What is the most secure VPN, and how can you choose one?

What is a secure VPN?

A secure virtual private network (VPN) encrypts the connection between your device and a remote server, allowing your data to travel safely over the internet. Doing so shields your activity from hackers, your internet service provider (ISP), and digital threats, ensuring that sensitive data — like your IP address and browsing history — remains private and safe from identity theft and other cybercrime.

However, not all VPNs offer the same level of security. A truly reliable service doesn’t just mask your presence online — it also has reliable encryption technology, advanced security protocols, and no activity tracking. For example, the NordVPN security suite combines all these measures to offer users peace of mind.

Are all VPNs safe?

No, not all VPNs are safe. While reputable VPNs use top-notch technology to keep your connections more private and secure, some VPN services, especially free ones, can compromise your data.

As any free and paid VPN comparison will tell you, free VPNs might log user activity, track their IP addresses, or even sell their data to third parties. They also tend to have outdated security practices, which leave users exposed. Paid VPNs, on the other hand, often come with stronger digital security features and no activity tracking, making them a smarter choice for private browsing.

Choosing the most secure VPN provider

VPN security comes down to two main factors — the security of the VPN’s components and the additional security features. Let’s break down what you need to keep in mind.

What makes a VPN secure and trustworthy?

Choosing the right VPN requires understanding the specific features that make it trustworthy. Not all VPNs are built alike — some provide basic encryption, while others go further with security measures that protect your sensitive information on multiple fronts. Here’s how VPNs increase the privacy of your online activities:

• Strong encryption. A high-quality service uses VPN encryption like AES-256, known for its virtually unbreakable level of protection. This technology provides a secure connection even on public networks.
• Secure VPN protocols. Security-conscious VPNs use advanced protocols to ensure a stable and safe connection. The WireGuard VPN protocol has become the new industry standard because it strikes a great balance between speed and security. NordVPN has even developed a protocol called NordLynx based on it.
• Key management. Effective management of encryption keys is crucial for security, and one of the best approaches is a system called perfect forward secrecy. It ensures that each session creates a unique key, so even if one key is compromised, it won’t impact past or future sessions.
• No tracking of your online activities. A trustworthy service shouldn’t track what you do online, meaning it doesn’t store information about your online activity.
• Account security. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) gives your account an extra layer of protection. Reliable VPNs also take server security and authentication seriously to keep your credentials and information safe.
• Secure server infrastructure. A dependable VPN relies on a solid server setup to keep user data secure. Key elements of this include:
  • RAM-only servers. These servers don’t use traditional hard drives. Instead, all data is stored in volatile memory that wipes clean when powered off, reducing data retention risks.
  • Colocated servers. VPN providers that own and fully control their server hardware (rather than renting from third parties) have tighter oversight of server security, limiting vulnerabilities from external access or tampering.
• Third-party security audits. Regular audits from third-party firms confirm that the provider adheres to its privacy policies and has strong security practices. Reputable providers share audit reports publicly, building trust with users.
• Code audits. Some VPNs encourage penetration testers, cybersecurity researchers, or even advanced users to test for vulnerabilities. For example, you’ll find Nord Security on the HackerOne platform, where any expert can help identify potential security issues.

What VPN benefits keep you safe and private online?

Using a VPN helps secure your entire digital experience. A strong VPN for privacy and security changes your IP address, protects your connection on public Wi-Fi, and blocks unwanted tracking. Here’s how the right service can keep you safe and private whenever you go online.

• Strong encryption. It scrambles your internet traffic, making it unreadable to anyone attempting to intercept it.
• IP address protection. VPNs change your real IP address, creating a layer of privacy that stops sites and trackers from identifying your virtual location and internet service provider (ISP). When you connect to a VPN, they’ll see only the IP of the VPN server.
• Secure public Wi-Fi. VPNs are invaluable for public Wi-Fi use. Networks at cafes, airports, and hotels are vulnerable, often lacking adequate protection. VPNs protect you from hackers who might be lurking on these networks. With the rise in remote work, VPNs also provide an essential security layer for accessing company networks.

In addition, many providers include extra features that further enhance security, even though these go beyond the basic VPN technology.

• Kill switch. If your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, your IP address could be exposed. A kill switch feature prevents this by instantly cutting off your apps or even your entire internet connection. This protects you from data leaks and keeps your connection secure.
• DNS leak protection. Preventing DNS leaks is key to ensuring private internet access.
• Dark Web Monitor. This NordVPN feature monitors dark web forums and marketplaces for leaks associated with your registered email address and alerts you if they appear in a data breach.
• Split tunneling. It gives you control over which apps or websites go through the encrypted tunnel and which connect to the internet directly.
• Protection from cybersecurity threats. NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ includes a whole set of security and privacy tools like an ad blocker, tracker blocker, and malware protection. According to internal research, Threat Protection Pro™ stops as many as 43.2 billion trackers per month.

What are the risks of using an insecure VPN?

An unsafe VPN service can put your data at risk in various ways. Without strong security standards, these VPNs leave your personal information, including your browsing history and location, open to hackers. They also often have poor logging practices, which means they could be selling your data to third parties.

FAQ

Is VPN secure?

Yes, many VPNs are secure, but their safety depends on the provider and its features. Safe VPNs use top encryption standards to protect your online traffic and change your IP address. Also, they do not track what you do online and often include advanced measures like MFA. However, free or low-quality VPNs may lack essential protections and could even compromise your online privacy.

Is a free VPN secure enough?

Free VPNs sound appealing but often come with trade-offs in online security and privacy. Many free services rely on ads or even sell user data to stay afloat. Although exceptions exist, free VPNs typically don’t offer the same level of protection as reputable paid options, which makes them a poor choice for anyone serious about online privacy.

How does using a secure VPN affect internet speed?

VPN usage can slightly reduce internet speed because of the distance data packets travel between the remote server and your device. However, NordVPN is often ranked on the fastest VPNs lists because of its high-speed NordLynx protocol. Its consistent speed ensures you won’t need to deal with buffering while using an online gaming or video streaming service that you’re subscribed to.

How often should I update my VPN software?

It’s always important to update your VPN software as soon as a new version is available. Updates include key security improvements, bug fixes, and performance improvements. Skipping updates leaves your VPN connection vulnerable to threats. Most NordVPN applications update automatically, but the Linux app does not. If you’re using Linux, here’s how to update NordVPN applications to make sure you’re always protected with the latest features.