Private Internet Access is a VPN provider offering top-tier service and security at bargain prices. The company was founded in 2009 to provide the best privacy protection on the web with its revolutionary tunneling technology.
Private Internet Access is a VPN that offers access to over 3,000 servers in 33 countries. The company also has a 30-day money back guarantee. Read more in detail here: private internet access vpn.
There are several competing VPN services in today’s market. As a result, deciding what is best for you might be difficult. After all, at first sight, they all seem to be the same.
We’ll take a deeper look at the VPN provider’s features, interface, capabilities, and price in our Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment review. It’s safe to assume that after you’ve finished reading this, you’ll know all there is to know about the service. As a result, you’ll be able to tell whether it’s the best option for you.
What is Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment (PIA) and how does it work? PIA (Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment) is a VPN service established in the United States. It promises to give anonymity, privacy, and safety to its users, much like most of its rivals. The VPN is well-known for being one of the most cost-effective options available. Aside from that, many people consider it to be one of the finest VPNs for torrenting.
Here’s a table with our thoughts on PIA’s primary selling strengths and weaknesses:
| Pros | Cons |
| Quite reasonably priced | A very small worldwide server network |
| There were no leaks discovered. | It is situated in the United States. |
| Torrenting is permitted on all servers. | There are just a few plans available. |
| A strict no-log policy is in place. | Support for live chat is limited. |
| User-friendly programs that have been updated |
Features
We’ll start by going through all of the things that Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment has to offer:
 Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment | |
| Policy on Logging | Logging is not permitted. |
| Jurisdiction | United States of America (Five-Eyes Member) |
| Encryption | 4096-bit RSA Key Exchange AES-256 AES-128 SHA-256 Hash Authentication |
| Protocols | UDP OpenVPN WireGuard OpenVPN TCP IPSec/L2TP |
| Anti-Adware and Anti-Malware Software | Yes |
| Turn Off the Lights | Yes |
| Tests for Leaks | There were no leaks discovered. |
| Tests of Speed | Fast |
| Torrenting & P2P | Yes, indeed (On All Servers) |
| Streaming | Netflix Hulu Firestick Amazon Prime Kodi |
| Gaming | iOS and Android on Windows Xbox One is a video game console that was released (Via Router) PS4 is a game console that was released in (Via Router) Nintendo Switch is a game console that was released in (Via Router) |
| Compatibility | Chrome for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS Firefox Opera Routers that have been chosen |
| Simultaneous Connections are when two or more things happen at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time. | 10 |
| Servers | 3300+ |
| China | On occasion (1 Out of 3 Servers Worked) |
| Tunneling in Two Parts | Yes |
| Features Not Included | PIA MACE |
| Prices |
$9.95/Month $3.33 per month (1-Year) $2.69 per month (2-Years) Special Offer: Save 73% on a 2-year membership and get 2 months free. |
| Our Opinion | 4.2 |
| Website | www.privateinternetaccess.com |
Privacy & Security
The two most crucial features of a VPN are privacy and security. It is rendered worthless if this is not done. As a result, we’ll start with this section of the review.
Where is Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Based & Who Owns It?
Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment is based in Denver, Colorado, USA, which puts it at a significant disadvantage. That’s because the United States is a member of the Five Eyes Intelligence Alliance. It has automatic systems placed that gather and share intelligence with Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
There’s also the Patriot Act, which grants authorities the authority to gather and store data. They may also compel enterprises to record and disclose data while enforcing a confidentiality agreement to avoid exposure.
Encryption & Protocols Used
Like other high-ranking services, Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment uses AES 256-bit military-grade Encryption. As a backup, the service’s developers have also made AES-128 available.
An SHA-512 hash authentication and an RSA 4096-bit handshake are used to combine the two encryptions mentioned above.
The OpenVPN protocol is used by PIA, and its applications utilize it by default. Aside from that, you have the option of choosing between UDP and TCP connections. The VPN’s iOS client, which uses IPsec, is an exception. Aside from that, all desktop and mobile applications, with the exception of the iOS version, have the option to switch to WireGuard.
Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Leak Test
When your VPN fails to hide your IP address, leaks occur. When this happens, your safety is jeopardized since your location may be discovered. Anyone will be able to track all of your internet actions back to you.
People who know your IP address have access to more than simply your online data. They might use it to track down your home address and put you and your family in risk. As a result, while utilizing a VPN, it’s critical to check for leaks. It’s also a good idea to look at other people’s DNS leak test results online.
I was able to check for leaks by testing with IPLeak.net. Below are the results of my webRTC (web real-time communication) Tests for Leaks using PIA.
First, I did the tests on my own network, with no VPN enabled.
This is a snapshot of my IP address right now:
No VPN IP Leak Test
After that, I turned on PIA and linked it to their Singapore server.
Singapore IP Leak Test
Finally, while connecting to the New York server, I conducted the test.
US IP Leak Test
As seen above, my real IP address becomes hidden once I’m connected to the VPN. The only things shown are the virtual public IP addresses used by Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment.
PIA has no leaks, according to my testing. You’ll be able to use it securely while hiding your true IP address from others.
Does Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Keep Logs?
Kape Technologies claims that Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment keeps no logs at all. That is even though it’s based within the Jurisdiction of Five Eyes Alliance. While it’s required to comply with US laws, Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment has a good track record.
The government requested it to hand over log data on two occasions for an ongoing criminal inquiry. During each of these instances, no information was sent along.
Unlike most competitors, PIA’s privacy policy is very clear. It says that Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment “does not collect or log any traffic or use of its virtual private network”. Moreover, it also regularly releases transparency reports showing data requests from government agencies.
With everything said, I think it’s safe to say that Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment keeps no logs. It does, however, keep email and payment details, which is standard practice in the industry.
Does Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Have A Turn Off the Lights?
Yes. PIA does have a Turn Off the Lights security feature. Each of the VPN’s apps has a built-in switch, making it great to use wherever you go.
All good VPNs must have a Turn Off the Lights that automatically blocks traffic if the connection suddenly drops. With it comes the insurance that all traffic stays encrypted and protected. The feature comes especially in handy if you’re from an area with a poor connection. It’s also a must-have if you experience frequent power outages.
Luckily, all Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment’ apps have 3 Turn Off the Lights modes:
- Off: Does not obstruct traffic.
- When turned on, the auto mode blocks out all outside traffic.
- When turned off, it always blocks all traffic.
Since I live an on-the-go lifestyle, I’ve found PIA’s Turn Off the Lights to be helpful. It allows me to remain protected anywhere without any worries.
Does Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Have an Ad and Malware Blocker?
Yes. The ad and malware blocker of Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment is called PIA MACE. It blocks advertisements, trackers, and malware domains.
Sadly, it cannot whitelist certain domains and doesn’t allow you to tweak the settings. Versus other ad blockers, Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment’ is not a great performer. Hence, I wouldn’t recommend that you use it as your main blocker.
I suggest NordVPN if you’re seeking for a VPN with a superior adblocker. It features built-in blockers that are highly regarded.
Is Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Safe?
Yes. Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment is a VPN that you can rely on to keep you safeguarded whenever you browse the internet. It has a plethora of awesome security features that ensure your security and privacy.
While the business is situated in the United States, it has shown to be reliable when it comes to not maintaining records. As a result, you don’t have to be concerned about it handing up your information to the police if they ask for it.
Test your speed
The user feedback on PIA’s speed is varied. Some believe it’s quite quick, but others disagree. As a result, I was eager to discover the truth for myself. After all, a VPN service that slows down your internet considerably isn’t worth having.
Here are the results of my tests. Below is a screenshot of my base connection without Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment on:
Test your speed – No VPN
Following a connection to PIA’s Singapore server, the following results were obtained:
Test your speed – Singapore
Finally, after connecting to the New York Server, here are the results:
Test your speed – US
My testing yielded underwhelming results, as you can see. My download speed has been severely decreased as a result of using PIA. Even so, it performed a decent job of keeping my upload speed.
How Fast is Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment?
I recommend that you use another VPN if you’re looking for quickness. Now, if you decide on using Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment, I suggest that you connect to a server that’s close to home. If that’s done, you’ll experience a way better connection.
Torrenting & P2P
PIA is a decent VPN to use for torrenting. The strict no-logs policy ensures that no records of your downloading activity get kept. All that is despite Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment falling under the US and, therefore, Five Eyes Jurisdiction.
You may also improve performance by using a port-forwarding option. Furthermore, P2P and file-sharing activities are permitted on all VPN servers.
You’ll be glad to know that PIA is compatible with every popular torrent client. It won’t matter what app version of Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment you’re using. All of which can run your favorite torrenting software.
I decided to do an IP leak test to verify whether torrenting with PIA is secure. To begin, I performed a test without the VPN turned on.
No VPN Torrenting Leak Test
My real IP address is shown, as can be seen.
Following that, I turned on Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment and connected it to its Singapore server.
Singapore Torrenting Leak Test
To finish, I ran the procedure again while connected to PIA’s New York Server.
US Torrenting Leak Test
The results of my tests made me happy. Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment succeeded at hiding my real IP address. The VPN has proven its worth to me, who’s a person that always has a torrent downloading.
Is Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Good for Torrenting?
Yes. In conclusion, I believe PIA is a good alternative for everyone who torrents. The service performs an excellent job of protecting its consumers’ privacy. It’s also jam-packed with features that make torrenting more enjoyable.
Streaming
User reports regarding the streaming capabilities of Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment are mixed. Some say that it’s good whereas others don’t. Because of that, PIA isn’t famous for being a media-oriented VPN.
Does Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Work with Netflix?
PIA claims to be able to access geo-blocked material across a variety of platforms. I decided to test the VPN’s capabilities by using it with Netflix. First, I attempted to connect to its London server and watch Kingsman.
Test of Netflix in the United Kingdom
To my dismay, the London server of Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment wasn’t able to access the movie.
After my first failure, I decided to give the VPN another go. After having a problem with the California server, I switched to the New York one. Spotlight was the film I selected to see.
Test on Netflix in the United States
My second try yielded positive results. The platform, however, was unable to broadcast at its highest quality. That hitch, I believe, was caused by the server’s geographic distance.
What people say about Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment’ Netflix streaming capabilities is true. Its ability to stream depends on the server that you’re connected to. As a result, the number of titles that you’ll be able to access is limited.
Does Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Work with Amazon Prime?
I was curious to see how PIA fared against an other streaming service. I chose to watch a movie on Amazon Prime, which is my go-to Netflix option.
Test of Amazon Prime
Fortunately, the first server (New York) that I used worked like a charm. Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment was able to stream The Avengers successfully. Buffering was also absent, and I was able to view it in HD.
Does Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Work on Firestick?
The Firestick is my fave streaming gadget. As a result, I decided to explore whether PIA could coexist with it. I did this by connecting to the service’s New York server and watching a YouTube video that wasn’t accessible in my country.
Test with a Firestick
PIA was able to get through Amazon’s Firestick’s geoblocks, as expected. The material was even streamed in 1440p without any buffering.
Is Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Good for Streaming?
Both yes and no. My PIA streaming experience was a little hit-or-miss. PIA worked well with Amazon Prime and Firestick, despite my difficulties with Netflix. Still, as a big video streamer, I wouldn’t suggest the VPN.
Here is a link to our list of the top VPNs for streaming.
Gaming
Nope. Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment is not an ideal VPN service to use for gaming. Its sluggishness causes games to buffer and lag noticeably. It prevented me from playing Call of Duty Mobile smoothly. Because of that, I lost my match, which was truly frustrating.
Test your gaming skills
It’s worth noting that PIA doesn’t offer any console-specific applications. There’s no way to utilize it directly with your PS4, Xbox One, or Nintendo Switch right now.
However, it is possible to still use Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment on your console by installing it on your router. The workaround lets you reap from the benefits of the service on any wifi-connected gaming device.
Compatibility
You should select a VPN with a lot of browser extensions and a lot of compatibility. After all, it wouldn’t be ideal if you couldn’t utilize your VPN on your devices. Fortunately, the creators of PIA have made it accessible on a variety of platforms.
Various Operating Systems
Yes. PIA is available on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. ChromeOS, which runs Chromebooks, is the only OS for which it does not have an app. More than 95 percent of the population’s gadgets are compatible with it.
There are key differences that set each of Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment’ apps apart from each other. Some features are absent from particular app versions. For an overview, please refer to the table below:
| Protocol | Always On | PIA MACE | Tunneling in Two Parts | Proxy | Forwarding of Ships | |
| Windows | Wireguard, OpenVPN | u2713 | u2713 | u2713 | u2713 | u2713 |
| macOS | Wireguard, OpenVPN | u2713 | u2713 | u2713 | u2713 | u2713 |
| iOS | Wireguard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | u2717 | u2713 | u2717 | u2717 | u2717 |
| Android | Wireguard, OpenVPN | u2713 | u2713 | u2713 | u2717 | u2713 |
I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with PIA on Windows. That shouldn’t come as a surprise, given that version’s extensive feature set. The app’s design was user-friendly, and connecting to servers was simple.
To learn more about Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment on your operating system, you can check out their official website.
Browsers
Users of Google Chrome, Firefox, and Opera can get PIA as a browser extension. It isn’t available on Tor, Microsoft Edge, and other browsers yet. Regular users of browsers that don’t have a Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment extension can opt to download the OS app instead.
PIA’s extensions connect to the server straight from your browser’s interface. Squid HTTPS is then used to encrypt the traffic. As a result, only traffic from a browser will be protected. A complete VPN is required to properly safeguard your device.
Each browser extension of Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment comes with a variety of features and settings.
You’ll be able to restrict websites from accessing your location, block cameras and microphones, and skip certain websites. PIA’s extensions also allow you to prevent third-party cookies, site referrers, and trackers.
To view all that’s available, I suggest fiddling with the settings. You may just choose a place and click the connect button if you’re not tech-savvy.
Routers
Yes. Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment can be installed on routers. The process isn’t hard, but the lack of an app calls for you to do it manually. It can be a hassle for people like myself that don’t like engaging in manual labor.
The VPN is compatible with DD-WRT, Lede, Merlin, PFSense, Tomato, and ASUSWRT routers in terms of compatibility.
There are several advantages of installing PIA on your router. To begin with, every device that connects to that router will obtain VPN access immediately. As a result, you won’t need to download any native applications. Furthermore, you will be able to utilize PIA on devices for which it does not have native applications.
My suggestion is for you to go ahead and install Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment on your router. Getting it done may be more difficult, but the benefits are immense. That is especially true if you’ve chosen a long-term subscription.
Simultaneous Connections are when two or more things happen at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time.
All-encompassing Compatibility is useless if a VPN service doesn’t allow for many Simultaneous Connections are when two or more things happen at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time.. Fortunately, PIA is one of the few services that lets you connect up to 10 devices at the same time. As such, it provides great value for money and is suitable for people with businesses and large households that need protection.
Servers
Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment has over 3300 servers in more than 40 countries. Although that number is less than what some competitors have, it’s still good. You should also consider the fact that PIA’s servers and locations will only increase with time.
Servers from PIA
The majority of Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment’ servers are found in the US, Germany, Canada, and the UK. Besides that, you can also connect some in the Middle East, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and East Asia.
With so many options, picking the appropriate server might be difficult. Thankfully, a clever algorithm can link you to the optimal server for your region instantly.
VPNs should have a large number of servers to make switching between locations easy. As a consequence, locating users becomes more difficult. In addition, the more servers a VPN has, the less likely it is to get overburdened.
China
Does Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Work in China?
Sometimes. In tightly banned areas like Russia and North Korea, users have been able to utilize PIA. It has also been utilized to different degrees of effectiveness in China. Of again, considering the efficiency of China’s Great Firewall, this shouldn’t come as a surprise.
The Chinese government’s Great Firewall refers to a set of techniques it uses to impose widespread censorship. Only the top VPN providers are able to get around it.
Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment doesn’t work consistently in China due to the absence of in-house obfuscation tech to hide VPN traffic. While PIA’s apps let you enable the Shadowsocks proxy, it isn’t as good of an alternative to proprietary obfuscation tools.
I do not suggest PIA for evading China’s Great Firewall because to its instability. Other services, such as SurfShark, which includes sophisticated features like Camouflage and NoBorders Mode, will serve you better.
Interface & Usability
On all platforms, PIA provides simple applications. I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with the Windows version. I found the user interface to be straightforward and intuitive. Even those who aren’t very tech-savvy will be able to utilize it with ease.
When you first open it, you’ll see the enormous quick-connect button, which connects you to the best server for your location. Simply click the “VPN SERVER” button below to get a complete list of servers. Meanwhile, you may access the app’s settings by tapping the three-dot symbol in the upper right corner.
Does Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment Have Tunneling in Two Parts?
Yes. Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment does have Tunneling in Two Parts. Thanks to that, you can give certain sites and services your real info without having to turn the VPN off. If anything, this adds a whole new level of convenience to the PIA experience.
Features Not Included
PIA does not have any distinguishing characteristics. The service, like ExpressVPN, prefers to concentrate on vital VPN functions. In some ways, this is a positive thing since it avoids using gimmicks to dazzle and attract more people.
Customer Service
PIA’s live chat assistance is only available to paying clients. As a result, non-paying customers will be unable to enquire about their services.
Despite its claims to have 24/7 chat support for paying customers, reports have shown Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment to have slow response times. People have claimed to chat in the middle of the night only to get an answer the next morning.
To get a comprehensive understanding of what PIA offers in terms of Customer Service, please refer to the table below:
- Yes, there is live chat support.
- Yes, there is email support.
- No phone support is available.
- Yes, there is ticket support.
- There are no video tutorials available.
- Average Time to Respond: 39 Minutes
- Yes, there is an online knowledge base.
Price
You’ll be glad to know that Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment is one of the cheapest VPNs available. At just $9.95 a month, it’s a definite bargain. There are two long-term plans available for those looking to commit.
Here’s a table with all of PIA’s plans and their associated costs:
- Monthly fee: $9.95
- $3.33 per month for a year
- $2.69/month for 2 years
- Special offer: save 73% on a 2-year subscription + get 2 months free
The first long-term plan is a $3.33 per month or $39.95 per year monthly membership. However, I would not advocate this since the second option is preferable. You can get two years of access for for $2.69 per month or $69.95 for two years. On top of that, you’ll receive two months free.
Optional Payments
Payment is simple since there are several options. Some of them provide you the option of remaining anonymous. I’ve compiled a list of all the ways you can pay for your PIA membership to make things easier:
- Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, Discover, and JCB are examples of credit cards.
- PayPal
- AmazonPay
- Gift Certificates (more than 90 retailers)
- Bitcoin/Bitcoin Cash (Bitcoin/Bitcoin Cash)
- Zcash
- CashU
- Mint
- Mobiano
As you can see, Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment has made way for everyone to pay. The option to remain anonymous doing so gives it a huge advantage too.
Refund Policy & Money-Back Guarantee
PIA just expanded its 30-day money-back promise. As a result, you’ll be entitled for a one-month refund after signing up. This is wonderful since you won’t have to worry if the service isn’t up to par.
Deals, Coupon Code & Free Trial
Unfortunately, there isn’t a free trial available for potential PIA users. Hence, you’ll need to shell out some cash to give the Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment a shot.
Fortunately, there is a way to utilize the VPN without taking any risks. It features a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to get a return if you’re not happy.
Our crew understands that you’re looking for the finest offer possible. Unfortunately, we were unable to locate any PIA discount codes. Only the discounts that are posted on the VPN’s website are accessible. Fortunately, these offers are already fantastic.
Verdict
Is Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment worth it?
Yes and no. Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment is a long-established VPN service provider with a good reputation. It has been a leader in the industry that has unfortunately been surpassed by the competition. Services like Surfshark and NordVPN have taken over due to PIA’s failure to innovate.
The VPN’s server network is adequate but not exceptional. Its inability to stream Netflix perfectly everywhere makes it unsuitable for movie aficionados. The pace at which connections are slowed significantly restricts users. On certain servers, gaming and live broadcasting are almost impossible.
Please also our other blogs for comparisons of PIA to other popular VPNs such as Surfshark, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, PureVPN, VPN Unlimited, VyprVPN, CyberGhost, TunnelBear, IPVanish, and Avast VPN.
Despite its downsides, Access to the Internet in a Secure Environment does have some redeeming qualities. People can subscribe to it at a low price. It’s also compatible with many devices and has apps with user-friendly interfaces. Lastly, the VPN is optimized for torrenting.
Private Internet Access is a VPN service that has been around for a while. It’s one of the most popular and reliable VPN services on the market. PIA has servers in over 33 countries, so you can access content from anywhere in the world. The company also offers a 30-day money back guarantee if you’re not happy with their service. Reference: private internet access vs nordvpn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PIA good in 2021?
A: PIA is a good choice for many people in 2019. If you are looking for something more reliable and secure, OpenVPN would be the best option.
Is PIA VPN trustworthy?
A: PIA VPN is a leading provider of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for personal use. You can trust them to protect your privacy and security as they have been around since 2006 with over 3,500 servers worldwide.
Is PIA good for streaming?
A: PIA is not good for streaming.
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