protonvpn free

ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused virtual private network developed by Proton AG, the same team behind ProtonMail. Built around strong privacy principles and headquartered in Switzerland — a country with robust privacy laws — ProtonVPN aims to give users control over their online data and a safer browsing experience. Core features and privacy protections ProtonVPN uses modern VPN protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, providing a balance of speed and security. The service enforces a strict no-logs policy so user activity is not recorded, and it routes sensitive traffic through Secure Core servers located in privacy-friendly countries to add an extra layer of protection against network-based attacks. ProtonVPN also offers Tor-over-VPN servers that allow direct access to the Tor network without a separate Tor Browser setup. Security and additional tools Beyond encryption, ProtonVPN includes features such as an automatic kill switch (to block traffic if the VPN connection drops), split tunneling (to route only selected apps through the VPN), and support for P2P on designated servers. NetShield is ProtonVPN’s built-in DNS-level blocker that can block ads, trackers, and known malware domains. The company has made efforts toward transparency through third-party security audits and by publishing periodic transparency reports. Plans and platform support ProtonVPN provides a free plan with limited speeds and server access, alongside paid tiers (Basic, Plus, etc.) that expand server options, faster speeds, and extra features like Secure Core and NetShield. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, and ProtonVPN can also be configured on routers for whole-home protection. The number of simultaneous connections depends on the chosen plan. Performance and use cases With WireGuard support and a global server network, ProtonVPN can deliver competitive speeds suitable for streaming, gaming, and large downloads — especially on Plus-level servers. It also offers region-specific servers that can help access geo-restricted content. For privacy-conscious users, journalists, and travelers, ProtonVPN’s combination of Swiss jurisdiction, no-logs policy, and Secure Core routing makes it an attractive option. Considerations No VPN guarantees absolute anonymity; good privacy hygiene and careful use are still necessary. Advanced features like Secure Core and the fastest servers are restricted to higher-tier subscriptions, so users should compare plans based on their needs. Conclusion ProtonVPN stands out for its privacy-first approach, transparent practices, and robust feature set. Whether you need a free basic VPN or a more advanced privacy toolset, ProtonVPN offers options that balance security, usability, and performance.