Main Features
We have researched the Proton VPN and believe that the following are its main features.
- Industry-standard encryption
- Kill switch
- NetShield Ad-blocker
- Thousands of servers in 122 countries
- Privacy-friendly location
- No-logs policy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Security Features
When it comes to searching for the best VPN, robust security is of paramount importance. Our team has researched Proton and its security and privacy features. Below we summarize key features in our Proton VPN review.
Encryption Protocols
Proton VPN uses the top-of-the-line encryption protocol AES-256, along with exchanging keys using 4096-bit RSA. It uses HMAC and SHA384 to authenticate messages. Additionally, Proton generates a new encryption key every time you log onto the VPN. This “forward secrecy” strategy further protects data by preventing repeated use of the same encryption key.
Kill Switch
Even the best VPN will occasionally have connection issues. In the event that your Proton VPN becomes disconnected, the kill switch function will automatically block internet access to keep your data safe. Similarly, the Always-On feature automatically reconnects the VPN to a server to continue protection.
NetShield Ad-Blocker
One of the most important reasons to have a VPN is detection and protection from unwelcome third parties. That’s where Proton’s NetShield Ad-Blocker comes in. By filtering out malware, adware, and third-party web trackers, NetShield Ad-Blocker helps protect you from unwanted prying eyes. By preventing the loading of unwanted content, it helps prevent slowdowns and maintains speed.
No-Logs Policy
Proton has a no-logs policy for all subscribers, including free VPN users. It keeps no record of user activity, location, or other data. Since it is located in privacy-friendly Switzerland, Proton cannot be forced to share user data.
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Proton VPN Review of Other Features
There are other considerations when searching for the best VPN. From connection speed to number of servers, we share our opinions about additional features of the Proton VPN.
VPN Accelerator
On its website, Proton claims that its unique Accelerator uses technologies to speed up your connections by 400% or more. Proton uses advanced technologies to overcome CPU limitations and reduce inefficiencies at the code level.
Stealth
A leading VPN will allow you to avoid blocking methods that prevent you from seeing restricted content. Unique to Proton VPN, Stealth lets users evade firewalls and other VPN blocking methods. It’s a valuable tool for avoiding censorship and allowing users to access otherwise restricted content. With Stealth, you can bypass blocks to see the geo-restricted information you want.
Servers
For its paying subscribers, Proton offers more than 13,000 servers in 122 countries. Servers are located on every continent, from North America and Europe to Africa and the Middle East. The 10 GBPS servers allow users to bypass censorship and georestrictions to access the data and information they need.
For enhanced security, Proton’s Secure Core sends internet traffic through privacy-friendly locations, such as Switzerland and Iceland. There are 113 Secure Core servers in 65 countries, adding an extra layer of privacy for Proton paid subscribers.
Compatibility and Number of Devices
Proton VPN is compatible with major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iPhone, iPad, Linux, and Chromebook. All subscribers, including free users, can use its extension apps for Chrome and Firefox. Proton VPN works with Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, and streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.
Paid subscribers can connect an unlimited number of devices with a single Proton account. Users who have a free account can connect to one device.
Proton VPN Review: Pros and Any Limitations
Now, we will look at Proton VPN‘s user experience. After our research and Proton VPN review, we share our opinion of advantages as well as any potential drawbacks.
Located in Privacy-Friendly Switzerland
We like the fact that Proton is based in Switzerland, a country that has strict privacy laws. Proton will never have to reveal user information because of Switzerland’s privacy-friendly laws. Proton’s location in Switzerland is a major reason to feel confident about the security and privacy protections offered by Proton VPN.
We’re impressed with Proton’s commitment to user privacy. The no-logs policy combines with the company’s location in Switzerland to provide multiple layers of privacy and security. Additionally, Secure Core lets users take advantage of servers in locations with exceptional privacy-friendly policies.
Setup and Ease of Use
Proton has an extensive setup guide on its website. Setup and installation are relatively straightforward. For example, you can install Proton VPN on a Windows computer directly from the Microsoft Store. The installation Wizard provides a series of prompts to guide you through the setup. Once installed, Proton will connect to the fastest server available for your location. With a paid Proton account, you can change the server location to suit your internet needs.
Subscription Plans and Money-Back Guarantees
Users can choose from a variety of Proton VPN subscription plans, including Free, 1-month, 12-month, and 24-month. Proton may offer discounts to first-time aid subscribers, with the selected plan auto-renewing at the regular price. The shorter paid subscriptions cost more per month than the longer plans, with the monthly plan costing nearly three times as much per month as the 24-month plan. Proton also offers discounts for student users, helping students keep their sensitive information and internet activity secure.
Do you need some time to try Proton VPN before making a final decision? The we think you’ll like the fact that Proton offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. It’s important for you to feel comfortable with the VPN that you choose, and a 30-day guarantee lets you try all the features for an entire month. If you decide that Proton is not the right VPN for you, the company will refund your money if you let them know within 30 days after purchase.
Customer Support
Proton offers several modes of customer support. Members can access live chat, but the website does not specify whether it is available 24/7 or just during normal business hours. There is an extensive knowledge base, with user guides for a wide range of subjects. Whether you have a question about installation or billing, you can find answers in the online user guides.
There is also an online form that you can use to ask questions. The form is available on the Contact Us page, along with an email address if you prefer to send an email instead.
Open Source and Independently Audited
When it comes to securing your data and guarding your privacy, you want to be able to trust your VPN provider. For that reason, we’re impressed with the fact that Proton is an open-source VPN, which means that any third party can inspect its code. This policy of transparency ensures that Proton is providing the services it claims to provide, and nothing else. Proton regularly hires independent security experts for audits and publishes the results online.
Proton VPN Review: Conclusion
After our research and review, we believe that Proton VPN should be included in the search for the best VPN. Besides offering industry-standard encryption, Proton provides multiple layers of security and privacy protection. It even offers a free option with strong security protections.
We believe that Proton demonstrates a commitment to user security with its no-logs policy and location in privacy-friendly Switzerland. Users can choose from thousands of servers in more than 100 locations. Plus, we like how Secure Core routes traffic to locations with strict privacy protections.
A major security concern for internet users is malicious activity by third parties. Whether it’s adware, malware, or web trackers, Proton has users covered with its NetShield feature. NetShield identifies and blocks third parties from installing unwanted software that can slow down your computer.
We like the standard features offered by Proton, such as a kill switch, which many VPN users have come to expect. The kill switch and Always-On features ensure that you’ll always be protected, even if your VPN becomes temporarily disconnected.
We believe that Proton offers a selection of VPN subscription plans that will appeal to a wide range of users. The 30-day money-back guarantee takes much of the uncertainty away from choosing the best VPN for your internet needs. We think you’ll appreciate being able to try Proton at home for a month and decide if it’s the best VPN for you.
After our research and review, we believe that Proton offers value, and we recommend including Proton VPN in your search for the best VPN.
