protonvpn free

ProtonVPN positions itself as a security- and privacy-first virtual private network built by the team behind ProtonMail. Headquartered in Switzerland, the company benefits from strong privacy laws and emphasizes minimizing data collection while offering tools designed to protect users from online surveillance and tracking. Privacy and security features At the core of ProtonVPN’s offering is a strict no-logs policy and a suite of security protections. ProtonVPN supports modern VPN protocols including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, providing a balance of speed and compatibility. The service includes a kill switch to prevent accidental IP leaks if the connection drops, DNS leak protection, and full-disk encryption for its servers. A standout feature, Secure Core, routes traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries before leaving the Proton network, adding an extra layer of protection against network-based attacks and global observers. ProtonAG has also subjected aspects of its infrastructure to independent security audits, reinforcing its trustworthiness. Performance and servers ProtonVPN operates a global network of servers across dozens of countries, with specialized servers for P2P, streaming, and Tor over VPN. Using WireGuard, many users experience strong throughput and low latency suitable for browsing, streaming high-definition video, and video conferencing. Actual speeds vary by server choice, physical distance, and local network conditions, but ProtonVPN’s performance is competitive with other top-tier VPNs. Usability and platform support ProtonVPN offers dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, along with manual configuration options for routers and other platforms. The apps are user-friendly, providing quick-connect features, server search and filters, and settings for split tunneling (on supported platforms). For users who want integrated privacy services, Proton also bundles ProtonVPN with other Proton products in certain plans. Plans and pricing ProtonVPN provides a free tier with limited servers and speeds, making it a good entry point for basic privacy needs. Paid tiers unlock more servers, higher speeds, Secure Core access, simultaneous connections, and advanced features. Proton periodically adjusts plan names and bundles, so check its official website for the latest offerings and pricing. Who should use ProtonVPN? ProtonVPN is suitable for privacy-conscious users, journalists, activists, or anyone wanting to reduce exposure to ISP tracking and geo-restrictions. It’s also a solid choice for streaming and P2P users who need reliable performance and dedicated servers. Pros and cons (brief) Pros: strong privacy focus, Secure Core multi-hop, Swiss jurisdiction, WireGuard support, free plan. Cons: paid tiers are pricier than some competitors, performance varies by server, advanced features may require higher plans. Conclusion ProtonVPN remains a compelling choice for users who prioritize privacy and security without sacrificing usability. Its combination of modern protocols, privacy-focused features, and a reputable background make it worth considering among mainstream VPN options.