protonvpn free

ProtonVPN is a virtual private network service developed by Proton AG, the same team behind ProtonMail. Launched with privacy and security as primary goals, ProtonVPN aims to give users a safe, no-logs connection to the internet while offering flexible plans for casual and power users alike. Privacy and Jurisdiction One of ProtonVPN’s standout attributes is its Swiss headquarters. Switzerland has strong privacy laws and is outside EU and US intelligence jurisdictions, which can provide additional legal protections for user data. ProtonVPN operates under a strict no-logs policy; the company states it does not store user activity or connection logs that could be used to identify users. Security Features ProtonVPN uses industry-standard encryption and protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard) to secure traffic. The Secure Core feature routes traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries before leaving the ProtonVPN network, reducing the risk of network-level surveillance and targeted attacks. Additional safety measures include a built-in kill switch, DNS leak protection, and the option to combine ProtonVPN with the Tor network (Tor over VPN) for added anonymity. Plans and Pricing ProtonVPN offers a free tier with access to a limited set of servers and moderate speeds, which is a useful option for users who want basic protection without cost. Paid plans add access to more countries and servers, faster speeds, Secure Core, Tor over VPN, and support for streaming and P2P. Proton’s paid tiers are competitive, especially given the privacy features and the inclusion of the free plan as a long-term option rather than a short trial. Performance and Use Cases Performance varies by server and plan: WireGuard generally provides the best speeds, while Secure Core can add latency due to multi-hop routing. ProtonVPN supports streaming services on selected servers and allows P2P traffic on designated servers. Apps are available across major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, with a straightforward interface suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Independent Audits and Transparency ProtonVPN has undergone independent security audits and maintains transparency reports, which bolsters trust. While no provider can guarantee absolute anonymity, ProtonVPN’s technical and organizational measures make it a strong choice for users prioritizing privacy. Who Should Use ProtonVPN? ProtonVPN is well suited for privacy-conscious users, journalists, activists, and anyone in need of a trustworthy VPN backed by strong legal protections. Casual users who want a reliable, easy-to-use VPN with the option of a free tier will also find ProtonVPN attractive. Power users who prioritize maximum speed and global server variety might compare other providers, but ProtonVPN remains a balanced option emphasizing privacy over gimmicks.