ProtonVPN is a virtual private network service designed to give users privacy, security, and freedom online. Created by the same team behind ProtonMail and headquartered in Switzerland, ProtonVPN emphasizes strong legal protections, transparent policies, and open-source software to reduce the risks of surveillance and data collection. Core privacy and security ProtonVPN uses modern encryption standards and secure VPN protocols (including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2) to protect traffic between your device and its servers. The company enforces a strict no-logs policy and benefits from Swiss privacy laws, which are among the most protective in the world. A standout feature is Secure Core: traffic can be routed through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries before leaving the ProtonVPN network, adding an extra layer of protection against network-based attacks and government coercion. Features and usability ProtonVPN offers native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as support for some routers. The apps are designed to be user-friendly while exposing advanced options for power users, such as a kill switch (which stops traffic if the VPN connection drops), split tunneling on supported platforms, and Tor-over-VPN functionality that routes traffic into the Tor network with a single click. ProtonVPN also supports P2P on designated servers for users who need torrenting capabilities. Plans and pricing ProtonVPN has a free tier that provides basic protection without data caps, though free users get access to a smaller selection of servers and lower priority bandwidth. Paid plans unlock faster speeds, access to Secure Core servers, a wider server network, and more simultaneous device connections. Proton also bundles some plans with ProtonMail upgrades for users who want integrated privacy services. Performance and network ProtonVPN maintains a global network of servers designed to balance speed and privacy. With optimized servers for streaming, gaming, and P2P, the service aims to deliver reliable performance. Using WireGuard typically yields the best speeds on compatible devices, while Secure Core introduces additional latency as expected due to extra routing. Who should consider ProtonVPN? ProtonVPN is a strong choice for privacy-conscious users who want a reputable, transparent provider based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction. It is also suitable for everyday users who need a simple app to browse securely on public Wi‑Fi, and for those who want features like Tor integration or selective routing. If you need the absolute fastest server options at the lowest price, comparing benchmarks with other providers is recommended, but ProtonVPN’s privacy-first approach makes it a compelling option for many users. Tips - Use the WireGuard protocol for the best balance of speed and security. - Enable the kill switch on mobile and desktop apps to prevent accidental leaks. - Try the free plan to test compatibility before upgrading to a paid tier.