ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused virtual private network developed by the team behind ProtonMail. Designed with strong security and user privacy in mind, ProtonVPN aims to give users safe, encrypted access to the internet while minimizing data collection. Its headquarters in Switzerland — a country with strong privacy protections — and its public commitment to a no-logs policy make it a popular choice for people who prioritize confidentiality. One of ProtonVPN’s standout features is Secure Core, a multi-hop architecture that routes traffic through servers in privacy-friendly countries before exiting to the public internet. This design helps protect users against network-based attacks and intrusive logging on exit servers. ProtonVPN also supports modern VPN protocols, including WireGuard, delivering improved speeds and security compared with older protocols. Additional protections include AES-256 encryption, a kill switch to block traffic if the VPN connection drops, DNS leak protection, and support for Tor over VPN for an extra anonymity layer. ProtonVPN offers a free plan alongside tiered paid plans. The free tier is notable for being usable without ads and without collecting browsing data, though it restricts available servers and can be slower during peak times. Paid plans add faster servers, Secure Core access, P2P support, more simultaneous connections, and streaming-optimized servers for accessing geo-restricted content. There are individual, plus, and visionary/business tiers to suit different needs and budgets. Privacy and transparency are central to ProtonVPN’s approach. The client apps are open source and have undergone independent security audits, which helps build trust in the software’s implementation. Combined with Proton’s reputation from ProtonMail, these practices make it a credible option for users seeking an accountable VPN provider. On the usability front, ProtonVPN provides apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, plus configuration guides for routers. The interface is generally clean and approachable for beginners, while still offering advanced options like split tunneling, custom DNS, and manual protocol selection for power users. There are a few trade-offs to consider. While ProtonVPN’s speeds are competitive — especially with WireGuard — performance can vary depending on server load and user location. Some advanced features require higher-tier subscriptions, and the free plan has limited server options. Pricing is fair for the features offered, but heavy streaming or torrenting users may want to compare server availability and speeds against alternatives. In summary, ProtonVPN is a strong option for users who value privacy, transparency, and solid security features. Its mix of free and paid plans, open-source apps, and privacy-centric design makes it suitable for everyday users, journalists, activists, and anyone looking to secure their internet connection without compromising on trust.