ProtonVPN is a virtual private network service developed by the same team behind ProtonMail, a well-known encrypted email provider. Launched with privacy as a primary goal, ProtonVPN emphasizes strong security practices, a transparent privacy policy, and a commitment to user rights. It positions itself as a credible option for users who want a reliable VPN without sacrificing privacy.
Core features and security
ProtonVPN supports modern VPN protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, offering a good balance between speed and security. One of its signature offerings is Secure Core — a multi-hop architecture that routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries before leaving the ProtonVPN network, reducing the risk of network-level surveillance. The service also provides a built-in kill switch, DNS leak protection, and customizable split tunneling on supported platforms. For privacy-conscious users, ProtonVPN offers native Tor-over-VPN support that routes traffic into the Tor network with a single click.
Privacy and jurisdiction
A major selling point for ProtonVPN is its Swiss jurisdiction. Switzerland has strong privacy laws and is outside EU and US intelligence-sharing agreements. ProtonVPN also maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not store user activity that could be used to identify individual users. The company is transparent about its infrastructure and has published occasional transparency reports and warrant canaries to inform users about government requests.
Performance and usability
Performance varies by server and plan, but with WireGuard available on most platforms, ProtonVPN can deliver competitive speeds for streaming, video calls, and large downloads. The service offers a free tier with access to a limited number of servers — useful for basic privacy needs and testing the service — while paid plans unlock faster servers, more countries, and advanced features like Secure Core and dedicated streaming servers. ProtonVPN provides user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, plus manual setup guides for routers.
Use cases and limitations
ProtonVPN is suitable for everyday privacy protection, secure browsing on public Wi-Fi, bypassing censorship in some regions, and streaming geo-restricted content. Its support for P2P traffic on selected servers makes it usable for torrenting, though speeds depend on server load and plan. Limitations include the potential for slower speeds on Secure Core routes and higher cost for top-tier plans compared with some competitors.
Conclusion
ProtonVPN stands out for its privacy-first approach, transparent policies, and strong technical features like Secure Core and Tor integration. It’s a solid choice for users who prioritize security and trustworthiness, and its free tier makes it easy to try before committing to a subscription. Consider your needs for speed, server locations, and advanced features when deciding whether ProtonVPN is the right fit.#1#