protonvpn free

ProtonVPN is a virtual private network service developed by Proton AG, the company best known for the encrypted email service ProtonMail. Launched with privacy as its core principle, ProtonVPN combines a transparent development approach, a favorable Swiss jurisdiction, and a range of security-focused features designed to protect users’ online activity from tracking, surveillance, and network threats. Core features and security ProtonVPN supports modern VPN protocols including WireGuard and OpenVPN. WireGuard offers faster speeds and simpler code, while OpenVPN remains a robust cross-platform option. ProtonVPN employs strong encryption (AES-256 for OpenVPN and ChaCha20 for WireGuard implementations), a built-in kill switch to prevent traffic leaks if the VPN connection drops, and DNS leak protection. The clients are open source, which allows independent review of the code and bolsters trust in the service. Unique offerings One of ProtonVPN’s standout features is Secure Core: traffic is routed through privacy-friendly countries (such as Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden) before exiting through the destination server. This multi-hop approach helps protect against advanced network-level adversaries. ProtonVPN also provides Tor over VPN support for seamless access to the Tor network without a separate Tor Browser setup, and NetShield, an optional built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocker available on paid plans. Privacy and jurisdiction Headquartered in Switzerland, ProtonVPN benefits from strong privacy laws and is outside the EU and US intelligence-sharing alliances. Proton AG maintains a strict no-logs policy; the company has published transparency reports and offers its apps’ source code, contributing to its reputation among privacy-conscious users. Plans and accessibility ProtonVPN offers a free tier with limited servers and moderate speeds—useful for users seeking a trustworthy, no-cost VPN option. Paid plans add access to high-speed servers, Secure Core, streaming-optimized servers, P2P support, and simultaneous connections. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, with browser extensions not required since the VPN protects the full device. Performance and use cases With WireGuard and a growing server network, ProtonVPN can deliver fast, reliable connections suitable for streaming, torrenting (on permitted servers), remote work, and general privacy. Some streaming platforms are supported on higher-tier plans. As with any VPN, actual speeds depend on server choice, distance, and local network conditions. Limitations and considerations Paid plans can be more expensive than some competitors, and certain advanced features require higher-tier subscriptions. While ProtonVPN is audited and open-source, prospective users should assess whether specific features (e.g., server locations or specialized streaming needs) match their requirements. Conclusion ProtonVPN is a strong choice for users prioritizing privacy, transparency, and robust security. Its Swiss jurisdiction, Secure Core routing, and open-source apps make it particularly attractive for those seeking a trustworthy VPN backed by a respected privacy-focused company.