Are you in the market looking for a VPN? With so many VPN products out there, we understand it can be a daunting task shopping for the right one.
The first rule of thumb is to decide on what you intend to use a VPN for. It could be that all you want is to stay anonymous while using the internet. Or it might be that you need a VPN to allow you access to blocked content. With a proper guide, you can make an informed decision.
Here, we’ll look at the most important features to consider when choosing a VPN product.
1. Think privacy first
One of the foremost factors to look out for in a VPN is the one with a strict no-logs policy. The no-log policy means that your online activities, including the websites you visited and your login details, are not stored. A VPN is designed to create a private network to secure your personal details from your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
ISPs are known for collecting an individual’s data and then selling it to data-hungry companies who use it to send you customized ads. Besides that, a VPN or ISP that keeps logs usually does so on a centralized server. This could allow hackers to steal valuable personal information.
Some VPNs will offer free subscriptions and would seek your consent to collect some of your data in return for the free services provided. Therefore, because your privacy is important, you should review the privacy policies of a VPN before you subscribe to it.
2. Server Coverage
The number of servers and their locations will most often impact the amount of traffic the VPN can handle and the connection speed. Besides, the broader its coverage, the more likely you are to connect to a nearby server, even if you have to travel to a different country or location.
3. Easy to use interface
Although the technical aspect of how a VPN functions may be complex, the user interface should be comprehensible. This will save you the trouble of navigating your way around it.
For example, the procedure to configure the VPN should be self-explanatory and straightforward. Also, the platform should be user-friendly such that you can get things done with just a few clicks.
4. Compatible with multiple devices
Ensure that the VPN you choose is compatible and can be connected to the most frequently used devices. Luckily, you’ll most likely find top VPN providers that offer support to main devices for desktop Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux and can also work with a range of streaming devices. Even at that, it’s worth taking the time to confirm that you subscribe to a VPN that will support your devices.
Additionally, it’s good to know the number of devices you can connect to the VPN simultaneously. Some VPNs allow unlimited devices connection, while others can limit it to just three devices.
5. Strong encryption protocols
The security of any VPN is determined by the encryption protocols being used. Encryption is when data is scrambled or made unreadable for everyone except the authorized person or parties.
The VPN encryption protocol utilizes computer algorithms to protect essential data being shared between two computers. With advanced technology, some encryption protocols later became outdated and needed to be replaced with more secure ones.
A secure and privacy-focused VPN company will implement the best encryption protocols. These vetted protocols include WireGuard, OpenVPN, AES, IKEv2, etc.
6. Customer care
Customer support is a feature you should not overlook when choosing a VPN. At times, you may encounter some difficulties with your connection or setup. At this point, effective customer service comes in handy and should be proactive enough to address any issues you may have.
Similarly, practical customer support should provide multiple means you can reach them. Some VPN providers make provisions to be contacted via live chat, email, contact form, and self-service educational materials in blogs or videos. The most important is that they are able to get in touch with you as soon as possible.
Conclusion
A VPN product is as good as its features. Figuring out what you need to do with a VPN is vital to directing you to pick the best one. VPNIFY is one out of many VPNs that combines key features you need to stay safe on the internet. Additionally, it is available on major mobile devices both for iOS and Android.
