Top Features to Look for When Choosing a VPN Service

If you are not using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) you should. When you use the internet for financial transactions, for activities you want to keep secret, or even for regular surfing, be aware that you can become a target for scammers who can take away your money or even be a victim of identity theft. A VPN gives you a certain level of privacy.

Regular internet providers cannot offer you the same degree of protection. You may be using a network that is open to hacking and other criminal activities. What is worse is that you will not know anything about it. A VPN should also provide you with some protection against Trojans, malware, and ransomware.

Selecting a VPN service

When you go in for a VPN, you need to know which one will be the best for you. You have to pay additionally for a VPN, apart from what you pay for your regular internet service. VPN Services should have all these attributes:

• Speed—When using a VPN, you don’t want to compromise on speed. Even though this service is routed through many servers, it should offer a good speed that is not less than what your internet service provider gives you. This is also important if you travel a great deal, as the VPN service should be available in those locations.
• Usability – it should be easy to log in to since you need a separate app to use a VPN that masks your original ISP address. It should also be available for use on multiple devices such as mobile, tablet, television, and computer.
• Cost – it is always better not to use a free VPN service as the provider may be collecting and selling your information, the encryption may be low or the speed may not be up to the mark. Often when you try a free VPN service, it will offer limited use and lower protection.
• Encryption – your VPN service should provide a high degree of protection so that your data and usage are safe from hacking.
• Customer service – the VPN you choose should have a dedicated online or phone customer service that is available all the time in case you run into any problems.
• Kill switch – make sure that the VPN has a kill switch. If your regular internet drops even momentarily, the VPN should also disconnect.
• Logging policy – check the logging policy of the service provided. It should not be keeping any of your information or data on its servers as this would be a breach of privacy.

Many VPNs offer a trial service or a money-back guarantee if you have any issues. Check out reviews, and ratings and do some comparison shopping before opting for a VPN to keep your data secure.

Final words

With cybercrime on the rise and cyber criminals becoming smarter than ever, stay one step ahead and use a VPN for additional security and safety. While any VPN may not offer you a hundred percent protection, it will be safer than using no safety net at all. Choose your VPN service provider with care so that you get a good deal at the right price.