Proton VPN is a VPN service offered by Proton Technologies, which is also known for its email service ProtonMail. Registered in Switzerland, Proton Technologies follows strict European privacy laws, making it one of the most secure VPN providers on the market.
The purpose of this review is to provide detailed and unbiased information about the functionality, pros and cons of Proton VPN to help consumers make an informed decision.
Key characteristics of a good VPN service
Some of the key features of a good VPN service include privacy, speed, connection stability, ease of use, their support for different devices and operating systems, and of course, price. Moreover, a good VPN should have a no-logging policy and support for P2P connections for those interested in torrenting.
History, Features and Developers of Proton VPN
Proton VPN is a VPN service that was created by the ProtonMail team in 2017. The company Proton Technologies AG is known for its secure email service, which was created in response to the desire to create a secure and private way to exchange messages. Proton VPN shares the same principles as ProtonMail, ensuring a high level of security and privacy, as well as providing secure and private access to the Internet anywhere in the world.
| Characteristic | Description |
| Country | Switzerland |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Servers | 1500+ |
| Number of devices per account | 10 |
| Speed limit | No |
| Traffic limitation | No |
| Automatic kill switch | Yes |
| DNS protection | Yes |
| Blocking Bypass | Yes |
| P2P Support | Yes |
| Netflix support | Yes |
| Price | From 4 to 24 dollars per month depending on the tariff |
Key features of Proton VPN:
- Multiple available servers in more than 50 countries around the world.
- High level of security thanks to AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN protocol.
- Variety of supported devices and operating systems.
- Ability to unlock geo-restricted content.
- Automatic server switching system.
Advantages and disadvantages of using Prot.
A brief history of Proton Technologies
Proton Technologies was founded in 2014 and began by creating ProtonMail, an encrypted email service that provides the user with a high degree of security and privacy. This was in response to the privacy threats that became increasingly apparent after the Edward Snowden revelations. In 2017, in response to user requests and needs, Proton Technologies launched Proton VPN.
Projects related to Proton VPN (ProtonMail, etc.)
In addition to Proton VPN, Proton Technologies also operates a ProtonMail, Proton Calendar end Proton Drive. ProtonMail, as already mentioned, is an email service with client-side encryption that ensures the privacy of your communication. Proton Calendar is an alternative to Google Calendar that also uses client-side encryption to protect your data. Finally, Proton Drive is an encrypted cloud storage service that allows you to store and share files securely.
ProtonVPN was designed with the same privacy and security principles that underpin the company's other products. This means that, like ProtonMail and Proton Drive, ProtonVPN provides strong encryption and a strict “no logging” policy to protect your privacy and ensure anonymity online.
All Proton Technologies services are closely related and complement each other. For example, ProtonMail users can use ProtonVPN for an extra layer of protection when sending and receiving emails. Similarly, Proton Drive users can use ProtonVPN to securely access their files from anywhere in the world. This makes Proton Technologies products ideal for those looking for a comprehensive solution for their data privacy and security needs.
Main features of Proton VPN
ProtonVPN is a leading virtual private network (VPN) service developed by Proton Technologies, also known for its ProtonMail email service. It is worth noting that both of these projects originated in laboratories CERN end MIT, which indicates a high level of their technical base.
Below are some of the main features of ProtonVPN:
- Security and privacy: ProtonVPN uses modern encryption standards such as AES-256 and supports OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec protocols. This ensures that your data remains secure and private at all times.
- No-logs policy: Proton follows a strict “no-logs” policy, which means they do not keep a record of your online activity.
- Server Network: ProtonVPN offers a wide network of servers around the world, providing fast and reliable access to geographically restricted sites and services.
- Multi-device support: ProtonVPN supports all major platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. They also have instructions for installing the VPN on routers.
- Tor Compatibility: ProtonVPN supports Tor over VPN, which enables users to use the Tor network safely and anonymously.
- Kill Switch: This feature provides protection in case of an unexpected disconnection from the VPN. If this happens, Kill Switch automatically blocks all your traffic, preventing data leakage.
- Different pricing plans: ProtonVPN offers several pricing plans, including a free option, making this service accessible to a large number of users.
Overall, ProtonVPN is a powerful and reliable VPN service that adheres to strict security and privacy principles and offers a wide range of features to keep you safe online.
Speed and performance
Speed test results
- Proton VPN speeds can vary depending on a variety of factors, including your location, server location, and current server load. In general, users report acceptable speeds, although they may be slightly slower than some competitors.
Impact on download and upload speeds
- VPN usage usually affects download and upload speeds, and Proton VPN is no exception. However, due to the large number of servers and advanced infrastructure, the impact on speed is minimal in most cases.
Servers and geographic diversity
Number and location of servers
- ProtonVPN has a large network of servers that are located all over the world. It offers servers in a large number of countries, which provides flexibility of choice and increases the chances of high connection speeds.
Bypassing geo-blocking
- ProtonVPN has proven its effectiveness in bypassing geo-blockers, including those set up by popular streaming services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Hulu. This allows users to enjoy their favorite shows and movies from anywhere in the world.
P2P and torrent servers
- ProtonVPN supports P2P connections, making it an ideal choice for torrents. The company provides dedicated servers for P2P connections, ensuring high speed and security when downloading or uploading files.
ProtonVPN is a high-quality service with strong security and privacy measures. It can offer speed and performance that may be a little slower than some of its competitors, but for most users it will be more than enough. With an extensive network of servers and the ability to bypass geo-blocking, ProtonVPN is a great choice for anyone who values their privacy and freedom on the internet.
Using Proton VPN
The process of installing and configuring Proton VPN
The installation of Proton VPN is quite simple and quick. All you need to do is create an account on their website, select your desired plan, and download the app for your platform. The setup process is straightforward and intuitive, even for beginners.
Proton VPN interface
The interface of Proton VPN is a well-organized and clean space that allows users to easily navigate and manage their settings. There is a detailed world map with available servers, as well as a list of countries where the servers are located.
Example of using Proton VPN to unblock geo-restricted content
With Proton VPN, you can simply select a server in the country where the desired content is available and click connect. You can then access geo-restricted content such as TV shows or movies on streaming platforms.
Features that make Proton VPN unique:
- Multiple servers available: Proton VPN offers an extensive network of servers in different countries around the world.
- High security: Using AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPSec protocols, Proton VPN provides high data security.
- Variety of supported devices and operating systems: Proton VPN is available on many platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS.
- Ability to unblock geo-restricted content: Proton VPN allows you to bypass geographical restrictions on content, making it accessible from anywhere in the world.
- Automatic server switching system: This feature, also known as “kill switch”, provides security in the event of an unexpected VPN connection drop.
Support for devices and platforms
Compatible with various platforms
Proton VPN supports multiple platforms including Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android end iOS. There is also support for routers, allowing you to provide VPN protection for all devices in your home.
Support for simultaneous connections
Depending on the plan you choose, ProtonVPN allows you to connect from one to ten devices simultaneously. This means that you can protect multiple devices at the same time using a single account.
Settings and user interface
Mobile apps
- Proton VPN mobile apps are quite easy to use and have a clean, intuitive interface. All the basic functions are easily accessible and the settings can be customized according to your preferences.
Desktop applications
- The desktop apps are also well designed and easy to use. They offer the full range of features available in the mobile apps, as well as additional customization for more advanced users.
Technical support
Proton VPN offers an extensive knowledge base on their website, including articles and troubleshooting guides. They also offer email and callback support for more complex issues. Overall, user feedback on the quality of Proton VPN's support is mostly positive.
Pricing and plans
Overview of available tariffs
ProtonVPN has developed a range of plans to choose from: Free, Basic, Plus and Visionary. The Basic plan offers access to servers in all countries, support for two devices and speeds faster than the Free plan. The Plus and Visionary plans offer even more advanced features, including support for up to 10 devices, increased speeds, access to geo-restricted content, and more.
Free version
ProtonVPN allows you to use a free plan that includes access to servers in three countries and support for one device. The connection speed in this case will be slower than in the paid versions.
Promotional offers and discounts
ProtonVPN periodically offers various promotions and discounts. To learn about these offers in a timely manner, it is recommended to follow their official website or subscribe to their newsletter.
Payment methods and money-back guarantee
ProtonVPN supports a variety of payment options including credit cards and PayPal. In addition, they provide a 30-day money back guarantee, which increases customer confidence in their services.
Advantages and disadvantages of Proton VPN
Benefits of ProtonVPN:
- Strict no-logging policy: ProtonVPN does not save any data about your online activity, ensuring absolute anonymity.
- High Security: Using military-grade encryption and Secure Core technology, ProtonVPN provides one of the highest levels of security on the market.
- P2P support: ProtonVPN supports P2P connections, making it a great choice for torrents.
- Geo-restriction bypass: The ability to bypass geographical restrictions makes it great for accessing content blocked in your region.
- Broad platform support: ProtonVPN offers apps for all major platforms and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS.
Disadvantages of ProtonVPN:
- Relatively slow speed: Compared to some other VPN providers, ProtonVPN's connection speed may be slightly slower.
- Higher cost of some plans: Despite offering a free plan, ProtonVPN's premium plans can be more expensive than some competitors.
- No 24/7 support: While some competitors offer 24/7 support, ProtonVPN does not offer this option.
- Fewer servers: Compared to some other VPN services, ProtonVPN has a relatively smaller number of servers.
Summary of advantages and disadvantages of Proton VPN
ProtonVPN attracts attention for its strict approach to security and privacy, ability to bypass geographical restrictions, and compatibility with various operating systems. However, potential downsides may include its relatively slow speed and the above-average cost of some plans, which may put some users off.
Note that the issues of these disadvantages will depend on each user's personal preferences. If security and privacy are more important to you than connection speed, ProtonVPN will remain an excellent choice despite the slight lag in speed. If you are ready to invest additional money in a quality VPN service, the cost will not be a barrier either.
An added benefit is the availability of a free plan from ProtonVPN. While it doesn't include all the features of the paid plans, it still offers basic features and can be a great starting option for those who are just starting to use a VPN.
It is also important to note ProtonVPN's transparency in its actions and policies. The company has a strong respect for user privacy and clearly declares its policies and approaches. This is important for a VPN service, as users trust them with their personal information.
To summarize, the disadvantages of ProtonVPN are important to consider, but they can be fully justified by the level of security and privacy that the service provides.
Recommendations for different categories of users and VPN use cases
If you are a political activist, journalist or simply someone who lives in a country with restricted access to information, ProtonVPN can be a vital tool for you. It will allow you to bypass government censorship and access blocked news sites and social media.
For business users, especially those who travel frequently, ProtonVPN can also be useful. It will help keep your corporate data private by providing a secure internet connection even over unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.
Those who frequently use public Wi-Fi should also consider ProtonVPN. Whether it's a coffee shop, library or airport, these networks are often a target for cybercriminals. Using ProtonVPN can help protect your data from potential attacks.
In the end, ProtonVPN is suitable for anyone who values their online privacy and wants to take care of their security.
Summary and final conclusions of the review
Overall, ProtonVPN is a reliable and secure VPN service that offers a large number of features. It may not be the fastest or cheapest on the market, but its commitment to privacy protection and extensive features make it an attractive choice for many users.
Conclusion
Proton VPN combines unique features such as Secure Core, which routes your traffic through multiple servers before going online, adding an extra layer of protection. There's also the option to use Tor through the VPN, which adds another level of anonymity.
ProtonVPN also actively resists DNS leaks, which means your ISP won't be able to see what sites you're visiting, and geo-blocked sites won't be able to determine your true location. This makes it a great choice for bypassing censorship and accessing content that isn't normally available in your area.
Depending on the plan you choose, ProtonVPN supports one to ten simultaneous connections. This means you can protect all your devices at the same time – whether it's your smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop.
Overall, ProtonVPN's overall performance is pretty good, especially considering its strict approach to privacy and security. It may not be the fastest VPN on the market, but if your main goal is to protect your data and anonymity, ProtonVPN is one of the best options.
