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A VPN for your PC can strengthen your online security and privacy. Most of us spend a lot of time on the web, and most PCs don’t come with robust security measures as standard. However, the best VPN apps for PC offer a robust level of security and a large cohort of security tools to protect your device.
Though there are a large number of PC VPNs available, the right one for you can depend on your usage. Our best overall VPN for PC is NordVPN, as it provides a robust level of security and speed. If you’re interested in unlocking geo-restricted content while abroad, ExpressVPN is our best at unblocking content. Surfshark is a great choice for beginners, as it’s easy to use, secure and affordable.
In our guide, we’ve researched, reviewed and tested the best VPNs for PCs. We’ve compared several of the top providers, covering security features, download speeds, latency results, and privacy protocols.
There are three great VPN options for PC, but picking the right one depends on your priorities. If speed and privacy is your main concern, you should consider NordVPN. If you’re a VPN novice and want something that’s plug and play at a low price, then Surfshark (ranked our best value for money VPN) could be the way to go. If you want to bypass geo-restrictions and stream content, albeit at a premium price, ExpressVPN is worth a look. Whichever VPN you choose from these three, our researchers think it’s unlikely you’ll be disappointed.
The defining feature of any VPN for your PC is its commitment to security and privacy, backed by robust encryption, stringent privacy features, and advanced protective features.
AES-256 encryption is currently recognised as the most impregnable option available, and all of our reviewed VPNs use this. There should also be a stringent, independently audited no-logs policy. Again, this is something our top five best VPNs for PC have published, reassuring users they retain no records of their online activity.
Advanced features, such as split tunnelling, kill switches and a broad range of optimised servers, are also important attributes to look for, as are connection reliability and download speeds. A good VPN service for your PC should provide steady connectivity, enabling browsing, streaming, and downloading without significant latency issues.
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| Price | From £2.49/m | From £6.80/m | From £1.69/m | From £1.92/m | From £3.85/m |
| Free version | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Max number of connected devices | 6 | 5 | Unlimited | 7 | 10 |
| Number of servers | 5500+ | 3000+ | 3200+ | 9000+ | 2700+ |
| AES-256 encryption | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audited no-log policy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Where to buy |
Lowest price: £2.49 per month for a 24-month subscription | Free version: No | Maximum number of connected devices: 6 | Number of servers: 5,700+ in 60 countries | Encryption: AES-256 | VPN protocols: IKEv2/IPsec, OpenVPN, and NordLynx (WireGuard protocol) | No-log policy: Does not log user activity | Audited: Yes, by PwC and Deloitte | Headquarters: Panama
The cornerstone of NordVPN’s appeal is its superior security attributes. It employs robust encryption protocols to shield your data from unwanted scrutiny, presenting itself as a dependable defence against cyber threats. A stringent no-logs policy substantiated by independent audits underscores its commitment to user privacy.
NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature blocks dangerous websites known for hosting malware or phishing scams, further protecting your PC from cyber threats. It also scans any files while they’re downloading, identifying threats and blocking them before they can harm your PC. Other features include a scanner that sends alerts if your data has been leaked onto the Dark Web, MeshNet for secure file sharing, and a robust kill switch.
NordVPN also boasts a number of optimised servers, including Double VPNs, which direct traffic via two servers for an extra layer of encryption, and Onion Over VPN, facilitating access to the Onion network without the need for Tor installation.
NordVPN is designed for most internet users, from individuals who prioritise online privacy to businesses that can leverage the benefits of NordLayer – a business-focused security solution providing employees with secure remote access.
NordVPN has three payment tiers – Standard, Plus and Complete, with each available as a monthly, yearly, or two-year plan. The monthly subscription is billed every month, while the other two plans require payment up front. NordVPN’s current birthday promotion comes with a 67 per cent discount, working out to just £2.49 per month. The provider is also offering three extra months free for anyone who signs up for a two-year plan by 20 March. It’s our recommendation as one of the best VPN deals on the market right now.
There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee across all the tiers.
NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption, the most secure encryption standard, to ensure your data is safely transmitted over the internet. This high level of encryption makes it practically impossible for anyone to access or decipher your data, offering top-tier protection against cyber threats.
The provider also has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t collect or retain your activity logs. This has been confirmed with independent audits by two Big Four auditing firms, ensuring you can trust its commitment to your privacy.
NordVPN’s PC app includes an innovative, interactive onboarding guide that introduces its features and demonstrates how to customise the settings and automation; for example, determining the conditions under which NordVPN will automatically connect or what process triggers the kill switch.
The PC app is designed to be user-friendly, uncluttered, and easy to navigate, with an aesthetically pleasing map-based interface. It allows users to connect seamlessly to a VPN server by tapping on a country’s pin or choosing a server from the available list. For those seeking an immediate, automated selection, a Quick Connect button is also provided.
However, while the PC app is simple and quick, some users have reported difficulties accessing geo-blocked content. NordVPN is also rated our best VPN for iPhones and also best for Andriod devices so all of your decides will be secured.
NordVPN performed impressively in our speed tests on PC. Although local connections within the UK saw a decrease in the upload speed, which maintained half of the no-VPN level, the service retained most of the download speed. These speeds are sufficient to support seamless online experiences.
Testing the transatlantic connection to a US server revealed robust download speeds at 89 per cent of the baseline, but uploads plummeted to 15 per cent of the reference levels, potentially slowing down file-sharing and video uploading. The long-distance connection to Australia retained a strong three-quarters of the base download speed, with uploads mirroring the US scenario at 14 per cent of the baseline. Irrespective of these decreases in upload speeds, NordVPN delivers a robust performance, making it the right option for the majority of users, including streamers and gamers.
| Download speed (Mbps) | Upload speed (Mbps) | Latency (ping) | Percentage of base download speed | Percentage of base upload speed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No VPN | 453.38 | 355.43 | 6 | ||
| UK to UK | 455.72 | 127.88 | 33 | 101% | 50% |
| UK to US | 403.26 | 37.04 | 119 | 89% | 15% |
| UK to Aus | 324 | 34.71 | 235 | 72% | 14% |
Date tested: 29/10/23
Users can reach out to NordVPN’s customer support team either through the in-app chat feature or by email. However, customer feedback regarding the service has been varied.
NordVPN’s ratings across different platforms demonstrate its overall good performance, with a score of 4.4 on Trustpilot, 4.7 on the Apple App Store, and 4.5 on Google Play. Some users commented on the rapid and helpful support they received, while others expressed dissatisfaction over refunds and connection problems.
“[I had] issues logging in with the Windows 10 app solved within minutes. My app refused to let me log in. The support agent took the case on the chat and found the reason for the problem within a few moments. His help was polite, concise and to the point. Very happy with this!”
“The iOS and Windows applications are very easy to use, and the server reliability is much better than other services I’ve used, such as Surfshark and PIA – no more lag when streaming. However, after a couple days, the Windows app stopped working, so I chatted with support and was very impressed with how efficient the process is and how kind their service rep Jarvis was. I ran the diagnostics tool using the Windows app, which generated a ticket number, which I gave to the service rep (Jarvis), and they were able to figure out what was wrong and got my VPN working again in five minutes.”
NordVPN delivers a comprehensive suite of features, strong online privacy standards, and rigorous, verified security protocols. Its commitment to innovative technology, as demonstrated by the introduction of NordLayer, Meshnet, and Dark Web Scanning, and a user-friendly design, broadens its appeal to diverse users.
While it might be considered a higher-cost option in certain scenarios, the value offered by its high-quality app justifies the expense and makes it one of the best VPNs for PC on the market. NordVPN makes a compelling case as a choice for both novices to VPN services and experienced users seeking a holistic solution for online privacy and security.
Score: ★★★★½
Read our full NordVPN review.
Lowest price: From £1.69 per month for a 24-month plan (plus two months free) | Free version: No | Maximum number of connected devices: Unlimited | Number of servers: 3,200+ | Encryption: AES-256 | VPN protocols: WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN | No-log policy: Yes | Audited: Yes | Headquarters: Netherlands
Surfshark, with its broad global server network, incorporates a suite of security features, including high-grade encryption, a kill switch, and protection against IP/DNS leaks. It also features CleanWeb, an ad, tracker, and malware-blocking tool, and Bypasser for split tunnelling. Some servers offer MultiHop or double VPN connections, routing traffic via two servers for enhanced security.
Despite its feature-rich offerings, Surfshark maintains an intuitive interface with its PC app, catering to both VPN beginners and seasoned users.
Although Surfshark’s pricing is competitive, particularly for long-term plans, the hike in cost at the time of renewal might catch some users off guard. Surfshark provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark uses industry-standard AES-256 encryption to secure your data, operates its own private, zero-knowledge DNS on each server to prevent DNS leaks, and offers an extra layer of security by routing your traffic through two servers instead of one with its MulitHop feature.
Surfshark has an overly complex privacy policy; however, Deloitte has verified its no-logs policy.
Surfshark’s PC app is intuitive and flexible, offering aesthetic options for either light or dark themes. Its many features present clear, user-friendly pathways for navigation and single-click connection. Surfshark’s simplicity caters well to most users; however, those with technical expertise seeking advanced customisation may find their options somewhat limited.
Our researchers felt Surfshark performed better than ExpressVPN at maintaining a steady connection, placing the latter in third position.
In our speed tests, Surfshark delivered a relatively robust performance in the UK, with negligible speed loss. We registered substantial speed retention in both downloads and uploads, maintaining 90 and 82 per cent of the no-VPN rates, respectively, suggesting robust local server efficiency.
Transatlantic connections to the US showed a slight drop in download speeds and a considerable degradation in upload performance, which could impact data-intensive tasks. The connection to Australia exhibited a steep decline to 25 per cent of the reference download speed, coupled with 7 per cent upload retention, indicating the possibility of facing significant slowdowns. High latency figures, particularly with Australian servers, might deter those requiring real-time responsiveness. Overall, Surfshark remains a viable budget-friendly option with strong local speeds but not so stable performance over long distances.
| Download speed (Mbps) | Upload speed (Mbps) | Latency (ping) | Percentage of base download speed | Percentage of base upload speed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No VPN | 501.36 | 378.9 | 4 | ||
| UK to UK | 453.63 | 311.24 | 11 | 90% | 82% |
| UK to US | 420.6 | 40.85 | 131 | 84% | 11% |
| UK to Aus | 123.06 | 25.14 | 236 | 25% | 7% |
Date tested: 29/10/23
Surfshark boasts a Trustpilot rating of 4.5, a 4.8 score on the Apple App Store, and 4.5 on Google Play, indicating that large numbers of customers are happy with its service. However, a few users have voiced concerns regarding the provider’s auto-renewal process.
Its customer service team can be contacted via the in-app chat, which is quick and responsive, or email.
“Surfshark is amazing. Simply fast, worked on all my devices (for me a 2021 iPad and my Windows 11 laptop) and support was just really easy to talk to and work with. I asked for a refund (due to my student budget) and as it fell within the money-back guarantee they didn’t hesitate, so thank you so much. Christopher especially was quite kind, thanks a bunch!”
“I purchased a subscription a couple of years ago, and generally liked using the service. However, as I was not using it much lately, I did not intend to renew my subscription. However, Surfshark turned on subscription auto-renewal by default, and I was not aware of this. At the end of the initial subscription period, I was charged for an additional year. I only realised that I had been charged after the initial 30-day period had lapsed. Despite multiple emails to their customer service team, Surfshark refused to refund me although I have been a loyal customer.”
Surfshark’s PC app is user-friendly and easily navigated. Perfect for those new to VPNs, the optional instructional pop-ups give detailed information on each feature, allowing users to select the best one for their requirements. It also has features for more experienced users to get their teeth into.
Score: ★★★★½
Read our full Surfshark review.
Lowest price: From £6.80 for a 12-month subscription | Free version: No | Maximum number of connected devices: 8 | Number of servers: 3,000+ | Encryption: AES-256 | VPN protocols: Lightway, IKEv2 | No-log policy: Yes | Audited: Yes | Headquarters: British Virgin Islands
ExpressVPN boasts a vast global server network, beneficial for users wanting to bypass geo-restrictions. The broad server coverage supports reliable, high-speed connections vital for downloads or gaming. Regarding security, ExpressVPN uses strong AES-256 encryption protocols and offers features like a kill switch and split tunnelling, which has three options – all activity is tunnelled, certain apps are isolated from the tunnel, or specified apps are always tunnelled.
ExpressVPN enables users to customise their online journey by choosing from various protocols, including the company’s proprietary Lightway protocol, to provide quicker speeds and more dependable connections. Its applications are generally user-friendly and accommodate both tech-savvy individuals and beginners in the VPN landscape.
On the downside, ExpressVPN ranks among the pricier options in the VPN market, which may deter some users. Additionally, it offers fewer connected devices than some of its competitors.
In 2021, ExpressVPN disclosed its acquisition by Kape Technologies, the owner of several privacy and security companies, including CyberGhost and Private Internet Access. Kape, formerly an adware company named Crossrider, has assured that ExpressVPN will continue to operate independently without sharing its infrastructure with Kape’s other subsidiaries.
ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and three subscription terms.
ExpressVPN employs numerous sophisticated security protocols to safeguard user data and uphold privacy. Notably, it uses its own Lightway protocol, engineered to be agile and fast while maintaining robust security.
ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy, independently audited by KPMG in 2022. It has also passed more recent security audits, including one for the Lightway protocol.
ExpressVPN’s PC interface is clean and uncluttered. Alongside the big On/Off button, a clear status display shows you the current server, a Choose Location button enables picking something else, and a menu button in the top-left gives speedy access to extra features, such as the Threat Manager, which blocks trackers and malicious websites.
While many users appreciate ExpressVPN’s easy-to-navigate apps, some advanced users have voiced dissatisfaction with the lack of comprehensive configuration options. ExpressVPN ranked top in our best VPN for macs article.
Along with extensive privacy features, ExpressVPN delivered a relatively strong performance in our speed tests. The results were particularly consistent in the local connections. Connecting to UK servers, we registered a solid 65 and 73 per cent of base download and upload speeds, respectively. These figures indicated a reasonable compromise between speed and security for local use.
The performance dropped noticeably when connected to the US, with downloads retaining more than half of the reference rate, while the upload speed plummeted dramatically to only 6 per cent of the baseline upload speed, potentially impairing massive data transfers and real-time communications online. Australian server connections revealed further speed degradation to 40 and 14 per cent of the download and upload baseline, coupled with a latency increase. While ExpressVPN shows some limitations over distance, it maintains acceptable speeds, positioning it as a reliable choice for general use with average performance for more demanding applications.
| Download speed (Mbps) | Upload speed (Mbps) | Latency (ping) | Percentage of base download speed | Percentage of base upload speed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No VPN | 330.16 | 195.09 | 5 | ||
| UK to UK | 213.28 | 141.92 | 12 | 65% | 73% |
| UK to US | 186.18 | 11.48 | 135 | 56% | 6% |
| UK to Aus | 132.41 | 27.6 | 293 | 40% | 14% |
Date tested: 29/10/23
Trustpilot users have awarded ExpressVPN an ‘excellent’ 4.7. On Google Play and the Apple App Store, it earns 4.3 and 4.5, respectively, with users generally appearing satisfied with the provider.
Customers can contact support via the in-app chat feature.
“[I’ve] been using it for a few years. It’s easy to set up and use on different platforms (Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS). [There is a] large selection of countries and servers. [It delivers] fast bandwidth.”
“If you want a VPN that is consistent and reliable, does not affect connection speed and has a very user-friendly interface, ExpressVPN is it. It is installed on my Android phone and my Windows PC – it is equally excellent with smooth, no-nonsense operation on both. By far the best VPN I have ever used.”
ExpressVPN’s PC app delivers a good all round performance – despite connectivity issues for one researcher. Its interface is clean and simple, and the features are easy to navigate. However, the breadth of features present in NordVPN’s app, and the strong connectivity displayed by Surfshark, put ExpressVPN behind.
While ExpressVPN possesses an ‘excellent’ rating on Trustpilot, it’s important to remember this score encompasses all of its services, not just its PC app.
Score: ★★★★½
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
Lowest price: From £1.92 per month for a 24-month plan (plus three months free) | Free version: No | Maximum number of connected devices: 7 | Number of servers: 9,500+ | Encryption: AES-256 | VPN protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | No-log policy: Yes | Audited: Yes | Headquarters: Bucharest, Romania
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly, easy-to-use VPN that provides robust AES-256 encryption and boasts a vast global server network, CyberGhost should be on your radar. It offers servers specifically optimised for gaming and sports streaming.
CyberGhost’s Smart Rules feature allows you to customise its behaviour to your liking. You can configure it to connect automatically upon startup, determine its action when it detects a new wifi network, and more. If you desire a truly hands-off experience, tweaking these settings will be beneficial.
While it may not match its rivals regarding feature breadth, CyberGhost still delivers efficient unblocking capability and reliable wifi protection. Key features, including an automatic kill switch, split tunnelling, and dedicated IPs, enhance its performance.
CyberGhost offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee with its six- and 24-month subscriptions and a more typical 14 days with a monthly subscription.
In 2022, Deloitte Romania verified CyberGhost’s no-logs policy during an audit. However, some concerns exist regarding its parent company, Kape Technologies, previously recognised as Crossrider. Known for its past involvement in adware creation, Kape Technologies has asserted it has abandoned these old practices and is wholly dedicated to respecting user privacy. Despite these assurances, some privacy enthusiasts remain cautious due to the company’s history.
CyberGhost’s PC app is clean, crisp and uncluttered. It features a prominently placed button, encouraging you to click and connect to what it considers to be the most suitable server. Tapping on the arrow on the app’s left side uncovers a comprehensive server selector and an array of settings, which are easy and intuitive to navigate.
Our researchers found the app fails to provide alerts when the connection is interrupted and the kill switch is engaged. Consequently, you could be left confused about sudden internet disruptions unless you’re actively monitoring its console.
CyberGhost demonstrated moderate performance in our tests, with the download speeds maintaining relatively strong levels, positioning the service as a viable option for browsing purposes. For instance, UK connections delivered 61 per cent of the base download speed. However, uploads were significantly reduced, indicating potential slowdowns in content sharing.
Transatlantic connections to the US exhibited a further slight decrease in download speed, while upload speeds plummeted to 7 per cent of the upload baseline, a factor that could impact real-time tasks. The connection to Australia showed relatively strong download speeds, retaining close to half of the no-VPN level. However, the 4 per cent upload speed retention, coupled with substantial latency, suggested a limited suitability for high-bandwidth activities. Overall, CyberGhost may cater well to users prioritising download over upload speeds, especially in closer geographical server ranges.
| Download speed (Mbps) | Upload speed (Mbps) | Latency (ping) | Percentage of base download speed | Percentage of base upload speed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No VPN | 400.99 | 187.29 | 7 | ||
| UK to UK | 242.63 | 65.61 | 12 | 61% | 35% |
| UK to US | 224.21 | 13.23 | 128 | 56% | 7% |
| UK to Aus | 189.05 | 7.66 | 308 | 47% | 4% |
Date tested: 29/10/23
CyberGhost enjoys a favourable reputation, earning a 4.3 rating on Trustpilot and 4.2 on both Google Play and the Apple App Store. Customers typically express satisfaction with the assistance offered through the online chat feature. However, a few have noted the PC app can require several sign-in attempts, depending on your network – our researchers didn’t experience this issue.
The platform also boasts a comprehensive and regularly refreshed online help section, enhancing user support.
“Affordable, great features such as split tunneling, affordable dedicated VPN, a great software suite for Windows. Does what it says and it does it well. Had no issues with it at all. Highly recommended.”
“If you attempt to start the app on Windows and you are on a blocked network, which you are trying to use a VPN to bypass the block, the application won’t start. It appears that the application attempts to sign in to the CyberGhost servers every time it starts, making it pretty much useless against the network blocks it is advertised to beat. [It’s] very frustrating to have to tether a phone to get the application to start.”
While CyberGhost does have a few drawbacks, such as concerns regarding its parent company and the lack of dropped connection alerts, it still is a worthy VPN contender, particularly if you’re a gamer or sports enthusiast.
Score: ★★★★
Read our full CyberGhost review.
Lowest price: From £3.85 per month for a two-year plan| Free version: Yes | Maximum number of connected devices: 10 | Number of servers: 2,900+ | Encryption: AES-256 | VPN protocols: IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard | No-log policy: Yes | Audited: Yes | Headquarters: Switzerland
Proton VPN stands out as one of the few providers offering a free version, although this only allows access to servers in three countries. The provider places a premium on user security, employing high-level encryption and a built-in feature dubbed NetShield. This feature helps shield users from malware, intrusive ads, and tracking.
Proton VPN offers monthly, yearly, and two-year subscription terms. It also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee and there is a free version available.
Proton VPN employs AES-256 encryption for enhanced security, and its Secure Core feature adds an extra layer of protection by directing traffic through several servers located in privacy-conscious countries.
While the provider asserts it has a strong no-logs policy, which European security audit firm Securitum has confirmed, it’s worth noting that other VPNs we’ve assessed typically engage one of the Big Four auditing companies for policy verification. We believe a Big Four audit lends more credibility and reassurance to users.
Our researchers found the PC app interface to be busy, with the default map screen giving a crowded appearance. However, users can collapse it down to a standard list of locations.
Proton VPN uses custom profiles to set specific preferences for your connection. For example, you might connect exclusively to Tor servers, regardless of their location, and by tailoring your profile, you have that option. Although profiles offer an easy way to personalise your VPN connection, they may not suit every user.
In our speed tests, ProtonVPN impressed with its UK-to-UK connection, retaining a stellar 99 per cent of the base download speed, ensuring an insignificant impact on browsing and streaming activities. The upload speed remained high at 93 per cent, indicative of robust performance for massive data transfer and uploads.
When connecting from the UK to the US, download speeds were still robust at 90 per cent of the no-VPN scenario, although upload speeds see a significant drop to 18 per cent, suggesting potential constraints for uploading content overseas. However, UK-to-Australia connections showed noticeable performance degradation, with download speeds plummeting to 4 per cent, which could impede any bandwidth-intensive operations. The 10 per cent upload speed maintained acceptable functionality, but the high latency underscores a limited application for real-time interactions. Overall, ProtonVPN excels in local connections but may challenge users requiring stable long-distance VPN speeds.
| Download speed (Mbps) | Upload speed (Mbps) | Latency (ping) | Percentage of base download speed | Percentage of base upload speed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No VPN | 366.21 | 205.69 | 4 | ||
| UK to UK | 362.25 | 190.9 | 15 | 99% | 93% |
| UK to US | 330.61 | 37.22 | 129 | 90% | 18% |
| UK to Aus | 15.52 | 20.49 | 239 | 4% | 10% |
Date tested: 29/10/23
On Trustpilot, Proton VPN holds a relatively low rating of 2.4, with many users complaining about performance issues. Conversely, the provider receives better scores on mobile app platforms, with a 4.4 rating on Google Play and a 4.6 on the Apple App Store.
Customer support can be reached via the in-app chat feature, email, or an online form.
“I must say I am pretty disappointed [with] Proton VPN for WIndows. I am a user of Proton Mail and I love it, so I tried this VPN service. However, I faced many issues. Some of them are:
“[A] very good VPN. Speeds are brilliant (I know the further you go away from your physical location, it will decrease speed due to latency, but not much). [I’ve] been with them for ages. [I] hope they release the stealth [feature] with the Windows version sometime soon. Keep up the good work, it’s all done for your security’s interest, if you want to be protected and [get] no logs.”
Proton VPN seems to be a suitable option for those prioritising online privacy and security, though its interface might not appeal to users preferring an easy-to-navigate layout. However, it stands out by offering a limited free version – a rarity in the VPN market – and boasts a comprehensive suite of features for PC users.
Score: ★★★★
Read our full Proton VPN review.
Below, we’ve displayed the download and upload speeds we achieved with each VPN on various servers on a PC.
| No VPN Download speed (Mbps) | No VPN Upload speed (Mbps) | UK to UK Download speed (Mbps) | UK to UK Upload speed (Mbps) | UK to US Download speed (Mbps) | UK to US Upload speed (Mbps) | UK to Aus Download speed (Mbps) | UK to Aus Upload speed (Mbps) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 453.38 | 355.43 | 455.72 | 127.88 | 403.26 | 37.04 | 324 | 34.71 |
| Surfshark | 501.36 | 378.9 | 453.63 | 311.24 | 420.6 | 40.85 | 123.06 | 25.14 |
| ExpressVPN | 330.16 | 195.09 | 213.28 | 141.92 | 186.18 | 11.48 | 132.41 | 27.6 |
| CyberGhost | 400.99 | 187.29 | 242.63 | 65.61 | 224.21 | 13.23 | 189.05 | 7.66 |
| ProtonVPN | 366.21 | 205.69 | 362.25 | 190.9 | 330.61 | 37.22 | 15.52 | 20.49 |
| No VPN Download speed (Mbps) | No VPN Upload speed (Mbps) | Retained UK to UK Download speed | Retained UK to UK Upload speed | Retained UK to US Download speed | Retained UK to US Upload speed | Retained UK to Aus Download speed | Retained UK to Aus Upload speed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 453.38 | 355.43 | 101% | 50% | 89% | 15% | 72% | 14% |
| Surfshark | 501.36 | 378.9 | 90% | 82% | 84% | 11% | 25% | 7% |
| ExpressVPN | 330.16 | 195.09 | 65% | 73% | 56% | 6% | 40% | 14% |
| CyberGhost | 400.99 | 187.29 | 61% | 35% | 56% | 7% | 47% | 4% |
| ProtonVPN | 366.21 | 205.69 | 99% | 93% | 90% | 18% | 4% | 10% |
When you use a VPN on your PC, you essentially construct a private and secure channel for your online activities, which is especially important when using public wifi networks. Public networks are often unsecured and a prime target for cybercriminals, who can potentially eavesdrop on your online activity. With a VPN, your information is encrypted and thus, even if intercepted, would be unintelligible to the infiltrator.
Certain applications, such as banking apps, can benefit significantly from VPN use. When performing online banking, sensitive information like account details, transaction details, and passwords are exchanged. Using a VPN helps mask your identity and secures your data, providing an added layer of protection against potential breaches.
A VPN also hides your IP address, offering benefits when using online platforms, such as social media and forums, where you might want your activities to be untraceable. The ability to hide your digital footprint helps uphold your right to privacy, which can be crucial in the age of targeted advertising and heightened cybersecurity threats.
Setting up a VPN on your PC typically involves several steps; however, these may vary depending on the VPN service provider you choose:
When selecting a VPN for your PC, there are several key factors to consider.
A good VPN should offer robust security measures, such as strong encryption standards (AES-256 is currently top of the line) and secure VPN protocols, which include OpenVPN or IKEv2. A kill switch feature, which automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, is also desirable. For privacy, ensure the VPN has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t store records of your online activity. Ideally, this policy should be verified through a third-party audit.
The number and location of servers can significantly impact your VPN experience. More servers mean less crowding, likely resulting in better speeds. The geographical spread is essential to appear as if browsing from a specific country.
A VPN that provides fast and reliable connections is vital, especially for streaming, gaming, or large downloads. Remember that VPNs will likely slow your internet speed somewhat due to the encryption process, but some providers perform better than others.
Look for a VPN with user-friendly software that’s easy to install and navigate, especially if you’re new to using VPNs.
VPN services can range from free to quite expensive. While free VPNs can be tempting, they usually come with limitations and are often not as secure. Consider your budget and what you’re willing to pay for the features you need.
Look for VPNs with helpful and responsive support, whether that’s through live chat, email, or a robust online help centre.
Research the VPN’s reputation and read up on its privacy policy. Some companies have been caught misrepresenting their policies, so it’s worth checking independent reviews and news about the company.
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your PC and a remote server operated by the provider. When you browse the internet, your data is encrypted and sent through this tunnel, making it unreadable to anyone who intercepts it. The data then reaches the VPN server, is decrypted, and sent to its original destination with a new IP address – the server’s, not yours. This process secures your data from prying eyes and hides your IP address, enhancing your online privacy.
Using a VPN on your PC is highly recommended.
It offers enhanced online privacy by masking your IP address and encrypting your data, which is particularly important on unsecured public networks, or when using applications involving personal or financial information.
However, be sure to choose a reputable VPN provider that adheres to a strict no-logs policy and uses robust encryption methods to ensure your online activities remain private and secure.
Whenever we use the internet on our PC, we could be at risk from cybercrime. A VPN for PC can help protect you by concealing your real IP address and encrypting your data. It is especially useful if your PC is connected to a public wifi network, where your data could be at risk from third parties. Using a VPN service masks your online activity and means no one, not even your ISP, can see which content you’re accessing or the location you’re accessing it from.
The best VPN for your PC depends on your own individual requirements and cybersecurity needs. Our overall best VPN for PC is NordVPN, which has some of the best-in-class security features compared to its competitors. It provides a stable and fast connection and has premium features, such as double VPN, which encrypts users’ data twice.
Independent Advisor’s researchers are dedicated to helping you make an informed decision when it comes to buying the best VPN for your PC. We make our recommendations based on the most accurate and up-to-date information. Every VPN we review undergoes hours of testing and head-to-head feature comparisons, and we take into account verified customer feedback and the opinions of industry experts.
Our review scores are determined the following categories:
We research and test a total of 25 elements within these categories including:
All of our VPN articles are fact-checked by our in-house team of experts, so you can be assured our content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible. To find out more, read our article on how we review VPNs.
The data in this review is reported from a neutral stance and should be used for informational purposes only. We review VPN services from the perspective of:
Independent Advisor does not endorse the streaming of content from regions other than where the subscription is held, nor does it endorse the downloading or consumption of illegally pirated content.
