Detailed and Panoramic ProtonVPN Review in 2023 | Is it Efficient Enough to Keep You Safe?

Last Updated:Feb 19, 2024

The internet is filled with thousands of private networks and proxy software that claim to keep you safe. But only a few stand firm on their claims and take responsibility.

Proton vpn

Just one of those private networks is Proton VPN. ProtonVPN is a Swiss-made virtual private network that works on a freemium model, similar to Privado VPN. This means that you can use it in both paid and free versions. The free version is equally safe and sound, but the paid version comes with some extra features and perks. 

That said, this write-up is going to be a complete ProtonVPN review, and you are going to find out whether it is a good idea to install this program on your device or not.

Proton VPN – A Short Review

ProtonVPN is a pretty balanced and renowned software that you can see on the internet. The most attractive point about this private network is that it offers a freemium model of service, which means you can even use it for free. 

If compared to its competitors, it falls directly into the category of some premium names like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, AtlasVPN, and so on. There is no doubt that people like their quality services as it is rated more than 4 stars on the internet. 

Speaking of its capabilities, you can use this VPN for streaming, browsing, staying anonymous, and for almost every purpose. The software is also compatible and can be used on any device. However, if you are still in doubt and want some consumer’s point of view, you can read its reviews online. 

Safety — Is ProtonVPN Safe to Use?

Since the primary role of a private network is to keep you safe and anonymous, this ProtonVPN review will focus more on safety. To figure out whether is Proton VPN safe or not, you can take a look at the table given below:

EncryptionAES-256-CBC with SHA-512 hash function
Tunneling ProtocolWireGuard, IKEv2/IPsec, OpenVPN (UDP and TCP), and Stealth
Kill SwitchYes
Forward SecrecyYes
Two-Factor AuthenticationYes
RAM ServersFull-disk encryption
Always-on VPNYes
Privacy PolicyNo logs, independently audited by Securitum
No-Log PolicyYes

From this table, you can conclude that it offers a plethora of protocols to use on your network. From WireGuard to OpenVPN, everything is offered to you in a few clicks. 

Along with this long list of protocols, you are also getting world-class encryption technologies. With AES-256-CBC with SHA-512 hash function, your information is completely unreadable by the hackers. 

Also, the No-Log Policy offered by the makers makes sure that your information and data are not even recorded on their servers as well.

Streaming – Can ProtonVPN Unlock Global Libraries?

Another question that arises in the user’s mind is whether the private network is able to breach the geolocation barriers set up by the streaming platform. In this case, ProtonVPN is yet again a good choice for you. Following is the list of streaming platform libraries that you can breach through with its connection.

Streaming PlatformsDoes it Work?
NetflixYes 
Amazon Prime VideoYes
HuluYes
HBO MaxYes
Disney+Yes
BBC iPlayerYes

With all these accessed libraries, there will hardly be any content that you would not be able to access. This also means that now you will not have to pay for premium services like NordVPN to unblock Netflix libraries.

Why ProtonVPN? – Impressive Features

It is good not to trust blindly and ask “Is Proton VPN safe” or “Is Proton VPN legit”. Well, to answer that, you must focus on the advantages that it provides you with. Even if you go for the free version of this program, you will be offered high-speed connectivity, premium-level security, and quality service.

Great Service for Zero Penny

Even if you are going for the free version of Proton VPN, and you are a casual internet user, you will feel almost no difference in its free vs premium service. Except for some additional benefits like extra speed and technical upper hands, it may feel the same.

Quick Speed Connectivity

Speaking of speed, here is the table that will give you an idea of its performance at different corners of the planet.

Server LocationWithout VPN SpeedNew York (With VPN)United Kingdom (With VPN)
Download Speed Retention1000 Mbit/s263 Mbit/s577 Mbit/s
Upload Speed Retention1000 Mbit/s243 Mbit/s518 Mbit/s

In this table, you can clearly see how the retention rate in the program is so well that it performs better than expected in every corner of the world. In other words, if you are looking for a VPN for Australia or the Americas, ProtonVPN is a good option for you.

Security Arrangements

ProtonVPN comes with a number of impressive specifications that will keep you safe on the internet. Technologies like encryption, DNS leaks, No-Log Policy, and many more are offered even on their free version.

Along with these, features like IP leak protection allow you to stay anonymous over the web so that any suspicious or malicious platform cannot track your location without your permission.

Unlocked Streaming Libraries

Be it Netflix US-UK, Amazon Prime Video, or any other streaming platform. If your device is connected to the ProtonVPN network, you will be able to gain access to the libraries of any part of the world.

This point is one of the major reasons why an individual opts for a private network. Thanks to advanced offerings by the makers, not only can you unlock the libraries, but can also watch the content in HD quality.

Top-Quality Customer Service

Customer service is one of the most crucial aspects that shapes a customer’s decision. Speaking of ProtonVPN, it has a fabulous and supportive team that is expert in solving its customer issues.

This means that the relationship between the makers and the user stays in place the whole time and the makers stick to their responsibility of providing the best services.

Freemium Service Model

As mentioned at the beginning of this ProtonVPN review, the service is provided to you in both free and paid versions. This strategy helps the program to target both types of user base. Those who can afford the paid version, as well as those who just want basic security arrangements for free.

Although there are some advantages that you will be able to enjoy only on the paid plan, such as higher speed, better security offering, additional features, etc. Moreover, with free version, you would be able to connect yourself to only 3 server locations. Whereas paid membership allows you to connect with all 69 server locations. 

That said, these are the major reasons why going for the ProtonVPN is a good choice for you. However, there are some more features that need to be discussed in detail.

What are the Core Features of ProtonVPN?

ProtonVPN is a comprehensive platform for those who want to stay safe and anonymous over the web. For this, the makers have introduced various features like:

  • Anonymous Browsing: If you do not know, your data is shared over the internet by several organizations. Be it advertisement agencies, businesses, or government authorities. You do not even know which brand might be using your data for their own good. This is why ProtonVPN encrypts all your data and IP address information to maintain anonymity over the web.
  • DNS Protection: Even bigger risks for your data are hackers. An organization might not use your information for unethical purposes, but a hacker will surely do. And for a hacker, the best way to breach your information is by DNS system. Therefore, ProtonVPN encrypts your queries through encrypted tunnels so that hackers would not be able to gain access to your information.
  • Split Tunneling: The split tunneling feature allows you to dedicate some special routes through their VPN connection tunnel, excluding other queries out of the VPN tunnel. You can turn on this feature on your device from the advanced settings.
  • Kill-Switch: ProtonVPN’s kill switch allows you to reconnect to the network whenever you lose it. This feature blocks all network traffic and reconnects you to a ProtonVPN server when the connection returns.

These are the features that ProtonVPN has to offer for its users. You might even find some of these features in the free version of the app.

Pros and Cons of ProtonVPN

No software is perfect. Each one of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. That said, to make this ProtonVPN review completely unbiased, here is the table that shows both advantages and disadvantages of ProtonVPN:

Positives
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Supports torrenting
  • User-friendly
  • Advanced features for Mac
  • Good for streaming
  • Offers great quality service for free
Negatives
  • A bit expensive
  • No 24*7 customer support

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of this private network. If you are comfortable with them, you must download them today for your device.

ProtonVPN vs. Other VPNs

ProtonVPN is not the only network on the internet. There are several other alternatives that you can go for. However, are they equally effective and responsible for their service? Let us find out:

ProtonVPNPrivate Access InternetBitdefender VPNNordVPN
Number of Servers3000+35000+4000+5400+
Maximum Number of Devices1010106
Dedicated IP AddressNoYesNoYes (Not for Indians)
No-Log PolicyYesYesYesYes
Browser ExtentionsNoChrome, Opera, FirefoxEdge, Firefox, ChromeEdge, Firefox, Chrome
Kill SwitchYesYesYesYes

With this comparison table, you can decide which way to go to.

Compatibility – What Devices do ProtonVPN Work On?

In terms of Compatibility as well, ProtonVPN gives a sophisticated response. Across all devices and Operating Systems, ProtonVPN works on every single one of them.

Still, here is the list of different devices on which a user can get connected to Proton’s private network:

  • Mobile Phones
  • Computers
  • Laptops
  • Tablets
  • Smart TVs
  • Streaming Devices

Proton VPN is one of the best VPN options for streaming devices like Firestick, Apple TV+, etc.

That said, now is the time to focus on the Operating Systems on which this private network can work:

  • Windows
  • Linux
  • Android
  • iOS
  • MacOS

With this list, you can access the private network on pretty much all devices.

Proton VPN – Pricing and Plans

ProtonVPN offers a wide range of plans for its users. Thanks to their makers, there is something on their website for everyone. However, they also provide free services to their users, but if you want to upgrade the quality of the security provided, you can explore any of the plans listed below:

  • 1-month plan: $9.99/month ($119.88 if you buy it every month for a year)
  • 1-year plan: $4.99/month (or $71.88/year)
  • 2-year plan: $4.99/month (or $119.76/year)

If you are going to use ProtonVPN for a long period, we recommend you buy their 1 or 2-year plan. Since it would cost you around $4.99 per month.

To help you more in your decision, here is the table that compares both free and paid versions of the service:

FreePlus
Simultaneous Connections110
Server Locations369
Kill SwitchYesYes
Double VPNYesYes
Tor over VPNNoYes
SpeedLowerHigher
Cost$0.00$4.99

Proton VPN – Servers and Locations

ProtonVPN is one of those renowned private networks on the internet that has no shortage of quality servers. Its server location is spread over 69 countries around the world. You can get access to the internet in any region of this planet. With more than 3000+ servers in 69 locations, here is the table that lists those locations:

RegionsCountriesServers
Europe31400+
Asia14250+
America10700+
Rest of the World4100+

How to Connect to a ProtonVPN Server?

If you are wondering “how to use ProtonVPN?” or “how to connect to ProtonVPN?”, well, you do not need to worry at all. Thanks to their ability to connect you to the server of your choice:

  1. Open the application on your desktop or mobile phone.
  2. Login to your account on the program.
    create your account1
  3. To connect to their network in one click, click on the Quick Connect button.
    click on the quick connect button
  4. You can also scroll down on the menu and pick up the server location of your choice.
    pick server of your choice

That’s it, now you can easily connect to any server of your choice on ProtonVPN and browse worry-free.

Final Words

Proton VPN is among the best VPN services and is a good VPN service overall. Netflix can be unblocked with even the free version, making it an excellent option for watching. The premium plans were also successful in unblocking popular streaming services like HBO Max. Make sure you connect to a server that isn’t overloaded, though, since they can occasionally be.

Proton VPN maintains the right to modify its terms and conditions at any time, even if it suggests that your online activity is totally anonymous.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ProtonVPN trustworthy?

With its excellent online customer reviews and its brilliant service quality, you can say that ProtonVPN is a legit and trustworthy private network.

What are the downsides of ProtonVPN?

Overall ProtonVPN is a good service provider, however, its prices for a premium membership can cost you much more than expected.

Is ProtonVPN safe?

With its encryption technologies, different protocols, and safety technologies, it is a safe option to use.

Is ProtonVPN Good?

The question “is proton vpn good?” is asked by a lot of people online, and the answer is, yes. ProtonVPN offers you quality connection speed and security even in its free version.

Deepanshu Chauhan

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