Top 10 VPN Companies: Benefits vs Shortcomings
Top 10 VPN Companies: Benefits vs Shortcomings
December 4, 2024
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Top 10 Fastest VPN Static IP Providers in 2024
- Nord VPN (known for exceptional security features)
- Surfshark (recommended for users with multiple devices)
- TorGuard (tailored for advanced users)
- TunnelBear (ideal for beginners)
- ProtonVPN (preferred by privacy-conscious users)
- me (suited for gaming and streaming)
- VPN Unlimited (great for unlocking geo-restricted content)
- CyberGhost (features a user-friendly interface)
- Private Internet Access VPN (noteworthy for customization options)
- ExpressVPN (leading in global coverage)
The companies listed above offer stable static VPN IPs that excel in the current market. Let’s delve into a chronological analysis of these providers based on their rankings.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN, operated by Nordsec Ltd and based in Lithuania, provides VPN services for various platforms, ensuring secure connections. It stands out in the VPN industry for its robust security features and applications tailored for multiple devices.
- Anonymous Web Browsing: Enhance Online Privacy with Anonymous Web Browsing
- Encryption: Deploy Military-Grade Encryption for Enhanced Security
- Secure Public Wi-Fi Usage: Protect Your Connection on Unsecured Networks
- No-Log Policy: Commitment to a Strict No-Log Policy for Enhanced Privacy
- Enhanced Connectivity: Utilize Global Servers for Improved Connectivity
- Access Restricted Content: Bypass Geographical Restrictions for Content Access
- Security: Employ Extra Security Layers with Double VPN and CyberSec
- Shortcomings: NordVPN might occasionally impact loading speeds due to server congestion, affecting user experience in certain instances without consistent slow speeds.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark, a rapidly expanding cybersecurity company, prioritizes user-friendly privacy and security solutions. It has gained global recognition for providing top-tier VPN services and is particularly recommended for users with multiple devices.
- Private Browsing: Encrypt Online Activities for Privacy
- …cont’d…
3. TorGuard
With inception in 2012, TorGuard VPN’s focus has been on delivering an exceptional VPN experience globally for consumers and businesses. The extensive network covers over fifty countries, with a robust infrastructure boasting more than 3000+ servers. For advanced users, TorGuard, as a VPN Company, customizes services to meet their specific requirements.
- OpenVPN obfuscation: Offering Advertisement Blocking, Malware Blocking, Excellent Mobile Apps, and Security-Focused Desktop Apps, TorGuard Anonymous VPN Service stands out.
- Dedicated IP: The TorGuard streaming bundle includes a standard subscription and two dedicated IP addresses for streaming purposes.
- Servers: With secure DNS servers, TorGuard includes built-in DNS and IPv6 leak protection to enhance security.
- Customer support: Quick and responsive customer support services are part of TorGuard’s offerings.
- Internal encrypted DNS: Each visit to a website involves requests sent through your internet service provider (ISP) via the Domain Name System (DNS).
- Advertisement blocking: TorGuard offers an Ad Blocking DNS option that, as the name suggests, blocks ads and pop-ups.
- Shortcomings: TorGuard provides split tunneling exclusively for Android devices. Streaming is not supported on the Standard plan unless users pay an additional fee for a dedicated IP address. Moreover, the VPN app’s user interface is less intuitive compared to other services.
4. TunnelBear
TunnelBear, a public VPN service located in Toronto, Canada, was founded by Daniel Kaldor and Ryan Dochuk in 2011. McAfee acquired TunnelBear in March 2018. Among VPN Companies, TunnelBear is an optimal choice for beginners seeking user-friendly solutions.
- User-Friendly Interface: TunnelBear offers user-friendly apps for iOS and Android, making it an excellent pick for VPN beginners. A playful design featuring bears with lasers adds an appealing touch to the app’s simplicity.
- Transparency and Audits: TunnelBear distinguishes itself with its transparency, regularly publishing detailed reports on law enforcement inquiries and data disclosure. The company undergoes annual security audits by external agencies to uphold high service standards.
- Other Benefits: Features like the kill switch (VigilantBear) and GhostBear for bypassing censorship add value to TunnelBear’s service offerings.
- Shortcomings: Accessing technical support with TunnelBear can be challenging, given its lack of a straightforward support system. Additionally, users opting for TunnelBear plans are required to make a significant upfront commitment to secure the best rates.
5. Proton VPN
Launched in 2014, Proton VPN is a service provided by Proton AG, a Switzerland-based employee-owned company. Proton’s inception stems from collaboration among scientists at CERN in 2014, resulting in the creation of Proton Mail, the world’s largest encrypted email service. ProtonVPN excels in the VPN Companies sphere as a top choice for privacy-focused users.
- Extensive Global Network: Users can select from over 3,000 VPN servers across 70 countries for a diverse and extensive network.
- Global Streaming Access: Proton VPN offers seamless access to preferred content on popular streaming services globally.
- High-Speed Servers: Swift and reliable connections are assured through Proton VPN’s fast servers, optimizing browsing and streaming experiences.
- Multi-Device Compatibility: Users can simultaneously connect up to 10 devices, providing flexibility for those with multiple devices.
- BitTorrent Support: Proton VPN ensures secure and private BitTorrent usage, catering to peer-to-peer file sharing enthusiasts.
- NetShield Ad-Blocker: Block intrusive ads and enjoy a cleaner browsing experience with NetShield.
- Secure Core VPN: Added security layers are available through Secure Core VPN, fortifying connections for sensitive online activities.
- Open Source: Embracing transparency and security, Proton VPN is open source, allowing users insight into the software’s code for enhanced trust.
- Shortcomings: Proton VPN has limitations; the free version provides access to only 65 servers, potentially leading to congestion and slower connections due to increased user load. Additionally, the service has received subpar customer ratings on various online platforms.
6. me VPN
Founded by Sebastian Schaub in 2012, a former entrepreneur featured in Forbes, hide.me, now operating under the name eVenture Ltd. in Malaysia, specializes in its sole product, hide.me VPN.
- Empowering Internet Freedom: Users can bypass internet censorship, regain the right to speak freely, and securely access popular websites through encrypted VPN connections with hide.me.
- Enhanced WiFi Security: Ensure secure web browsing by shielding your real IP address and encrypting your internet connection with hide.me.
- Seamless Global IPTV Streaming: Enjoy uninterrupted streaming of global channels such as BBC, Youtube, and Vimeo worldwide with hide.me.
- State-of-the-Art VPN Protocols: hide.me supports advanced protocols like IKEv2 IPsec, OpenVPN, WireGuard, SoftEther, and SSTP, ensuring AES-256 encryption and establishing itself as the first professional VPN provider to support the new IKEv2 protocol.
- Strict No-Log VPN: Privacy is paramount with hide.me’s strict no-log policy, ensuring that online activities are not stored or linked back to users.
- Premium-Quality Servers: Access hand-picked top-tier servers from key global locations with hide.me, restricting access for maximum privacy and eliminating the risk of slow or unreliable servers.
- Concealed IP Address: When connected to hide.me, users are provided with a new IP address, concealing the real one for increased anonymity.
- Compatible Device Support: Utilize hide.me across all devices like PC, Mac, Tablet, iPhone, or Android, with the ability to set up 10 different VPN connections.
- Simple User-Friendly Setup: Set up a secure VPN connection quickly and easily with hide.me’s straightforward setup guides suitable for non-technical users.
- Customized Software for Optimal Performance: hide. me customizes hardware and software, delivering the best VPN service worldwide for maximum privacy and performance.
- Data Usage Limits: Most users find the 10 GB monthly limit sufficient as mentioned earlier.
- Reduced Connection Speeds: hide.me may impose slower connection speeds, which could be a notable drawback for users seeking faster VPN performance.
- Server Constraints: Another drawback could be the limitations on available servers with Hide, potentially affecting the variety and quality of server options for users.
- Device Restrictions: Hide may impose limits on the number of devices that can be connected simultaneously, which could be a constraint for users with multiple devices.
7. VPN Unlimited
KeepSolid, established in 2013, began as a software development company. It introduced VPN Unlimited on iOS with just two servers. The significant milestone was achieved in May 2016 when VPN Unlimited received the Editor’s Choice Award from PCMag. In November 2018, VPN Unlimited released a lite version of freemium apps for Android and iOS.
- Kill Switch Feature: VPN Unlimited’s Kill Switch feature safeguards privacy by disconnecting the device’s internet if there’s a disruption in the VPN connection, preventing any potential leaks.
- VPN Protocol Technology: VPN protocols and essential technologies establish secure and private connections between a user’s device and the web within VPNs.
- Download Options: VPN Unlimited offers versatile download options for various devices like Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, MacOS, Windows Mobile, browsers, routers, and streaming devices such as Apple TV and Amazon Fire.
- Dedicated IP Security: A Dedicated IP address in VPN Unlimited ensures uninterrupted access to certain sites, mitigating the risk of being blocked due to others’ questionable activities on the shared IP.
- Robust Encryption: VPN Unlimited uses military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, providing robust security against external hacking attempts.
- Split Tunneling Capability: With Split Tunneling, VPN Unlimited allows users to choose which apps connect through the VPN and which use regular internet access, providing control over internet traffic routing.
- Limitations: Limitations could include inconsistent speeds on distant servers, separate apps with differing functionalities, absence of live chat support, and restrictions on torrenting capabilities.
8. Cyber Ghost
Ranked jointly at number 8 in our 2024 list of the Best VPNs, CyberGhost was founded in 2011 in Bucharest, Romania. In 2017, it was acquired by Kape Technologies, the parent company responsible for managing ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, and ZenMate VPN.
- Cost-Effective Subscription: Avail of a budget-friendly subscription with a low monthly cost of just $2.19 for a two-year plan, bringing affordability without compromisingQuality is ensured by CyberGhost VPN.
- Access a vast network of over 11,600 servers across more than 100 countries for a diverse range of connection options globally.
- Enjoy connecting up to seven devices simultaneously for flexible integration across various devices.
- Unlock regional streaming content effortlessly by bypassing geographical restrictions on streaming platforms.
- Experience fast VPN speeds for smooth and responsive connectivity online.
- Utilize user-friendly apps tailored for different operating systems and mobile devices for enhanced accessibility.
- Rest assured with a strict no-logs policy prioritizing user privacy.
- A significant drawback of CyberGhost is its comparatively slower performance when utilizing WireGuard. Additionally, the Mac and iOS apps lack several features, making them a suboptimal choice for Apple device users.
9. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA), established in 2010 under the parent company London Trust Media by entrepreneur Andrew Lee, aims to make privacy more accessible. Their commitment led to the decision to open-source their client software code.
- PIA adheres to a robust no-logs policy, ensuring your browsing data is never tracked, stored, recorded, or sold for complete digital privacy.
- Secure your entire network with PIA’s unlimited VPN connections that protect laptops, PCs, smartphones, and other devices.
- Access prompt customer support through live chat or email for reliable assistance.
- Enjoy ad blocking on every device with dedicated apps for major platforms and the option to connect an unlimited number of devices under a single PIA VPN subscription.
- For enhanced anonymity, subscribe to PIA without disclosing email addresses or financial information.
- PIA offers IP masking to ensure secure internet connections by concealing your device’s unique identifier.
- PIA is among the few top VPNs providing 100% open-source VPN apps, emphasizing transparency and user trust.
- The drawbacks of VPNs vary based on configurations and alignment with user requirements, including reduced internet speeds due to data encryption, restrictions in specific countries, compatibility issues, subscription costs for premium services, and privacy risks associated with free VPNs.
10. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN, founded in 2009 by Peter Burckhardt and Dan Pomerantz, provides VPN services through their parent company Express VPN International Ltd.
- ExpressVPN prioritizes user security by using a private DNS for encrypted DNS queries to guard against third-party interference and improve internet speeds.
- Enable seamless streaming, downloading, and content access by concealing IP addresses and encrypting network data with AES-256 encryption.
- Access blocked websites and services by connecting to IP addresses in 94 countries using RAM-only servers that don’t retain logs.
- Reduce latency for gamers, minimize lag, and access blocked games like PUBG while protecting against DDoS attacks by masking IP addresses.
- Protect users’ IP addresses and sensitive information with the kill switch Network Lock that blocks internet access during connection interruptions.
- Select which devices require VPN connections with ExpressVPN’s split tunneling for seamless access to restricted content.
- Extend VPN protection to all connected devices with ExpressVPN’s Aircove Wi-Fi router for secure connectivity across multiple devices simultaneously.
- The shortcomings of VPNs involve various factors such as reduced internet speeds due to encryption, country restrictions, compatibility issues, subscription costs, and privacy risks with free VPNs.
ExpressVPN does not have support for creating a multi-hop connection, which involves routing traffic through two VPN servers for enhanced privacy, even in the event that one server is compromised. NordVPN and Proton VPN are the exclusive providers of features like accessing Tor, multiple hop connections, and split tunneling.
When selecting a VPN service, it’s crucial to consider the specific features and capabilities that match your privacy and security preferences. Each VPN provider caters to different user needs with its strengths and limitations. While ExpressVPN excels in robust security measures and user-friendly features, it is important to recognize certain functionalities it may lack compared to other providers, such as the ability to establish a multi-hop connection. Users should evaluate their priorities carefully, taking into account factors like server locations, logging policies, and additional features, in order to choose the VPN service that best suits their requirements.
Top 10 VPN Companies: Benefits vs ShortcomingsData is from 2023 and 2024 and forecast data is for 2025 and 2026. We also expand the forecast data to 2027 and 2028. Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Europe, North America, Australia (Oceania), Middle East, South America.
* This information was taken from various sources around the world, including these countries:
Australia, Canada, USA, UK, UAE, India, Pakistan, Philippines, Indonesia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Kenya, US, United Kingdom, United States of America, Malaysia, U.S., South Africa, New Zealand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates.
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antarctica, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan.
Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Bouvet Island, Brazil, British Indian Ocean Territory, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi.
Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling Islands), Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Cote D’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Croatia (Hrvatska), Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic.
Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Estonia, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Faroe Islands, Fiji, Finland, France, Metropolitan, French Guiana, French Polynesia, French Southern Territories.
Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Heard and McDonald Islands, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy.
Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, North Korea, South Korea, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg.
Macau, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Martinique, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar.
Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles, New Caledonia, New Zealand (NZ), Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, Northern Mariana Islands, Norway.
Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Pitcairn, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe.
Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Africa, South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands, Spain, Sri Lanka, St. Helena, St. Pierre and Miquelon, Sudan, Suriname, Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria.
Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tokelau, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates (UAE), UK (United Kingdom), USA (United States of America, U.S.), US Minor Outlying Islands.
Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City State (Holy See), Venezuela, Vietnam, Virgin Islands (British), Virgin Islands (US), Wallis and Futuna Islands, Western Sahara, Yemen, Yugoslavia, Zaire, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Top 10 VPN Companies: Benefits vs Shortcomings
December 4, 2024
