The demand for VPNs has exploded following the work from home directives issued to contain the coronavirus. Most internet users are also increasingly concerned about data privacy. ISPs, internet browsers, websites, and other online services companies can collect and sell your data without permission.
What Are the Primary Features of an Excellent VPN?
With many virtual private networks available, picking the right one could be a daunting task. Superior VPNs have the following characteristics:
- Several server locations. The more servers a VPN offers, the faster it's likely to be. It also gives you more variety regarding the types of IP addresses available.
- Coherent logging policy. While most VPNs claim they have a no-logging or zero-log policy, that’s not always the case.
- Dependable customer support. It includes 24/7 instant chat,
as well as email and phone support. - Simultaneous connections. An adequate VPN works on multiple devices, including routers, smart TVs, tablets, and media streaming devices.
- VPN kill switch. This feature blocks network access to your devices whenever the VPN is disconnected, which prevents data leakage.
- Mobile support. It includes updated software and upgraded compatibility with various devices and OSs.
- Other features of high-quality VPNs are IPv6 support, SmartDNS capabilities, split tunneling, and support for the OpenVPN protocol.
Five Excellent VPN Services for Remote Work
There are several free VPNs, such as the Opera browser's inbuilt option. Although they're useful, you need comprehensive premium solutions with top notch customer support. They include:
1. ExpressVPN
This veteran VPN provider consistently ranks as one of the best in the market. It boasts unrestricted, worldwide access, online security and anonymity, 24/7 customer care, as well as multiple devices and OSs.
Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN has 3000+ servers in 160 server locations spread across 94 countries. Other features include a kill switch, zero-knowledge DNS, superior AES-256 encryption, split tunneling, privacy guarantee, and TrustedServer technology.
It offers three pricing plans: a one-month plan for $12.95, $59.95 for six months, and $99.95 for the annual option. Other than PayPal, credit cards, and other popular payment gateways, they accept cryptocurrency.
2. CyberGhost
With CyberGhost, one subscription simultaneously covers up to seven devices. It gives you the ability to access any content online, including geo-restricted and blocked websites.
You also enjoy a no-logs policy, safe browsing on public Wi-Fi networks, secure online banking, and DNS leak protection. All these features have military-grade, 256 bit AES encryption. CyberGhost has over 5900 servers in more than 89 countries.
The service is available in a one-month plan ($12.99), annual ($5.99/month), and 2-year plan ($3.69/month).
3. NordVPN
This VPN is famous for providing all-round value at an affordable price. Other than AES-256 encryption, it also supports IKEv2/IPSec and OpenVPN protocols for maximum traffic security. With over 5800 servers in 59 countries, NordVPN offers fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth.
Its other useful feature is the CyberSec suite, which blocks intrusive ads and malware. NordVPN's advanced settings allow it to work even in countries with substantial censorship programs, such as China. Its capable kill switches and DNS settings have a solid reputation for preventing data leaks.
4. Surfshark
This VPN’s a relatively new entrant in the market. Other than being feature-rich, Surfshark is one of the most affordable solutions in this list. One subscription covers unlimited devices, a convenience that other top-tier VPNs don’t offer.
Other features include a no logs policy, military-grade encryption, and a kill switch. Its CleanWeb tool prevents phishing and other malware attempts when using online services. It also allows you to whitelist websites and apps that don't work smoothly with VPN services, such as online banking.
Though the number is growing, Surfshark's 1040+ servers are not as many as those offered by established competitors. It also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, although its affordable pricing plan requires a two-year commitment.
5. IPVanish
IPVanish is perfect if you’re a first time VPN user because it’s easy to install and has an intuitive UI. The service also has an optional tutorial that shows you how to configure it. The app works smoothly, with quick startup and connection without any lags.
This VPN generously offers ten simultaneous connections and unlimited installations. Its main features include unlimited bandwidth, AES-256 encryption, a zero-log policy, SOCKS5 proxy, and 24/7 customer support.
It also provides support for various VPN connection types, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec protocols. Other features are: over 40,000 shared IPs, as well as more than 1300 servers in over 75 locations.
Get Solutions to Your Home Network
At Hummingbird Networks, we’re committed to helping you adapt to the new work-from-home directives. A VPN will help you surf the web anonymously while protecting you from malicious attacks. Our IT products and services are compatible with most premium VPN options. Other than network security and Wi-Fi solutions, we also offer consulting and installation services for a range of IT issues. Contact us today for more information.
