Buying a new VPN? 3 things to consider when shopping around – and why 'free' isn't always best

A VPN, or virtual private network, is software that encrypts your data online to create a secure connection between your computer and the internet. It’s a useful tool for protecting your private information while connected to public Wi-Fi and can even let you enjoy streaming services in another part of the world. Netflix’s catalog, for example, differs from country to country, as some shows are unavailable in the United States.

Also: The best VPN services: Expert tested

Finding a good VPN can be difficult because you are bombarded with an avalanche of information (there’s a good chance you’ve seen an ad for Surfshark on YouTube). In an effort to cut through the fog, I have compiled a short list of three things you should look for when buying a VPN.

1. Proper security measures

Security is the most important factor for a good VPN because they’re not all built the same. You’ll need to look for a service that supports AES-256 encryption. Without getting too deep in the weeds, AES-256 is a robust encryption standard actively used by the United States government and “security experts worldwide” to protect sensitive data.

You should make sure your software supports OpenVPN, an open-source protocol. Remember: you are putting your info into the hands of a third-party company. Having open-source code means the software is examined by experts carefully and frequently.

Review: Private Internet Access review: Our favorite open-source VPN

Additionally, you should be wary of cheap or free VPNs because there is a possibility the developer behind them sells customer data to outside sources. I strongly urge you to look through a service’s privacy policy to see if they collect information. Some, like NordVPN, have dedicated an entire page on their website explaining their stance on this issue.

2. How fast of a VPN you really need

VPNs can improve your internet speed if your ISP (internet service provider) is throttling you. However, latency is an unavoidable factor when using a VPN. There’s no way around it, especially if you’re connecting to another country. Those connections are sent through servers that are hundreds, if not thousands, of miles away. 

Also: ExpressVPN review: One of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested

That said, some clients do offer better speeds than others. ExpressVPN, for instance, utilizes the Lightway protocol, providing good performance and retaining up to 97% of its full speed. The app also has a Smart Location tool to “automatically recommend the fastest server for your location.”

There are tricks you can do to improve your experience, such as using a wired connection over a wireless one can deliver consistently high speeds. Changing the server is another method. International servers may sometimes experience high traffic, so switching may improve conditions.

3. Unique features

VPNs function similarly across the board, although some offer unique features. For instance, certain services offer a killswitch. This tool will automatically pull the plug if it detects your connection to the VPN server is lost. It ensures that outside entities won’t see sensitive information during random blackouts.

Also: Proxy vs. VPN: What is the difference, and which do I need?

Surfshark has a multi-hop function that routes your connection through two VPN servers, “encrypting your data twice.” The level of security it provides is overkill for most situations, but if you’re sharing sensitive files, this feature comes in handy. 

Some clients are specially optimized for streaming services, delivering speeds up to 10Gbps. Some offer a free ad blocker, while others provide anti-tracking protection. You have a ton of options readily available. It’s up to you to decide which features you value the most.

What is the best VPN?

ZDNET has crowned NordVPN as the best VPN overall because it ticks all the boxes. The software boasts fast download speeds, several helpful features, plus an extensive server network. It even supports AES 256-bit encryption enabling robust data protection and limiting ISP throttling.

Review: NordVPN: Consistent speed and performance from one of our favorite VPNs

As good as NordVPN is, it’s not perfect for every scenario. There are many alternate options. Proton VPN is a solid pick if you’re on a budget since it is free and strongly focused on privacy. ExpressVPN is recommended for people who value speed above all else.