If you have never used a VPN before, you might be finding the range of options a little confusing. There are lots of different features, packages, and products available and this can make it tricky to tell which VPN service provider is the best.
However, the right place to start is by clearly identifying your needs. There are VPN services built to cater to all kinds of user requirements, so defining your own is helpful. For more advice on this, keeping reading; we’re going to discuss some of the things that should be considered when you choose a VPN service provider.
Safety and Protection
While the primary function of VPN services is to offer secure, safe connections, this doesn’t mean that they aren’t still vulnerable to certain kinds of danger. Malware is the biggest threat, because it can lead to information breaches.
If you unwittingly visit a malicious website or download risky files, there is the chance of developing a virus and having major problems. For this reason, always work with a vendor that offers integrated malware scanning technologies. If you do, you’ll be much more protected against these risks.
Amount and Arrangement of Servers
Before you hand over any money for a premium VPN service, find out how many servers the vendor has and where they are positioned (specifically, in what country). Ask questions about where the business is based and do some research to find the answers.
Being in possession of this knowledge will help you to understand how VPN vendors handle data transfers and whether or not they are a suitable match for you. For example, you might be very concerned with privacy and security. You could be working on a critical project and be keen to stop uninvited eyes from seeing the details.
It is important to note that many governments now demand that service providers share user information. So, keep this in mind when looking for a vendor. Also, make sure that you choose one with a suitable location. For instance, if you’re interested in watching content that is only available in America, you’d need a VPN with a server located in the States.
High-Quality Connections
It is not difficult to find a free service. They are available all over the internet, in a vast array of forms and varieties. You do not have to pay a monthly fee to use a free VPN. However, these providers tend to have poor quality products and only offer a very small amount of additional features. For a reliable, robust connection, you really do need to find a premium service.
Protocol Options
Premium VPN vendors provide a range of different protocol options. The main varieties are OpenVPN, SSL, and PPTP, but there are others. Essentially, protocol choices just describe the specific types of connection, based on the degree of protection and the security features offered.
For regular users, SSL is probably the most suitable and the most common. However, lots of businesses and commercial entities also use SSL services. It is up to you to find and select a protocol option that works for you.
Logs and Action Records
If you are interested in finding out how much of your personal data is stored online, choose a VPN service with logging features. ‘Logging’ describes the simple process of tracking and recording which websites store your information. It builds up a comprehensive and useful picture of how and why businesses are accessing potentially sensitive details.
Not all VPN providers offer logging features, so you should look specifically for this capability when shopping for a VPN service provider.