You probably use your computer for banking, shopping, and work, all through an internet connection you may not fully control. On public Wi-Fi, other people on the same network may try to spy on your online activity. Even at home, your internet provider can see which websites you visit.
That is why many people use a VPN. It encrypts your data and hides your IP address, making it harder for others to see what you do online. A good VPN also offers easy-to-use apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux without slowing down your internet too much.
With so many options available, this article covers five of the best VPNs for computer users who want to secure their internet connection and explains what each one offers.
VPNGeek
VPNGeek offers a simple VPN for computer users, with apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux. You just sign in, click connect, and its smart routing system chooses the fastest server for you. The Individual plan supports one person and up to five devices.
VPNGeek follows a no-logs policy, which means it does not keep records of your online activity. Its servers use RAM only, so data is not stored on hard drives. The company also says its system has been independently audited and that it publishes public transparency reports.
It also offers useful safety features. A kill switch disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, while auto-connect turns on protection when you join an untrusted network. Also, split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which ones skip it, so your protection fits the way you work.
Key Features
- Audited no-logs policy and RAM-only servers
- WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, with servers in over 60 countries
- Kill switch, split tunneling, and auto-connect for untrusted networks
- Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iPhone, iPad, and Android
- Individual plan costs $3.99 per month and supports one person on five devices
NordVPN
NordVPN uses NordLynx, a protocol built on WireGuard. It is designed to keep your connection fast while protecting your data. This can help when you make video calls, download large files, or play online games on your computer.
NordVPN also offers Threat Protection Pro. It blocks trackers, unsafe websites, and files that contain malware. This feature can work even when the VPN is turned off. However, it is available only with plans above Basic, so check your plan before choosing it.
One account can protect up to ten devices, including your computer and phone. You can use Double VPN for an extra layer of encryption or obfuscated servers when a network tries to block VPN connections. These features can be useful when travelling to places with strict internet rules.
Key Features
- NordLynx protocol, built on WireGuard, with post-quantum encryption
- Threat Protection Pro to block trackers, harmful websites, and infected downloads
- Support for up to ten devices and servers in more than 110 countries
- Double VPN, obfuscated servers, and Meshnet for connecting your devices
- Split tunneling to choose which apps use the VPN
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN offers apps for Windows, Mac, and Linux. Its Windows app supports Windows 10 and 11, while its Mac app works with macOS 11 and newer. You can also try the service with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN uses TrustedServer technology, which means its servers run on RAM instead of hard drives. Its own Lightway protocol is designed to provide fast and reliable connections on your computer. Windows users can also enable Lightway Turbo for even faster speeds.
The service also includes an internet kill switch and split tunneling on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Its app offers Threat Manager and an ad blocker as well. ExpressVPN has servers in 113 countries, and one subscription supports up to 14 devices, depending on your plan.
Key Features
- TrustedServer technology that runs servers on RAM
- Lightway protocol, with Lightway Turbo available on Windows
- Kill switch and split tunneling for Windows, Mac, and Linux
- Built-in Threat Manager and ad blocker
- Servers in 113 countries and support for up to 14 devices on one subscription
Surfshark
Surfshark allows you to connect as many devices as you want at the same time using one account. This means every computer in your home can use the same subscription. It supports Windows, macOS, and Linux, so you can protect different types of computers.
Surfshark has more than 4,500 servers in 100 countries, and all its servers use RAM only. This means stored data is wiped when a server is turned off. The company also follows a strict no-logs policy.
CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and cookie pop-ups while you browse. A kill switch protects your connection if the VPN stops working, while Bypasser lets you choose which apps and websites can skip the VPN. Dynamic MultiHop adds another layer of protection by sending your data through two VPN servers.
Key Features
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on one account
- More than 4,500 RAM-only servers in 100 countries
- CleanWeb to block ads, trackers, and cookie pop-ups
- Kill switch, Bypasser split tunneling, and Dynamic MultiHop double VPN
- Apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux computers
Proton VPN
Proton VPN comes from the team behind Proton Mail and is based in Switzerland. It follows a strict no-logs policy, and outside experts have audited it for five years in a row. Its apps are available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
All Proton VPN apps are open source, which means anyone can check their code, including users of the free plan. Independent security experts also review the apps regularly. They include a built-in kill switch and an always-on VPN option to help keep your connection protected.
Proton VPN also offers Secure Core, which sends your internet traffic through more than one server before it reaches its destination. These servers are located in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden. Secure Core is available only on the Plus plan, but the free plan offers unlimited data.
Key Features
- Based in Switzerland and follows a strict no-logs policy
- Open-source apps that independent experts audit regularly
- Secure Core routing through Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden
- Built-in kill switch and always-on VPN protection
- Free plan with unlimited data and apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux
Conclusion
A good VPN gives your computer a more private connection to the internet. This is important whenever you work, shop, or bank online. Before choosing a service, consider how many devices you use, how much privacy you need, and how easy the VPN is to set up.
After choosing a VPN, install it on each computer and turn on its security features. Check your settings from time to time to make sure your protection stays active. With a little effort, you can browse the internet with greater peace of mind. See more