3 recommended VPN services to protect your privacy and unlock the internet

In a world where online privacy is becoming harder to maintain, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have evolved from a tech niche into a digital necessity. Whether it’s securing your data on public Wi-Fi, bypassing content restrictions, or keeping intrusive trackers at bay, a VPN ensures your online activities remain private and known only by you.

Why use a VPN?

Every time you browse the internet, you leave behind digital footprints. Internet Service Providers (ISPs), advertisers, and even hackers can collect this data, tracking your habits or intercepting sensitive information. The risks multiply when using unsecured networks, like free public Wi-Fi, where your private data is most vulnerable.

As such, a VPN acts as a secure tunnel, encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address to shield you from prying eyes, thus preventing the abuse of user profiling.

Beyond enhancing privacy and security, VPNs are invaluable for streaming enthusiasts. They enable access to a broader range of content by allowing users to reside virtually in different regions, thereby unlocking shows, movies, and live sports events that may be unavailable in their actual location.

This is particularly beneficial for expatriates, travelers, or anyone interested in international programming. Additionally, VPNs help mitigate bandwidth throttling imposed by some Internet Service Providers (ISPs), ensuring smoother, buffer-free viewing experiences.

Our top 3 VPN picks for 2025

With countless VPN options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Below are three trusted VPN services that deliver robust privacy protection, reliable speeds, and user-friendly experiences.

ExpressVPN – A premium VPN designed for speed and privacy

As one of the world’s most recognized VPN providers, ExpressVPN is known for its blazing-fast speeds and industry-leading security features. Its vast network of ultra-fast 10Gbps servers spans 105 countries, making it a top choice for streaming, gaming, and browsing—even in regions with strict internet censorship.

ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol ensures faster connections with better battery efficiency, especially on mobile devices. Meanwhile, its TrustedServer technology guarantees that every server runs on RAM, wiping all data with every reboot for maximum privacy. Users can enjoy added protection with features like a built-in ad blocker, tracker prevention, and parental controls, all easily managed within the app.

For streaming aficionados, the MediaStreamer tool is a must-have. Thanks to its Smart DNS service, it is made to transform troublesome and confusing setups into simple few-click steps, with clear explanations aiding users along the way.

With this, devices that don’t natively run VPN apps are now practically supported, enabling geo-restricted content on gaming consoles and certain smart TVs. From Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video to BBC iPlayer, Disney+, HBO, and Showtime, no content is barred from you ever again.

You can also click here to find out the full list of supported streaming services.

Not only that, but ExpressVPN supports up to eight simultaneous device connections and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 live chat support, providing users with flexibility and peace of mind.

CyberGhost VPN – User-friendly privacy with powerful features

With over 15 years of experience, CyberGhost VPN strikes an excellent balance between ease of use and robust privacy protection. Operating out of Romania which has strong privacy laws and outside the jurisdiction of major surveillance alliances, CyberGhost offers peace of mind for users concerned about data collection.

CyberGhost boasts a massive network of over 9,000 RAM-only servers in 91 countries. Its dedicated apps make connecting as simple as one click, offering access to specialized servers optimized for streaming and torrenting. This ensures smooth, uninterrupted viewing and downloads, free from ISP throttling or proxy errors.

What makes CyberGhost stand out is its token-based Dedicated IP system, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of a static IP address while maintaining complete anonymity. The VPN also includes CyberGhost ID Guard to protect against identity theft and advanced blocking tools that prevent ads, trackers, and malicious domains.

Every subscription covers up to seven devices simultaneously, ranging from laptops and smartphones to smart TVs and gaming consoles. With a strict no-logs policy, regular Transparency Reports, and a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, CyberGhost VPN delivers both transparency and value.

Private Internet Access (PIA) – Open-source transparency and total control

Private Internet Access (PIA) is the go-to VPN for users who value transparency, flexibility, and control. With over 10 years of experience and 30 million downloads, PIA backs its services with fully open-source apps, giving users the rare ability to inspect exactly how their data is handled.

PIA operates thousands of next-gen servers in over 91 countries, including full coverage across all U.S. states to provide fast, stable, and reliable connections. Unlike many competitors, PIA supports unlimited device connections with a single subscription, making it perfect for large households or users with multiple gadgets.

Privacy is at the core of PIA’s offering. The service reroutes internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel, hiding your IP address and browsing activity from ISPs, network administrators, and government censors. Its no-logs policy has been independently audited by Deloitte, reaffirming PIA’s commitment to user privacy.

Advanced users will appreciate PIA’s customizable features, including split tunneling, configurable encryption levels (AES-128 or AES-256), and a variety of secure VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard.

Additionally, PIA offers token-based Dedicated IPs, ideal for remote work, reducing CAPTCHAs, or securing IoT devices. With unlimited bandwidth, fast connection speeds, and 24/7 customer support, PIA delivers a transparent and versatile VPN experience—risk-free, thanks to their 30-day money-back guarantee.

Final thoughts

Whether your priority is seamless streaming, ironclad privacy, or open-source transparency, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access each offer distinct advantages tailored to different needs. A reliable VPN isn’t just a tool for bypassing restrictions; it’s your digital shield in an increasingly connected world.

Here’s how you can quickly choose 1 out of the 3 in this post based on their advantages:

• ExpressVPN: Superior convenience for streaming enthusiasts who seek high-speed and stable connections for accessing geo-restricted content
• CyberGhost VPN: User-friendly interface and powerful privacy tool with flexible use cases from streaming and torrenting to gaming and generally secured connection
• Private Internet Access: A compelling option for transparency-first and open-source supporters while providing extensive customization options for power users

Choosing any of these VPNs ensures you stay protected wherever you are, with the freedom to enjoy the internet your way.