protonvpn

ProtonVPN is a virtual private network service designed with privacy and security as primary goals. Launched by the team behind ProtonMail, ProtonVPN leverages Swiss privacy laws and a commitment to open-source software to provide a trustworthy option for users looking to safeguard their online activities. Core strengths Privacy-first design: ProtonVPN operates under Swiss jurisdiction, which has strong privacy protections and is outside EU/US surveillance alliances. The company maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not record users’ browsing activity or traffic. This approach, combined with independent audits of parts of its infrastructure and open-source client code, builds transparency and trust. Secure Core and multi-hop: One standout feature is Secure Core, ProtonVPN’s multi-hop architecture that routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries before it exits to the wider internet. This mitigates the risk that a compromised exit server could reveal a user’s IP address and adds an extra layer for high-risk users. Strong security: ProtonVPN uses proven encryption standards (AES-256, OpenVPN/IKEv2/WireGuard protocols) and includes features like a kill switch that blocks traffic if the VPN connection drops, DNS leak protection, and support for forward secrecy. Proton also offers Tor over VPN integration, allowing direct access to .onion sites through the VPN for an added anonymity layer. Free and paid tiers ProtonVPN offers a free tier with limited server access but strong privacy protections and no data cap—unusual among free VPNs. Paid plans add global server access, higher speeds, Secure Core, streaming-optimized servers, and support for more simultaneous connections. Pricing is competitive, and Proton occasionally bundles discounts or promotions for longer subscriptions. Performance and use cases Performance varies by server and protocol; WireGuard tends to deliver the best speeds for most users. ProtonVPN works well for general privacy, secure public Wi‑Fi use, and safe torrenting on P2P-enabled servers. It also supports streaming on select servers, though results can depend on the streaming service and location. Tips for users - Choose nearby high-capacity servers for better speeds. - Enable the kill switch and leak protection for maximum safety. - Use Secure Core or Tor over VPN for sensitive activities. - Keep apps updated and prefer WireGuard or IKEv2 for performance. Conclusion ProtonVPN is a compelling option for privacy-conscious users who value transparency, strong encryption, and a vendor based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction. Its combination of a usable free tier, robust security features, and advanced options like Secure Core make it suitable for both everyday privacy protection and more demanding security needs.