In this article, we will compare the main VPN providers, explore the types of services they offer, and discuss their pros and cons.

First, let’s understand what a VPN is, why you need a VPN server, in what cases it’s necessary, and the main types of VPN servers available.

What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure and encrypted connection between a server and your device. This connection protects the data you transmit and prevents data spoofing when using untrusted Wi-Fi networks.

Benefits of Using a VPN:

• Your data is protected:
  • Encryption of all internet traffic
• Bypass blocked resources:
  • A VPN allows you to bypass content blocked on the network you are connected to.
• Anonymity and confidentiality:
  • The VPN server hides your real IP address, making you invisible to advertisers and trackers.
• Access to content:
  • VPNs can unblock content that is restricted by services like Netflix and Hulu, allowing you to watch shows and movies that are unavailable in your region.
• Speed optimization:
  • In some cases, VPNs help avoid throttling by internet providers.

Top 5 VPN Providers Overview

We have compiled a list of 4 VPN providers that we believe deserve attention. We’ll explore their connection types, available locations, average cost, contract terms, and, of course, their strengths and weaknesses. At the end of the review, we will discuss an alternative, more secure VPN server option.

NordVPN

NordVPN was founded in 2012 by Tom Okman and Eimantas Sabaliauskas with the aim of creating a secure and accessible internet. Over the years, the service has grown significantly, now with over 14 million users worldwide. NordVPN is owned by Nord Security, based in Panama, known for its privacy and cybersecurity solutions.

Technical Info:

• Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard (NordLynx), IKEv2/IPSec, Obfuscated Servers, Onion Over VPN
• Available locations: US, UK, Germany, Japan, Australia, Ukraine, and over 60 countries worldwide

Cost

• Price: From $3.59/month with a 24-month subscription

Pros/Cons:

• Cons: Some users complain about limited functionality in certain regions (e.g., China).
• Pros: High speed, advanced security features, large server network.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN, founded in 2009, is one of the leading VPN services in the world, with about 6 million users as of 2023. It is owned by Israeli cybersecurity company Kape Technologies, which acquired it for $936 million in 2021. ExpressVPN is known for its robust privacy policy and extensive network of servers in 94 countries.

Technical Info

• Protocols: Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec
• Available locations: 94 countries, including the US, UK, France, Canada, India, UAE, etc.

Cost

• Price: From $6.67/month for a 12-month subscription

Pros/Cons

• Cons: Limited choice of additional features and newer protocols such as Wireguard.
• Pros: high speed, work in regions with limited internet (e.g. China), support for a wide variety of devices.

Surfshark

In 2022, Surfshark merged with Nord Security (owner of NordVPN). Despite the merger, both companies remain operationally independent and maintain their own infrastructures. Surfshark started as a project backed by Lithuanian business gas pedal Tesonet, but is now considered a separate company.

Technical Info:

• Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec.
• Available locations: over 100 countries including the US, Europe, Asia and Australia.

Cost

• Price: From $2.49/month for a 24-month subscription

Pros/Cons

• Cons: relatively new network, outages are possible on high load locations.
• Pros: unlimited connections, low price, Camouflage Mode feature to bypass blocking.

CyberGhost

CyberGhost was founded in 2011 and quickly became one of the most popular VPN services in the world. To date, more than 38 million people have used it. The company is owned by Kape Technologies, known for its investments in cybersecurity-related projects, including such VPNs as ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access. CyberGhost attracts users with its intuitive platform and extensive server network in more than 90 countries

Technical Info:

• Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2.
• Available locations: more than 90 countries, including the US, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Turkey, etc.

Cost

• Price: From $2.29/month for a 24-month subscription

Pros/Cons

• Cons: less reliable for working in regions with severe internet restrictions.
• Pros: servers for streaming and P2P, user-friendly interface, high availability of servers.

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN was launched in 2017 by the team behind ProtonMail, a highly data-secure email service. Based in Switzerland, ProtonVPN focuses on privacy, offering a strict no-logging policy and server locations in countries with strong data protection laws. The company’s services are used by millions of people due to its free plan, security, and open approach to technology

Technical Info:

• Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec.
• Available locations: 60+ countries including the US, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Australia.

Cost

• Price: From $4.99/month for a 24-month subscription

Pros/Cons

• Cons: limited network of servers compared to competitors.
• Pros: strong focus on privacy, support for Tor connections.

Alternative VPN server option

A growing trend is setting up your own VPN server on a VPS (Virtual Private Server). This approach allows you to maintain full control over your data and connections, avoiding the limitations that may come with VPN providers.

We offer a ready-to-use solution that allows you to set up a VPN server with just one click. This is an excellent choice for those who want to combine the benefits of a personal server with minimal setup effort.

Why is a Personal VPN Better Than a Service Provider’s?

• No third parties: This reduces the risk of data leaks or tracking.
• Customization: You can configure your server to suit your needs, choosing protocols, encryption levels, and other parameters.
• Higher speed: A personal server typically provides faster speeds since the server’s bandwidth is dedicated to you.
• No subscription fees: Pay only when you use the server.
• Ideal for specific tasks, like accessing corporate resources.

Cons of a Personal VPN Server:

• Setup complexity: If you’re not using our one-click solution, you’ll need to learn how to set up WireGuard or OpenVPN.
• Higher VPS rental costs: Renting a VPS may cost more than a VPN subscription, but with a VPS, there are no user limits, and you can also use it as a hosting or automation server.
• No automatic software updates.

A personal VPN server on a VPS rental from serverio.io is an excellent alternative to VPN service subscriptions. In the end, you get maximum control over your data, flexible configuration, and the ability to use the server for other purposes, such as hosting, monitoring, or automation.