Best VPN for using on Windows

In today's digital age, online privacy and security are more important than ever before. With cyber threats lurking around every corner and government surveillance becoming increasingly prevalent, it's crucial to take steps to protect your online identity. One of the best ways to do this is using a virtual private network (VPN) service. A VPN encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a secure server, making it nearly impossible for hackers, government agencies, or even your internet service provider (ISP) to access your online activity. While there are many VPN services available, finding the best VPN for Windows can be a daunting task. In this article, we'll explore some of the top VPN services for Windows and their specifications and prices, to help you make an informed decision about which VPN is right for you.

Express VPN

ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service that has been in operation since 2009. The company is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands and has gained a reputation for its fast connection speeds, strong security features, and extensive server network. Here are some more details about ExpressVPN:

Server Network:

ExpressVPN has a server network that includes over 3,000 servers in 160 locations across 94 countries. This large network allows users to access content from around the world and bypass geo-restrictions on websites and services. ExpressVPN also offers specialized servers, including servers optimized for streaming, torrenting, and gaming.

Security and Encryption:

ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption to protect user data, and it supports a range of VPN protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPSec. It also has an automatic kill switch that protects user data in the event of a connection failure.

TrustedServer Technology:

ExpressVPN's TrustedServer technology is designed to ensure that user data is never stored on a hard drive. Instead, all data is stored in RAM, which is wiped clean every time the server is rebooted. This makes it much more difficult for hackers to gain access to user data.

User-Friendly Interface:

ExpressVPN's user interface is very easy to use, with a clean and intuitive design. The desktop and mobile apps are well-designed and offer a range of customization options. Additionally, ExpressVPN offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

Price:

ExpressVPN's pricing is more expensive than many other VPN services, but the service is worth the investment. The service offers a 1-month plan for $12.95, a 6-month plan for $9.99/month, and a 12-month plan for $8.32/month. Additionally, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free.

Specifications:

• Over 3,000 servers in 160 locations across 94 countries
• AES 256-bit encryption
• Supports OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and PPTP protocols
• Unlimited bandwidth
• Automatic kill switch
• Split tunneling
• 24/7 live chat support

Prices:

• 1-month plan: $12.95/month
• 6 months plan: $9.99/month
• 12 months plan: $6.67/month

NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services available today. The company was founded in 2012 and has since gained a reputation for its strong security features, extensive server network, and user-friendly interface. Here are some more details about NordVPN:

Server Network:

NordVPN has an extensive server network that includes over 5,500 servers in 59 countries. This large network allows users to access content from around the world and bypass geo-restrictions on websites and services. NordVPN also offers specialized servers, including Onion over VPN and Double VPN, which provide additional layers of security and privacy.

Security and Encryption:

NordVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption to protect user data, and it supports a range of VPN protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and NordLynx (a proprietary protocol based on WireGuard). It also has an automatic kill switch that protects user data in the event of a connection failure.

CyberSec:

NordVPN's CyberSec feature is designed to block ads, trackers, and malware. This feature is particularly useful for users who are concerned about online privacy and security.

User-Friendly Interface:

NordVPN's user interface is very easy to use, with a clean and intuitive design. The desktop and mobile apps are well-designed and offer a range of customization options. Additionally, NordVPN offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

Price:

NordVPN's pricing is competitive with other top VPN services. The service offers a 1-month plan for $11.95, a 1-year plan for $4.92/month, and a 2-year plan for $3.71/month. Additionally, NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free.

Specifications:

• Over 5,000 servers in 59 countries
• AES 256-bit encryption
• Supports OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and IKEv2/IPsec protocols
• Unlimited bandwidth
• Automatic kill switch
• Double VPN feature
• CyberSec feature
• 24/7 live chat support

Prices:

• 1-month plan: $11.95/month
• 1-year plan: $4.92/month
• 2 years plan: $3.71/month

Surfshark VPN

Surfshark is a relatively new VPN service that was founded in 2018. Despite its young age, Surfshark has quickly gained popularity due to its extensive features, affordable pricing, and user-friendly interface. Here are some more details about Surfshark:

Server Network:

Surfshark has a server network that includes over 3,200 servers in 65 countries. This may not be as extensive as some of the larger VPN providers, but it still provides a decent amount of options for most users. Additionally, Surfshark has a unique MultiHop feature, which allows users to connect to multiple VPN servers at once for even greater privacy and security.

Security and Encryption:

Surfshark uses AES 256-bit encryption to protect user data, and it supports a range of VPN protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Shadowsocks. It also has an automatic kill switch that protects user data in the event of a connection failure.

CleanWeb:

Surfshark's CleanWeb feature is designed to block ads, trackers, and malware. This feature is particularly useful for users who are concerned about online privacy and security.

User-Friendly Interface:

Surfshark's user interface is very easy to use, with a clean and intuitive design. The desktop and mobile apps are well-designed and offer a range of customization options. Additionally, Surfshark offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

Price:

Surfshark's pricing is very competitive compared to other VPN services. The service offers a 1-month plan for $12.95, a 6-month plan for $6.49/month, and a 24-month plan for just $2.49/month. Additionally, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free.

Specifications:

• Over 3,200 servers in 65 countries
• AES 256-bit encryption
• Supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Shadowsocks protocols
• Unlimited bandwidth
• Automatic kill switch
• MultiHop feature
• CleanWeb feature
• 24/7 live chat support

Prices:

• 1-month plan: $12.95/month
• 6 months plan: $6.49/month
• 24 months plan: $2.49/month

CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost is a popular VPN service that was founded in Romania in 2011. It offers a wide range of features and functionalities that make it a great choice for many users, including strong encryption, a large server network, and a user-friendly interface. Here are some more details about CyberGhost:

Server Network:

CyberGhost has an impressive server network that includes over 6,900 servers in 91 countries. This large network allows users to access content from around the world and bypass geo-restrictions on websites and services.

Security and Encryption:

CyberGhost uses military-grade AES 256-bit encryption to protect user data, and it supports a range of VPN protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPSec. It also has an automatic kill switch that prevents data leaks if the VPN connection is interrupted.

NoSpy Server Network:

CyberGhost has a unique NoSpy server network that is designed for users who require maximum privacy and security. These servers are located in a secure data center in Romania and are operated solely by CyberGhost, ensuring that user data is protected.

User-Friendly Interface:

CyberGhost's user interface is easy to use, making it a great option for VPN beginners. The desktop and mobile apps are well-designed and intuitive, and the service also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

Customer Support:

CyberGhost has a 24/7 live chat support team that is available to help users with any issues or questions they may have. The service also has a comprehensive help center that includes articles, tutorials, and FAQs.

Price:

CyberGhost's pricing is competitive with other top VPN services. The service offers a 1-month plan for $12.99, a 1-year plan for $3.99/month, and a 2-year plan for $3.49/month. Additionally, CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free.

Specifications:

• Over 6,900 servers in 91 countries
• AES 256-bit encryption
• Supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPSec protocols
• Unlimited bandwidth
• Automatic kill switch
• NoSpy server network
• 24/7 live chat support

Prices:

• 1-month plan: $12.99/month
• 1-year plan: $3.99/month
• 2 years plan: $3.49/month

Using a VPN service is an essential step for anyone looking to secure their online activity and protect their privacy. The VPN services we've explored in this article, including CyberGhost, Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN, are all excellent options for Windows users looking for a reliable and secure VPN service. Each of these services offers unique features and benefits, so it's important to carefully consider your needs and priorities when selecting a VPN. Ultimately, investing in a high-quality VPN service is a smart choice for anyone looking to safeguard their online identity and ensure their internet activity remains private and secure.

NOTE: It's important to note that prices may vary depending on current promotions and discounts offered by the VPN services. Additionally, some VPNs may offer more features and functionalities than others, so it's important to consider your specific needs when selecting a VPN service.