Proton VPN Review 2025: Secure & Private Browsing for You

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Did you know Proton VPN’s accelerator can make your VPN speeds up to 400% faster? In today’s world, keeping your online privacy safe is more important than ever. Proton VPN is a top choice, combining the latest tech with strong privacy features. It’s based in Switzerland, where privacy laws are very strict.

This means Proton offers top-notch security and a wide range of features. It’s perfect for anyone looking for safe and private browsing.

I’m a seasoned expert in privacy and security, always checking VPNs to see if they really work. In this review of Proton VPN for 2025, you’ll learn all about its features, how well it performs, and its value in the VPN market.

Key Takeaways

Proton VPN offers a free plan with unlimited data, limited to 3 server locations and 1 device connection.
The Plus plan, starting at $4.49/month, provides 10 device connections and access to all server locations.
Utilizes strong encryption protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard for enhanced security.
Secure Core servers route traffic through multiple privacy-friendly countries for added protection.
Based in Switzerland, ensuring adherence to some of the strictest privacy regulations worldwide.

Contents

Introduction

In today’s digital world, keeping your personal data safe is key. VPNs like Proton are big online privacy tools that make sure your communication is secure. They were created by tech experts from CERN to protect our right to privacy. This trusted VPN service has a big network for users all over the world.

Proton has grown a lot ever. It started in 2017 and is now run by Proton AG. They are changing to a non-profit called the Proton Foundation. It has over 10,269 servers in 117 countries as of January 13, 2025. It’s for both people who just want basic protection and those who need strong security.

The service uses top-notch AES-256 encryption. It also supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard for safe connections. It’s highly rated by TechRadar and others like PC Magazine and Engadget.

Proton has special features for better security and performance. It has easy-to-use and advanced options. This makes it a great virtual private network for many privacy needs.

Background of Proton VPN

Looking into Proton VPN’s history shows its strong commitment to secure internet connections. It was created by the team behind ProtonMail, a secure email service. Proton aims to protect your data and keep your online activities private.

Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, known for its strict privacy laws. This location helps protect user data from unwanted government access and surveillance.

It has grown a lot. It started with 10,000 users and now has over 100 million. This growth is thanks to its focus on secure connections and encrypted services.

The number of servers has also increased. It now offers access to over 8038+ servers in 112 countries. This makes it easier for users to stay secure no matter where they are.

Proton values user privacy and ethical data handling. It follows a strict no-logs policy, which has been audited by third parties. It also uses advanced encryption like AES-256 bit and ChaCha20 to protect your data.

Knowing about Proton VPN’s background helps understand why it’s a top choice for secure internet. Its growth, legal standing, and commitment to privacy show it’s effective in keeping your online activities safe.

Feature	Proton VPN
Users Worldwide	100 million
Number of Servers	8038+ in 112 countries
Download Speed (Indian servers)	184.68 Mbps
Upload Speed (Indian servers)	88.39 Mbps
Download Speed (US servers)	155.12 Mbps
Upload Speed (US servers)	16.65 Mbps
No-Logs Policy Audits	3 by Securitum

Key Features of Proton VPN

Proton VPN is known for its strong security and privacy. Let’s explore what makes it special.

Network Traffic Encryption

Proton VPN’s main feature is its encrypted internet connection. It uses advanced encryption to hide your online actions. This keeps your data safe while you browse, stream, or work online.

Kill Switch

The kill switch is a key part of Proton VPN’s security. It cuts off your internet if the VPN connection fails. This stops your private info from being leaked.

Split Tunneling

Proton VPN’s split tunneling lets you control your internet traffic. You can pick which apps use the VPN and which don’t. This way, you can use local services and keep your online banking safe.

For instance, you can watch local TV shows on your regular internet. But, you can use the VPN for online banking. This lets you enjoy both speed and security.

Feature	Description
Network Traffic Encryption	Uses encrypted internet connection to ensure privacy and data security.
Kill Switch	Automatically disconnects if the VPN drops to prevent data leakage.
Split Tunneling	Allows selective routing of internet traffic for optimized performance and security.

Privacy and Data Security

Proton VPN Privacy & Security — VISIT PROTON VPN

Keeping your online privacy and data safe is key for any good VPN service. Proton shines with its strong no-logs policy and regular third-party audits. These steps help build trust and openness with its users.

No-Logs Policy

Proton VPN’s no-logs policy means your browsing is not tracked or saved. This promise of online privacy gives users peace of mind. It ensures that even if authorities ask for data, there’s nothing to share.

Third-Party Audits

Proton also boosts its trustworthiness with third-party audits. These checks, done by outside groups, confirm that no logs are kept and data is safe. This openness makes users trust Proton for strong data protection.

They also share transparency reports. These show how Proton VPN deals with law enforcement data requests. This shows their strong commitment to keeping user data private.

Speed Performance

Proton VPN’s speed is a key factor to consider. It offers fast speeds despite the encryption. This makes it great for many online activities.

Connection Speeds

Those with Proton VPN Plus, Unlimited, or Visionary plans get speeds up to 300 Mbps. The Proton VPN Accelerator boosts speeds by over 400% in some cases. This is essential for tasks that need a lot of speed.

Download and Upload Tests

Download and upload tests show Proton VPN’s strong performance. It can reach speeds of up to 10 Gbps on its servers. This makes it a top choice among VPNs.

It’s best to pick servers with low usage and connect to ones at least ten servers away. This helps avoid slow speeds.

Ping Speeds

Ping speeds are important for gaming and smooth browsing. Proton VPN’s WireGuard protocol is the fastest. It beats other protocols like OpenVPN.

Connecting to a server near you can greatly reduce latency. This ensures the VPN doesn’t slow you down.

Proton VPN for Streaming and Torrenting

Proton VPN Streaming & Torrenting — VISIT PROTON VPN

Proton VPN stands out for streaming and torrenting. It perfectly balances these features for different needs.

Accessing Netflix

Proton is great for streaming, like on Netflix. It has servers in 117 countries. This lets users get around geo-blocks and enjoy Netflix shows not available at home.

It uses VPN Accelerator tech to make servers up to 400% faster. This means no buffering when streaming, even from far-off servers. WireGuard speeds can hit over 950 Mbps, perfect for HD and 4K streaming. For best VPN for streaming Netflix, checkout this article.

Torrenting Capabilities

Proton is also top-notch for torrenting. It has special servers for P2P file sharing in over 15 countries. This is key for users in places with strict internet laws.

It allows up to 10 devices to connect at once. This beats ExpressVPN and NordVPN. OpenVPN speeds are over 220 Mbps, making torrenting fast.

It also has a no-logs policy and strong encryption. Plus, it’s based in Switzerland, which is privacy-friendly. This keeps torrenting activities safe and private.

Proton VPN’s Free and Paid Plans

Proton VPN Free vs Paid — VISIT PROTON VPN

Proton VPN has a free plan and several paid options for different needs and budgets. The free plan is great for casual users, with essential features and strong security. But, it has some limits.

Free Plan ($0/month): Includes unlimited bandwidth, medium speed, servers in 3 countries, and 1 VPN connection.
Proton Plus:
- 1-month plan: $9.99/month
- 12-month plan: $4.99/month (billed $59.88 annually)
- 24-month plan: $4.49/month (billed $107.76 biennially)
- Features high-speed connections (up to 10 Gbps), servers in over 65 countries, up to 10 VPN connections, Secure Core VPN, NetShield (ad blocker), streaming service support, P2P/BitTorrent support, and Tor over VPN.
Proton Unlimited:
- 1-month plan: $12.99/month
- 12-month plan: $9.99/month (billed $119.88 annually)
- 24-month plan: $7.99/month (billed $191.76 biennially)
- Includes all Proton VPN Plus features along with Proton Mail Plus, Proton Drive Plus, and Proton Calendar Plus.

Proton VPN’s paid plans are affordable for various privacy and security needs. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This ensures a risk-free trial, giving users confidence in their online privacy and security investment.

Note: Prices may vary based on regional pricing and are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit Proton VPN’s pricing page.

Global Server Network

Proton VPN Server Network — VISIT PROTON VPN

Proton VPN is known for its reliable service, covering the globe for those who value privacy and speed. Its extensive server network is key to fast connections and avoiding server overload. This makes it a top choice among VPNs.

Server Locations

By January 2025, Proton had over 11,000 servers in more than 110 countries. This is a big jump from June 2024, when it had 5,000 servers in about 90 countries. This growth shows the company’s dedication to meeting user needs.

By placing servers in privacy-friendly places, Proton boosts its security and gains user trust.

Virtual and Physical Servers

Proton uses both virtual and physical servers for better performance and access. This mix ensures users get reliable connections no matter where they are. Virtual servers help increase the server count without physical limits. Physical servers offer steady, real infrastructure.

This setup from a top VPN ensures users have a great experience and reliable service.

Provider	Number of Servers	Number of Countries	Max Connection Speeds	Simultaneous Connections
Proton VPN	11,000+	110+	950+ Mbps	10
NordVPN	7,100+	118	950+ Mbps	10
ExpressVPN	3,000+	105	Not specified	8
Surfshark	3,200+	100+	Not specified	Unlimited
Private Internet Access (PIA)	20,000	Not specified	430 Mbps	10

User Experience and Interface

Proton VPN shines with a user experience rating of 9.5 out of 10. Users love how easy it is to use. They say the client software is intuitive and works well.

Even beginners find it simple to use Proton . This makes it a great choice for everyone.

App Reviews

Proton VPN’s apps are simple and efficient. They get better with each update, thanks to user feedback. Features like the kill switch and ad-blocker are easy to find.

This makes Proton VPN a top pick for those who want security without hassle.

Proton holds a 4.2/5 rating on Trustpilot, with users praising its security and ease of use, though some note occasional connectivity issues. PCMag rated it 5 stars, highlighting its strong features, high-speed servers, and excellent free plan. Overall, it’s well-regarded for privacy and performance.

Device Compatibility

It works on many devices. You can use it on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It’s perfect for protecting your online activities on different gadgets.

It supports up to five devices at once. This means you can keep all your devices safe with just one subscription.

What makes Proton stand out is its dedication to improving. They keep updating to meet user needs and new tech. This ensures Proton stays a leading choice.

Advanced Security Features

Proton VPN is known for its top-notch security. It uses the latest VPN protocols and a unique setup. This makes sure your privacy and safety are top priorities.

OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard Protocols

Proton uses OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols. These are key for keeping your connection safe and encrypted. OpenVPN is known for its strong security and flexibility. IKEv2 is great for mobile users because it’s fast and stable. WireGuard is the newest and offers high performance and modern security.

These protocols are vital for a secure VPN experience. They add layers of defense. You can learn more about their importance here.

Secure Core Servers

Proton VPN’s Secure Core servers add extra protection. They send your data through several servers to keep you anonymous. This is great for those worried about being watched or attacked online.

Secure Core sends your data through servers in places like Switzerland and Iceland. This means your data is safe even if a server is hacked.

Proton VPN has over 6,000 servers in more than 110 countries. It offers both wide coverage and strong security. It’s a trusted choice for those who want the best in VPN services.

Proton VPN’s Commitment to Privacy

Proton VPN is dedicated to keeping your data safe and private. It operates from Switzerland, known for its strict privacy laws. This ensures your information is protected at the highest level.

Switzerland Jurisdiction

It works under Swiss law, which is very protective of your data. Unlike many places, Switzerland doesn’t make VPNs log your online activities. This means your data stays private.

Swiss privacy laws are among the strongest. Proton has never had to give out user data to the courts. Plus, it doesn’t sell your internet use or data to others. This makes it stand out from other VPN services.

Transparency Reports

Proton VPN shares regular reports on how it handles your data. These reports show its dedication to keeping your information safe. They also explain how the company works and its policies in detail.

These reports are important because they follow strict privacy laws. They also help build trust with users who value their privacy. This makes Proton VPN a reliable choice for Virtual Private Network services.

Comparing Proton VPN to Other VPNs

When you look at VPNs, speed, privacy, features, and cost are key. This section will compare Proton VPN with NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN. Each VPN has its own strengths, meeting different user needs.

NordVPN

NordVPN and Proton VPN both have great features like Kill Switch and split tunneling. They also have no-logs policies that have been audited. NordVPN has over 7,000 servers in 118 countries. Proton has more than 8,600 servers in 117 countries.

NordVPN is very fast and has strong encryption. It works with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and torrenting. It starts at $3.39/month and supports up to 10 devices at once. Both services are outside the 14 Eyes Alliance, ensuring great privacy.

Surfshark

Surfshark is known for allowing unlimited device connections. It has features like CleanWeb (ad blocker) and MultiHop. Its price starts lower than NordVPN and Proton VPN for $2.19 a month.

Surfshark has strong encryption and many security features. But Proton has better privacy with Secure Core servers. This adds extra protection.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is very fast, often beating Proton VPN. It has over 3,000 servers in 105 countries. It supports up to eight devices at once. Its monthly rate is $4.99, a bit more than Proton VPN’s $3.99.

ExpressVPN allows torrenting on all servers and unblocks over 20 Netflix libraries. Proton VPN limits torrenting to paying users. But it has a free version, giving users a chance to try it out. Both VPNs have ad blockers and strong encryption, but Proton has more server locations and flexible payment plans.

Customer Support and Resources

Proton VPN values excellent customer service for VPN users. They offer a detailed knowledge base and an effective online ticket system. This helps users get help quickly and solve problems on their own.

Online Ticket System

Proton VPN’s online ticket system is key for handling user questions well. Users can send in tickets anytime, sharing their VPN support needs. The team works fast to answer, keeping users online without delay.

Knowledge Base

The knowledge base from Proton is full of useful info. It helps users solve problems by themselves with guides and tutorials. It covers everything from how to set up to advanced VPN settings. This makes using the service easier and more enjoyable.

Support Feature	Description	Benefits
Online Ticket System	Submit and track support requests.	Timely and efficient resolution of issues.
Knowledge Base	A library of articles, FAQs, and guides.	Immediate self-service solutions and in-depth information.

Encryption Standards

Proton VPN is known for its top-notch encryption protocols. These protocols provide strong security and privacy for users. It uses the best encryption methods to keep data safe and secure.

AES-256

AES-256 encryption is a top choice for keeping data safe. It’s a military-grade standard that protects against strong attacks. Proton VPN uses AES-256 to make sure your data is safe from hackers.

4096-bit RSA

Proton VPN also uses 4096-bit RSA keys for secure communication. This adds an extra layer of protection for your data. It shows Proton VPN’s commitment to keeping your information safe and private.

Encryption Standard	Key Length	Use Case
AES-256	256 bits	Data encryption for privacy and security
4096-bit RSA	4096 bits	Secure key exchange and authentication

Proton VPN’s use of AES-256 and 4096-bit RSA shows its commitment to security. It’s a leading cybersecurity solution that protects your privacy and data.

Conclusion

Proton VPN is a top choice for keeping your online activities private and safe. It uses strong encryption and doesn’t keep logs, making it a leader in privacy. Its performance is excellent, scoring 9 out of 10, for smooth browsing and streaming.

It also offers dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting. With servers in over 100 countries, it’s fast and accessible worldwide. But, its Linux app needs more work to match the Android and Windows versions.

Even with some areas for improvement, Proton is a great pick for those who value privacy. It’s open about its practices and keeps adding new features like Secure Core and NetShield. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to stay safe online.

Proton keeps getting better, staying ahead in the fast-changing VPN world. It’s clear that Proton VPN is a top choice for security, meeting the needs of users everywhere.

VISIT PROTON VPN

FAQ

What is Proton VPN?

Proton VPN is a secure internet service from the ProtonMail team. It’s based in Switzerland, known for strict privacy laws. It uses strong AES-256 encryption to keep your data safe.

How does Proton VPN ensure data security?

Proton VPN uses AES-256 encryption and secure protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. It also has Secure Core servers. These servers add extra encryption, making your data even more secure.

What are the key features of Proton VPN?

Proton VPN offers network encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling. It has a no-logs policy and is audited by third parties. It’s fast and works on many devices, making it great for both privacy seekers and security experts.

Is Proton VPN suitable for streaming and torrenting?

Yes, Proton VPN is good for streaming and torrenting. It works with Netflix and supports P2P file-sharing. It’s a reliable way to access blocked content while keeping your data safe.

What distinguishes Proton VPN’s free and paid plans?

The free version of Proton VPN has basic features and limited servers. Paid plans offer more, like access to exclusive servers and better security. They also perform better overall.

How does Proton VPN handle user privacy?

Proton VPN is built under Switzerland’s strong privacy laws. It follows a strict no-logs policy and publishes transparency reports. This ensures your data is kept confidential and in compliance.

What makes Proton VPN different from other VPN services?

Proton VPN is unique because of its strong privacy protocols and regular audits. It’s transparent and focuses on user privacy and security. This makes it a top choice in the VPN market.

How does Proton VPN maintain its performance speeds?

Proton VPN tests its speeds regularly. It ensures fast browsing and gaming by using strategic server locations. This balance of speed and security is key to its performance.

What support resources does Proton VPN offer?

Proton VPN has a ticket system and a detailed knowledge base. It offers self-service solutions and guides. It also updates regularly to address user needs and improve the service.

What encryption standards does Proton VPN utilize?

Proton VPN uses AES-256 encryption and 4096-bit RSA keys. These standards ensure top-notch data security and confidentiality. They show Proton VPN’s commitment to protecting user privacy and data.