ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused virtual private network developed by the same team behind ProtonMail. Headquartered in Switzerland, a jurisdiction known for strong privacy laws, ProtonVPN emphasizes user confidentiality and secure internet access. Its feature set is designed to serve a range of users, from casual browsers who want to protect their data on public Wi-Fi to privacy-conscious users who need advanced routing options. Key features and privacy stance ProtonVPN operates under a strict no-logs policy and benefits from Swiss data-protection regulations. The service provides modern security protocols such as WireGuard and OpenVPN, along with robust encryption (AES-256) to protect your traffic. ProtonVPN also offers unique features like Secure Core routing, which routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries before it leaves the VPN network, adding an extra layer of protection against network-based attacks and surveillance. Additional capabilities For users who need more anonymity, ProtonVPN supports “Tor over VPN,” allowing you to route traffic through the Tor network from within the VPN tunnel. A built-in kill switch ensures your real IP address isn’t accidentally exposed if the VPN connection drops. ProtonVPN’s desktop and mobile apps are user-friendly and Proton has moved toward transparency by open-sourcing apps and undergoing independent audits, which helps validate their security claims. Plans and pricing ProtonVPN provides a free tier with limited speeds and access to a small selection of servers — a convenient option to try the service without commitment. Paid plans expand server access, unlock faster speeds, enable Secure Core and Tor features, and include simultaneous device connections. Pricing is competitive compared with other established VPN providers, and Proton often offers bundled plans with ProtonMail for users seeking integrated secure email and VPN services. Performance and usability Speeds depend on server selection, distance, and network conditions; premium users typically see better performance due to access to high-speed servers and WireGuard. The apps are straightforward to install and configure, with presets for common use cases (streaming, P2P, secure browsing). ProtonVPN also provides documentation and customer support to assist with setup and troubleshooting. Who should consider ProtonVPN? ProtonVPN is a solid choice for users prioritizing privacy, transparency, and feature-rich protections like Secure Core and Tor integration. It’s also suitable for those wanting a reputable free option. If your primary need is consistently maximum speed for gaming or streaming large volumes of media, compare specific server performance against other providers before committing. Overall, ProtonVPN offers a balanced mix of security, usability, and trustworthiness for everyday privacy needs.