Buying a VPN ? 10 Things you need to know and Focus on

Looking to enhance your online privacy and security? Buying a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a crucial step in safeguarding your digital presence. With cyber threats on the rise and concerns about data privacy mounting, finding the right VPN service can be overwhelming. From browsing anonymously and accessing geo-blocked content to securing your sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks, the benefits of using a VPN are manifold. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know before buying a VPN, including key features, top providers, pricing options, and tips for choosing the best VPN for your needs.

Here are the 10 Essential VPN Factors for Ensuring Your Online Safety

1. Jurisdiction & Headquarters:

• The jurisdiction and headquarters of a VPN provider significantly impact user privacy and data security. Countries with strict data privacy laws, like Switzerland and the British Virgin Islands, offer greater protection against government surveillance and data retention requirements. Conversely, VPN providers based in countries that are members of intelligence-sharing alliances like the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or Fourteen Eyes may face government surveillance and compelled data sharing with authorities.

2. Membership in 5, 9, or 14 Eyes Alliance:

• The Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes alliances entail international surveillance agreements among various countries. VPN providers in member countries may face data retention laws and surveillance programs, jeopardizing user privacy. Users concerned about government surveillance should opt for VPN providers outside these alliances to lessen risks.
• These intelligence-sharing alliances, including the Five Eyes (FVEY), Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes, involve cooperation on surveillance and data sharing among countries. The Five Eyes alliance includes the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Expanding further, the Nine Eyes alliance adds Denmark, France, Netherlands, and Norway. Lastly, the Fourteen Eyes alliance encompasses Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain, and Sweden. Such collaborations raise concerns about user privacy, potentially compromising security for individuals using VPN services in these jurisdictions.

3. Parent Company Ownership:

• Understanding the ownership structure of a VPN provider is essential for users to assess its trustworthiness and commitment to user privacy. Users should research the parent company, including its track record, reputation, and approach to data management. A parent company prioritizing user privacy and security is more likely to uphold these values in its VPN service.

4. No-Logs Policy:

• A no-logs policy is a fundamental feature of a privacy-focused VPN service. It means that the VPN provider or a VPN Company does not collect or store any logs of users’ online activities, including browsing history, connection logs, or IP addresses. A robust no-logs policy enhances user privacy by ensuring that no identifiable information is retained by the VPN provider, reducing the risk of data exposure or surveillance.

5. Independent Audits:

• Independent audits play a crucial role in verifying a VPN provider’s claims about its privacy and security practices. Third-party audits conducted by reputable cybersecurity firms assess whether the VPN service adheres to its stated policies and provides transparency into its operations. Users should look for VPN providers that undergo regular independent audits to validate their commitment to user privacy and security.

6. Encryption Type and Strength:

• Encryption is the cornerstone of VPN security, protecting user data from interception and unauthorized access. Different encryption types, such as AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), provide varying levels of security. AES encryption with 256-bit keys is considered highly secure and is widely used by VPN providers to safeguard user data and ensures extra security. Users should prioritize VPN services that offer strong encryption to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of their online communications.

7. Encryption Protocol:

• Encryption protocols determine how data is encrypted and transmitted between the user’s device and the VPN server. Popular encryption protocols include OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard. Each protocol has its strengths and weaknesses in terms of security, speed, and compatibility. Users should select a VPN provider that offers encryption protocols with strong security features and robust encryption algorithms to protect their data effectively.

8. DNS Leak Protection:

• DNS (Domain Name System) leak protection is a crucial feature that prevents DNS queries from being exposed to third parties or prying eyes such as ISPs (Internet Service Provider) or potential attackers. VPNs with DNS leaks can reveal users’ browsing activities, private information and compromise their privacy. VPN providers implement DNS leak protection mechanisms to ensure that all DNS queries are routed through the VPN tunnel, preventing any leaks of sensitive information.

9. Perfect Forward Secrecy:

• Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS) is an encryption feature that generates unique session keys for each VPN connection. Even if an attacker compromises one session key, they cannot decrypt past or future sessions, enhancing data security. VPN providers that implement PFS ensure that users’ encrypted communications remain confidential and protected against potential security breaches and provides online security.

10. Token Based Dedicated IP Address:

Here’s an in-depth explanation of why token-based dedicated IPs surpass traditional ones:

In the traditional setup, a VPN assigns a specific IP to a user’s account. While this ensures consistent access and lowers the risk of IP blocking, it compromises anonymity. The direct link between the IP and user account allows tracing of online activities, endangering privacy. Legal requests or government subpoenas may force the VPN to disclose user information linked to the dedicated IP, undermining privacy and security.

In contrast, a token-based system disconnects the IP from the user’s account. Instead of directly assigning the IP, the VPN issues a unique token representing it. Upon connection, users authenticate using this token, and the server dynamically assigns the IP for the session. This ensures anonymity as activities aren’t tied to the account. With no direct link, the VPN can’t trace or monitor online actions, enhancing privacy and security.

Token-based dedicated IPs combine the benefits of a dedicated IP with VPN anonymity. Users enjoy convenience without compromising privacy or risking surveillance. By implementing this system, VPN providers prioritize user privacy and security, enabling anonymous browsing free from tracking or monitoring.

Other Key Features to Consider When Buying a VPN

1. Bandwidth Limitations:

• Some VPN services impose bandwidth limitations, which can impact your online activities. Consider whether the VPN has any bandwidth limitations and understand the potential impact and disadvantages, such as slower speeds or restricted access to high-bandwidth content.

2. Connection Speed and Limitations:

• Evaluate the connection speed provided by the VPN service and whether there are any speed limitations. Ensure that the VPN offers fast and reliable connections without throttling or speed caps.

3. Server Infrastructure:

• Check the VPN’s server infrastructure, including the number of servers, their locations, and the countries covered. A robust server network ensures better performance, reliability, and access to geo-restricted content. Look for a VPN with servers strategically located worldwide for optimal performance.

4. Simultaneous Connections:

• Determine the number of devices supported by the VPN for simultaneous connections. Some VPNs offer unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to protect all your devices with a single subscription. Consider your household or office needs when choosing a VPN with the right number of simultaneous connections.

5. Device Compatibility:

• Ensure that the VPN supports a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iPhone, web browser extensions, Android TV, Smart TV, and routers. Supporting multiple devices ensures flexibility and convenience, allowing you to secure all your devices regardless of the platform.

6. RAM-Only Servers:

• Look for VPN providers like CyberGhost VPN or ExpressVPN that utilize RAM-only servers, which enhance security by ensuring that no data is stored on the server’s hard drive. RAM-only servers provide increased privacy and security as data is wiped upon server reboot, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.

7. Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS):

• Prioritize VPN services that implement Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS), a cryptographic technique that generates unique encryption keys for each session. PFS enhances security by preventing the compromise of past sessions’ encryption keys, ensuring that even if one session is compromised, others remain secure. It’s essential for safeguarding sensitive information and protecting against potential security threats.

8. Kill Switch:

• A Kill Switch is a crucial feature that automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your IP address and online activities from being exposed to third parties. It ensures continuous privacy and security, especially when switching between networks or experiencing network interruptions.

9. Multi-Hop Double VPN:

• Multi-Hop Double VPN, also known as multi-hop routing, enhances privacy and anonymity by routing your internet traffic through multiple VPN servers in different locations before reaching its destination. This process adds layers of encryption and obfuscation, making it extremely difficult for anyone to trace your online activities back to you.

10. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

• Two-Factor Authentication adds an extra layer of security to your VPN account by requiring not only a password but also a secondary verification method, such as a code sent to your mobile device. It significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and strengthens account security, safeguarding your VPN connection and personal data.

11. Ad Blocking and Malware Protection:

• VPN services with built-in ad blocking and malware protection features help enhance your online browsing experience and protect you from intrusive ads, malicious websites, and cyber threats. These features block ads, trackers, and malware domains at the network level, providing a safer and more secure browsing environment.

12. Split Tunneling:

• Split tunneling allows you to selectively route your internet traffic through either the VPN tunnel or your regular internet connection. It gives you greater control over which applications or websites use the VPN connection, optimizing performance, reducing bandwidth usage, and ensuring compatibility with local services.

13. Streaming and P2P Support:

• A VPN that supports streaming and P2P file sharing enables users to access geo-blocked streaming content and streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+ from anywhere in the world. Additionally, it allows for secure and anonymous torrenting, ensuring that your online activities remain private and protected.

14.Geo-Restricted Content Access:

• By connecting to VPN server located in different countries, users can bypass geo-restrictions and access region-locked content from streaming platforms, websites, and online services on a secure connection. Whether you’re traveling abroad or want to access content exclusive to certain regions, a VPN with global server coverage ensures unrestricted access to your favorite content.

15. Gaming Performance Enhancement:

• A VPN can offer gamers several advantages, including reducing latency, preventing DDoS attacks, and accessing region-locked game content or servers. By connecting to VPN servers closer to gaming servers, players can often experience lower ping times and smoother gameplay. Additionally, VPNs can protect against targeted attacks from malicious actors seeking to disrupt gaming sessions or obtain personal information. With the ability to bypass geo-restrictions, gamers can access exclusive game releases or servers not available in their region, expanding their online gaming options and experiences.

16. Free VPN Service:

• Some VPN providers offer a free version or free trials of their service, allowing users to experience basic features with limited functionality or data usage. While free VPN can be enticing, they often come with restrictions such as slower internet speed, fewer server locations, and limited security features. Additionally, free VPN may monetize user data or display ads to cover their costs, raising privacy concerns.

17. Money-Back Guarantee:

• Reputable VPN providers typically offer a money-back guarantee or refund policy, allowing users to try their premium service risk-free for a certain period on their monthly or annual plan (e.g., 30-day money-back guarantee). This ensures customer satisfaction and provides peace of mind, knowing that users can request a refund if they’re not satisfied with the VPN’s performance or features.

18. Customer Support and Assistance:

• Reliable VPN providers offer responsive customer support channels to assist users with setup, troubleshooting, and general inquiries. Support options may include 24/7 live chat, email support, a comprehensive knowledge base, and user forums. Access to helpful resources like setup guides, FAQs, Privacy Policy and troubleshooting articles ensures that users can get timely assistance and resolve any issues they encounter.

Selecting the right VPN service requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure optimal security, privacy, and performance.

GadgetGazer ET Technology Analyst

As the Technology Analyst of GadgetGazer, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive insights into the world of software products. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for technology, I meticulously analyze and compare software solutions to empower users with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. From in-depth reviews to side-by-side comparisons, my goal is to demystify the complexities of software and simplify the decision-making process for my readers.