A VPN is a clever piece of software that creates a secure (encrypted) internet connection – also known as a “VPN tunnel” – between your device and the website or app you are trying to access.

When you use a VPN, your standard internet connection is redirected via a secure VPN server before connecting to the wider Internet.

When you connect to a VPN server, your IP address changes and your connection is encrypted, typically using the AES-256 cipher and secure protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard. As a result, your internet privacy and security is considerably stronger.

A virtual private network (VPN) is an Internet security service that allows users to access the Internet as though they were connected to a private network. VPNs use encryption to create a secure connection over unsecured Internet infrastructure.

Encryption is a way of scrambling data so that only authorized parties can understand the information. It takes readable data and alters it so that it appears random to attackers or anyone else who intercepts it. In this way, encryption is like a “secret code.”

A VPN works by establishing encrypted connections between devices. All devices that connect to the VPN set up encryption keys, and these keys are used to encode and decode all information sent between them.

The effect of this encryption is that VPN connections remain private even if they stretch across public Internet infrastructure. Imagine John is shopping online from his hotel room. Now suppose that a criminal has secretly infiltrated the hotel’s network infrastructure and is monitoring all data passing through (sort of like tapping a telephone line). John’s data is still secure because of the VPN. All the criminal can see is the encrypted version of the data.

When you make a transaction or when you need to send or receive sensitive information, a VPN will enhance your security.

Yes, you will need to install a VPN client on each device you want to connect to the VPN.

Fortunately, all of the VPNs recommended on our site allow you to hook up to multiple devices under one account.

So whether you have a Windows PC, laptop, Macbook, iPhone, or Android mobile you can hook up to your VPN account easily with any device and without having to register for another account.

We tested, reviewed, and ranked dozens of the leading VPN offers to come up with this top 10 list. To figure out which VPNs are really worth your money, we looked at the features, reputations, and prices of each brand.

The main reason for getting a VPN in the first place is security. That’s why we chose VPNs that have military-grade encryption, a range of protocols (OpenVPN, L2TP, IKEv2, and more), DNS leak protection, and a kill-switch. We also compared each VPN brand’s number of servers and where they are situated, as well as their speed and latency.

We then looked at ease-of-use, customer support, and reviews via sites like Trustpilot.

Lastly, we checked out the price of each VPN service to help us root out the best offers with the best value for money.

The monthly price will usually vary based on the length of your subscription. If you purchase a 2-year plan, you will pay less per month than what you’d pay for a monthly plan.

Surprisingly, VPN companies sometimes hide their best deals deep in their website. Lucky for you, we’ve gone to the trouble to find these deals.

For example, here you can save up to 49% on ExpressVPN and get 3 months free, or save as much as 85% when you buy CyberGhost.

You can connect to most VPNs with just a few clicks of a mouse – it really is that simple. You’ll need to download and install the software, log in, choose a country to connect to, and you’re all set.

Try it today and take advantage of the HOT DEALS we have today!

Of course!

Most VPNs offer mobile apps for Android and iPhone. Install the app and safely browse from your phone or tablet on any Wi-Fi without worry. Some VPNs will let you connect multiple devices simultaneously, so you can connect your PC, laptop, phone, router, and other devices in your household, all for the price of a single account.

Check out vpnMentor’s top rated VPNs for Android or for iPhone.