Best Lifetime VPN Services in 2024 & Why to Avoid Them

Going through your daily web routine without monitoring anyone doesn’t mean there’s no one watching you. Government agencies, organizations, hackers, cyberbullies, and snoops are always on the lookout (targeted or random) for information to prey on. To stay hidden from them, you need to have your data protected. That is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes to play.

Lifetime VPNs allow you to enjoy its benefits without a periodical limit. You just have to make a one-time payment that’ll last you for a “Lifetime.” This is quite tempting, as it promises to give you the best value for your money.

This guide shortlists the very best Lifetime VPNs taking privacy, security, censor bypassing, and speed into consideration.

Best Overall VPN: ExpressVPN

Overall Best in Our Tests

ExpressVPN

Overall score: 9.8

• Super-fast servers
• AES 256-bit encryption
• Supports private protocol, Lightway
• Money-back guarantee

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Despite not being a Lifetime VPN, ExpressVPN makes its way into this guide because of its efficiency on all fronts. It is quite inevitable to talk about the best VPNs of any kind without talking about ExpressVPN.

This VPN has 3,000+ bolt-fast servers in over 90 world countries. The presence of servers everywhere makes it easy for you to access any content regardless of your current location. ExpressVPN does a fantastic job hiding your IP address behind the guise of a virtual one making you anonymous while you access censored content.

ExpressVPN enforces a strict no-log policy. This effectively means that the provider will not be tracking or storing data from your online activity. The servers are incredibly stable and do not get disconnected as you browse. As a backup, ExpressVPN has a kill switch mechanism that blocks your traffic from being transmitted if you lose connection with the VPN. That way, no crook can take advantage of that split second where your protection is compromised. These features make sure that you have rock-solid protection the whole time.

This VPN service uses military-grade encryption to secure your connection. So it is virtually impossible to decrypt your traffic data. Also, to choose which apps access the web directly and those that connect via the VPN, ExpressVPN has a Split Tunneling feature.

The VPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee policy that gives you the option to request a refund anytime within the first 30 days. So you can still technically use this premium VPN for free but limited to 30 days.

Top 5 Lifetime VPN services

The “Lifetime” tag might come off as being misleading because in cases like this, relativity comes to play. After a subscription, you can enjoy the services of a “Lifetime” VPN for up to 5 years. So a Lifetime in the cyber world technically lasts for 5 years.

Some of these Lifetime VPNs have money-back guarantee policies of varying time lengths. Such policies help you test-run the VPN and weigh its services within the stipulated timeline, usually the first 30 or 45 days. If you’re not satisfied, you can request a refund and pull out.

Best for Connecting Multiple Devices

Surfshark

Overall score: 9.5

• Allows unlimited simultaneous connections
• Integrates Stealth mode
• Multihop feature available
• 3,000+ servers

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Surfshark is arguably one of the best Lifetime VPNs. It is a top VPN referred to as the Privacy VPN. It has 1,700+ high-speed servers in up to 63 countries. It unblocks geo-restricted content for you at a single click. You also get unlimited bandwidth of data to stream live videos on YouTube.

This provider is no stranger to the business of providing top-notch privacy. That mechanism keeps your real identity hidden, securing you from potential snoops. In addition to that, the provider operates a no-log policy which specifically states that they do not monitor or share your traffic data.

Surfshark has a Camouflage Mode that automatically protects you from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). This helps because ISPs can sell customers’ data to the government when they’re threatened or offered a huge pay. This VPN also has a kill switch that locks your network from transmitting data if your connection with the VPN drops.

This VPN protects your connection with military-grade encryption. Government agencies use this encryption detail so it can definitely be trusted. To top it off, Surfshark uses secure protocols. This VPN is an absolute leader of the pile. With Surfshark, you can connect as many devices as you want simultaneously.

Definitely has the best email support

VPN Unlimited

Overall score: 0

• AES 256-bit encryption available
• Reliable email support
• Decent streaming speed
• Supports payment with cryptocurrencies

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This VPN provider is a sophisticated free one. It has 500+ ultra-fast servers across over 80 locations. The servers are very steady and are optimized for streaming purposes. Also, VPN Unlimited’s servers are excellent for peer-to-peer file sharing. This VPN works for virtually everything. Its servers are reliable, and they do well in unblocking geo-restricted content at a breakneck speed.

VPN Unlimited is equipped to be a force to reckon with for streaming purposes. It has enhanced speed and precision, and it gets rid of video buffering. In addition, you get unlimited bandwidth of data to stream and browse as much content as you want.

Your traffic data can be used to identify you out of thousands of web users. If hackers get a hold of your data, your security will be jeopardized. To counter that effect, VPN Unlimited doesn’t track your data and timestamp. No third party can get access to what the VPN didn’t store in the first place.

This VPN service has a virtual protective firewall that virtually camps your traffic to prevent data leakage and prevent snooping. It encrypts your data with Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with 256-bit keys. In a bid to further solidify your privacy and eliminate pop-ups,  VPN Unlimited uses WireGuard protocol (a combination of Open VPN and IPSec protocols) and blocks ads, trackers, and malware. It further has a kill switch that comes on automatically when you momentarily lose your VPN coverage.

VPN Unlimited accepts payment in bitcoin. It accepts payments in crypto because of how security-promoting the platform is. Nothing can be traced back to you because it is a virtual currency. The VPN allows the connection of up to 10 devices at a time.

Offers the best money-back guarantee

CyberGhost

Overall score: 9.3

• 45-day money-back guarantee
• 7,000+ reliable servers
• Strict no-log policy
• Tough security features

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This VPN mirrors its name to give you the best privacy features you could ask for. Basically, it hides your IP address from cyber crooks by masking it with a virtual one when you connect to any of its 7,000 servers available across over 90 countries. The servers also help you bypass geo-restrictions to access platforms like Netflix US, Deezer, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ regardless of your present location. It doesn’t limit the amount of data you can download or stream the unblocked content, it’s unlimited.

As has been said earlier in this guide, CyberGhost is a privacy-oriented VPN. It hides your IP address. Furthermore, the company does not, by any means, track your activities online. This VPN service respects your privacy and will not tamper with your private data. The VPN service uses OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols in a combined form of WireGuard® protocol. The protocol combines the security of OpenVPNand the speed of IKEv2 to give an enhanced and mutualistic product.

This VPN provider integrates the best-in-class AES with 256-bit keys. That encryption standard is uncrackable, and as a result, your traffic remains secure all through your time online. Furthermore, CyberGhost uses standard leak protection protocols that virtually block loopholes that might leak out your private data.

Broadest server reach in our tests

PrivateInternetAccess

Overall score: 9.2

• Great unblocking ability
• Supports WireGuard protocol
• Decent streaming speed
• Affordable subscription offers

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This VPN has a reliable server speed, fantastic privacy, and top-tier security features. To start with, you get a whopping 15,800+ servers at your disposal. Those servers are widely distributed across 74 countries. When it comes to content unblocking, PIA carries you through and offers a fantastic streaming service.

PIA allows unlimited bandwidth of data. Taking that into context, you can stream a lot of episodes or other kinds of videos without any buffering. This VPN helps you block ads so your streams don’t get interrupted occasionally.

Your privacy is of utmost importance, and that is why PIA does not monitor, record, let alone share their customers’ private data. Security also takes to the top with PIA. The VPN service secures your data with military-grade encryption. With those features, you can do bits online without having to worry about hackers because PIA has got your back.

Also, you get maximum protection even when connected to public WiFi; which is mostly insecure. This particular VPN service comes with a peculiar set of the most advanced protocols like Wireguard, PPTP, OpenVPN, and IPSec. The software apps are easy to use and you can protect up to 10 devices with just one PIA subscription.

Related: Best VPNs for Remote Workers & Freelancers to Work from Anywhere

Best for Netflix US

IPVanish

Overall score: 9.1

• Speedy servers
• AES 256-bit encryption
• Offers a 7-day free trial
• Unblocks restricted platforms with ease

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The company portrays itself as “the fastest top-tier VPN in the world.” IPVanish has over 1,500 servers in 75+ locations all around the world. The servers available are of exceptionally high speed and are relatively stable.

Apart from its swift connection speed, this VPN has the flair of unblocking geo-restricted content, ranging from websites and social media platforms to streaming platforms. IPVanish offers you a list of up to 40,000 IP addresses to choose from. These servers are well optimized for streaming, so you don’t have to worry about buffering even when you’re streaming in HD. To access these platforms, this VPN gives you unlimited bandwidth.

IPVanish operates a strict no-logs policy to preserve your privacy. The VPN also makes your real IP address disappear and replaces it with a virtual one that can’t be used to pick you out.

IPVanish uses the military-grade encryption standard used by other premium VPNs. The encryption locks hackers, ISP, and even government agencies out of your connection, keeping your connection secure. Also, it uses the best leak protection standards to prevent the smallest bits of your data from falling off to cybercrooks along the line of transmission. IPVanish gives you the luxury of channeling every device you own via the VPN service.

Are Lifetime VPNs Any Good?

It’s perfectly normal that you’re looking for a VPN to last you for a long time. However, there are a lot of things you need to consider before making your final decision.

1. The Duration of ‘Lifetime’

Generally, premium providers are a bit more pricey than Lifetime VPNs. For a Lifetime VPN, you’ll be paying a one-time subscription fee,  which will be slightly higher than the regular annual fee. However, you might be thinking, “I’ll save a lot of money in the long run.” Really, Lifetime VPNs do not last you for a lifetime. The factor of uncertainty is massive here and it’s one of the things that can turn a potential customer off. On the other hand, the majority of the non-Lifetime VPNs ordinarily offer you free trials and a money-back guarantee even though it’s just for a limited time.

2. Quality of Services

Furthermore, there is the possibility of sub-par services with Lifetime VPNs. This is because a lot of people would want to jump on the offer. In such a case, how will the company keep up with maintenance and competition? There’s every possibility that you’ll get inferior services on a Lifetime subscription. For instance, content unblocking might not come easy. You might have to try several servers before getting access to censored content. Some other times, luck might be on your side. You can’t always rely on luck, can you?

3. Non-reliability

Another thing, Lifetime VPNs are not totally truthful when giving out information about their services. In the first place, as already shown, these VPNs do not last a lifetime. Additionally, there could be other unsavory conditions you may not be fully aware of.

There’s every chance you’ll be let down when you use a Lifetime VPN, but at the same time, if there are no severe repercussions, it’s worth your time. On the brighter side, with a standard premium VPN subscription, you’ll get top-notch features and ultimate surety about the services you’re getting. In conclusion, Lifetime VPNs are not so bad, but you should know there is a much better option.

How To Get a Lifetime VPN Subscription

To get yourself a Lifetime VPN subscription, you just have to follow simple click navigations. It is straightforward, and you’ll get through easily even if you’ve never used a VPN service before. Various perks come with different providers, but it’s basically easy to get through for all.

Firstly, you register with the VPN provider. Your email is always required because that is the medium through which they can contact you. You can also make requests and inquiries through the registered email. Most of the VPNs will ask you to pick a username too.

Secondly, you might need to confirm your email for authentication’s sake. Some VPNs do not require email authentication to proceed, so this step is non-existent for their users.

Basically, you have to contact most VPN providers and make a request for a Lifetime subscription before you enjoy the Lifetime services. This process is quite straightforward. You can either send them an email, or speak with representatives on their websites or through a live chat.

Moving on, you can download and install the software to your device in two ways:

1. From the VPN’s website. The site either starts the download of the file or redirects you to your device’s app store
2. From your device’s app store. You can install the software directly from your device’s application store

At this stage, you just have to launch the app, log in with your registered details, and get on with your Lifetime subscription.

Features to Look Out for in a Lifetime Subscription

We have made you a shortlist of the best 5 Lifetime VPNs. They differ in their ways and have different strongholds. This section puts you through the features you should consider when deciding which of the reviewed Lifetime subscription VPNs to choose.

You should select a VPN based on personal preference and, most importantly, what you want to use the VPN for. The one that answers most of your questions is your cue.

Server Locations: Does the VPN have servers in my region(s) of interest?

Connection Speed: At what rate does the VPN server connect? How do the servers affect my browsing speed?

Kill Switch: Is there a need to worry or freak out if I suddenly lose connection with the VPN while browsing or surfing?

No-Log Policy: Will the VPN service keep records and timestamps of my traffic data and online activity, respectively?

Bandwidth Limit: How much data am I allowed to upload and download in a month? Will it be enough to do what I need it for?

Devices Supported: Does the VPN provider have a software application for my device? If not, can I use the VPN on a router and then connect my phone indirectly?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a free VPN instead of lifetime?

Yes, you can use a free VPN instead of a lifetime one. However, we do not recommend you use a free VPN because of the issues that accompany it. Firstly, some free VPNs are usually limited versions of premium VPN services. This means that you’re likely to have limited features such as server network, speed, bandwidth, and others. In addition, bad actors use some free VPNs to infect devices with malware. Also, government agencies can set up free VPNs to monitor your connection. So, it is wise to choose a premium lifetime VPN rather than use a free one. 

Is it lawful to use a lifetime VPN service?

Yes, it is lawful to use a lifetime VPN service. Most countries worldwide impose zero restrictions on VPN use. In these countries, law enforcement will not monitor or come after you for using a VPN. However, there are some countries that impose bans and restrictions on VPN usage. Using a VPN can put you on the government’s or law enforcement’s radar in these countries. Still, whether in a country that supports or bans VPN use, committing a crime with a VPN will always be wrong. 

Will a lifetime VPN service affect the quality of my connection?

Yes, a lifetime VPN service will affect the quality of your connection. It can either affect it positively or negatively. In most cases, VPNs will have a negative effect on your connection speed, which ultimately affects the quality of your connection. This is because VPNs use a lot of processing power in encrypting your connection. Additionally, your data takes a longer path by going to the VPN server first. All these contribute to speed and latency, which determine the quality of your connection. On the other hand, if your Internet Service Provider uses bandwidth throttling to limit your speed, a lifetime VPN service can improve the quality of your connection.

Conclusion

All the VPNs reviewed in this guide are top-grade and are worth your dedication if you’re specifically looking for a Lifetime subscription VPN. If not, if you’re just looking to know how good Lifetime VPNs are, we strongly recommend risk-free VPNs like ExpressVPN. Also, you can simply go for any of the regular subscriptions on these VPNs because technology is evolving and the most effective features today might not have a solid ground in the next few years, let alone stay for a “Lifetime.”