ProtonVPN is a virtual private network (VPN) service developed by Proton AG, the Swiss company behind Proton Mail. Built with privacy and security as core priorities, ProtonVPN aims to give users secure, censorship-resistant access to the internet while protecting their data from surveillance, tracking, and interception. Key features and technology ProtonVPN uses modern VPN protocols, including WireGuard and IKEv2/OpenVPN, delivering a balance of speed and security. One standout is Secure Core, a multi-hop architecture that routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries (such as Switzerland and Iceland) before it exits to the open internet. This design reduces the risk of network-based attacks and makes traffic correlation far more difficult. For additional anonymity, ProtonVPN supports Tor over VPN—allowing users to route traffic through the Tor network with a single click—helpful for accessing onion sites or adding another layer of privacy without configuring Tor separately. ProtonVPN also includes a built-in kill switch that prevents data leaks if the VPN connection drops, split tunneling on desktop and some mobile apps, and specialized P2P servers for torrenting. Privacy posture and transparency Headquartered in Switzerland, ProtonVPN benefits from the country’s strong privacy protections. The service enforces a strict no-logs policy and publishes transparency reports. Its desktop and mobile apps are open source and have undergone independent security audits, which improves trust and allows the community to review the code. Plans and usability ProtonVPN offers a free plan with limited servers and speeds—useful for basic privacy needs—plus paid tiers (Basic, Plus, and Visionary) that unlock higher speeds, more servers and countries, Secure Core, streaming-optimized servers, and priority support. The Visionary plan bundles Proton Mail for users who want an integrated encrypted email and VPN package. The apps are user-friendly, with intuitive maps and quick-connect features, making ProtonVPN suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Performance and limitations Speeds and streaming performance are generally competitive, especially on paid plans and when using WireGuard. However, as with any VPN, actual performance depends on server choice, local network conditions, and geographic distance. Some advanced features are limited to higher-tier subscriptions. Who should use ProtonVPN? ProtonVPN is a strong choice for privacy-conscious users, journalists, activists, and anyone who wants a transparent, security-focused VPN backed by a reputable privacy company. Its free tier makes it accessible for casual users, while paid tiers offer the added features and performance power users may need. In summary, ProtonVPN combines privacy-oriented design, transparent practices, and modern protocols to offer a solid VPN option for users who prioritize security and trustworthiness.