allows up to five simultaneous connections.
One of the standout features of ExpressVPN is its customer support. It offers 24/7 live chat support, email support, and a knowledge base to help you set up and troubleshoot any issues.
Surfshark
Surfshark is a new VPN provider that has quickly gained popularity due to its affordable pricing and excellent features. It offers military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch. It also has a large server network, with servers in 65 countries.
Surfshark is an excellent choice for streaming and torrenting, as it can access Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, and more. It also allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an excellent choice for families or users with multiple devices.
Surfshark is compatible with most devices and operating systems and offers excellent customer support, including 24/7 live chat support and email support.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a VPN provider based in Romania that offers excellent security and privacy features. It uses military-grade encryption, has a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch. It also has a large server network, with servers in 90 countries.
CyberGhost is an excellent choice for streaming, as it can bypass geo-restrictions and access Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, and more. It also allows torrenting on its servers, making it an excellent choice for P2P file sharing.
CyberGhost is compatible with most devices and operating systems and offers excellent customer support, including 24/7 live chat support and email support.
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a VPN provider based in the United States that offers excellent security and privacy features. It uses AES 256-bit encryption, has a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch. It also has a large server network, with servers in 75 countries.
PIA is an excellent choice for streaming and torrenting, as it can access Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, and more. It also allows up to ten simultaneous connections, making it an excellent choice for families or users with multiple devices.
PIA is compatible with most devices and operating systems and offers excellent customer support, including 24/7 live chat support and email support.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a VPN
Advantages of Using a VPN
1. Enhanced Security: VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, making it more difficult for hackers and cybercriminals to intercept your data.
2. Privacy: VPNs hide your IP address and location, making it difficult for third parties to track your online activities.
3. Bypass Geo-Restrictions and Censorship: VPNs allow you to access any content from anywhere in the world, bypassing geo-restrictions and censorship.
4. Secure Public Wi-Fi: VPNs encrypt your data, protecting you from potential threats on public Wi-Fi networks.
5. Anonymity Online: VPNs can hide your online activities, making it difficult for third parties to track your internet usage.
Disadvantages of Using a VPN
1. Slower Internet Speeds: VPNs can slow down your internet speeds due to the encryption process.
2. Cost: Most VPN providers charge a monthly subscription fee, which can be expensive over time.
3. Compatibility: Some VPNs may not be compatible with certain devices or operating systems.
4. Trust: Some VPNs may not be trustworthy, as they may log your data or sell your information to third parties.
5. Legality: VPNs are illegal in certain countries, and using them can result in severe consequences.
FAQs About VPN Providers
1. What Is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a secure and private network connection that allows you to connect to the internet securely and privately. It encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your personal information from prying eyes.
2. What Are the Benefits of Using a VPN?
The benefits of using a VPN include enhanced security, privacy, the ability to bypass geo-restrictions and censorship, secure public Wi-Fi, anonymity online, and the ability to save money on online shopping.
3. How Does a VPN Work?
A VPN works by encrypting your internet traffic and routing it through a VPN server. This makes it difficult for hackers and cybercriminals to intercept your data.
4. Is Using a VPN Legal?
Using a VPN is legal in most countries. However, some countries have banned VPNs, and using them can result in severe consequences.
5. How Do I Choose a VPN Provider?
When choosing a VPN provider, consider factors such as security, privacy, server network, speed, compatibility with your devices, and customer support.
6. How Much Does a VPN Cost?
The cost of a VPN varies depending on the provider and the subscription plan. Most VPN providers offer monthly, yearly, and bi-yearly subscription plans.
7. Can I Use a Free VPN?
You can use a free VPN, but they often have limitations, such as limited data usage, slow speeds, and fewer server locations. Free VPNs may also log your data or sell your information to third parties.
8. Can I Use a VPN on My Mobile Device?
Yes, most VPN providers offer apps for mobile devices, including Android and iOS.
9. Can I Use a VPN to Access Netflix?
Yes, most VPN providers can bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions and allow you to access any content from anywhere in the world.
10. Do VPNs Work in China?
Chinese authorities have banned most VPNs, but some VPN providers can still bypass censorship in China. However, using a VPN in China can result in severe consequences.
11. Can I Use a VPN to Download Torrents?
Yes, most VPN providers allow torrenting on their servers. However, some providers may restrict P2P file sharing.
12. How Do I Set Up a VPN?
Setting up a VPN varies depending on the provider and your devices. Most VPN providers offer step-by-step guides to help you set up your VPN.
13. Is My VPN Secure?
Most reputable VPN providers offer military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy. It’s essential to do your research and choose a trustworthy VPN provider.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a VPN is an essential tool for protecting your online privacy and security. It allows you to connect to the internet securely and privately, bypass geo-restrictions and censorship, and access any content from anywhere in the world. By choosing one of the top VPN providers we’ve listed in this article, you can have peace of mind knowing that your online activities are secure and private.
So, what are you waiting for? Choose a VPN provider today and start enjoying the benefits of secure and private internet access.
Closing Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. The use of VPNs may be illegal in certain countries, and it’s essential to do your research and ensure that you’re in compliance with local laws and regulations.