Enhanced levels of security, unparalleled privacy and seamless access from any location around the world are just some of the reasons why virtual private network (VPN) services are growing in popularity among users today.
With more VPNs entering the market than ever before, users can find it difficult to pick the best option to suit their needs.
(Image: Forbes)
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a brand new market of remote workers and businesses that will be aiming to secure their processes in a bid to keep their sensitive data private while on the go, but what should new users consider when buying into a VPN for the first time? Let’s explore 7 key things to consider when selecting the best paid VPN service:
1. Server Distribution
It’s worth noting that a VPN works by establishing an encrypted data tunnel between the user and the provider’s server. While we think about the VPN as having a server, in reality, the VPN will need to have many servers set up to handle large volumes of traffic and to enable more users to connect without slowing the experience down.
High-quality VPN services will state how many servers they have. As a rule of thumb, the more servers a provider has, the better the bandwidth the user generally gets – meaning faster speeds connected to the VPN.
2. VPN Provider Logging Policies
The logging policies of VPNs play a key role in determining their regulatory obligations. It’s important to note that some governments require that VPN providers act as custodians of their users’ data and that they are legally bound to make logs that are accessible to various governmental entities.
Businesses looking to protect their data should actively avoid VPN providers from geographical locations with these regulations and choose services that comply with privacy laws similar to those that govern the business itself.
The same goes for individuals who are seeking comprehensive levels of privacy whilst using VPNs to browse.
3. VPN Speed
Speed is one of the most imperative aspects behind VPN purchases, it’s also a factor that can often separate great VPNs from poor ones. Nobody likes a slow connection – especially if they’re working remotely or handling sensitive data. Naturally, there are plenty of outside variables that account for server speed, the quality of VPN can play a significant role in the speed of the service.
When it comes to VPNs, look for a provider that offers options. Different configurations for various purposes ensures that you can always guarantee that versatile speed is on your side – whether you’re planning on streaming media, peer-to-peer activities, or work.
4. Quality of Customer Service
Networks and connections can differ greatly, and occasionally things can go wrong with VPN services and their various features. When troubleshooting is required, the best services offer greater levels of customer service to help you get up and running quicker.
Depending on your purposes for using a VPN, a consistent service with the specified speeds and levels of security can be vital. Having a 24/7 active customer service department can make all the difference.
5. Technical Security
The most secure VPN services should be transparent about the measures that they have in place to keep their consumers safe.
All credible VPNs are expected to offer the latest and most secure levels of encryption, as well as a hefty selection of protocols and additional security features like kill-switches, split-tunnelling and tor compatibility.
Technical features like AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN functionality, and products that are independently audited by a trustworthy third-party should all be highly advantageous and sought after if you’re looking for the best premium VPN services. Other key features may include the acceptance of anonymous payments, incorporating open source software where applicable, and a clear policy for disclosing service vulnerabilities.
Some VPNs may suffer from IP and DNS leaks. These can be seen and collected by your ISP or other entities that are capable of accessing your network. In these scenarios, your VPN is essentially useless in terms of keeping your privacy safe online.
Secure services will have put plenty of measures into place in order to protect user data, and it will offer the most comprehensive technical security standards available. Make sure you test your provider for leaks and ensure that reputable third parties have validated any claims towards security for your prospective provider.
6. Compatibility
You may have discovered the most efficient, effective, and secure VPN available on the market – but it’s not much use to you if it’s not compatible with the device that you’ll be using alongside the service. Fortunately, most good VPNs support the majority of major devices and platforms to boot.
Likewise, if you’re aiming to use your VPN on different devices at the same time (if you’re looking to protect other members of your household or in-house workers, for instance), you can opt into subscribing to a VPN that enables multiple simultaneous connections.
If you take on a VPN with a vast range of compatibility that’s capable of supporting multiple connections, it can be a significant money saver when it comes to protecting all of your devices without the burden of having to pay for various licenses.
7. Be Wary of Reviews
When looking for the right VPN for your needs, it’s likely that you search for information online. Huge volumes of content exists when it comes to VPN reviews and comparisons. Some of them could be entirely independent and impartial, and some can be paid for. It’s not always straightforward to tell which reviews are unbiased and which are carrying ulterior motives, so it’s key that you stay vigilant in the market research you conduct.
As with most of your software purchases, it’s vital to do your homework before you buy a VPN. Make a note of your needs in terms of device compatibility and the specifications of your prospective VPN providers, and remember to trust only impartial information.
Secure browsing works at its best when your VPN works for you, and comes from a provider you can trust. So take your time, explore your options, and pick the best service to help you to achieve your goals.