otonVPN: Privacy, Security, and Speed from Switzerland Keywords ProtonVPN, VPN, Secure Core, WireGuard, no-logs, privacy, Tor over VPN, free VPN, Proton AG Description ProtonVPN is a privacy-first VPN service from Switzerland offering strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, multi-hop Secure Core servers, a free tier, and apps for major platforms — designed for users who want a balance of security and performance. Content ProtonVPN is a virtual private network developed by Proton AG, the same team behind Proton Mail. Built with privacy as a primary goal, ProtonVPN aims to protect users’ internet traffic from surveillance and tracking by routing connections through encrypted tunnels and servers in multiple countries. Privacy and jurisdiction One of ProtonVPN’s distinguishing features is its Swiss base. Switzerland has strong privacy laws and is outside EU and US intelligence-sharing frameworks, which enhances legal protections for user data. ProtonVPN also maintains a clear no-logs policy, meaning it does not store activity or connection logs that could be tied back to a user. Security and protocols Security is central to ProtonVPN’s design. It uses modern encryption (AES-256) and supports secure tunneling protocols including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. The service provides built-in leak protection, a reliable kill switch, and DNS leak prevention. ProtonVPN’s apps are open-source, allowing the community to inspect client code, and the project has undergone independent security audits. Unique features ProtonVPN offers features that go beyond basic VPN functionality. Secure Core routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries before it exits to the broader internet, providing an extra layer of protection against network-level adversaries. Tor over VPN servers allow direct access to the Tor network without a separate browser configuration. The service supports P2P on designated servers and includes streaming-optimized servers for accessing geo-restricted content. Free and paid plans Unlike many free VPNs that limit data, ProtonVPN’s free tier traditionally offers unlimited bandwidth but limits server choice and maximum speed, making it suitable for casual browsing. Paid plans unlock faster servers, access to the full global server network, Secure Core, Tor servers, and features like split tunneling and simultaneous connections. Pricing tiers are flexible for individual users, families, and businesses. Performance and usability ProtonVPN has improved performance over the years, especially after adding WireGuard support, which reduces overhead and increases throughput. Native apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as configuration options for routers. The interface is generally user-friendly for beginners, with advanced settings for power users. Who should consider ProtonVPN ProtonVPN is a strong choice for users who prioritize privacy and transparency and want a reputable provider with a free option and advanced security features. It’s suitable for journalists, activists, travelers, and anyone seeking a reliable way to protect their online activity without sacrificing usability. In summary, ProtonVPN combines strong technical protections, a privacy-respecting legal base, and practical features that make it a competitive option in today’s crowded VPN market.