TechRobot | Discover the Top 10 VPNs of 2026

VPNs are legal in the United States, Canada, UK, and most of Europe, Asia, and South America. However, some countries restrict or ban VPN use, including China, Russia, Iran, UAE, and North Korea. Even in countries where VPNs are legal, using them for illegal activities (hacking, fraud, copyright infringement) is still against the law.

All VPNs cause some speed reduction because your data travels through an encrypted tunnel to a remote server. However, premium VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark typically reduce speeds by only 10-20%.

Factors affecting VPN speed:

• Distance to VPN server (closer = faster)
• Server load (less crowded = faster)
• Encryption protocol (WireGuard is fastest)
• Your base internet speed

In some cases, VPNs can actually improve speeds by preventing ISP throttling on streaming or torrenting traffic.

Free VPNs often have:

• Data caps (typically 500MB-10GB per month)
• Slower speeds due to server congestion
• Fewer server locations
• Weaker security and privacy protections
• Intrusive ads or data selling to third parties

We recommend PrivadoVPN’s free tier for light browsing, but premium VPNs offer better value for regular use. Most paid VPNs cost $2-7/month with annual plans and include 30-day money-back guarantees.

See our free VPN guide →

When you use a VPN, your ISP can see:

• That you’re connected to a VPN server
• How much data you’re using
• Connection timestamps

Your ISP cannot see:

• Which websites you visit
• What you do on those websites
• Your search history
• Files you download

However, websites you visit can still see your activity on their platform (unless you also use privacy tools like incognito mode or anti-tracking browser extensions). The VPN provider can potentially see your activity, which is why choosing a provider with a strict no-logs policy is crucial.

Current device limits by provider:

• Surfshark: Unlimited devices
• IPVanish: Unlimited devices
• NordVPN: 10 devices
• ExpressVPN: 8 devices
• CyberGhost: 7 devices
• Proton VPN: 10 devices
• Private Internet Access: Unlimited devices
• PrivadoVPN: 10 devices
• VeePN: 10 devices
• TotalVPN: 5 devices

One subscription typically covers smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs. You can also install VPNs on routers to protect all devices on your home network simultaneously.

Streaming services actively block VPN IP addresses to enforce geographic licensing agreements. However, leading VPNs constantly update their server networks to maintain access.

Best streaming compatibility:

• ExpressVPN: Works with 15+ platforms including Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer
• NordVPN: Reliable for Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video
• CyberGhost: Dedicated streaming servers for major platforms
• Surfshark: Consistent Netflix access across libraries

Free and budget VPNs often struggle with streaming detection. If streaming is your primary use case, invest in a proven service with a money-back guarantee.

See our streaming VPN comparisons →

Security features in quality VPNs:

• AES-256 encryption (same standard used by military and banks)
• Secure protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2)
• Kill switch (blocks internet if VPN disconnects)
• DNS leak protection
• Regular security audits by independent firms

Potential vulnerabilities:

• Weak or misconfigured encryption
• DNS/IP/WebRTC leaks (preventable with good VPNs)
• Malware in fake VPN apps
• VPN provider keeping logs and sharing data

Stick with established VPN providers that have been independently audited (Proton VPN, ExpressVPN, NordVPN) and avoid unknown free VPNs.

VPN:

• Encrypts all internet traffic from your device
• Works at the operating system level
• Protects all apps and browsers
• Hides IP address
• Provides security and privacy

Proxy:

• Only reroutes browser traffic (typically)
• No encryption (usually)
• Hides IP address but doesn’t protect data
• Faster but less secure
• Good for bypassing basic geo-restrictions

Use proxies for simple IP masking and VPNs for comprehensive security and privacy protection.

Step-by-step setup:

1. Choose and purchase a VPN (we recommend starting with providers offering 30-day money-back guarantees)
2. Download the app for your device from the VPN provider’s website or app store
3. Install and sign in using your account credentials
4. Select a server location (or use “Quick Connect” for the fastest option)
5. Click connect and verify your connection is secure

Pro tips:

• Enable the kill switch in settings for maximum security
• Turn on auto-connect for automatic protection when you go online
• Test for IP leaks at ipleak.net after connecting

Most VPNs also offer browser extensions for quick connection without opening the full app.

See device-specific setup guides →

When connected to a VPN, your traffic passes through the provider’s servers, which means they could theoretically monitor your activity. This is why choosing a provider with a strict no-logs policy is critical.

Verified no-logs VPNs:

• ExpressVPN (audited by PwC)
• NordVPN (audited by Deloitte)
• Proton VPN (open-source, Swiss privacy laws)
• Surfshark (independently audited)

Red flags:

• VPNs based in 5/9/14 Eyes countries without audits
• Free VPNs with vague privacy policies
• Providers that have previously shared user data with authorities

Always read privacy policies and look for independent audits confirming no-logs claims.