Free Versus Paid VPNs: What You Need to Know

It’s important to do your research and know what you’re signing up for."

So what does paying for a VPN actually get you?

Here’s a look at the big differences between paid and free versions of the products.

But just like with other kinds of software, what you get could be bare bones.

It might be slower than you would like or cap your data at a frustratingly low level.

Just remember, you get what you pay for.

The only free VPN that CNET’s testers have found to be worth using isProtonVPN.

Unlike with other free VPNs, there are no limits on data, usage time or connection speeds.

It also delivers the same level of encryption as Proton’s paid versions.

Our testers say it’s also fast and works well with streaming services.

More privacy?

“And for a lot of people that may be a hard question to answer.

“You’re shifting your trust, you’re not making yourself truly private.”

For many people, Wisniewski says, theTor browsercan be useful.

It’s just not worth the risk.

Encryption is critical, too.

Your VPN should offer a protocol called OpenVPN TCP, while IKEv2 also is fine for mobile apps.

Free or paid, do I really need a VPN?

Experts have a variety of opinions about this.