VPNs - Recommended for privacy and security
In our endeavor to provide you with the most secure and privacy-centric VPN services, we've rigorously evaluated an extensive list of 185 different providers. Only those meeting our stringent requirements have been considered worthy of recommendation.
Our criteria mandate that these providers operate outside the jurisdiction of the USA or other Five Eyes nations, thereby minimizing the risk of state-level data surveillance. Additionally, we've ensured that these VPNs utilize advanced encryption technologies to protect your data - it's akin to fortifying your digital presence.
Recognizing the importance of anonymity in financial transactions, our chosen providers accommodate payments in cryptocurrencies or cash, leaving no traceable financial records. Support for OpenVPN, a protocol renowned for its robust security, is another critical requirement.
We also insist on a clear and stringent 'no logging' policy. Any data that isn't collected can't be compromised, providing an additional layer of privacy.
Lastly, longevity and a demonstrated track record in upholding these high standards weigh heavily in our considerations. Trust isn't granted overnight; it's built over time.
Allow us to introduce you to our curated list of the finest VPN services, each excelling in providing top-tier security and privacy.
NordVPN - Top Choice
AuditedWinMacLinuxAndroidiOSBitcoinClosed-Source
Located in Panama, NordVPN has been steadfastly committed to privacy and security since its establishment in 2012. NordVPN accommodates Bitcoin, ETH, and more through Coingate, aligning with users who value financial discretion.
NordVPN offers native applications for both desktop and mobile platforms, including Android and iOS. This facilitates a secure browsing environment, irrespective of your chosen device. Its assurance of quality service is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
This provider allows the connection of up to six devices simultaneously, making it a suitable choice for those with multiple gadgets.
In an effort to confirm NordVPN's claims, our very own Nathan House personally visited their offices. He met with the team, engaged in conversations with the staff, and meticulously reviewed their documents and procedures. His visit reaffirms our confidence in their commitment to maintaining high security and privacy standards.
Choose from NordVPN’s 5679 ultra-fast servers in 60 countries.
Criteria for assessing
To have a tool, service or resource listed on our platform, the following criteria must be met:
- Open Source: We heavily favor open-source resources, but we also list closed-source ones when marked accordingly. "Partially Open-Source" is used for resources with only parts of their source code released.
- Usability: The resource must be user-friendly with a modern and intuitive interface for wide adoption. Although we usually don't recommend command-line interface (CLI) tools, exceptions can be made. Resources requiring complicated setup or usage are tagged "For Experts".
- Active Development: The resource should be under active development, preferred over outdated projects unless there are no alternatives or the tool is stable with no known security or privacy issues.
- Cross-Platform: We prefer resources available across several devices and operating systems to facilitate user convenience and encourage the transition to privacy-respecting alternatives.
- Public Availability: The resource must be readily accessible; invite-only services, providers, and tools will not be listed.
- Jurisdiction: Ideally, listed providers and their companies are not based in a Five Eyes country. We may exclude Chinese or Russian services on a case-by-case basis due to censorship concerns.
- Security Audits: Preferably, the resource should have undergone an independent security audit by a reputable cybersecurity firm. However, this is optional as open-source developers often can't afford the high audit costs.
- Business Model: We aim to find resources that offer free or freemium versions. We also prefer paid services that provide fair money-back guarantees and free trials.
- Test of Time: The longevity and reliability of a privacy tool or service is a crucial factor. We provide information about the service companies' founding and any significant incidents that have occurred since then.
- Sponsorships: Our sponsors generally adhere to our ideology and innately fulfill most criteria. However, they can be exempted from certain criteria.
Please remember that this is a guide, and we reserve the right to make exceptions. We aim to list only those resources that best serve the privacy needs of our users.