Most consumers, though, find streaming VPN features compelling because - in some cases, and with dubious legality - it allows them to spoof their region of origin to get access to streaming media and sports blacked out from their home locale. For those worrying about stalking or other threats, this feature could save lives. For those traveling or out and about, the first function is critical because most Wi-Fi available publicly is unencrypted - so anyone on the network can see what you were sending.īut VPNs also serve to hide your IP address, replacing the address logged on servers with one in a completely different location - even a different country. What is a VPN, and why do you need one? Everything you need to knowįundamentally, most VPNs (virtual private networks) provide two services: They encrypt your data between two points and they hide the IP address (from which a general location can be derived) where you're located.Must-have mobile VPNs: Ensure your privacy anywhere.We analyzed the top 5 VPNs with a focus on the number of servers in the network, level of encryption, ability to unlock streaming services, and compatibility with phones, computers, and TVs. What is the best VPN of 2022? Our top pick is ExpressVPN. The best VPN services: Top 5 VPNs compared If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. ZDNet's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader.

Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers. Neither ZDNet nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. ZDNet’s recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. ‘ZDNet Recommends’: What exactly does that mean? Ukrainian developers share stories from the war zone Linux distros for beginners: You can do this! Got questions about crypto? Ask the Coachįor Mom: The best flower delivery services How ransomware attacks threaten our food supply

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