protonvpn free

ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused virtual private network developed by Proton Technologies AG, the company behind Proton Mail. Built around the principles of strong encryption, transparent practices, and user privacy, ProtonVPN aims to give individuals a safer way to browse, stream, and communicate online without compromising performance or ease of use. Core features and security ProtonVPN uses modern VPN protocols (including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 depending on platform) and AES-256 encryption to protect your traffic. A distinctive feature is Secure Core, which routes connections through multiple trusted servers in privacy-friendly jurisdictions before exiting to the internet—helping mitigate risks from compromised exit nodes. ProtonVPN also supports Tor over VPN for easy access to the Tor network, a built-in kill switch to prevent leaks if the VPN drops, and split tunneling on supported platforms so you can choose which apps use the VPN. Privacy, transparency, and trust Headquartered in Switzerland, ProtonVPN benefits from strong legal protections for user privacy. The company states a strict no-logs policy and publishes transparency reports and independent security audits to back its claims. Proton’s apps are open-source, enabling security researchers to review the code and increasing accountability. For users prioritizing trust and auditability, ProtonVPN’s openness is a significant advantage. Plans and value ProtonVPN offers a free tier with access to a limited set of servers and moderate speeds—useful for basic privacy needs without cost. Paid tiers (Basic, Plus, and Visionary) unlock faster servers, access to Secure Core and Tor features, more simultaneous connections, streaming and P2P-optimized servers, and priority support. The Plus plan is often recommended for most users who want high-speed performance and advanced features without paying for Proton’s top-tier Visionary bundle, which adds family-level access and Proton Mail benefits. Performance and usability WireGuard support delivers competitive speeds for streaming, gaming, and large downloads, and ProtonVPN maintains apps across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The interface is user-friendly, with features like quick-connect, server maps, and custom profiles. While performance varies by server and location—as with any VPN—ProtonVPN generally fares well in real-world tests, particularly on its paid plans. Who should use ProtonVPN ProtonVPN suits users who value privacy-first design and transparency: journalists, activists, remote workers, and everyday users who want dependable security without sacrificing usability. Its combination of open-source apps, independent audits, and Swiss jurisdiction makes it a strong contender in the crowded VPN market. In summary, ProtonVPN is a robust choice for people seeking a secure, privacy-respecting VPN backed by transparent practices and modern encryption, with options ranging from a capable free plan to fully featured paid subscriptions.