Proton VPN

ProtonVPN launched in 2017, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is dedicated to ensuring internet privacy for all. It is the first VPN service provider which is open-source. In addition to its open-source nature and independent audits, Proton VPN follows ethics and transparency to ensure its users that their privacy and safety is utmost. With its blazing-fast servers and cutting-edge features, ProtonVPN serves as a comprehensive solution for users seeking to protect their online identity from prying eyes and secure their data. In this review, let’s take a detailed look at how well it performs in our tests.

Privacy

ProtonVPN, based in Switzerland, benefits from the world’s strongest privacy laws. Switzerland does not require monitoring user activity or the retention of user logs in any form. Additionally, as Switzerland is not part of the 5 Eyes or 14 Eyes Alliance, there are no surveillance agreements that could compromise user privacy.

ProtonVPN is an open-source VPN service, offering transparency, security scrutiny, community-driven enhancements, customization options, and user trust. ProtonVPN strictly adheres to a no-logs policy. This means that when you connect to one of ProtonVPN servers and access the internet, it does not log information related to metadata, visited websites, IP addresses, traffic, connection sessions, or location data. User data security is paramount, achieved through full-disk encryption. This encryption renders all stored information unreadable without the encryption key, providing defence against unauthorized access and data theft, even in cases of physical server theft or breaches by malicious actors. This comprehensive approach safeguards sensitive user data, preserving privacy and enhancing server security in the event of a server compromise. ProtonVPN also employs bare metal servers, granting full control and ensuring a high degree of security.

Independently audited by Securitum, you can view the full ProtonVPN Audit Report here. For a detailed understanding of ProtonVPN Privacy Policy, checkout the link. These measures underscore ProtonVPN unwavering commitment to user privacy and security, leaving no room for compromise.

Security

ProtonVPN employs top-notch encryption methods to safeguard your network traffic. Whether you opt for AES-256 or ChaCha20, both are exceptionally secure encryption standards. OpenVPN and IKEv2 VPN connections are fortified with AES-256 encryption, ensuring the utmost protection for your data. For those using the WireGuard VPN protocol, your connection benefits from the rapid and secure ChaCha20 encryption, which offers comparable security to AES-256 but with slightly improved speed.

One standout security feature of ProtonVPN is its implementation of Perfect Forward Secrecy. This means that even in the unlikely event of someone gaining access to your encryption key, they cannot use it to decrypt your past or future communications. Think of it as having a unique, secret key for each conversation, ensuring that even if one key were compromised, your other interactions remain safe and secure. This is a clever way to maintain data privacy.

Additionally, ProtonVPN leverages the Diffie-Hellman key exchange, a sophisticated method to establish a secret code for secure communication. It enables you and the VPN server to agree on this code without any third party being privy to it. This virtually eliminates the possibility of eavesdropping on your VPN connection, ensuring the utmost privacy and data security.

Speed and Performance

ProtonVPN delivers exceptional speeds when connected to their VPN servers. In my testing, it demonstrated excellent performance in terms of both download and upload speeds for servers in Germany, United States, and United Kingdom. I also assessed VPN speeds for these same servers while enabling the Secure Core feature, and it surpassed expectations. You can refer to the charts below for a more comprehensive understanding.

* Tested on 100 Mbps optical fibre connection.

* Tested on 100 Mbps optical fibre connection using Secure Core.

ProtonVPN delivers excellent performance across various devices. I have tested it on both Windows and smartphones, and the server connection operations are remarkably fast, with no connection drops.

No DNS Leak

ProtonVPN does not exhibit any DNS leaks when connected to their VPN servers. I conducted a thorough test using bash.ws, dnsleaktest.org and dnsleaktest.com and found no DNS leaks.

Server Network Coverage

ProtonVPN offers a wide array of specialized servers, with an extensive network that spans over 60+ countries, totalling more than 2,900 servers. Whether you are using the free or Plus version, or if you require enhanced security when accessing the VPN from specific countries to maintain the highest level of privacy, ProtonVPN provides its users with the following types of servers:

1. Free Servers: ProtonVPN offers 94 free servers across 3 countries exclusively for Free users. If you’re using the free version, you can connect to servers in the United States, Netherlands, and Japan, providing access to over 90 free servers distributed across these countries. This offering aims to prioritize privacy and security for users who may not have the means to subscribe to paid plans. Please be aware that speeds are capped in the free version, so it’s important to set realistic expectations regarding browsing and streaming experiences.
2. Plus Servers: ProtonVPN offers 2,687 Plus servers across 69 countries exclusively for Plus users. To access the full range of features and benefits, consider purchasing the Plus plan. With this subscription, you’ll enjoy numerous features, including high-speed servers with up to 10 Gbps connectivity, NetShield for adblocking, support for Tor or VPN, and compatibility with torrenting and streaming services.
3. Secure Core Servers: ProtonVPN boasts 101 Secure Core servers across 66 countries, exclusively available to Plus plan users. ProtonVPN Secure Core feature significantly bolsters user privacy and data security, safeguarding against potential risks associated with compromised VPN servers. Traditional VPN setups can leave users vulnerable to privacy threats if an attacker gains control of the VPN server or monitors its network. Secure Core addresses this concern by routing user traffic through multiple secure servers, rendering it exceedingly challenging for attackers to ascertain a user’s actual IP address and physical location. These Secure Core servers have been strategically positioned in countries renowned for their stringent privacy laws. They are housed within high-security data centers and are under the exclusive ownership and management of ProtonVPN. This meticulous approach ensures a consistently high level of security and privacy protection.

User Interface

ProtonVPN features a simple yet powerful user interface that provides essential information such as the VPN IP, the VPN protocol in use, server details including current load, and data usage (download and upload) during the connection, along with the connection uptime. You can easily enable or disable NetShield for protection against ads, malware, and trackers. Additionally, you can activate the Secure Core feature for extra security. One of the highlights is the ability to create profiles, allowing you to quickly connect to your preferred locations with your chosen protocol for Standard, Secure Core, and Tor servers. However, one downside I noticed is that there is no option to easily switch the protocol directly from the main screen; you must access the settings to make the change, after which it establishes your connection.

Device Compatibility

ProtonVPN offers compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, routers, Chromebooks, Chromecast, and browser extensions. However, it’s important to note that while it supports most devices, ProtonVPN currently lacks support for gaming consoles.

Simultaneous Connections

ProtonVPN allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with a Plus plan. If you have multiple compatible devices, this feature becomes particularly useful, enabling you to stay connected with up to 10 devices at once and enjoy the benefits of a seamless VPN connection.

Pricing

ProtonVPN offers a free plan, but if you want to unlock all its features and benefits, you can opt for the Plus plan. The Plus plan is available at $4.99/month for 2 Years, $5.99 /month for 1 Year, and $8.99 /month for 1 month. All of these Plus plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try and assess whether the VPN service meets your needs and performs well. Additionally, you have the option to make payments using Bitcoin or cash, enhancing user privacy.

Additional Features

ProtonVPN offers a host of useful features. Let’s take a closer look at each of them in detail.

Open Source

ProtonVPN open-source nature promotes transparency and trust, enabling users to scrutinize and validate the software’s security independently. With open-source code, anyone can review and confirm the software’s security measures. This transparency fosters trust among users, providing assurance that no concealed backdoors or vulnerabilities exist. Furthermore, the open-source community can actively contribute to continuous enhancements, bolstering the VPN’s security and expanding its features over time.

Multi-Hop

ProtonVPN employs Secure Core servers, also known as a Multi-Hop feature, which directs your different geographical areas before reaching its final destination. This additional step adds an extra layer of security and anonymity to your online activities. By traversing through several servers, it becomes considerably more challenging for anyone, including potential eavesdroppers or trackers, to trace your internet traffic back to its original IP address. Essentially, multi-hop enhances your privacy and significantly raises the difficulty level for others attempting to monitor or intercept your online communications.

In ProtonVPN, Secure Core servers are strategically positioned in privacy-friendly countries such as Iceland, Switzerland, and Sweden, renowned for their stringent privacy laws. These servers are housed within high-security data centers, and ProtonVPN directly manages server ownership. They have implemented a robust network and IP management system. While no VPN is entirely impervious to threats, Secure Core adds a robust layer of security against advanced threats.

NetShield Ad-blocker

Another popular and essential feature of ProtonVPN is NetShield, which serves as an effective tool for filtering out ads, trackers, and malware. NetShield utilizes DNS filtering to block ads and the online trackers often used by advertising companies to monitor your online activities. It accomplishes this by cross-referencing the domain requests made by every website and app you use with a comprehensive database of domains known to host malware, ads, or trackers. When NetShield detects a match, our DNS server automatically blocks the flagged resource from loading, resulting in faster browsing speeds.

In my testing, NetShield not only effectively blocks ads, trackers, and malware for websites accessed through web browsers but also for applications on Windows and smartphones. While it operates efficiently and reliably, there may be occasions when you encounter some ads and pop-ups on certain websites. You can access statistics on your device that display the number of ads and trackers blocked, along with the corresponding data saved. Please note that these statistics are applicable only during VPN sessions and will reset upon disconnection. One limitation is the absence of an option to integrate adblocking with popular third-party filters and custom rules for manually blocking specific types of domains. Such an addition would provide users with greater control over DNS filtering.

Tor over VPN

Tor over VPN with ProtonVPN combines the security of a VPN with the anonymity of the Tor network. This process involves routing your internet traffic through a ProtonVPN server before entering the Tor network, creating a double-layered approach that enhances your online privacy and anonymity. Importantly, even the VPN server remains unaware of your IP address, adding an extra level of security to your online activities.

ProtonVPN offers specialized servers known as Tor servers, identifiable with the ‘TOR’ label, in various countries. These servers enable you to access websites on the Tor network without requiring a separate Tor browser. You can achieve this using the ProtonVPN app on your device without the need to download additional applications.

I conducted tests to verify whether .onion sites can function within a regular browser. During testing, I used the Chrome browser on my smartphone while connecting to one of their TOR servers, and I found that .onion websites loaded quickly and smoothly. This feature is noteworthy because it eliminates the need for a specialized TOR browser to access .onion websites, ensuring maximum privacy for users

Alternative Routing

ProtonVPN utilization of alternative routing strategically circumvents internet censorship, ensuring uninterrupted access to its services, even in the face of attempted blocks. Here’s a closer examination of this feature :

1. Seamless Activation: One noteworthy aspect of ProtonVPN’s alternative routing is its automatic activation. Users need not delve into settings; it activates when censorship is suspected.
2. Anti-Censorship Effectiveness: When censorship looms, alternative routing navigates a different path to connect to Proton servers. While it’s not a foolproof solution, it often proves effective in outwitting certain censorship methods.
3. Opt-Out Flexibility: By default, alternative routing remains inactive unless ProtonVPN detects censorship attempts. This default setting aligns with the unpredictable nature of censorship efforts. For those who prefer control, there’s an option to disable alternative routing in the app settings.
4. Third-Party Infrastructure and Data Encryption: ProtonVPN emphasizes that all data transferred over third-party networks remains encrypted at all times, akin to data transmission via your ISP when connecting to Proton services regularly. It’s important to note, however, that these third parties could potentially see your IP address and detect your attempt to connect to Proton.
5. Customized Encryption: ProtonVPN has made TLS encryption adjustments for alternative routing to enhance security. While this change is designed to thwart censors, it’s crucial to consider potential implications if the server were ever compromised.

For most users, these technical details need not be a cause for concern. Nevertheless, it’s commendable that ProtonVPN provides an opt-out option for those who desire complete control over their VPN experience.

 Kill Switch

ProtonVPN offers a kill switch as a safety net for your online privacy. If, for any reason, your connection to the VPN server drops unexpectedly, the kill switch kicks in, stopping any data from going in or out of your device until the VPN connection is automatically restored. This ensures your IP address and browsing history stay protected, even if you temporarily lose internet access.

ProtonVPN provides a regular kill switch to safeguard your online privacy if your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, but it won’t stop you if you choose to disconnect from the VPN on purpose. However, ProtonVPN has added a more powerful feature called the permanent kill switch to its Windows and Linux apps. This not only protects you from accidental disconnections but also ensures you don’t accidentally use the internet without the VPN turned on. It stays active even when you restart your device. Just remember that if you manually disconnect the VPN without turning off the Permanent Kill Switch, you won’t be able to access the internet. For Android, ProtonVPN uses the built-in Always On functionality to take advantage of protecting you, working as a permanent kill switch similar to the Windows and Linux apps.

Full Disk Encryption

ProtonVPN employs full-disk encryption, a robust security measure that transforms your data into a complex code composed of characters and numbers. This encryption process utilizes intricate mathematical algorithms, making it exceptionally challenging for anyone without the decryption key to decipher your data. This additional layer of security ensures the protection of your private information, including your online activities and personal details, even in the event of unauthorized access to the server where your data is stored. This feature is particularly valuable for users in countries with heavy surveillance and censorship.

Stealth Protocol

ProtonVPN employs a Stealth protocol, an advanced technique used to disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. This proves especially valuable in situations where VPN usage encounters restrictions or blocks, as seen in countries with strict censorship policies. The Stealth protocol accomplishes this by obscuring VPN packets, effectively concealing the use of a VPN. It achieves this by encapsulating VPN traffic within different protocols that closely resemble standard internet traffic. This high level of obfuscation makes it difficult for network filters or deep packet inspection (DPI) methods to detect or block VPN usage. Consequently, ProtonVPN ensures that users can securely and privately access the open internet, even in highly restricted environments.

Port Forwarding

ProtonVPN offers a valuable feature known as port forwarding, which serves as a powerful tool for specific network configurations. It proves particularly beneficial for users engaged in P2P (peer-to-peer) activities, such as BitTorrent file sharing, and can also significantly enhance online gaming performance. Port forwarding is designed to cater to the specific needs of users who rely on P2P file sharing and online gaming, with the aim of streamlining their network experience.

Currently, port forwarding is accessible to ProtonVPN plus users using the Windows app. When activated, it prompts the VPN app to communicate with the VPN server, requesting the allocation of a specific network port for data traffic. This port number is visible within the app’s information panel when connecting to their P2P VPN servers. It becomes essential when configuring port forwarding in external software, such as a BitTorrent client. It’s worth noting that the port number may change when you disconnect and reconnect to the VPN, so it’s advisable to verify it as needed.

Split Tunnelling

Split tunnelling is a powerful feature that empowers you to choose which internet connections use the VPN tunnel and which do not. It offers flexibility, enabling you to determine which apps or activities benefit from the VPN’s security and encryption while excluding others. This feature proves valuable for achieving a balance between privacy and performance, as it allows you to tailor your VPN usage to meet your specific requirements.

In my testing, I found that split tunnelling works exceptionally well and provides you with significant control. There are situations where certain apps or websites, like banking apps, do not allow VPN connections. Split tunnelling seamlessly addresses this challenge and worked flawlessly in my testing.

VPN Accelerator

ProtonVPN introduces VPN Accelerator, a ground-breaking technology that significantly boosts VPN speeds, often by up to 400%. It overcomes CPU limitations, manages latency and congestion, and enhances forwarding efficiency. VPN Accelerator is seamlessly integrated into all ProtonVPN apps, ensuring consistently faster speeds, especially when connecting to distant servers. No additional configuration is needed; it works automatically. This technology guarantees optimal performance, establishing ProtonVPN as a top choice for speedy and secure connections.

The feature is enabled by default on devices, but if you prefer, you can also disable it. It improves speed performance regardless of whether you are using OpenVPN TCP, OpenVPN UDP, WireGuard, or IKEv2 VPN protocols.

Customer Support

In my evaluation of ProtonVPN customer support, I found it to be highly responsive and efficient. Whether I had general inquiries or technical questions, the support team consistently provided quick and accurate responses, effectively addressing all my doubts. What stood out even more was their impressive refund policy. When I tested it, I initiated a chat, and to my surprise, I received a refund almost instantly. This quick and hassle-free refund process reflects ProtonVPN dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction.

If you’re considering trying out all the features of ProtonVPN, their robust customer support and reliable refund policy provide added assurance for your VPN experience.

Final Verdict

ProtonVPN is a top-tier VPN service with a strong focus on user privacy and security. Based in Switzerland, it benefits from strict privacy laws and a no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private. It offers a vast server network, including Secure Core servers in privacy-friendly countries for added security. ProtonVPN also features NetShield for ad and tracker blocking, Tor over VPN for anonymity, and alternative routing to bypass censorship.

The service is user-friendly, with a straightforward interface and features like split tunnelling for customization. ProtonVPN VPN Accelerator boosts speeds significantly, making it an excellent choice for performance. Whether you need a VPN for privacy, security, or speed, ProtonVPN delivers on all fronts and is accessible through various pricing plans, including a free version. It’s a trustworthy VPN that excels in protecting your online presence.

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