A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that offers more security when connected to the internet, regardless of whether you’re at home, work or on public Wi-Fi. A VPN masks users’ IP address while using the internet, which keeps online activity of the user private and identity safe. The top 10 best VPN services in 2022 for your needs are mentioned in this article.
A virtual private network (VPN) offers an extra layer of privacy, enables users to access foreign websites, and offers secure connections for transferring sensitive business information.
While individuals typically use VPNs, they also offer businesses the ability to manage multiple user accounts, block certain types of content and keep users’ data safe from prying eyes.
10 Best VPN Services
The top 10 best VPN services of 2022 are listed below.
- Torguard VPN
- NordVPN
- IPVanish
- VPN Unlimited (aka KeepSolid)
- ExpressVPN
- Surfshark
- Windscribe
- Hotspot Shield
More Details On Best VPN Services
More Details on the 10 best VPN Services are described below.
1. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access is one of the biggest names in VPN services. It provides access to over 30,000 servers around 78 countries. It is one of the cheapest VPNs at $39.95 per year. PIA is the best choice for most small business users since it strikes a perfect balance of pricing, features, and usability.
Pros and Cons
- Affordable
- Massive server network
- Offers dedicated IP add-on
- 10 simultaneous connections
- Some reported issues with customer service
2. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is one of the best, most intuitive VPN services on the market. CyberGhost strikes an ideal balance of a powerful feature set and an interface that is intuitive enough for users of all skill levels. Features include dedicated server locations for streaming and torrenting and privacy-focused NoSpy servers.
Pros and Cons
- Dedicated IP add-on
- 45-day refund period
- Affordable, especially with a multi-year plan
- Easy to use
- NoSpy servers cost extra
- No split tunneling
3. TorGuard VPN
TorGuard is a highly customizable VPN service provider with many positive users singing praises. TorGuard offers multiple & various privacy features and services, which are packaged into separate subscription tiers based on how the user intends to use them:
- An anonymous VPN plan
- A business VPN plan
- A streaming VPN plan
- A host of encrypted email services with varying subscription tiers
Pros and Cons
- Dedicated IP add-on for $3.99
- Multiple plans for various uses, including a separate business tier
- Very positive user reviews
- Loads of features and customization
- Confusing free trial policy
- Short money-back guarantee
- Limited server locations
4. NordVPN
NordVPN is a fast and secure VPN service with many unique features. It is one of the most secure VPN services, combining AES-256 encryption with an ad and malware blocker, and double VPN services, aka multi-hop connections.
NordVPN’s standard plan comes with a $59.88 price tag for one year, which is reasonable considering its range of features, allowance for six simultaneously connected devices and access to over 5,000 servers located in over 55 countries.
Pros and Cons
- Built-in malware and ad blocker
- Dedicated IP address add-on
- Easy to use
- Lacks transparency of pricing for business tiers
5. IPVanish
Despite its shortcomings, IPVanish manages to stand out in a crowded market. It makes up for that with unlimited simultaneous connections and a less annual price tag of $39.99. IPVanish manages its servers, too, which is great for privacy-focused users.
IPVanish excels with its no-nonsense user experience, top-notch security and affordable pricing. It’s available with SugarSync, too, in case someone is looking for some online storage.
Pros and Cons
- Inexpensive
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Lacks unique features
- No dedicated IP add-on
6. VPN Unlimited (aka KeepSolid)
VPN Unlimited, aka KeepSolid, is a New York-based VPN service provider that cut due to its compatibility with several platforms. It offers discrete apps for various devices. It is preferred due to its positive user experience, access to a dedicated IP as an upgrade, and a subscription plan tailored for businesses.
Pros and Cons
- A dedicated IP address is available
- Tailored business tier
- Strong privacy features
- Wonky device configuration
- Pricy device upgrades and add-ons
- The low number of servers
7. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a poster child for the personal VPN market. It is unmatched in security and ease of use, offering an intuitive VPN application with a lot of advanced technology behind the scenes.
In addition to AES-256 encryption through standard VPN protocols, ExpressVPN provides its proprietary Lightway protocol that boosts speeds without compromising security.
Pros and Cons
- Proprietary Lightway VPN protocol
- Easy to use
- Router app to protect more devices
- A broad network of servers
- Expensive
- Limited business/work functionality
8. Surfshark
In a copycat VPN service market, Surfshark stands out with a list of unique features. That includes split tunneling, allowing the user to send only selected apps through the VPN tunnel, and multi-hop connections, which bounce the user’s tunnel across multiple servers for extra security.
Surfshark has a large network with over 3,200 servers and is priced at $59.76 for a year which is reasonable. Additional features are CleanWeb for ad-free browsing, Camouflage Mode to limit ISP snooping, NoBorders mode to access the VPN in restricted areas and more.
The standard plan also permits an unlimited number of simultaneously connected devices to boot. It is great for personal use.
Pros and Cons
- Multiple unique features
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Easy to use
- No dedicated IP address
- Limited server locations
9. Windscribe
Windscribe is one of the best free VPN services on the market, and its paid tier is not too shabby either.
Free VPNs are usually out of the question because of their limited features and issues with user tracking to gain advertising dollars. Still, Windscribe provides a robust and usable free option without sacrificing security or privacy. The free version limits the bandwidth and connectable locations, but users can add more locations and data for a few dollars each month.
Pros and Cons
- Solid free version
- Affordable basic tier
- Unlimited number of simultaneously connected devices
- Lacks insight into server count
- Limited business functionality
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10. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield has the most user reviews from any VPN service and maintains high user ratings across various app stores and TrustPilot.
With a solid free plan and the best streaming capabilities, Hotspot Shield has drawn in a large user base. The free version has strict limitations, such as a single device slot, throttled connection speeds and a 500MB-per-day data cap.
The paid version can be bought to erase those limitations. The paid plan clocks in at $95.99 yearly, but for a good reason. Premium users can connect five devices simultaneously, including routers and access to Hotspot Shield’s spam call blocker, password manager and antivirus protection.
Pros and Cons
- Extensively rated VPN
- Bundled with a spam call blocker, an antivirus, and a password manager
- Expensive
- Lackluster free version
Conclusion
A VPN offers user privacy, security and freedom, all at a reasonable monthly cost from most VPN services. While using VPN services, the user can be sure that the IP address is masked, internet data is secure, and can access content that may not be available in the user’s country