VPN
![VPN apps running on a laptop, phone, and tablet.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NgJVqmaQaqtwPc8Wx2aoyS-320-80.jpg)
Whether you're looking to protect yourself online or just unblock your favorite content, a virtual private network (VPN) is an essential tool in the modern world. With cybercrime getting more complex with each passing day, it's an effective and inexpensive way to secure yourself, your home, and your family from digital threats.
Tom's Guide's experts put VPNs through hundreds of tests every year to make sure we're only recommending the best VPN services, so check out our in-depth comparisons, VPN reviews, and guides to find out which VPN provider suits your needs best.
Latest about VPNs
![Best US VPN running on a number of devices](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dYLYs3RCsRity7u7D8sgy3-320-80.jpg)
The best US VPN for use in or outside the USA in 2024
By Mo Harber-Lamond last updated
VPN Need a VPN for the US to evade surveillance and censorship online? I've tested dozens of providers, and here I rank the very best US VPNs
![Hola VPN on devices](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AiAKJoMtEeWCAeMnEZcLbH-320-80.jpg)
160 million people have been using an untrustworthy VPN – uninstall this app now
By Andy Sansom last updated
Despite suspiciously positive customer reviews, this VPN should be avoided at all costs. Here's why you need to say adiós to Hola VPN.
![A globe protected by a VPN](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TbrX22fX7c29Lv76K39ZLU-320-80.jpg)
Why are there so many VPN apps, and how do you avoid the scams?
By Andy Sansom published
We are constantly seeing new VPNs of variable quality popping up to join the market. But why are there so many different providers?
![A white woman with long brown hair in a ponytail looks down at her computer in a distressed manner. She is holding her forehead with one hand and a credit card with the other](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qrxBgJZKdNgsgdceVNYZ2m-320-80.jpg)
100 million downloads down the drain – why you can't trust this VPN
By Andy Sansom published
There are so many different VPNs these days, but can a VPN with 100 million downloads really be that bad?
![Shield bearing letters 'VPN' on rendering of circuit board.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/i5oWA2qgf9FugwQP9r73wn-320-80.jpg)
How does a free VPN compare to a premium one in the most common uses?
By Andy Sansom published
VPNs come in two flavors, free and premium. As a rule of thumb, you get what you pay for, but is a Free VPN enough for you?
![VPN app on a smartphone](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GeAHoCs9MipJ9GWSrDGeHV-320-80.jpg)
This VPN is offering five years for the price of one - but is it worth it?
By Andy Sansom published
There's currently a deal for AdGuard VPN that sounds very tempting, but is it worth subscribing for 5 years for just one $40 payment?
![A VPN running on a laptop](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UzCaBJFSMn6t5ZbuKy2P8b-320-80.jpg)
What is the difference between VPN hardware and VPN software?
By Sam Dawson published
The differences between VPN hardware and software and what they're used for
![The home page for Steam](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/kq426XFE2gzifzQdVzDYDU-320-80.jpg)
Is using a VPN on Steam a real-life cheat code?
By Andy Sansom published
Steam is the largest digital marketplace for PC games, and with different regional sales and prices, it can be tempting to use a VPN. But should you?
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