ProtonVPN Review [2022]

ProtonVPN is an elite VPN service that boasts a secure and reliable network, providing the highest standards of privacy. Their website emphasizes strong encryption, zero logging policy, and they are based in Switzerland which has some very lenient digital laws. ProtonVPN also offers lifetime membership with their upgraded plan for $5 per month or $60 total to get access to all future upgrades as well as discounted plans if you buy yearly subscriptions,.

ProtonVPN is a VPN service that has been around since 2010. They offer free and paid services. The company claims to have the fastest servers, best customer support, and military-grade encryption.

In recent years, the VPN market has advanced at a breakneck pace. It’s often difficult to keep up with all of the new services that have wonderful features. It’s much more difficult to select the correct virtual private network provider to use on a regular basis.

In the first place, what is ProtonVPN? It’s a VPN service that’s related to the well-known ProtonMail encrypted email service. Many people consider it to be a good option for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and being secure while surfing the web.

We’ll take a deeper look at ProtonVPN in this post. We’ll also talk about anything that has to do with the provider. That way, you won’t have any questions and will be able to correctly determine whether it’s the perfect VPN service for you.

So, before we get started, here are our thoughts on ProtonVPN’s primary advantages and disadvantages:

ProsCons
Outstanding security capabilitiesIn China, it doesn’t function.
Employed in ChinaA boost in speed would be beneficial.
Most streaming services are unblocked.There is no live chat assistance.
It has a large server network.–
Has apps that are simple to use.–

Features

Here’s a table with all of ProtonVPN’s specifications:

 logo ProtonVPN
Policy on Logging Logging is not permitted.
Jurisdiction Switzerland
EncryptionSHA-384 Hash Authentication AES-256 RSA 4096-bit Key Exchange
Protocols UDP OpenVPN TCP IPSec/IKEv2 OpenVPN
Adblockers and anti-malware softwareYes
On/Off switchYes
Tests for LeaksThere were no leaks discovered.
Tests of SpeedSlow
Torrenting & P2PYes, indeed (Optimized P2P-Enabled)
StreamingNetflix Amazon Prime is a subscription service that allows you to iPlayer (BBC) Firestick Roku is a streaming media player (Via Router) Kodi Apple TV is a device that allows you to watch (Via Router) Android Television (Android TV)
GamingWindows Android iOS Xbox One / Xbox Series S & X (Via Router) PS4 / PS5 (Via Router) Nintendo Switch (Via Router)
CompatibilityChrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on Chromebooks Firefox Selected by Tor Routers
Simultaneous Connections are when two or more things happen at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time.a (Free-Tier Subscription) 2nd (Basic Subscription) 10 (Subscriptions Plus/Visionary)
Servers1444
ChinaNo
Tunneling in Two PartsYes
Features Not IncludedVPN Accelerator for Secure Core Servers
Prices$4.00/month $48.00/year Basic Subscription

Plus Subscription $71.88/Year $5.99/Month

$24.00/month $288.99/year Visionary Subscription

Our Opinion4.5
WebsiteProtonVPN.com

Privacy & Security

Privacy and security are the two most crucial features that any VPN must provide. It’s pointless to pay for a service that doesn’t sufficiently safeguard you. As a result, we’ll start our ProtonVPN review with a look at the service’s security features.

Where is ProtonVPN Based & Who Owns It?

ProtonVPN is ProtonMail’s sibling service. Proton Technologies AG, a Swiss technology business, owns and operates both. ProtonVPN’s headquarters are located in Switzerland, as you may have suspected. This is fantastic news since that nation is a good location for running a VPN. Why is this the case? Because its copyright and privacy laws are quite lax.

Since its introduction, ProtonVPN has received a lot of positive feedback. Its security qualities have been commended by experts. Of course, considering that the provider is a sister service of ProtonMail, probably the most well-known encrypted email service, this is to be anticipated.

Encryption & Protocols Used

ProtonVPN, like many of its competitors, employs military-grade AES-256 encryption. Aside from that, SHA-456 hash authentication and an RSA 4096-bit key exchange are used. In addition, the VPN service employs perfect forward secrecy to further strengthen its clients’ encryption.

When it comes to Protocols, ProtonVPN doesn’t have much to offer yet. It only allows its users to toggle OpenVPN (UDP & TCP) and IPSec/L2TP. 

There are currently no intentions to implement additional protocols. You won’t be able to utilize WireGuard, the world’s newest, fastest, and safest VPN protocol, as a result. This isn’t a deal-breaker by any means. After all, many services have yet to implement WireGuard.

Leak Test with ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN promises to provide 100% leak protection to its users. I used IPLeak.net to run a handful of checks to see whether the provider was real. Before we go into the details of the findings, here’s a snapshot of my original Philippine IP address for comparison:

IP Leak Test – No VPN

Following that, these are the results when I switched to ProtonVPN’s Singapore server:

IP Leak Test – ProtonVPN Singapore

This is how things have changed when I switched to ProtonVPN’s US server:

IP Leak Test – ProtonVPN Washington

Both of ProtonVPN’s servers were able to disguise my genuine IP address, as seen above. The findings remained the same even when I repeated my tests. As a result, I can confidently state that ProtonVPN’s server network does not leak while it is in use.

Is ProtonVPN Logging Enabled?

Nope. Your personal logging information is not stored by ProtonVPN.

Given its strong stance on privacy, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that ProtonVPN maintains a very strict zero-Policy on Logging. In fact, to enforce this, the provider has transitioned to a server network that’s 100% RAM-based. Besides that, it has regularly subjected itself to third-party audits. Last but not least, the service provider frequently releases internal security reports.

Does ProtonVPN Have A On/Off switch?

Yes. ProtonVPN maintains an automatic On/Off switch on all of its applications.

The provider’s On/Off switch is even a bit different from other VPN On/Off switches. How come? It has a feature called Always-on VPN, which basically reestablishes your device’s connection to ProtonVPN’s server after it gets compromised. If you ask me, it’s very convenient.

Now for those who don’t know, a On/Off switch is an essential VPN security feature. 

You will be able to defend yourself from unwelcome exposure using it. Simply said, the function works by disconnecting your device from the internet if its connection to your VPN’s server is hacked in any way.

Is there an ad and malware blocker on ProtonVPN?

Yes. ProtonVPN has an ad & malware blocker called Netshield.

From my experience with it, I’d have to say that it’s a decent ad & malware blocker. I found it to be especially proficient at getting rid of banner and pop-up ads. That said, there’s currently no way to use Netshield without being connected to ProtonVPN’s servers. Moreover, you should also know that it’s only available on the VPN’s apps for Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS.

Is ProtonVPN a secure VPN?

Yes. When you use ProtonVPN, you can be certain that your data is secure.

The supplier is adamant about adhering to its no-logs promise. It not only has a RAM-based network, but it also has independent audits performed on it on a regular basis. If anything, this is amazing since few VPNs go to such lengths to make themselves visible to their consumers.

AES-256 military-grade encryption is also used by ProtonVPN, which is the greatest sort of encryption presently accessible. While it does not support WireGuard, it does offer enough protocol coverage, particularly for a VPN service provider that was just launched this year.

Test your speed

ProtonVPN’s servers have been chastised for their slow speeds. While some areas are believed to work well, others are said to slow down base connection rates dramatically.

For those who are interested, ProtonVPN does have a bandwidth limit for its subscribers. As a result, if you want to enjoy the highest speeds possible, you should choose a Plus or Visionary membership package. Of course, if you merely want to undertake casual surfing, the provider’s Basic and free-tier membership plans will be more than enough.

To properly know how fast ProtonVPN’s servers are, I conducted some Tests of Speed. Before anything else though, here are base connection speeds for reference:

Test your speed – No VPN

The following is how my connection changed once I switched to ProtonVPN’s Singapore server:

Test your speed – ProtonVPN Singapore

The following is what occurred when I switched to ProtonVPN’s US server:

Test your speed – ProtonVPN US

The servers of ProtonVPN clearly had a detrimental influence on my connection speeds. They drastically increased my ping, which is unfortunate to know. 

On the plus side, they were virtually able to keep my download and upload speeds at their previous levels. In fact, the VPN’s Singapore server improved my downloading speed.

What is the speed of ProtonVPN?

ProtonVPN isn’t a very fast VPN.

That does not, however, imply that you should dismiss it. After all, the service was quick enough for me to have a comfortable internet experience. 

Every single one of the websites I visited and the films I watched loaded quickly. The provider’s strain on my basic connection speeds became obvious only when I participated in more bandwidth-intensive pursuits.

Torrenting & P2P

ProtonVPN advertises itself as an excellent torrent VPN. Unfortunately, it only provides P2P servers in 12 countries and does not allow for port forwarding. These features alone put the VPN at a significant disadvantage compared to rivals that allow port forwarding and have 100% P2P networks.

Of course, judging ProtonVPN just on its specifications would be incorrect. It was only natural that I conduct tests to establish whether the service is suitable for torrenting. Before we look at the findings, here’s what IPLeak.net showed me while I wasn’t connected to any servers:

Torrenting Leak Test – No VPN

IPLeak was able to successfully intercept my IP address, as you can see.

Let’s have a look at how the findings changed when I reran the test after connecting to ProtonVPN’s Singapore server:

Torrenting Leak Test – ProtonVPN Singapore

Now, here’s how the VPN provider’s P2P-capable servers in the United States performed:

Torrenting Leak Test – ProtonVPN US

I was relieved to discover that ProtonVPN can truly disguise my IP address when torrent downloading. This is fantastic news, since the service doesn’t seem to be capable of concealing my identify from hackers, ISPs, and government monitoring on paper.

Is ProtonVPN a Torrenting VPN?

Both yes and no. Although ProtonVPN may let you download torrents without worrying about leaks, it isn’t the ideal solution for torrenting on a daily basis. That’s because it doesn’t allow port forwarding and has a limited number of P2P servers to select from. Furthermore, their servers aren’t the quickest, so you’ll be downloading for longer if you use them.

Streaming

VPNs aren’t considered security tools by many. Rather, they’re a way to get access to material that would otherwise be inaccessible on streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. With that in mind, I decided to put ProtonVPN’s streaming skills to the test. 

After all, many people value its capacity to circumvent geo-restrictions and promote smooth viewing sessions.

ProtonVPN, like many of its competitors, takes pleasure in being a competent VPN service for viewing internet material. Many individuals, however, believe it is not a viable alternative. I did a handful of experiments to find out the reality behind all the stories.

Is ProtonVPN compatible with Netflix?

Yes. ProtonVPN works nicely with Netflix, according to my testing. Here’s a snapshot of how the VPN provider’s US server performed when I tried to watch Spotlight, which is only accessible in the US Netflix collection (at the time of writing):

Netflix US – ProtonVPN

Of course, I needed to know whether ProtonVPN’s other servers were capable of circumventing Netflix’s geoblocks. Following my attempt to view Deadpool while connecting to the provider’s server in the United Kingdom, here’s what happened:

Netflix UK – ProtonVPN

As you can see, I was able to view the movie I wanted thanks to ProtonVPN’s UK server. Indeed, it did so without creating any buffering or quality decreases. That being said, going into Netflix and finding the movie I wanted to watch took some time.

Is it possible to use ProtonVPN with Amazon Prime?

Another very popular internet video streaming service is Amazon Prime Video. In fact, if I’m bored with Netflix’s offerings, it’s my first port of call. As a result, it was only reasonable for me to see how effectively ProtonVPN functioned in conjunction with it.

In the United States, one of my favorite movies (The Avengers) is available on Amazon Prime Video. Knowing this, I had no choice but to connect to ProtonVPN’s US server and attempt to see the film. The following is a snapshot of the results of my test:

Amazon Prime Video US – ProtonVPN

My ProtonVPN with Amazon Prime Video test yielded excellent results. To my astonishment, I was able to view the movie in full HD even with a sluggish internet connection. Furthermore, there was never any buffering or unexpected quality decreases, which was fantastic. As a result, I can certainly state that ProtonVPN and Amazon Prime Video go hand in hand.

Is ProtonVPN compatible with Firestick?

Yes. Although there isn’t an official ProtonVPN app for the Amazon Fire TV Stick, it can be sideloaded. Because the streaming gadget operates on a customized version of Android, this is the case. As a result, Android application APKs may be loaded on it without any problems.

I watched a regionally restricted YouTube video to see how well ProtonVPN performed with Firestick. A snapshot of how things came out may be seen below:

Amazon Firestick – ProtonVPN

When I tried ProtonVPN on my Amazon Firestick, it worked well. Despite this, I would not suggest the company as a streaming device provider. Because there isn’t a specific app for it, it isn’t optimized and might be dangerous.

Is ProtonVPN a Streaming VPN?

Yes. All of my testing show that ProtonVPN is unquestionably fantastic for streaming. 

Despite its slow servers, the service never fails to provide me with uninterrupted streaming sessions free of buffering, long loading times, and unexpected quality dips. More crucially, it succeeds in getting around prominent streaming services’ geo-restrictions.

Gaming

Gaming Test - ProtonVPN

I’m a huge gamer that enjoys playing on mobile, consoles, and computers. As a consequence, I needed to know whether ProtonVPN could satisfy all of my gaming requirements. To do so, I connected to its servers in Singapore and Hong Kong and played a few games of Call of Duty Mobile deathmatch.

ProtonVPN surprised me again again by not disappointing me. It effectively circumvented Call of Duty Mobile’s geo-restrictions, allowing me to play with players from the nations with whom I was connected. I just had a few instances of frame drops and slowness while playing.

Because of my positive experience with the company, I believe it is a feasible choice for gamers. It is assured that you will not be dissatisfied if you choose it.

Compatibility

A VPN provider’s ability to support a wide range of devices is critical. After all, a service’s availability determines how many people can utilize it. Fortunately, ProtonVPN’s engineers are aware of this. They’ve made their VPN compatible with a wide range of devices.

It’s worth noting, though, that ProtonVPN isn’t a one-size-fits-all VPN option. 

Because it is still relatively new, the developers have not been able to create applications for every major operating system and browser extension. However, additional ProtonVPN applications will undoubtedly be developed in the future. If it isn’t accessible on your device, all you have to do is wait.

Various Operating Systems

Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Chromebook, and Android are all supported by ProtonVPN. Furthermore, its Android app may be readily deployed on a limited number of smart TVs. 

After that, you should be aware that ProtonVPN is not the same for all of the devices that it supports. Please see the table below for a list of features that ProtonVPN includes and excludes for each operating system:

 Protocols for Virtual Private NetworksTunneling in Two PartsOn/Off switch
WindowsUDP OpenVPN & TCPYesYes
LinuxUDP OpenVPNYesYes
iOSIPSec/IKEv2 & UDP OpenVPNNoYes
AndroidIPSec/IKEv2 & UDP OpenVPNYesYes
macOSIPSec/IKEv2 & UDP OpenVPNNoYes
Chrome OS is a computer operating system that runs on ChromebooksIPSec/IKEv2 & UDP OpenVPNYesYes

Browsers

Unfortunately, there are currently no browser extensions available for ProtonVPN. It may, however, be used with the Tor Browser. Unfortunately, after that’s done, you’ll have to deal with really slow internet connection rates, which may be quite frustrating.

Routers

ProtonVPN is compatible with a limited number of routers. There are several benefits to doing so. Here’s a list of them all:

  • There’s no need to set up ProtonVPN on the device anymore.
  • Devices that don’t support ProtonVPN are protected.
  • Secures all of your online traffic in an easy-to-use manner.
  • Ensures the safety of your whole home

Regrettably, getting ProtonVPN up and running might be difficult, particularly for individuals who aren’t tech-savvy. Of course, if you’re dead set on completing the task, you can always call the provider’s Customer Service and request assistance.

Simultaneous Connections are when two or more things happen at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time.

The Simultaneous Connections are the number of connections that are made at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time. that ProtonVPN supports depends on the type of plan that you avail of. For a better understanding, please refer to the table below:

Plan of SubscriptionSimultaneous Connections are the number of connections that are made at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time. are when two or more things happen at the same time.
Free1
Basic2
Plus10
Visionary10

As seen above, the more expensive Plus and Visionary plans both allow for 10 simultaneous device connections. Hence, if you’ve got a large household or small business that needs protection, then we suggest that you opt for either of the two Plan of Subscriptions.

Servers

ProtonVPN Servers

ProtonVPN offers a large network of servers. According to its website, it presently has 1444 servers spread throughout 61 countries. Furthermore, each of these servers is RAM-based. That implies they can’t be used to collect, store, or gather wood.

It’s fortunate for ProtonVPN that it has such a wide network. This is due to the fact that a huge server network is better able to protect your anonymity. As a result, a VPN service with a greater worldwide reputation is arguably preferable than one with a limited network.

China

Is ProtonVPN available in China?

No. In recent years, the Chinese government has made a concerted attempt to outlaw ProtonVPN. 

As a result, our numerous testers throughout the nation have never been able to utilize the VPN service to breach the Great Firewall. As a result, it’s not a realistic solution for individuals trying to circumvent China’s strict web censorship regulations.

Interface & Usability

ProtonVPN’s applications are very user-friendly and attractive to the eye. Furthermore, these programs are simple to download, install, and customize to your preferences. In fact, you may create profiles for each user of your account, giving them the ability to customize their VPN.

ProtonVPN Interface

Apart from the ability to create profiles, another feature of ProtonVPN’s applications that I enjoyed was the ability to choose a server in a variety of ways. A map may be used to choose a place. If geography isn’t your strong suit, you may just choose a server from a list or do a search.

In conclusion, I believe ProtonVPN provides some of the greatest VPN programs available. You’ll quickly appreciate them and figure out how to put them to use. The same might be true for someone who isn’t familiar with VPNs or technology in general.

Does ProtonVPN Have Tunneling in Two Parts?

Yes. ProtonVPN has Tunneling in Two Parts on all but the Apple devices that it’s compatible with. Thus, if you’re a Linux, Windows, or Android user, you’ll most definitely be able to utilize the feature.

Now for those unaware, Tunneling in Two Parts is a VPN feature that’s centered on convenience. It lets you provide your legitimate information to certain websites while you’re connected to your provider. You’ll find it handy in particular when you’re tapping into online services.

Features Not Included

The following are some of ProtonVPN’s unique features:

Secure Core Servers: Secure Core Servers are a unique technology used by ProtonVPN. Simply said, it improves the provider’s ability to defend you against network-based threats. You’ll be able to better protect yourself from hackers and other forms of cybercriminals as a result of it.

VPN Accelerator: A VPN accelerator is a collection of technologies that work together to accelerate PureVPN’s servers. You’ll be able to surf without interruption, play online games without interruption, and download torrents swiftly with its assistance.

Overall, I think PureVPN’s additional features are fantastic. However, compared to its rivals, the service does not give as many unique features. This, if anything, puts it at a disadvantage to its competitors, who have much more to offer its members.

Customer Service

The table below lists all of ProtonVPN’s customer care options:

 ProtonVPN 
Live ChatNo
Email Customer ServiceYes
Support over the phoneNo
Ticket AssistanceYes
Video Instructions No
Knowledge Base on the InternetYes
Average Time to Respond4 Hours

Unfortunately, ProtonVPN’s developers have yet to enable chat functionality. As a result, there is still no method for you to contact directly with the supplier in real time. To get in contact, submit an email and wait for a response, which will take an average of four hours.

On the plus side, ProtonVPN’s customer service professionals are quite thorough while responding to your questions. They’re also friendly, which is a huge plus for the VPN’s public relations.

Price

Do you want to purchase ProtonVPN? Here’s a table that summarizes the company’s pricing policies:

 ProtonVPN 
Lengths of Subscriptions$4.00/month for 1 month (Basic Subscription) $5.99 per month (Plus Subscription) $24.00 per month (Visionary Subscription)
 $48.00 for a year (Basic Subscription) $71.88 per year (Plus Subscription) $288.99 per year (Visionary Subscription)
The Most Expensive Month$24.88
Lowest Monthly Rate$4.00
Price for a year48.00 dollars (Basic Subscription) 71.88% (Plus Subscription) 288.99 $ (Visionary Subscription)
Special PromotionA two-year Plus plan will save you 50%.

As you can see, ProtonVPN’s rates vary greatly depending on the membership choice. 

If you ask me, the provider’s Plus membership is the greatest alternative. That’s because it gives you access to all of the premium features while being reasonably priced. You will undoubtedly obtain whatever you need from a VPN service if you choose it.

Optional Payments

Here are the Optional Payments that ProtonVPN supports:

  • using a credit card
  • PayPal
  • Bitcoin
  • Cash

You’ll need an existing ProtonVPN account to pay with cash. Contact the VPN provider’s customer support once you’ve set up your free account and arrange a cash payment. You may accomplish this by sending an email since the service does not provide live chat help.

Refund Policy & Money-Back Guarantee

A 30-day money-back guarantee is offered by ProtonVPN. As a result, if you contact the supplier within 30 days after your purchase, you will be eligible for a full refund. It won’t matter why you’re getting a refund. To get your money back, you won’t even need to provide one.

Deals, Coupon Code & Free Trial

ProtonVPN doesn’t have a free trial because it already has a free-tier Plan of Subscription.

ProtonVPN’s promotional codes are only valid for a limited time. As a result, if you want to acquire the best VPN service provider discount, I propose that you read our advice on how to do so. It will tell you all you need to know about the subject as well as anything else related to it.

Verdict

Is ProtonVPN a good investment?

Yes. ProtonVPN is well worth the money. While the service isn’t very fast, it is safe and capable of supporting smooth streaming and torrenting sessions. Furthermore, it meets all of your gaming requirements, which is wonderful since just a few VPN companies are suitable for gaming.

I’d also want to point out that ProtonVPN offers a comprehensive range of tools. Furthermore, these applications are really simple to use, which is ideal for non-techies.

To sum it up, I think ProtonVPN is a fantastic VPN. It does, however, have a lot of space for development, which is typical of any business launched within the previous five years.

ProtonVPN is a VPN service that offers many different plans. It has been around for a while and has an extensive list of features. The “protonvpn reddit” is the best place to find out more information about ProtonVPN.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can ProtonVPN be trusted?

A: ProtonVPN is a VPN service that allows users to securely browse the web and unblock geo-restricted content. It has servers in over 23 countries and supports up to 5 simultaneous connections.

Is ProtonVPN good enough?

A: ProtonVPN is a highly recommended VPN service. It has high speeds, strong encryption and provides a variety of other features such as TOR over VPN to secure your internet connection from prying eyes.

Is ProtonVPN better than NordVPN?

A: ProtonVPN is a more expensive option than NordVPN. It also provides better customer support, but the latter has 24/7 live chat and 7 days money back guarantee.

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