ProtonVPN Overview
ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN
Expert Take: Proton VPN provides multi-platform support and servers capable of 10 gigabits per second (Gbps). Notably, users can select Secure Core servers owned and operated by Proton VPN. Although the virtual private network (VPN) isn’t as expansive as some rivals, the speeds and features are competitive.
Pricing
Free plan; paid plans start at $4.99 per month
Pros
- NetShield eliminates internet ads and protects users from malware
- Optional Stealth protocol and Secure Core servers
- Server and software transparency
Cons
- Servers in fewer countries than competitors
- No phone customer service
- Limited features and server availability on free plan
Key Features
- Unlimited bandwidth: Proton VPN doesn’t throttle data or restrict speeds on free or paid versions. It offers connections up to 10 Gbps.
- No-logs policy: As a Swiss-based company, Proton VPN isn’t required to keep logs. It doesn’t track or store details about online activities. An independent third-party auditor has verified Proton VPN’s no-log claims.
- Kill switch or always-on VPN: Proton VPN offers automatic or on-demand protection when switching WiFi networks or anytime your internet connection drops.
- Multi-platform support: Use Proton VPN on up to 10 devices or browsers simultaneously. It provides native apps for macOS, Chromebook, Windows, iOS/iPadOS, Linus, Android and Android TV.
- NetShield: Improve browsing speeds while protecting devices with malware and ad-blocking tools. NetShield provides three protection levels, and users can adjust settings to fit their needs.
- Secure Core network servers: Route sensitive information through multiple servers, starting with those located in Switzerland, Sweden or Iceland. Proton VPN owns and operates this network. Paid Proton VPN users can activate this option in their VPN app.
- Tor network access: Users have one-click access to the Tor anonymity network via Proton VPN’s connected servers. These servers have TOR in the label, and you can use a regular browser to access them.
- Protocols: The VPN app supports well-known protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2. It also developed Stealth, which is based on WireGuard but adds a transport layer security encryption layer. Users can pick a protocol or enable the Smart Protocol anti-censorship tool (not available on Linux) to automatically choose the best solution.
- Split tunneling: Windows and Android users can enhance VPN performance while maintaining privacy using the split tunneling feature. It lets you include or exclude applications that go through the VPN tunnel.
Vault’s Viewpoint on Proton VPN
Proton VPN is like an open book. It offers more server transparency than many competitors, the apps are open source and the company publishes all audits online.
These factors, combined with privacy-focused features, help business professionals, educators and journalists keep internet interactions anonymous. However, it’s not the cheapest service for long-term use, and the free VPN limits server access. Free plan users may also notice reduced speeds. Also, some customers mention issues accessing the service in China, but this isn’t unusual among VPNs.
Proton VPN also offers the fast WireGuard protocol and has a custom-built Stealth protocol. Plus, users can connect to the Tor anonymity network. Aside from Proton VPN’s security and privacy measures, the VPN apps let users control their experience. The user-friendly software makes it easy to enable doublehop or split tunneling.
About Proton VPN
Proton VPN is an employee-owned organization based in Switzerland (outside the Five Eyes) that provides free and paid VPN subscriptions. It has over 3,800 servers, including 107 Secure Core servers. On a paid plan, you can stream and file share on the full 85-country server network, whereas free users can unblock content using servers in five countries.
The NetShield feature blocks ads and malware, while perfect forward secrecy protects your browsing history. Additionally, the Proton VPN app offers secure VPN protocols and a Smart Protocol anti-censorship feature. This tool scans your network to determine the best protocol. As such, Proton VPN lets users safeguard their privacy automatically or customize their settings.
What Does Proton VPN Cost?
You can use Proton Free if you just have one device. However, if you need more features, here’s a breakdown of what Proton VPN’s paid plans cost.
Proton VPN Plus: VPN service for 10 simultaneous connections and access to over 3,800 servers in 85 countries.
- $9.99 monthly
- $5.99 monthly billed annually
- $4.99 monthly with biannual billing
Proton Unlimited: Premium Proton services, including email, encrypted calendars, a cloud drive and a password manager.
- $12.99 monthly
- $9.99 monthly billed annually
- $7.99 monthly with biannual billing
VPN Essentials (business plan): Multi-license control with support for 10 connected devices per user, over 3,800 servers, always-on VPN and auto-connect.
- $8.99 per user monthly
- $6.99 per user monthly billed annually
- $5.99 per user with biannual billing
VPN Business (business plan): This plan adds NetShield, the malware and adblocker, browser extensions and the ability to enforce two-factor authentication.
- $11.99 per user monthly
- $9.99 per user monthly billed annually
- $8.99 per user with biannual billing
VPN Enterprise (business plan): A dedicated account manager helps you find a solution to fit your company’s security needs.
- Custom pricing
Who Is Proton VPN Best For?
If you’ve researched VPNs and are concerned about company ownership, location or transparency, consider Proton VPN. The vendor provides comprehensive information about its capabilities and purpose. In addition, Proton VPN equips users with the tools to overcome government surveillance and protect browsing history, file transfers and video usage from prying eyes.
Proton VPN is also an excellent solution for users wanting bundled services. The Proton Unlimited package comes with a VPN, secure email, calendars, cloud storage and a password manager. Business plans add advanced features. Privacy-focused individuals looking for online anonymity will appreciate the built-in security tools and the ability to adjust privacy levels to achieve the right mix of speed and safety.
Who Should Consider an Alternative to Proton VPN?
Although Proton VPN has a free version, it’s more restrictive than alternatives. The free VPN is still a top choice for anonymity. But limits servers to five countries and doesn’t offer streaming or peer-to-peer (P2P) network support. The most secure servers and protocols, fastest speeds and ad-free experiences require a paid subscription.
However, consumers on a tight budget may need to look elsewhere. Several cheaper VPN alternatives offer better introductory pricing and lower renewal rates. Likewise, world travelers may prefer a solution with more server coverage.
How Does Proton VPN Stack Up to Its Competitors?
Proton VPN checks off all the boxes for a privacy and security-focused VPN app. Learn how its server network, features and pricing compare to competitors.
Proton VPN vs NordVPN
NordVPN and Proton VPN are both headquartered in jurisdictions outside of the Five Eyes. The companies offer VPN apps for multiple platforms and support split tunneling on Windows and Android devices. However, pricing and features differ.
Proton VPN has a free version and two paid subscriptions for individuals. Monthly prices range from $4.99 to $12.99 for 10 simultaneous connections. NordVPN’s three plans cost $8.29 to $16.57 monthly for six connected devices, but you can get introductory offers for as low as $3.39 a month. Proton VPN is cheaper for short-term use, whereas NordVPN provides better long-term introductory deals and renewal rates.
Still, only certain NordVPN products are open source, and Proton VPN shares more server and infrastructure details. Anyone can inspect its open-source VPN apps. Higher-priced Proton VPN plans provide email service, while NordVPN includes cyber protection insurance and a data breach scanner. Both VPN services have a no-logs policy and may improve your online security stance.
Proton VPN vs ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is rumored to have an expansive server network but doesn’t disclose total numbers. The servers are located in 105 countries versus 85 for Proton VPN. Kape Technologies acquired ExpressVPN in 2021. The digital security company also owns Private Internet Access, CyberGhost VPN and ZenMate VPN.
Both services have VPN apps for computers, tablets and phones. In addition, Proton VPN and ExpressVPN support Android TVs. However, only ExpressVPN has an app for Apple TVs. It also adds Edge browser support on top of Firefox and Chrome extensions offered by Proton VPN.
ExpressVPN is more expensive and less transparent than Proton VPN. Yet, it provides 24-hour live chat support and a password manager with all VPN subscriptions. Proton VPN only includes this tool on the pricier Unlimited package with email hosting.
Proton VPN vs Surfshark
Surfshark merged with Nord Security in 2022 but kept its headquarters in the Netherlands. Like Proton VPN, it has a strict no-logs policy and a 30-day money-back guarantee. The VPN providers have a comparable-sized server network with some key differences.
Proton VPN offers over 1,057 servers in 14 U.S. cities plus five U.S. Secure Core servers routed through Switzerland, Iceland or Sweden. Conversely, Surfshark has over 600 U.S.-based servers in 25 U.S. cities. Unlike Proton VPN, Surfshark doesn’t label servers for various uses, such as P2P or streaming.
Surfshark is great for sharing with your entire family, as it supports unlimited connections. But Proton VPN’s 10 simultaneous devices aren’t too shabby either. Surfshark has lower intro pricing, but rates more than double after the initial term. Proton VPN is a more cost-effective long-term solution unless you want to bundle data breach and anti-virus software.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Speed Up My Proton VPN Connection?
Your internet service provider, server location and other issues can slow your VPN connection. Consider upgrading to a paid plan for faster speeds and more server options. Also, see if using a different network or protocol improves your performance. Remember to check Proton VPN’s server page to view the usage load of your server and close any unnecessary background apps.
Does Free Proton VPN Have Ads?
Proton VPN’s free service doesn’t have ads or track online activities. It’s funded by proceeds from paying users, not advertisem*nts. However, the free VPN doesn’t come with NetShield, the malware and tracker blocking tool.
Will Proton VPN Work on Smart TVs?
Proton VPN provides an Android TV app for smart televisions that use the Android operating system. These include Sharp, Sony and Hisense. It also works with Android accessories like an Amazon Firestick or Chromecast with a Google TV dongle so that you can transform a regular TV into a smart one via its high-definition multimedia interface port.
