You might not realize it, but a cybercriminal or government agency could be monitoring your every move online and accessing your data. Rather than leaving your sensitive information exposed, you would be smart to protect it with a virtual private network (VPN).
It will encrypt any data you send and receive between a computer device and the internet, keeping your online data and behavior private. However, as many options are available, you might be unsure about the best service to pick. If so, here are the biggest factors to consider when choosing the right VPN provider.
Secure Data Encryption
Secure data encryption is a must-have when selecting a VPN. Select a provider who will secure your browsing history and data using the latest encryption protocols.
AES-256-bit is viewed as military-grade encryption, as it is the same algorithm the US government and internet service providers use to track internet users’ online activities. There is a VPN for every device and internet browser to match your exact needs.
For example, you could download a VPN Chrome Extension to encrypt your online activities on the browser, enjoy faster internet speed, and improve cybersecurity when using a public network. Alternatively, you could download a standard VPN to protect all internet activity across a device.
Unrestricted Access
In an ideal world, internet users could browse every website and scroll through every social media platform without hassle or repercussions. Unfortunately, geo-restrictions and censorship can prevent people from accessing specific sites and content.
However, a best free VPN can remove online barriers, making it easier to access a prohibited social media platform or streaming services outside of their reach.
For this reason, you should choose a VPN provider that pledges unrestricted access each time you go online, allowing you to enjoy limitless browsing while enjoying a secure and stable internet connection.
Strict Logging Policies
It is crucial to choose a VPN provider that has zero-logging policies. Some VPN providers might promise a secure connection, but they may keep logs of users’ online activities, which could be exposed if it is subject to an investigation or audit.
A strict no-logs policy means your identity and online behavior will remain 100% confidential. If anonymous browsing is important to you (and it should be), ensure you pick a VPN that promises zero logging for every user.
Handy Kill Switch Options
Any VPN provider worth its salt should provide an option to add a kill switch. In the event of a VPN downtime, the service will automatically disconnect your device from the internet to keep your online activity private and secure.
Multiple Server Locations
A VPN provider’s server locations will determine its performance each day. If you choose a service with servers too far away from you, you shouldn’t be shocked if you experience slow browsing or frustrating lags.
For this reason, it is wise to select a VPN provider with many VPN servers across the world, ensuring they are close to your location.
If bypassing geo-restrictions is important to you, pick a dependable provider that has VPN servers in the regions where you want to access the content.
For instance, if you want to watch the US version of Netflix or Disney+, pick a VPN with servers in the United States. It will allow you to enjoy continual access to the streaming platforms, optimal speeds, and a secure, private internet connection.
Don’t choose the first VPN you find in Google. Keep the above factors in mind, as you should pick a VPN provider that offers secure data encryption, a zero-logging policy, unrestricted access, many server locations, and kill switch options. You will wish you downloaded it much sooner.
