The World Cup final. One match, one night, and then a four-year wait until the next one. Whatever can go wrong with your stream, tonight is not the night for it.

The threats are real and they're varied. If you're watching from abroad, geo-restrictions could lock you out of the coverage you'd get at home. If you're on public Wi-Fi – at a bar, a hotel, a fan zone – your connection is shared, unsecured, and unpredictable. And if you're at home on your own broadband, your ISP can see exactly what you're doing – and has every incentive to throttle a 4K stream on one of the busiest nights of the streaming year.

Using one of the best VPNs solves all three at once, routing your traffic through an encrypted tunnel that sidesteps geo-blocks, secures public connections, and hides your activity from your ISP.

Norton VPN currently tops our best streaming VPN rankings, and with a deal running right now that brings it to $3.33 per month, there's no better time to get it sorted before kickoff.

How does Norton VPN compare to other top VPNs?

Surfshark is our pick for the best cheap VPN, and at $2.49 per month it's a very affordable option – with the added bonus of unlimited device connections that Norton doesn't offer. The gap is streaming consistency. Norton has been the more reliable performer across every major platform in our testing, and for a final that comes around once every four years, that's the gap that matters.

NordVPN is our top-ranked VPN overall, and earns it – 9,000+ servers across 148 countries, speeds of over 1,000 Mbps, and a near-flawless unblocking record. At $3.49 per month it costs more than Norton's current deal, though, and its 30-day guarantee is half the safety net Norton gives you for a night this important.

It's also worth remembering that the World Cup final isn't a game you can quietly catch up on tomorrow. The result will be everywhere before you've even found a replay link – on your phone, in your group chats, across every headline. Whatever VPN you go with tonight, just make sure it's one you've actually tested before kickoff.

For a night with no replay, no second viewing, and a four-year wait for the next one, Norton makes the strongest case.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

ExpressVPN has expanded its global server network to 214 "app-selectable locations" across 113 countries – its broadest coverage to date. The expansion adds new connection points across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and North America, with cities including Nuuk, Lagos, Doha, Valencia, and Manchester among the new additions.

For users of one of the most popular best VPNs on the market, more locations means more precise control over where their encrypted connection appears to originate – which affects everything from latency to which local services and content are accessible. The expansion also builds on ExpressVPN's earlier rollout across all 50 US states, extending that same local-first approach to its global network.

The headline figure of 214 deserves some scrutiny, however. ExpressVPN counts multiple connection points within the same city – Toronto 1 and Toronto 2, for example – as distinct locations. By our count, the network sits closer to 196. Both figures tell a real story, but they're measuring different things.

How much has changed?

The expansion represents a meaningful step up for ExpressVPN's network. By country count, the service has grown from 108 to 113 – an increase of 5. By location count, our latest testing puts the figure at 196 unique locations, up from 188 – an increase of 8. The gap between that 196 and ExpressVPN's stated 214 comes down to methodology – the company counts multiple connection points within the same city as distinct "app-selectable locations."

However, the most significant new addition is one ExpressVPN hasn't drawn attention to: China. The service now offers a Chinese IP address, though the physical server is hosted in Singapore – a setup ExpressVPN lists transparently on its virtual server locations page.

For those who need a Chinese IP for work, travel, or accessing local services, this is a genuinely useful addition, even with that caveat. It's also a selling point over big rivals NordVPN and Surfshark, which don't offer any locations in China.

How does ExpressVPN compare?

In terms of country count – the metric that matters most for most users – ExpressVPN's 113 puts it behind NordVPN (149 countries) and Proton VPN (148 countries). However, these are the only two reputable providers we can confidently say offer broader reach, and finishing third in this particular race is far from embarrassing.

The gap narrows when location depth is taken into account: ExpressVPN's 196 unique locations trails NordVPN's 224 and Proton VPN's 193, but comfortably outpaces Surfshark, our pick for the best cheap VPN, which covers 100 countries across 142 locations.

It's also worth noting that country count and location count measure different things. Country coverage determines where a VPN can get you. Location count determines how precisely you can get there – useful for reducing latency or accessing city-specific content in large countries. ExpressVPN has historically punched above its weight on the latter, and this expansion keeps it competitive.

Taken as a whole, this is a meaningful upgrade rather than a transformative one – with one exception. The addition of China changes the calculus for a specific group of users in a way that no location count figure can capture.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

USA vs. Belgium is one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and millions of fans will be settling in front of their screens on Monday to watch it unfold.

But there is a good chance your stream won't go quite as planned. Just as the referee blows the whistle for kickoff, your crisp picture could easily drop into a pixelated, low-res mess — or freeze entirely.

The culprit? Your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

During major live sporting events, internet service providers frequently throttle bandwidth to manage the surge in users.

The good news is there's a straightforward technical fix, and you don't need to be particularly tech-savvy to use it.

The best VPNs encrypt your internet traffic before it leaves your device, masking it from your ISP. Because your provider can no longer see what kind of data you're consuming, it won't trigger its throttling algorithms — leaving you with a stable, high-def stream from kickoff to the final whistle.

Is it worth keeping after the match?

If you decide to keep the service beyond Monday's match, an annual plan breaks down to less than a single match-day takeaway — and it will cover your connection for every remaining game for the rest of the year.

Because it comes with an industry-double 60-day money-back guarantee, you can essentially test it out completely risk-free. If it doesn't instantly stabilize your stream, you can claim a full refund without any hassle.

Either way, don't leave it until the last minute. Get the app downloaded and run a quick speed test before kickoff today — so when the first whistle blows, you're confident in your stream.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

As AI tools become part of everyday life, many people are rethinking their online privacy. A new survey from All About Cookies found that 40% of VPN users say they now use a virtual private network (VPN) specifically to protect their data from AI companies.

It's an understandable concern. Every time you interact with an AI chatbot, upload a document or generate an image, you're sharing information with an online service. But there's one important catch: while a VPN is a great privacy tool, it probably doesn't protect your AI data in the way many people think it does.

Here's what you need to know.

Why people are turning to VPNs

According to All About Cookies' annual VPN survey of 1,000 U.S. adults, concerns about AI are beginning to influence how people think about online privacy.

The survey found that:

40% of VPN users say they use a VPN to protect their data from AI companies.

19% use a VPN when accessing AI tools.

For that reason alone, it's no surprise that VPN awareness has risen sharply over the past year. At the same time, very few respondents correctly identified everything a VPN actually does. Perhaps that last finding may explain the first.

What a VPN actually does

A VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server. There are valuable privacy benefits, and they're one reason VPNs remain popular.

That means it can:

• Hide your IP address from the websites you visit.
• Encrypt your internet traffic, especially when you're using public Wi-Fi.
• Prevent your internet service provider from seeing the contents of your browsing activity.
• Make it appear as though you're browsing from another location.

What a VPN doesn't do

This is where AI enters the picture. If you open ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude or another AI service and type in a prompt, you're voluntarily sending that information directly to the company operating the service.

A VPN doesn't stop that.

Similarly, if you're logged into an AI account, the service can still associate your conversations with your account regardless of whether you're using a VPN.

In other words, a VPN protects the connection, but not the information you choose to share once you reach the website.

How to better protect your AI privacy

A VPN is still a smart addition to your privacy toolkit, especially if you frequently use public Wi-Fi or want to hide your IP address. Just don't expect it to prevent AI services from collecting information that you intentionally submit.

If your goal is to reduce how much information AI companies collect, these steps are usually more effective than relying on a VPN alone:

• Review each AI service's privacy settings.
• Turn off chat history or model training where the option exists.
• Avoid sharing sensitive personal or financial information.
• Use temporary chats or anonymous sessions when appropriate.
• Read each company's data retention policy before uploading documents.

The takeaway

The survey highlights the fact that people are increasingly concerned about what happens to their data when they use AI.

A VPN is an excellent tool for improving online privacy, but it's not an invisibility cloak for AI. If you're using ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude or another AI assistant, the most important privacy controls are usually found inside the service itself — not in your VPN app.

More from Tom's Guide

• ChatGPT isn't just a chatbot anymore — here are 11 things it can do in 2026
• I built five ChatGPT agents — then replaced them with one 'master' AI
• I used ChatGPT to audit my subscriptions — these prompts helped me find nearly $2,000 a year in recurring charges

Stadiums, airports, and fan parks are some of the worst environments imaginable for public Wi-Fi. Tens of thousands of people competing for the same signal means packet loss, crawling speeds, and connections that drop without warning. So, for example, if you're heading to a few games at the FIFA World Cup 2026, things might not be as smooth as you'd like.

One of the best VPNs is a handy tool to have at your disposal on networks like these. While it's fairly unlikely nowadays you'll be caught out by a man-in-the-middle attack, boosting your privacy can only be a good thing – and when a VPN is set up right, a VPN may also be able to increase your connection speeds significantly.

Here, I'll run down a few quick settings to tweak to make your public Wi-Fi experience more bearable.

Pick your protocol

A VPN protocol is the set of rules that determines how your device encrypts and moves your data. On a congested or restrictive network, the wrong protocol can mean failed connections, throttled speeds, or both – and switching is often the quickest fix.

WireGuard should be your first port of call. It's a modern protocol built with a low data overhead and near-instant reconnection times, making it well suited to the kind of unstable connections you'll find in a packed stadium or airport terminal. Most VPN apps already default to it – but if you're on an iPhone, check your settings, as IKEv2 is often the default instead.

IKEv2 is a solid runner-up for mobile users who switch frequently between Wi-Fi and cellular data. It handles network changes smoothly, though speeds won't quite match WireGuard.

If you're struggling to connect at all, try OpenVPN. It's generally slower than WireGuard, but its ability to run on port 443 – the same port used by standard web traffic – means it's more likely to work on networks that try to block VPNs. For a deeper look at how the fastest VPNs handle different conditions, our dedicated guide is worth a read.

Stay stealthy

Many stadiums and airports actively manage their networks by throttling heavy data users – a necessary measure when tens of thousands of people are sharing the same connection, but one that can reduce your speeds to near-unusable levels during a big event.

VPNs can sidestep this by hiding your traffic from the network – if it can't see what you're doing, it can't single you out for throttling. The catch is that many venues have wised up to this, and will throttle any traffic that looks like VPN traffic too.

The fix is Stealth Mode – sometimes called Obfuscation or Scramble depending on which app you're using. It disguises your VPN traffic as ordinary web traffic, so the network treats it accordingly. You keep the speed benefits of bypassing throttling while your actual activity stays hidden.

Unfortunately, if the network you're connected to flat-out throttle's everyone's connection, regardless of how much data theyre using, a VPN won't make much of a difference. As always, there's an element of trial and error to this.

Set switches to kill

Switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data – or simply dropping out of range in a crowded venue – can cause your VPN connection to drop momentarily. That split second is enough for your real IP address to be exposed before the VPN reconnects, which defeats the purpose of using one in the first place.

A kill switch solves this by blocking all internet traffic the moment your VPN drops, preventing any leaks until the connection is restored. Pair this with Auto-Connect, which ensures your VPN engages automatically whenever you join an untrusted public network, and you've closed off the two most common sources of accidental exposure.

As a side-note, your VPN "blocking all internet traffic" sounds drastic, but in reality, it's nothing to worry about. This only equates to a second or two of downtime, which is very unlikely to be noticed.

Split the tunnel

Running all your apps through a VPN simultaneously puts extra demand on both your device and the network – bandwidth you can't afford to waste when thousands of people are competing for the same signal.

Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don't. Route your sensitive apps – banking, email, social media logins – through the encrypted tunnel, and let everything else connect directly. Checking live scores or streaming music in the background doesn't need VPN protection, and bypassing it for those apps can free up enough speed to make a real difference. Plus, by reducing the amount of data you need to encrypt will also save you precious battery life.

Bottom line

A few seconds spent in your VPN's settings can be the difference between a working connection and a frustrating one.

Switch your protocol – WireGuard for speed, OpenVPN if you're struggling to connect – enable Stealth mode, turn on your kill switch, and set up split tunneling. Do all of this, and you'll be in a far better position than the thousands of other people on the same network.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

USA vs Turkey is a chance for the USMNT to really flex their muscles, seeing as they're through to the Round of 32 regardless of the result. However, even if you've got a solid broadband connection at home, there's no guarantee of a smooth stream. ISPs routinely throttle bandwidth when they detect heavy streaming activity, and with millions of fans tuning in simultaneously, the risk of a buffering-plagued match is very real.

The best VPNs tackle this by making your traffic unreadable to your ISP. Without knowing what you're doing, it can't make the decision to slow you down – so instead of throttling your stream mid-match, it simply lets your connection run at full tilt.

Right now, Norton VPN sits at the top of our best streaming VPN rankings, and a compelling World Cup deal makes it particularly well-timed for anyone wanting a buffer-free tournament.

How does Norton VPN compare to other top VPNs?

When it comes to sheer breadth, NordVPN is hard to beat. Its network spans more than 9,000 servers across 149 countries, and in our speed tests it hit over 1,249 Mbps locally – figures that put it ahead of most of the competition. That firepower does come at a cost, though. NordVPN starts at $3.49 per month, and that requires you to commit for two years. What's more, it comes with only a 30-day money-back guarantee, compared to Norton's 60-day window.

Surfshark undercuts both on price, with two-year plans coming in at just $1.99 per month – and unlike Norton, it places no cap on device connections, making it an appealing option for households with a lot of hardware. Speed-wise it's no slouch either, ranking among the fastest VPNs we've tested. Where it falls short is consistency: in our streaming tests, it has occasionally failed to unblock certain Netflix regions that Norton handles without issue.

For throttling specifically, what matters most is that your VPN can reliably access streaming sites and mask your traffic from your ISP – and that's precisely where Norton's streaming credentials count most. Add in the 60-day money-back guarantee, which is double the industry standard and comfortably covers the entire tournament, and the choice is easy.

NordVPN and Surfshark are both worth considering once the final whistle blows on the group stage, but if a buffer-free World Cup is the goal, Norton is the one to back.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Scotland vs Brazil is one of the most anticipated matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026's group stage – and whether you're watching from a bar, a hotel, or any other network that isn't your own, your connection may be more exposed than you think. Plus, if you accidentally end up on websites that aren't trustworthy, exposing your IP address to them can spell danger.

Using one of the best VPNs closes that window by encrypting your traffic and masking your IP address, so nobody on the same network can see what you're doing. It also means your ISP can't monitor your streaming habits, and websites can't see your real IP – useful if you'd rather keep your viewing activity to yourself.

We currently rate Norton VPN as the best VPN for streaming, and there's a sensational deal running right now that makes it an easy choice for World Cup coverage.

How does Norton VPN compare to other top VPNs?

NordVPN continues to outperform Norton VPN in our overall VPN rankings, and its testing record backs that up: speeds of over 1,249 Mbps locally, a server network spanning more than 8,000 servers across 135 countries, and a near-flawless streaming unblocking record. In comparison, Norton VPN only offers servers in 65+ countries – meaning potentially less choice when it comes to streaming services.

The catch is price – even on the discounted two-year plan, NordVPN works out at around $3.49 per month, which is a little more than Norton. What's more, it only comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Norton also has the edge when it comes to raw streaming performance, unblocking every major streaming platform in our latest round of testing, despite its smaller network.

Surfshark is a budget alternative, with plans starting at a very reasonable $1.99 per month and the bonus of unlimited device connections. This is a contrast to Norton VPN, which has strict limits on how many devices you can install the VPN on. Surfshark's a capable all-rounder, too, and one of the fastest VPNs we've tested. However, its streaming unblocking has been less consistent than Norton's in our reviews, occasionally struggling with certain Netflix regions.

If your main priority is keeping your streaming activity private without interruption, Norton VPN is the clear choice. What's more, that performance currently comes with competitive pricing against NordVPN and a 60-day guarantee which is double what most competitors offer, giving you the entire tournament to decide if it's right for you.

NordVPN and Surfshark remain solid options for general use once the World Cup wraps up, but for streaming this tournament privately and securely, Norton's combination of unblocking power and excellent pricing is hard to beat.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

England take on Croatia in a one of the most hotly anticipated games of the 2026 World Cup's group stage – and if you're traveling abroad or just away from your usual setup, you don't want to miss it. Streaming services often restrict access based on location, which can leave you locked out of the coverage you'd normally get at home.

Using one of the best VPNs solves this by routing your connection through a server in your home country, letting you access your usual streaming service as if you'd never left. It also encrypts your traffic, which is useful if you're connecting via public Wi-Fi at an airport, hotel, or bar to catch the match.

We currently rate Norton VPN as the best VPN for streaming, and there's a sensational deal running right now that makes it an easy choice for World Cup coverage.

How does Norton VPN compare to other top VPNs?

NordVPN remains our top-rated VPN overall, and its testing backs that up: speeds of over 1,249 Mbps locally, a server network spanning more than 8,000 servers across a staggering 167 countries, and a near-flawless streaming unblocking record. In comparison, Norton only offers servers in a measly 65 countries – meaning potentially less choice when it comes to streaming services.

The catch is price – even on the discounted two-year plan, NordVPN works out to around $3.49 per month, more than Norton's current World Cup deal. Norton also has the edge when it comes to raw streaming performance, unblocking every major streaming platform in our latest round of testing, despite its smaller network.

Surfshark is a budget alternative, with plans starting at a very reasonable $1.99 per month and the bonus of unlimited device connections. This is a bonus compared to Norton, which has strict limits on how many devices you can install the VPN on. Surfshark's a capable all-rounder, too, and one of the fastest VPNs we've tested. However, its streaming unblocking has been less consistent than Norton's in our reviews, occasionally struggling with certain Netflix regions.

If your main priority is locking in reliable access to every match without interruption, Norton VPN is the clear choice. What's more, that performance currently comes with competitive pricing against NordVPN and a 60-day guarantee which is double what most competitors offer, giving you the entire tournament to decide if it's right for you.

NordVPN and Surfshark remain solid options for general use once the World Cup wraps up, but for streaming this tournament specifically, Norton's combination of unblocking power and deal pricing is hard to beat.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

The World Cup only comes around every four years, and whether you're making the trip to the US, Canada, or Mexico, or you're based abroad for work, the last thing you want is to hit a geo-block on match day. Using one of the best VPNs solves that by routing your connection through a server back home, giving you access to the same free streams you'd get on your couch – BBC iPlayer, ITV, or whatever your local broadcaster happens to be.

The good news is that Norton VPN has you covered with a 60-day money-back guarantee on annual plans – double the 30-day industry standard – which means you can sign in, stream every group stage game, knockout round, and the final itself, and still claim a full refund if you're not satisfied. That makes it completely risk-free for the entire tournament.

Before you dive in, though, there's one thing worth knowing: your smart TV's operating system determines exactly how you set up your VPN. Get that part wrong and you'll be troubleshooting during kick-off.

Device matters

Your TV's operating system dictates how – and whether – you can run a VPN directly on it, so it's worth knowing which camp you're in before kick-off.

If your TV or streaming device runs Google TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire OS, or Apple's tvOS (tvOS 17 or later), you're in luck. All of these platforms feature native app stores, meaning you can download the Norton VPN app directly, sign in, and be connected within minutes.

Samsung and LG owners face a different situation. Tizen and webOS – the operating systems powering those TVs respectively – block third-party network configurations entirely and offer no native VPN support. Your options are Smart DNS, which reroutes only your location data without full encryption, or setting up Norton on your router so that every device on your network is covered automatically.

If none of those options work for you, there's a reliable fallback: connect a laptop to your TV via HDMI. Run Norton VPN on the laptop, set it to your home country, and your stream plays on the big screen just as intended. Two things to sort before kick-off – set your laptop's power settings so it stays awake with the lid closed, and if sound isn't coming through the TV, manually switch your system's audio output to the TV speakers.

VPN Limitations

A VPN adds a layer of encryption to your connection, and during a global event with millions of viewers doing the same thing, that comes with a couple of practical trade-offs worth knowing about.

The first is resolution. Many broadcasters stream in native 4K, and modern VPNs are fast enough to handle it under normal conditions – but when large numbers of users crowd onto the same VPN server simultaneously, that headroom shrinks quickly. If your stream starts buffering, drop the resolution manually to 1080p. A smooth, uninterrupted match beats a stuttering one in 4K every time.

The second concerns casting. If you're planning to stream from your phone and cast to the TV via AirPlay or Chromecast, you may run into connectivity issues. A VPN creates an encrypted point-to-point tunnel between your device and the server, which cuts your phone off from the local area network – and casting relies on that local connection. Some VPNs include a "allow local network access" setting that resolves this, but not all do. If yours doesn't, the HDMI + laptop method is your most reliable alternative.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is here – and with free streams available in many countries around the world, it's one of the most accessible mega-events on the sporting calendar. However, if you're away from home – or even in the US, Canada, or Mexico to support your country in person – you'll notice that your regular streaming services are blocked.

The most effective way of accessing your home country's free streams is to use one of the best VPNs to change your location virtually. For example, if you're a Brit in the US, you'll need to set your VPN to connect to a UK server in order to watch all the coverage on the BBC and ITV.

Often, it's as simple as just clicking and connecting. But, in my experience, there can often be some stumbling blocks that can hold up your progress. That's why I'm going to run down some key VPN preparation steps to make sure all you need to do is connect, and kick off with confidence.

Set up your streaming accounts before kick-off

It might seem obvious, but it's well worth putting in a few minutes of prep several hours – or even days – before kick-off. Don't worry, it's not complicated.

Whether you plan on streaming with BBC iPlayer, Peacock, or any other regional service, connect your VPN before you do anything. This ensures the app or webpage doesn't see a frequently changing location, which can tip it off to the fact you're using a VPN.

Once you're connected, make sure you know your streaming service login, and you have the requisite streaming app installed if you're using a mobile device or a streaming device like a Fire Stick or Apple TV.

Once you've connected to the VPN and you've got the app installed – or the webpage open – log in, or create an account.

Finally, try watching something. If everything works seamlessly, this could be the last step you need before kick-off, but if you notice any small issues – or if you're blocked entirely – keep reading.

VPN troubleshooting

So, you've run into an issue. That's fine – it's why you've done this before kick-off.

The first step you should take is to look at your VPN's protocol. A VPN protocol is what the app uses to encrypt your data, and move it from one place to another. Some are better for streaming than others.

If your VPN is set to "Automatic," I'd recommend manually selecting the "WireGuard" option. WireGuard is generally very fast, and it's also very effective at getting around streaming site geo-blocking. Avoid specialist "obfuscating" protocols like Norton VPN's Mimic or Proton VPN's Stealth protocol. These are best reserved for when you need maximum privacy, not maximum streaming performance.

Many VPNs now support something called "post-quantum encryption." In everyday use, this is a great tool for making sure your data is not only safe now, but also in the future. However, it can slow down your connection, and may also give the streaming site more reason to believe you're using a VPN, and therefore block access. So, I'd recommend you turn off post-quantum encryption.

Make sure to turn off any browser protection tools like Surfshark's CleanWeb, NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro, or Proton VPN's NetShield. Again, these are great for daily usage, but blocking trackers and ads can lead streaming sites to block your access.

Finally, if you're mid-match and you find that your VPN is suddenly blocked, it's not the end of the world. Some VPNs like Norton VPN allow you to manually refresh your IP address. This means that even if the IP you're currently using ends up blocked, you can get a fresh one in seconds. If you VPN doesn't allow this, you should close your streaming tab, disconnect and reconnect the VPN, and start your stream again.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

The 2026 World Cup is finally here, and Norton VPN has rolled out a massive price drop just in time for kickoff.

Over the past year or so, Norton has undergone a major overhaul, turning it into a legitimate challenger to the best VPNs overall. In fact, it recently climbed to the #1 spot in our best streaming VPN guide thanks to its ability to unblock virtually every platform we threw at it.

Now, you can get Norton VPN Plus, for the same price as its standard service. That means you'll get a password manager, cloud storage and dark web monitoring effectively for free.

Every subscription features an industry-leading 60-day money-back guarantee and a variety of other useful tools to keep you protected online. Full details are below.

A serious VPN from a household name

Norton VPN has evolved from a basic antivirus add-on into a premium standalone service that’s nipping at the heels of the likes of NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN. Combining household-name brand credibility with high-end performance, it is easily one of the most improved services on the market.

The provider covers all the privacy essentials. It features an independently audited no-logs policy — meaning your personal browsing data is never tracked or stored — alongside a reliable kill switch and advanced security tools like Double VPN.

However, the real standout feature ahead of the tournament is its streaming power. In our latest rounds of testing, Norton VPN successfully bypassed geo-restrictions on every single streaming site we tried. It’s a massive step up for the provider, delivering a level of unblocking performance that matches or outright beats the established heavyweights in the space.

With the World Cup kicking off today, it's a great choice whether you're traveling to watch the games or just following all the action at home.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Apple's WWDC is taking place from June 8-12, 2026. While we're not expecting a major device release, the unveiling of iOS 27 and macOS 27 presents a good moment to think about securing your iPhone. The best VPNs are one of the simplest ways to do this, and right now, my favourite VPN for iPhone is on sale.

ExpressVPN has long been our top-rated iPhone VPN, and it's currently available from $2.49 per month on a 28-month plan ($69.72 upfront, pre-tax). A 30-day money-back guarantee means you can try it risk-free.

The app's design, set up, and features make it the ideal iPhone VPN. It looks great, and it compliments Apple's ideas of simplicity and functionality. Plus, it's very beginner friendly.

If you're an iPhone user who has never used a VPN before, or you're switching from something that hasn't impressed you, here's why ExpressVPN is the VPN worth getting.

The best iPhone VPN

ExpressVPN earns its place at the top of our best iPhone VPN guide for a few reasons, but the biggest is how effortless it is to use. The app is clean and uncluttered, built around a single large connect button that gets you protected in one tap. No menus to dig through, no settings to configure – it just works.

Beyond the simplicity, ExpressVPN doesn't cut corners on security. It uses post-quantum encryption as standard, and backs it up with a verified no-logs policy, meaning your data is never stored or shared.

For iPhone users specifically, it also offers a kill switch – something not every VPN bothers to include on iOS, making it a solid choice for anyone who takes their privacy seriously. This will cut your internet connection if your VPN fails, ensuring your data is never left unprotected.

The iOS app has also picked up some genuinely useful upgrades recently. You can now connect via a home screen widget or tell Siri to do it for you. Network Insights displays your connection speed and VPN status directly on your Lock Screen and Dynamic Island, so you always know you're protected without opening the app.

There's even an automation feature that connects you to ExpressVPN the moment you join public Wi-Fi, which is a handy safety net when you're out and about.

ExpressVPN is great for streaming, boasts 188 server locations worldwide, and delivers decent speeds – although it's not the fastest VPN we've tested. It now offers a complete privacy suite, with up to five apps included in one subscription, depending on which plan you've chosen.

So if WWDC has inspired you to protect your iPhone, a $2.49 per month ExpressVPN subscription is hard to ignore.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

The World Cup is underway! The world's best teams have traveled to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico to face off in the most popular sporting event on the planet.

If you're going to a game — or watching it from the comfort of your home — we have everything you need to know right here. We'll let you know how to watch every match (for free!), the best TVs and soundbars to enjoy the games in all their glory, and the best deals if you want to upgrade your setup for less.

We'll even have tips and tricks for getting the most out of the gear you have, from optimizing your TV's performance to tweaking your audio so you can hear every GOOOAAAAAALLLLLLLLLL!

We're going to update this page regularly throughout the contest, so be sure to come back each day.

How to watch all the games

Our top World Cup TV deals

Best deals for TVs, soundbars, and more

The best settings for your TV

Tips for going to the games

Host the ultimate watch party

Apparel and other gear

Test your World Cup knowledge

Try our TV product finder!

The web has always been full of trackers, but the AI boom has made personal data feel even more valuable. Every click, search, sign-up, or payment can feed the systems building profiles around your online behavior, whether that’s for advertising, analytics, or the next wave of AI tools.

The best VPNs alone won’t stop every company from scraping public web data, but NordVPN Plus gives you a stronger layer of protection where it counts. It includes NordVPN’s core privacy tools alongside its newly rebranded "next-generation antivirus," which blocks ads, trackers, phishing links, malware, and suspicious downloads before they get too close.

At $3.59 per month ($96.93 upfront, pre-tax) for 27 months, NordVPN Plus costs more than budget picks like Surfshark and PIA, but it gives you a broader security bundle than a standard VPN deal. You get antivirus, NordPass, and Dark Web Monitoring.

Protect your data from AI scraping

NordVPN Plus is built for people who want more than a private connection. The main attraction here is Threat Protection Pro, now styled as NordVPN’s next-generation antivirus, which works in the background while you browse.

Its job is simple: block the junk before it reaches you. That means fewer ads, fewer trackers, fewer phishing pages, and stronger protection against malicious files. In our testing, NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro was the best VPN-based threat-protection tool, blocking 92% of phishing sites and 80% of malware sites.

That tracker blocking is the part that feels especially timely. AI companies, advertisers, and analytics platforms all rely on data trails to understand what people read, click, search, and share online. NordVPN won’t erase you from the internet, but it can help cut down the amount of tracking activity attached to your browsing.

NordVPN Plus also covers browser and email protections. NordVPN’s email protection scans visible links in open emails on supported web browsers, then flags suspicious URLs before you click. If it spots a phishing, scam, or malware link, you’ll see a red shield icon and a warning banner, without NordVPN needing to scan the actual content of your emails.

NordVPN Basic still gets you the VPN, but Plus is the tier built for everyday web protection – it throws in the NordPass password manager too. If your main concern is trackers, phishing links, suspicious downloads, and breach alerts, this is the NordVPN plan to go for.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Identity theft is more common than most people realize. Data breaches expose millions of card details and personal records every year, and if yours end up on the dark web, the process of cleaning up the mess – cancelling cards, proving your identity, dealing with fraudulent accounts – can take months and cost a small fortune.

But one of the best VPNs is here to help. Surfshark One+ is designed to take that burden off your shoulders. For $4.19 per month on a 27-month plan ($113.13 upfront, pre-tax), you get Surfshark's most complete package, with every feature it has to offer including up to $1 million in ID theft protection.

What's more, right now you'll receive a free Amazon gift card worth $30 thanks to our exclusive deal.

If you're based in the US and want a proper safety net for your personal data, Surfshark One+ is one of the most comprehensive options on the market right now – here's what you get.

Total ID theft protection

If your personal data gets exposed, Surfshark One+ covers up to $1 million in identity restoration expenses. That includes practical costs like replacing documents, legal fees, and lost wages – but also less obvious ones, like up to $1,000 for mental health counselling. A licensed ID theft investigator is also on hand to guide you through the recovery process, which can make a significant difference when you're dealing with something as stressful as identity fraud.

Surfshark One+ also includes Incogni, a data removal service that contacts data brokers on your behalf and requests they delete your personal information. It's a proactive layer of protection that reduces your exposure before anything goes wrong, rather than just helping you recover after the fact.

It's worth noting that the ID theft coverage is available to US residents only, excluding those in New York State.

Rounding things out, Surfshark recently launched its Antiscam Hub for iOS – a dedicated section of the app that pulls together five personal protection tools including dark web monitoring, unsafe site blocking, and identity theft coverage into a single, streamlined interface. It's a sign that Surfshark is building toward something more than just a VPN.

The VPN itself is also one of the best, sitting #2 on our best VPN list. It's fast, secure, and good for streaming. You can protect an unlimited number of devices on one plan, perfect for families or those with a ton of devices.

Three tiers of plan are available, but if you want a complete cybersecurity package, Surfshark One+ is the one to go for.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Norton VPN has announced a big upgrade to its server spread, unveiling a host of new supported countries and locations.

You can now connect to a server in 18 new countries, bringing the VPN's total to 92. On top of that, Manual IP shuffle has been launched on desktop, and the VPN teased some significant features coming this summer.

Norton VPN continues to improve at pace and is amongst the best VPNs available right now. It's fast, secure, and our testing saw it take the crown of best streaming VPN.

With plans starting at $2.49 per month ($59.99 upfront), Norton VPN is an affordable choice. Plus, thanks to our exclusive deal, you can currently grab a free $30 Amazon gift card with your subscription.

18 new countries

The arrival of 18 new countries sees Norton VPN's offering rise from 74 to 92, with its total number of locations growing from 125. Norton VPN still lags behind NordVPN's 212 locations in 135 countries, and Proton VPN's 191 locations in 145 countries. But it brings it closer to Surfshark (142 locations in 100 countries) and ExpressVPN (188 locations in 105 countries).

The new countries are spread across various continents, and are:

• Algeria
• Andorra
• Armenia
• Bahamas
• Bermuda
• Egypt
• Georgia
• Jamaica
• Jersey
• Kenya
• Lebanon
• Lichtenstein
• Monaco
• Montenegro
• Myanmar
• Nepal
• Puerto Rico
• Senegal

Norton VPN already covered most major locations, and this update represents a focus on less popular countries. However, this is vital for VPN users in these countries, as they can access local VPN servers and protect their data while keeping their IP address in their home country.

These servers can also be a lifeline for those facing internet censorship. Connecting to a VPN allows you to bypass online restrictions and access a free and open internet. VPNs came under attack in Myanmar in 2025, and Egypt has a history of internet censorship. Norton VPN's proprietary protocol Mimic, is designed to protect users thanks to its obfuscating capabilities.

Himmat Bains, Product Lead at Norton VPN, said: "With Norton VPN's expansion to 130+ server locations in over 90 countries, people now have more locations to choose from, helping them stay connected to the online content and services they rely on, browse with added privacy, and access a more localized online experience, all backed by the trusted protection Norton VPN is built to deliver."

More features to come

Alongside the new countries, Norton VPN has released Manual IP Shuffle on desktop. This expands its existing IP Rotation offering, which is currently automatic.

Shuffling, or rotating, your IP sees your VPN regularly change your virtual IP address, without disconnecting, making it more difficult for you to be tracked online.

Currently, Norton VPN's automatic IP Rotation changes your address every 30 seconds. But Manual IP Rotation gives you more control over when you want to shuffle that connection.

Simply hit the refresh icon next to your connection every time you want to switch. You can also connect to any of Norton VPN's locations. A downside to the existing automatic IP Rotation is you're limited to six countries.

"VPN customers today expect more than just a secure connection – they want flexibility that fits how they actually live online. Broadening our IP Rotation capabilities is a direct response to that," explained Bains.

"Norton VPN customers can now choose between automatic IP Rotation, which refreshes their VPN IP every 30 seconds in the background, and our new Manual IP Rotation, which puts that same control in their hands on demand."

Manual IP Shuffle will be coming to mobile in the coming weeks.

Norton VPN teased some upcoming features, which represent further significant improvements to its VPN apps. New SDKs (Software Development Kits) will be coming to mobile. This aims to improve performance and app stability.

Split tunneling is coming to Mac. It's currently available on Windows and Android only, and the reduced support for Apple devices is something we noted in our Norton VPN review. However, this is something Norton VPN is addressing and split tunneling coming to Mac will be a significant upgrade for the platform.

Arguably the most interesting feature upgrade is the implementation of post-quantum encryption (PQE) on WireGuard. PQE is blended with AES-256 encryption within the Mimic protocol, so adding it to the WireGuard protocol will see Norton VPN become one of the most quantum secure VPNs.

PQE is the new industry standard and protects your devices against the emerging threat of quantum computers, as well as "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks.

The features will be coming between now and the summer, so users won't have to wait long.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

The Champions League final is almost upon us. Arsenal – who have just won their first Premier League title in 22 years – are aiming to win Europe's biggest club competition for the first time. Reigning champions PSG are looking to make it back-to-back titles. Millions of football fans will tune in for what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the year.

But for traveling Gunners, Les Parisiens, or any true football aficionado away from home this weekend, accessing your usual stream isn't always straightforward. Geo-restrictions can block the platforms you'd normally use, leaving you searching for alternatives just hours before kick-off.

That's where one of the best VPNs comes in. Norton VPN seriously impressed us in our latest testing, rising to #1 in our guide to the best streaming VPNs. It unblocked every streaming service we tested, which makes it ideal for unblocking the likes of Paramount+ and DAZN in the US, and HBO Max and TNT Sports in the UK.

Better still, Norton VPN is one of the cheaper big-name VPNs around, with a 24-month plan starting at $2.49 per month ($59.99 upfront, pre-tax) and a generous 60-day money-back guarantee included.

Even better, thanks to our exclusive deal, you can grab a $30 Amazon gift card with all subscriptions.

Norton VPN's streaming power is unmatched.

Norton VPN has become a quality streaming VPN, and the timing couldn't be much better for the Champions League final weekend. Its latest test results were excellent, especially for anyone trying to watch while away from home.

For US viewers hoping to use Paramount+ or DAZN to catch the final, Norton VPN should have no trouble accessing a smooth stream. UK users logging in via HBO Max or TNT Sports should have an equally good experience.

Elsewhere, Norton VPN unblocked streaming sites in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Japan. So wherever you are in the world, Norton VPN is the perfect choice.

It also unblocked Netflix libraries in all regions, as well as Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and US YouTube. So you're not just paying for one match, you're getting a VPN that can help with movies, shows, and live events throughout your trip.

There are apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, Apple TV, and Fire TV, so you can stream on your laptop, phone, tablet, or big screen. Setup is quick, the apps are simple, and connecting before kick-off should only take a couple of clicks.

If you think that a $2.49 per month price means cutting corners on performance, Norton VPN proves otherwise. We recorded WireGuard speeds of up to 1,010 Mbps, which is far beyond what you need for smooth HD or 4K streaming.

So if you're after a fast and secure VPN to stream the Champions League final, check out Norton VPN – and there's a free $30 Amazon gift card as an added bonus

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

ExpressVPN has completed its 27th independent security audit, the most out of any of the best VPNs.

Cybersecurity firm Cure53 carried out the latest round of reviews, assessing two of the company's newest privacy tools: ExpressMailGuard, an email alias service, and Identity Defender, a US-only protection app.

The audits were comprehensive in scope. Cure53 – known for rigorous white-box penetration testing – examined ExpressMailGuard's secure relay layer, and stress-tested the backend infrastructure behind Identity Defender. It validated that sensitive personally identifiable information remains isolated and protected against unauthorised access.

The milestone marks another step in ExpressVPN's broader ambition to bring independently verified privacy tools under one subscription. Since publishing its first audit in 2018, the company has subjected every major component of its infrastructure to independent scrutiny – from its VPN protocols and no-logs policy to its private AI assistant, and now its email and identity protection products.

What did Cure53 test?

ExpressMailGuard allows users to generate unlimited anonymous email aliases, shielding their real inbox from the services they sign up to. Cure53's audit focused on the secure relay layer, verifying that the system strips identifying metadata, routes messages through aliases, and deletes delivered messages from ExpressVPN's servers – ensuring the relay cannot be used to build user profiles or retain communication archives.

Identity Defender is available as a standalone app for US users. It monitors public records, home and auto titles, court records, financial records, and Dark Web data for early signs of identity theft. It also includes an automated data-removal tool that continuously scrubs personal information from data broker sites.

Cure53 stress-tested the backend infrastructure powering these monitoring services, confirming that sensitive PII remains isolated against unauthorised access.

Full audit reports are published on ExpressVPN's Trust page.

A compounding investment in accountability

Reaching 27 audits reflects a deliberate and long-running commitment that stretches back to 2018, when ExpressVPN published its first independent security review. Since then, the company has submitted every major component of its infrastructure to outside scrutiny – a standard it says goes well beyond industry norms.

"Security audits are not a checkbox exercise for us," said Aaron Engel, CSO at ExpressVPN. "Every product we build that touches user data gets handed to independent researchers whose job is to break it. Twenty-seven audits later, we remain committed to the same standard: trust must be earned, not assumed."

Other leading VPNs do conduct independent security and privacy audits – NordVPN has completed six no-logs reviews and Surfshark two – but neither matches ExpressVPN's volume, or the breadth of products covered.

What sets ExpressVPN apart is that its audits now span its entire product stack – not just the VPN itself. Its password manager, email relay, AI assistant, and identity protection tools are all covered.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

NordVPN is bringing its VPN and antivirus protections together in one app. The best VPN for most people is now positioning itself as an "all-in-one digital security app" with privacy at its core.

Threat Protection Pro is being re-named, and stylized as "next-generation antivirus." The app is built around three core pillars – VPN, antivirus, and other features such as Dark Web Monitoring.

It aims to stop threats before they reach your device, rather than focusing on reactive virus detection. NordVPN says it's time to redefine the "outdated" antivirus concept, and believes that "the threat landscape has outgrown the file."

All-in-one protections

Traditional antivirus works by detecting malicious files, but threats are evolving. Phishing, fake online stores, scam messages, and identity theft often rely on compromised credentials and social engineering rather than downloadable malware.

NordVPN wants to stop these threats – in real time – before they reach your device. Three pillars are guiding its actions:

• Connect (VPN)
• Protect (Antivirus)
• Monitor (Other features including Dark Web Monitor)

Marijus Briedis, CTO of NordVPN, said "protection needs to evolve" and "should address the real risks people face online today." Briedis said NordVPN's new approach "reflects what users increasingly want from digital protection – stronger security, less complexity, and fewer separate tools to install and manage."

NordVPN isn't creating a brand new product, it's rebranding Threat Protection Pro. The tool, under its new antivirus name, will offer:

• Scam and phishing protection
• Malware protection
• Ad and tracker blocking
• Identity and account takeover protection
• File and device protection

Threat Protection Pro is currently included in NordVPN Plus plans and above, along with the NordPass password manager. Threat Protection Lite and basic Dark Web Monitoring is included with all plans.

NordVPN Complete gets you Dark Web Monitor Pro, Scam Call protection, and encrypted cloud storage.

NordVPN Prime is NordVPN's most premium plan. It includes everything the VPN has top offer and sees the addition of identity theft protection, Coveron (previously known as NordProtect).

You can read our NordVPN prices and plans guide for a complete breakdown of all subscription tiers.

Privacy remains a priority

NordVPN has said its security approach is designed to collect the "minimum signal required to make a threat decision," avoiding its app becoming a "surveillance product."

This principle is guiding NordVPN's approach to threat detection technologies. It highlighted how it is using machine learning models for certain threat categories that improve accuracy and speed.

"Consumers should not have to choose between convenience, protection, and privacy," explained Briedis. "Our goal is to bring together advanced VPN technology and next-generation antivirus in one streamlined app experience that reduces complexity and better matches how people think about digital safety today."

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Surfshark has launched an Antiscam Hub for iOS – a dedicated section within its app that consolidates five existing personal protection tools into a single, streamlined interface.

The hub brings together Personal Email Masking, Alternative Number, Dark Web Monitoring, Unsafe Site Blocking, and Identity Theft Coverage, removing the need to navigate between separate areas of the app.

We are seeing the best VPNs grow beyond traditional VPN protection in order to create complete cybersecurity packages, and Surfshark is the latest.

Surfshark says the move targets the growing threat of social engineering. These are scams that exploit trust, urgency, and exposed personal data rather than software vulnerabilities, and it describes the hub as the foundation of a broader anti-scam roadmap.

What's inside the Antiscam Hub?

The five tools housed in the hub each target a different layer of personal exposure. Personal Email Masking shields your real email address from scammers, while Alternative Number does the same for your phone – but it's still a paid add-on.

Dark Web Monitoring provides real-time alerts if your personal data surfaces in a breach or leak.

Unsafe Site Blocking automatically prevents access to malicious and phishing websites – Surfshark says the feature flagged nearly 1.2 million new phishing and malware sites in the past month alone.

Rounding out the hub is Identity Theft Coverage, which offers up to $1 million toward expenses like document replacement and legal fees, plus $1,000 for mental health counselling for affected users.

It's worth noting that there are no new features, simply a consolidation of existing ones.

An industry-wide shift

Surfshark isn't alone in moving toward consolidated security tooling. ExpressVPN recently overhauled its cybersecurity offerings to create five-app privacy suite.

NordVPN has rebranded Threat Protection Pro, consolidating its protections into one app.

"Cyberthreats are constantly shifting, and right now we are witnessing the ultimate uptick of scams," said Gabriele Sinkeviciute, Head of Product at Surfshark. "That's why easy-to-use tools that can make you more alert from such threats are much more important than ever."

"By consolidating these tools, Surfshark makes it easier for users to understand their exposure and take preventive action before a scammer even makes contact. This launch represents the foundation of Surfshark’s scam protection vertical, serving as a starting point for a roadmap of increasingly sophisticated anti-scam features," Sinkeviciute added.

What you need to do

The Antiscam Hub is available now for Surfshark iOS users. To access it, open the Surfshark app on your iPhone, ensure you're running the latest version – update via the App Store if needed – and look for the Antiscam Hub section within the app dashboard.

The hub is currently iOS-only. Surfshark has confirmed it will be piloted on the platform first, to gather user feedback, before rolling out to other platforms.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Surfshark is already one of the best VPNs, and right now it's sweetening the deal further. Sign up to a new 2-year plan and you'll get an Amazon gift card on top, worth $10, $20, or $30 depending on which tier you go for.

The price hasn't moved. Surfshark Starter still comes in at $1.99 per month on the 2-year plan, which gets you a VPN with servers across 100 countries, unlimited device connections, and 3 extra months free. Step up to Surfshark One or One+ and the gift card value rises to $20 or $30 respectively.

The catch is a small one: you'll need to keep your subscription active for at least 31 days before you can claim. After that, the voucher shows up in your Surfshark web app, ready to redeem. The offer runs until June 2, so if you need a VPN, I'd recommend pulling the trigger on this sooner rather than later.

We rate Surfshark as the best cheap VPN, the second best VPN overall, and also one of the fastest VPNs we've tested. It's also reliable as a VPN for streaming, with support for BBC iPlayer, ITV, Netflix, and a wide range of other streaming platforms across the globe.

If the Starter plan feels a little lean, the next tier up is Surfshark One, which adds antivirus, a private search engine, and an alerts system that flags if your personal or financial details show up in a data breach. The gift card steps up to $20 at this tier, which softens the price difference considerably.

At the top end, Surfshark One+ brings in Incogni – a data broker removal tool developed by the same parent company as Surfshark – and bumps the Amazon gift card to $30. For most people, Starter does the job. But if you're after a fuller security suite, the upgrade is worth a look.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

U.S. Memorial Day 2026 is here. You might be travelling, seeing family, watching sports, or streaming your favorite shows.

Whatever you're doing, the best VPNs might be able to help. Online privacy has never been more important, and there are countless VPN deals out there. Whether it's ease of use, streaming power, or affordability, there's a VPN for you.

With that in mind, we've picked out three VPNs you can subscribe to this Memorial Day 2026 weekend.

Complete VPN protection

We rate NordVPN as the best VPN out there right now. Blending speed, power, features, and privacy, it's the perfect all rounder and the best choice for most people.

There are four subscription tiers to choose from, with each unlocking awesome extra features such as Threat Protection Pro, NordPass, and NordProtect.

27 month plans start at $3.09 per month ($83.43 upfront, pre-tax), and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee as standard. Check out our NordVPN prices and plans page to examine each tier in detail.

This isn't the cheapest we've ever seen NordVPN, but it's a decent price for what you're getting.

NordVPN is super fast, capable of topping 1,200 Mbps. There's 211 server locations in 135 countries worldwide, including one in every US state. No matter where you are on Memorial Day weekend, you'll always get the fastest VPN speeds possible.

This speed makes NordVPN an ideal streaming VPN, and it can unblock almost every streaming site. It has no trouble with Netflix, Disney+, or BBC iPlayer. It's very good at unblocking Amazon Prime Video too, only failing to access the service in Australia and New Zealand.

Industry-leading post-quantum encryption is supported on all platforms, up to 10 devices are protected on one plan, and it boasts a fully audited no-logs policy.

The VPN for beginners

ExpressVPN is a great VPN if you're a complete beginner. Its apps are very easy to use, and feature a giant on/off button that makes it simpler than ever to protect your online privacy. What's more, all apps look the same no matter your device, and depending on your plan, you can protect up to 14 devices.

The speed and unblocking power of ExpressVPN can't quite match NordVPN, but it's still pretty decent. The Windows-exclusive Lightway Turbo recorded 1,177 Mbps in our testing, while WireGuard (compatible with every platform) recorded 967 Mbps. Considering you only need 25 Mbps for 4K Netflix, these speeds are more than fast enough.

Speaking of Netflix, ExpressVPN easily unblocked it in the US, UK, and Canada – but had some issues in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. Again, it's not quite as capable as NordVPN, but not bad.

ExpressVPN has completed numerous independent audits, and implements post-quantum encryption as standard. It has recently launched an entire privacy suite, with up to five apps included in your subscription (depending on plan and region).

Three tiers of plan are on offer, with prices starting at $2.79 per month ($78.18 upfront, pre-tax). There's also a 30-day money-back guarantee and four additional free months.

The most affordable VPN

When it comes to price, PrivadoVPN is unbeatable. A 27 month plan costs $1.11 per month ($30 upfront) and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

It's not packed with features, but the basics are there, such as split tunneling and a kill switch. It's speeds are off the charts, no other VPN we tested went faster than PrivadoVPN's 2,334 Mbps.

It's good at streaming, unblocking Netflix and Disney+ in all regions, plus local services too. It failed to unblock Amazon Prime Video anywhere, but it's not alone here.

There's P2P support and a 10 device connection limit, plus its threat protection – ad, phishing, and malware blocking – offering is better than a lot VPN's.

It's apps can feel clunky, and there's not much in the way of customization, but for the price PrivadoVPN is hard to ignore. The cherry on top is its free VPN, PrivadoVPN Free, tops our best free VPNs list – but it can't compare with its paid counterpart.

Why might you need a VPN?

You might be wondering why you need a VPN this Memorial Day (and beyond).

The purpose of a VPN is to protect your privacy. They encrypt your internet traffic and mask your IP address, keeping it hidden from third parties and hackers. They can also include threat protection, and are ideal for accessing geo-restricted content like streaming libraries.

So whether you're travelling and using public Wi-Fi, or looking to stream your favorite shows, a VPN is a handy companion for Memorial Day. Just remember, they can't save you money on your Memorial Day flights!

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Another dramatic Premier League season is coming to an end this weekend. Arsenal may have already wrapped up the title, but there's plenty still to play for.

European places are up for grabs, with Chelsea, Brentford, Brighton, and Sunderland all in the running. One team will be relegated on the final day – will it be Spurs or West Ham?

It's a day of soccer not to be missed, but what if you're away from home? The best VPNs can help, and I'd be turning to NordVPN to help me stream the Premier League from anywhere.

Prices start at $3.09 per month ($83.43 upfront pre-tax). There's three extra months included for free, and a 30-day money-back guarantee as standard.

NordVPN has servers in 135 countries, covering 211 locations – including one in every US state. Speeds top 1,200 Mbps, and its streaming unblocking power is near-flawless. So no matter where you are, you'll be able to stream the Premier League uninterrupted.

Servers, speeds, & streaming

NordVPN sits at the top of the table in our best VPN guide for good reason. It's capable of exceeding 1,200 Mbps speeds, and your data is protected by post-quantum encryption – the new industry standard.

There's 211 server locations in 135 countries, with a server in every US state. So if you're outside the US, you have plenty of options to choose from to access NBC or Peacock and stream your soccer match of choice.

You should have no problem unblocking either service, as NordVPN is one of the best streaming VPNs out there. In our testing it unblocked almost everything we threw at our first time. This included all regions of Netflix and Disney+, as well as Amazon Prime Video in everywhere but Australia and New Zealand.

It did fail the notoriously hard US YouTube test, but many VPNs fail this and NordVPN isn't alone here.

You can protect up to 10 devices on one plan, and NordVPN's apps are fairly easy to use, although not the absolute simplest.

At just over $3 per month, NordVPN isn't the cheapest VPN you can buy. Surfshark or PrivadoVPN are two good, more affordable alternatives, but they can't match NordVPN for features or power.

The VPN is a complete all-rounder, and a great choice for streaming the final day of the Premier League season.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

A court in Spain has rejected calls to fine NordVPN over alleged non-compliance with blocking orders.

NordVPN, which ranks first in our guide to the best VPNs, was targeted by LaLiga, Spain's soccer administrator, back in February 2026. Along with others, the privacy firm was ordered to block certain IP addresses to prevent the illegal streaming of matches.

NordVPN refused to do this, and subsequently LaLiga called for the VPN to be fined. However, the Commercial Court of Córdoba has dismissed the request following NordVPN's submission of technical evidence.

Proceedings are still ongoing, but NordVPN says the ruling "marks an important step in recognising the consequences of such indiscriminate blocking."

Technical impossibility

On May 19, the Commercial Court of Córdoba dismissed calls from LaLiga to "impose coercive fines" on NordVPN for allegedly failing to comply with interim blocking orders.

The case was first heard in February 2026, as VPNs – including NordVPN – were ordered to block IP addresses used to illegally stream Spanish soccer matches. At the time, NordVPN said blocks were "ultimately ineffective in combating piracy" and claimed it had no opportunity to defend itself in court.

At the time, and over the following months, NordVPN's experts argued it "was not technically possible" to block IPs "without harming thousands of lawful websites in Spain and beyond."

NordVPN said these experts demonstrated two things in court. It explained that the aforementioned IP addresses "change constantly" – often occurring within hours. The list of IPs supplied would therefore not match, and blocking couldn't take place.

Secondly, NordVPN argued the "blanket" blocking demanded would see "thousands of entirely lawful websites inaccessible to users in Spain and beyond."

LaLiga believed NordVPN "had deliberately and without justification breached the order" and called for fines. But the judge accepted NordVPN's report and ruled the fines were not warranted.

Proceedings for the case are still ongoing, and NordVPN has said it "will continue to engage with the Spanish courts in good faith." It added that "technical concerns [around IP blocking] are real and evidenced," and it welcomed the court's recognition of this view.

Not an isolated case

LaLiga's attempts to pull VPNs into its fight against piracy is not an isolated case. Cloudflare and GitHub are two services which have been intermittently inaccessible to Spanish users during soccer match windows, and many groups have documented this disruption.

In France, Canal+, alongside France's soccer governing body, won a case in May 2025 which ordered VPNs to block over 200 illegal streaming sites. In June 2025, the Motion Picture Association (MPA) – which represents Disney+, Netflix, and Warner Bros. – called on VPNs to block online piracy sites.

VPNs have constantly stressed they do not support piracy, but argue mass blocking is not the appropriate way to tackle it, and warn of widespread collateral damage.

NordVPN is one of those VPNs, and explained how its position hasn't changed. NordVPN said: "Protecting intellectual property is a legitimate goal, and rights holders are entitled to effective remedies. But the means used to achieve those remedies must be proportionate, technically sound, and respectful of everyone who depends on the same shared infrastructure."

"Blanket IP blocking imposed on VPN providers fails on each of those counts. It does not stop determined infringers, who adapt within minutes, and it imposes real costs on users, businesses, and lawful services that have nothing to do with the underlying dispute."

NordVPN thanked the Córdoba court for its engagement. It reaffirmed the level of standards displayed by the court are what's needed across Spain and Europe.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Accessing geo-restricted streaming libraries is one of the most popular use cases for the best VPNs.

Whether your comfort films are only available in another country, or you're away from home but can't bear to miss your favorite show, the best streaming VPNs can access every major streaming service.

CyberGhost is one of the most capable. In our latest streaming tests, it unblocked every service we tested it with – including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, as well as a host of regional sites.

A 26-month CyberGhost plan costs $2.19 per month ($56.94 upfront, pre-tax) and comes with an impressive 45-day money-back guarantee.

Near-perfect streaming unblocking

In our May 2026 round of streaming testing, CyberGhost's results were almost perfect. The regions we looked at were: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the UK, and US.

CyberGhost succeeded first time in unblocking all regions of Netflix. It also saw success with Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video. Its ability to unblock Amazon Prime Video is impressive considering many major VPNs have struggled with the latter in recent months.

US YouTube is another notoriously hard test to pass – NordVPN and Surfshark both failed – but CyberGhost unblocked it first time.

Regional services are no trouble either. Channel 4 and ITV in the UK can be accessed, along with 9Now in Australia. CyberGhost also had no trouble with Apple TV+, Paramount+, and DAZN.

We can't test every streaming site out there, but from what we've seen, CyberGhost is unlikely to be blocked by your favorite platform. CyberGhost's 125 server locations in 100 countries means you'll have plenty of choices – and it has dedicated servers for UK BBC iPlayer and US Netflix.

Only two services caused CyberGhost any trouble. BBC iPlayer in the UK, and 10Play in Australia took a few tries to unblock – the VPN managed it after switching servers a couple of times.

Streaming 4K Netflix requires a minimum of 25 Mbps. CyberGhost's 674 Mbps is more than enough to handle this, but it isn't quite as speedy as the fastest VPNs out there.

Streaming is what CyberGhost does best, and it does it better than most. Its apps are simple and easy to use, with seven devices supported on one plan. With subscriptions costing just over $2 per month, it won't break the bank.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Mullvad VPN has disclosed a fingerprinting vulnerability that could allow websites to link a user's activity across different VPN servers.

When a user switches servers, their exit IP address lands in a predictable position within the new server's IP range, allowing third parties to connect activity on the old server to the new one.

Fingerprinting identifies devices based on unique characteristics, without relying on cookies or login data. Here, the consistent positioning of exit IPs across servers creates a traceable pattern.

The flaw doesn't expose a user's real identity, but for those who switch servers specifically to separate their online sessions, it undermines that expectation. A fix is in testing.

Mullvad VPN is seen as a highly secure and private alternative to the best VPNs, and this an uncharacteristic issue. However, the quick response to its discovery is encouraging.

How the fingerprinting flaw works

Each Mullvad VPN server assigns users one exit IP from a range of addresses. Every device has a unique WireGuard encryption key tied to an internal tunnel address, and exit IPs are assigned based on that address' relative position in the server's range.

If that position is 40% on Server A, it will be approximately 40% on Server B. A website observing traffic across multiple servers could therefore infer the same user appeared on both.

Why Mullvad VPN's network design created the issue

Unlike most VPNs, Mullvad VPN operates a range of exit addresses per server to reduce overcrowding and avoid mass IP blocks, and it's this architecture that makes consistent positional assignment possible.

The issue was flagged by an independent security researcher on May 15. Mullvad VPN acknowledged the disclosure promptly and published a detailed technical breakdown on its blog.

What Mullvad VPN users should do now

For most users, no action is needed. The vulnerability only matters if you switch servers with the specific goal of separating your online sessions, and prevent linking your activity from one server to another.

If that applies to you, Mullvad VPN recommends:

• Open the Mullvad VPN app
• Log out of your account
• Log back in
• Connect to your new server

This regenerates your WireGuard key, breaking the pattern that enables fingerprinting. A permanent fix is in testing and will roll out server-side over the coming weeks, with no app update required.

Mullvad VPN has created a page for users to monitor the fixes as they happen.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

A co-ordinated international operation, led by France and the Netherlands, has seen authorities seize and dismantle a VPN used by cyber criminals.

"firstVPNservice" – software not featured in our guide to the best VPNs – was "deeply embedded in the cybercrime ecosystem," and has been promoted on Russian-speaking cybercrime forums.

The investigation, supported by Europol and Eurojust, was launched in 2021 and dubbed Operation Saffron. Domains, IP addresses, and servers were seized, and users of the VPN have been identified.

A complete shutdown

Operation Saffron was led by France and the Netherlands, and was assisted by crime agencies from the UK, Switzerland, Ukraine, Luxembourg, Romania, and the EU. Additional support was provided by Spain, Sweden, Canada, Germany, and the US.

The target was firstVPNservice. The VPN has been described as "a trusted tool for remaining beyond the reach of law enforcement." It reportedly offered anonymous payments and hidden infrastructure to its users, as well as "services designed specifically for criminal use."

Action took place between 19-20 May, and targeted firstVPNservice's infrastructure. The VPN's administrator was interviewed, and a house in Ukraine was searched.

33 servers used for criminal activity, covering 27 countries, were dismantled. Infrastructure used to support worldwide criminal activity was disrupted. The following domain names were seized:

• 1vpns.com
• 1vpns.net
• 1vpns.org
• Associated .onion domains

Users of firstVPNservice have been identified and notified of its shutdown. 65 IP addresses were identified and posted online.

According to Europol, "investigators gained access to the service, obtained its user database, and identified VPN connections used by cybercriminals seeking to conceal their activities."

Edvardas Šileris, Head of Europol's European Cybercrime Centre, said: "For years, cybercriminals saw this VPN service as a gateway to anonymity. They believed it would keep them beyond the reach of law enforcement."

"This operation proves them wrong. Taking it offline removes a critical layer of protection that criminals depended on to operate, communicate and evade law enforcement."

This case reinforces the fact that VPNs are not an excuse for criminal activity. VPNs are legal, but using them for illegal purposes will see law enforcement take action.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Obscura VPN has launched on Android, marking the privacy-focused provider's first step beyond Apple's ecosystem. Previously limited to macOS and iOS, the app is now available on Google Play, with a secondary listing on Obtainium for users who prefer open-source app distribution.

To celebrate, Obscura VPN is offering 25% off for all users with promo code ANDROID26 for a limited time – bringing its monthly cost down from $8 per month, to $6 per month.

Windows and Linux apps are also in development, with a waitlist open for those platforms.

Obscura VPN is still very new, and its release on Android sees it make a big step towards seriously challenging the best VPNs.

How Obscura VPN works

Obscura VPN's two-party relay architecture is what sets it apart from mainstream VPNs. Most route traffic through a single server operated by one company, where your whole connection journey can be seen (but not logged).

Obscura VPN splits that picture in two. Your connection enters through Obscura VPN's server, which sees your IP but never logs it, before passing to an exit node run independently by Mullvad VPN. This then connects you to the internet without ever seeing who you are.

The app also uses a custom obfuscation protocol based on QUIC to disguise VPN usage and bypass firewalls, making it well-suited to users in regions with heavy internet censorship.

Obscura VPN's source code is publicly available on GitHub, and a December 2025 audit by German security firm Cure53 found no high- or critical-severity vulnerabilities.

Why Android, and what's next?

Obscura VPN launched exclusively on macOS in February 2025, later expanding to iOS. Android is its first move onto non-Apple hardware, and is a logical next step for a provider that has stated its ambition to be available to everyone, regardless of platform.

Carl Dong, founder of Obscura VPN, commented on the Android release: "For many, Android is their primary way of getting online, including in places where surveillance, blocking, and censorship are increasingly part of daily life."

"As the only Two-Party Relay VPN on Android, Obscura offers verifiable privacy that doesn’t rely on pinky promises, paired with strong obfuscation that resists blocking and censorship."

"We’re grateful to everyone who waited for Obscura on Android, and we’ve already started working on Windows and Linux to bring the private and open internet to every major platform."

A Linux and Windows waitlist is open on Obscura VPN's website.

How to get Obscura VPN on Android

The app is available now on Google Play or Obtainium. Existing subscribers can log in with their account number, and no email address is required. New users can sign up anonymously.

To claim the 25% launch discount, use code ANDROID26 at checkout. Users on Windows or Linux can connect manually in the meantime via Obscura VPN's WireGuard guide on its website.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

A newly discovered Android 16 bug could allow apps to leak traffic outside VPN tunnels, potentially exposing users' real IP addresses even when Always-On VPN and Android's built-in kill switch are enabled.

The flaw affects all the best VPNs, and was highlighted by Mullvad VPN, one of the most private VPNs available.

Its blog post announcing the bug is designed to spread knowledge about this issue to help keep our users safe.

According to the Mullvad, malicious apps may be able to bypass VPN protections under certain conditions and reveal a user's real IP address to external servers.

That's a serious concern for those who rely on the best Android VPNs to hide their location, reduce tracking, or secure their traffic on public Wi-Fi networks.

What's behind the Android 16 VPN leak?

The leak stems from a flaw in how Android 16 handles QUIC connection shutdowns.

According to Mullvad, apps can abuse a system function tied to the Connectivity Manager service to send specific traffic outside the VPN tunnel. This means a malicious app could reveal a user's real IP address to external servers, even if the device is configured to block all non-VPN traffic.

Mullvad says the issue affects all VPN apps on Android 16 because the vulnerability exists within the operating system itself. The Sweden-based VPN also noted that GrapheneOS, a privacy-focused Android-based operating system, has already patched the flaw in its own codebase.

Why this isn't just a Mullvad problem

VPN leaks are not entirely new, but this case stands out because it bypasses Android's strongest VPN protections, including "Always-On VPN" and "Block connections without VPN."

The issue was reportedly shared with Google's Android Security Team, but Mullvad says the report was closed as "Won't Fix (Infeasible)." The company later submitted a separate issue through Google's Android issue tracker, although Mullvad says the report is currently inaccessible.

Features like kill switches and Always-On VPN settings are often seen as critical protections, especially for users connecting through hotel, airport, or café Wi-Fi networks, or operating in higher-risk environments.

Because of this, reports of those protections being bypassed entirely are likely to concern privacy-focused VPN users.

How to reduce the risk on Android

Mullvad says a mitigation is available, although it requires enabling USB debugging and running Android Debug Bridge (adb) commands manually.

To apply the workaround:

• Enable Developer Options and USB debugging on your Android device
• Connect the device to a computer with adb installed
• Run: adb shell device_config put tethering close_quic_connection -1
• Reboot the device

According to Mullvad, this disables the QUIC graceful shutdown feature linked to the leak.

However, future Android updates may undo the fix, meaning users could need to repeat the process after updating their device.

Beyond the workaround itself, it's still worth being cautious about installing apps or visiting websites you do not fully trust.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Proton Unlimited rarely gets this cheap. The 12-month plan normally costs $12.99 per month, but it's currently down 30% to $8.99 per month – a saving of $4, or $48 over the year.

Outside of Black Friday, this is as low as the price gets, and there's a 30-day money-back guarantee if you want to try it risk-free.

Proton is a Swiss-based privacy company, and Unlimited is its flagship subscription: a bundle of eight encrypted apps designed to replace the Big Tech tools most of us rely on by default. That means one of the best VPNs, private email, cloud storage, a password manager, a calendar, and more – all end-to-end encrypted, all under one roof.

What makes it worth considering isn't just the breadth of the suite, but the philosophy behind it. Everything Proton builds is encrypted by design, with no ads and no data harvesting. Its Swiss base matters too – it places Proton outside US and EU jurisdiction, meaning no FISA orders, no surveillance partnerships, and no obligation to hand your data to third parties.

If you've been looking for a clean break from Google, this deal is a good moment to make it.

One subscription, eight apps

At $8.99 a month, Proton Unlimited covers a lot of ground. Proton VPN gives you access to 20,000+ servers across 145 countries, support for up to 10 devices, and fast speeds. It also includes NetShield ad-blocking, Secure Core servers for extra security, Tor over VPN, split tunneling, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy.

Proton Mail adds 15 encrypted email addresses, unlimited hide-my-email aliases, and support for up to three custom domains.

Proton Drive adds 500 GB of encrypted cloud storage with version history, while Proton Pass goes beyond basic password management with 50 vaults, unlimited logins, and a built-in 2FA authenticator that means one less app to juggle. Proton Calendar keeps your schedule encrypted and off Big Tech servers, and Proton Meet offers private video calling without the Google or Zoom overhead.

Round that out with Proton Wallet – an encrypted Bitcoin wallet – and Lumo AI, Proton's privacy-first AI assistant, and you have a self-contained privacy ecosystem that rivals anything Big Tech offers.

Eight apps, one subscription, and the biggest discount you'll see outside of Black Friday.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

IPVanish now offers 150 server locations worldwide, in a "key milestone" for the VPN. IPVanish is a long-term challenger to the best VPNs and it has steadily made some impressive upgrades to its server infrastructure over the last year.

Alongside new locations, IPVanish has improved speeds, added extra servers, and built out its RAM-only server network.

IPVanish said "this expansion represents months of behind-the-scenes work" and sees it continue to be a viable alternative to leading VPNs.

150+ locations worldwide

IPVanish now offers more than 150 server locations worldwide, more than Surfshark, Windscribe, and CyberGhost.

Recently added locations include:

• Calgary, Canada
• Berlin, Germany
• Edinburgh, Scotland
• Detroit, US
• Salt Lake City, US

The total IPVanish server network exceeds 3,400 servers, with more than 1,000 added in the last year. These cover both new and existing, high-demand, locations, and 56,000+ IP addresses are available to IPVanish users.

Additional servers help improve speeds and reliability by reducing congestion and giving users the option to connect to a server closer to where they're physically located – the less distance your data has to travel, the better your VPN performance will be.

In our most recent round of testing, IPVanish recorded speeds of 742 Mbps. This doesn't make it one of the fastest VPNs out there, but speeds are more than good enough for 4K streaming, gaming, and browsing.

IPVanish said its recent upgrades have focused on North America and Europe, following on from 2024 updates to its servers in Africa, Asia, and South America.

Atlanta, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, New York, Chicago, and Toronto are "long-standing hub locations" and are some of IPVanish's "most-used server locations globally."

Subbu Sthanu, General Manager, Consumer Cybersecurity at IPVanish, said: "IPVanish is dedicated to continually expanding our server network, enabling us to offer customers the fastest VPN speeds at home and while traveling."

"Reaching 150 server locations is an important milestone, but it’s also part of a much larger investment in the future of the IPVanish network," Sthanu added.

880+ RAM-only servers

As well as its regular servers, IPVanish has 880+ RAM-only servers, representing 35% of its total network.

RAM-only servers don't rely on hard drives or SSD storage. Data is not permanently stored on the server – instead, it's wiped on shutdown. The amount of data collected and stored is also minimal, thanks to IPVanish's strict, audited no-logs policy.

The 880+ RAM-only servers cover 25 locations, with 13 of those in the US. RAM-only servers are available across all IPVanish platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, and smart TVs. Within the app, you can filter your server list so only RAM-only locations are shown.

RAM-only rollout began in June 2025, and IPVanish wants to transition to 100% RAM-only servers by 2027.

IPVanish's upgrades are a welcome, and impressive, step forward. The VPN is a highly secure, affordable, and capable alternative to some of the major names in the industry.

A two-year IPVanish plan starts at $2.19 per month ($52.56 upfront, pre-tax) and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Improving your gaming experience may not be the first use case you think of when it comes to the best VPNs. However, the best gaming VPNs are an underappreciated way of taking your online sessions to the next level.

Stable speeds, less lag, better lobbies, and protection from DDoS attacks are just some of the ways a VPN can help you out, and NordVPN is the best out there.

A 27 month plan starts at $3.09 per month ($83.43 upfront pre-tax) and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

NordVPN blends power, features, privacy, and security, and you'll do well to find a better VPN gaming companion.

VPNs take gaming to the next level

If you're an avid gamer, you'll want to add a VPN to your setup. Online gaming requires speed, and NordVPN has plenty of it. It's one of the fastest VPNs and recorded maximum speeds of 1,249 Mbps in our latest round of testing.

Speed, and decent latency and jitter scores, mean you shouldn't notice any lag or buffering when gaming with NordVPN. During intense gaming sessions, your internet service provider may throttle your speeds – connecting to a VPN protects against this. Your real IP address is hidden, and your ISP won't know what you're doing. This means uninterrupted performance.

You can also change your IP address to access lobbies from around the world, and avoid overcrowding. NordVPN has thousands of servers in 211 locations and 135 countries worldwide, so you'll never be short of lobbies to choose from.

Hackers can use online lobbies to exploit gamers, and launch DDoS attacks. VPNs encrypt your online traffic and hide your true IP address. This means you're a lot harder to spot and target, keeping you and your data safe. NordVPN has class-leading privacy and security, with post-quantum encryption protection supported on all platforms and a fully audited no-logs policy.

For PC users, gaming with NordVPN is easy. Simply download the app from its website, sign in, and away you go. VPN gaming on consoles is a little more complex as there's no native apps – but it's not impossible.

You can install a VPN on your router, resulting in VPN protection for any device connecting to Wi-Fi.

You can also set up a shared VPN connection from your Windows laptop. NordVPN has guides on how to do this. It's not too complicated, but you'll need an ethernet cable.

NordVPN is a fantastic all-rounder, and the best VPN for most people – gamers included. It's current deal isn't the greatest we've ever seen, but it's a good little discount and includes a range of features.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

How often do you ask "is my phone listening to me?" One search for local coffee shops, for example, and you're inundated with ads for beans and espresso machines.

I can't say whether or not your phone is actually listening to you, but what I can say for sure is that it's collecting and analyzing your browsing habits, searches, and interests – all through trackers and cookies. This data is then shared to third-parties and you're hit with super-specific targeted ads.

As the best VPNs evolve, many plans are bundling in cybersecurity extras, and Surfshark One is a great example.

27 month plans cost $2.49 per month ($67.23 upfront, pre-tax) and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You'll get a class-leading VPN, along with Antivirus, Search, and Alternative ID – all designed to protect your identity online.

Surfshark One packs a punch, all while costing less per month than most standalone VPNs.

A comprehensive package that won't break the bank

VPNs don't block ads and trackers by default, but many include built-in protections you can toggle on and off. Surfshark One has CleanWeb, which blocks ads and cookie pop-ups.

Surfshark Search is exclusive to Surfshark One and One+. You get organic search results, which are entirely ad-free. No tracking or data storing takes place, and you can swap regions to see relevant search results.

Alternative ID is a unique feature to Surfshark, that allows you to sidestep entering any kind of personal data when signing up for websites and newsletters. You can generate a fake name, address, and birthday – creating and deleting as many personas as you like. You can also mask your email address by setting up an alternate address that forwards messages to your true inbox.

In some cases, clicking on ads and suspicious links can leave malware on your device. Surfshark One's Antivirus stops that. All devices benefit from real-time checks and you can perform quick and full-device scans.

For its price, Surfshark One is an unbeatable package. You can mask your digital footprint and subscribe to the best cheap VPN for under $2.50 per month. There are more comprehensive and powerful threat protection packages out there, but Surfshark One does the basics well for a seriously cheap price.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Big Tech has made itself very comfortable in your digital life. Google handles your email, your calendar, your cloud storage, and quite possibly your passwords. It's convenient, but it comes at a cost – and that cost is your data. If you've been thinking about pulling the plug, Proton Unlimited is one of the most complete ways to do it.

Proton is a Swiss-based privacy company best known for Proton Mail, its end-to-end encrypted email service, and Proton VPN, one of the best VPNs we've reviewed at Tom's Guide.

These are all available individually, but the Unlimited plan bundles everything together: the VPN with 20,000+ servers across 140+ countries, Proton Mail, 500 GB of encrypted cloud storage, a secure password manager, and a calendar, all under one subscription. Everything is end-to-end encrypted by default, and Proton's Swiss base puts it outside US and EU jurisdiction.

Proton is currently discounting its 12-month Unlimited plan by 30%, bringing it down to $8.99 per month ($107.88 billed upfront). The plan covers a lot of ground, and unlike many VPN bundles, every app in the Proton suite is useful in its own right.

If you're after a single subscription that replaces Gmail, Google Drive, and a standalone VPN, Proton Unlimited is worth considering.

How does Proton VPN Unlimited compare?

Proton Unlimited sits at $8.99 per month on a 12-month plan, which is the same price as ExpressVPN Pro, and a step up from NordVPN Complete at $6.99 per month. So why pay more?

The answer depends on what you want beyond a VPN. NordVPN Complete bundles a password manager, 1 TB of cloud storage, cyber insurance, and Threat Protection Pro, but its ecosystem stops there. ExpressVPN Pro adds a dedicated IP, but both are built around the VPN first and foremost.

Proton takes a different approach. Its suite, including mail, drive, calendar, password manager, and VPN, is designed from the ground up as a Google alternative, with Swiss privacy law underpinning all of it. If you're simply after a fast, affordable VPN, there are cheaper options. But if you want to genuinely de-Google your digital life, Proton Unlimited makes a stronger case than either rival.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

A VPN may not be the first thing you think of when packing for a family holiday, but while travel insurance protects your physical safety, the best VPNs protect your digital wellbeing.

Travelling abroad can often mean connecting to potentially insecure public Wi-Fi, perhaps at the airport or hotel. Your family likely has a lot of devices between you – think phones, laptops, and tablets – so your VPN needs to cover all of them.

That's where Surfshark comes in. Its unlimited device connection policy means you can protect your entire family's devices on one plan. What's more, it's the best cheap VPN out there, with plans starting at $1.99 per month ($53.73 upfront, pre-tax).

There are three tiers of plans to choose from, and all multi-year plans come with three extra months of free VPN protection and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Protection for all the family

Many leading VPNs impose a device limit on plans. This is usually between 10 and 15, which is pretty generous, but may not be enough for families with a couple of devices each.

With Surfshark, you can install its VPN on as many devices as you like. Whether it's family laptops, adult's mobiles, children's tablets, or even smart TVs back home, Surfshark has an app for every major platform. Simply subscribe to your chosen plan, and install the app on every device you need.

Surfshark protects your data with post-quantum encryption, the new industry standard. It has an audited no-logs policy, which means it'll never store, share, or sell your browsing data.

Its apps have a clean design, and an easy to use UI – plus they look almost identical on every device. This makes it great for beginners, families, and anyone who isn't an out-and-out VPN expert. As a result, they're not as customizable as other VPNs, but this won't be a problem for most people.

Surfshark is fast, with our testing showing it's capable of exceeding 1,000 Mbps. It's a decent streaming VPN, unblocking US Netflix and Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video in the UK. So, if you're away from home, you can stream your favorite shows as if you were sat on the couch at home.

Over 4,000 servers are available worldwide, with 142 locations in 100 countries. This is a little less than big rivals NordVPN and Proton VPN, but every major location is covered.

Surfshark's premium plans include some nifty extra features, including Antivirus, Incogni data removal service, and identity theft insurance.

There are faster VPNs than Surfshark, as well as more powerful streaming VPNs. Proton VPN and NordVPN fall into both categories. However, both are more expensive. You'll struggle to find a VPN that can go toe-to-toe with Surfshark and costs less.

If you're after a dedicated family plan, you might want to consider Norton VPN Ultimate. It can protect up to 20 devices and offers parental controls. But again, price is an issue, with a two-year plan double the price of Surfshark.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is less than one month away. Thousands of soccer fans will be journeying to the US, Canada, and Mexico for one of the world's biggest sporting events.

No matter how long you're out there, you're going to be taking a decent number of devices – and the best VPNs should be at the top of your packing list. You'll likely be using a lot of public Wi-Fi, and accessing all sorts of World Cup information and content online, so protecting your data is a must.

NordVPN boasts a server in every US state, which means fast speeds and improved performance – no matter where you are in the country.

A 27 month plan starts at $3.09 per month ($83.43 upfront, pre-tax) and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Premium plans include a ton of extra features, and you can check out our NordVPN prices and plans page for details of everything on offer.

Why a server in every state matters

NordVPN has 9,000+ servers worldwide, covering 211 locations in 135 countries. This includes 55 cities in the US – one in every state.

But why does this matter? When you use a VPN, your internet traffic travels to a server, changing your IP address, before connecting to the internet. Because there's an extra step, speed and performance can be affected.

If that server is further away from you, the slower your connection speeds will be. Having a server in every US state means you're never far away from your chosen location and your speed and performance won't be interrupted.

NordVPN is capable of exceeding 1,200 Mbps, and you'll want to make use of that to browse the web and stream your favorite shows.

Boston, New York, Los Angeles, and Houston are just some of the US cities hosting World Cup matches, and NordVPN has a physical server located in every one of them. You can be confident that the server is located where it says it is, and you're getting the best possible speeds.

There are also physical serves in Toronto, Vancouver, and Mexico City – perfect for anyone attending soccer matches in these host cities.

All NordVPN's servers are RAM-only, meaning stored data is wiped on shutdown. Plus its fully audited no-logs policy ensures your browsing data is never logged.

NordVPN is one of only three VPNs to have servers in every US state, joining ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA). PIA is the cheapest of the three, and it's ideal for experts. But it's not the easiest to use, and its extra features can't match NordVPN.

ExpressVPN is great for beginners, slightly cheaper than NordVPN, and its premium plans include a full privacy suite of apps. However, its speed and streaming unblocking capabilities lag behind NordVPN.

We rate NordVPN as the best VPN for most people. It's fast, powerful, and secure, and with a server in every US state, it's a great companion for this summer's World Cup.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Surfshark has announced a new partnership with Amnesty International, becoming a supporting partner of the organization's Digital Forensics Fellowship (DFF) – a training program designed to equip activists, journalists, and human rights defenders with the skills needed to detect and respond to sophisticated digital surveillance.

The DFF is run by Amnesty International's Security Lab and focuses on mobile device forensics. It emerged in the wake of the Pegasus Project – the 2021 investigation that exposed how NSO Group's Pegasus spyware had been used to target journalists, activists, and heads of state worldwide. Digital threats against human rights defenders have grown sharply since, making technical expertise increasingly critical for civil society organizations.

Surfshark's support will help fund and expand the fellowship, now in its fourth edition, which has evolved from an introductory program into an advanced curriculum for organizations already conducting mobile device forensics.

What is the Digital Forensics Fellowship?

The DFF teaches human rights defenders how to conduct consensual mobile device forensics – analyzing devices with the knowledge and consent of the individual involved, to determine whether they have been targeted by spyware or other surveillance tools.

This year's curriculum covers Android and iOS forensics, malware traffic analysis, and a new focus on setting up secure helplines, giving organizations a structured process for receiving and triaging cases safely. Fellows typically come from regions where digital threats are the most severe and technical resources are scarce, and are expected to pass their training on to their wider communities.

Why Surfshark is getting involved

Surfshark's partnership reflects a broader company philosophy that digital safety extends beyond its own products. "The DFF addresses a different but equally critical piece of the puzzle: building the expertise needed to investigate and respond when digital rights are violated," says Dovydas Godelis, CEO at Surfshark.

The best VPN contender already works with Access Now, the Internet Society, and the International Press Institute across cybersecurity education, press freedom, and internet accessibility.

This isn't the first time a leading VPN has backed a major human rights initiative – in March 2026, NordVPN partnered with Internews to embed its tools into digital safety training for journalists and activists in high-risk environments. Surfshark has its own prior relationship with Internews, having provided 100 free subscriptions to journalists and activists across nine countries.

How to apply for Surfshark's Emergency VPN

Journalists, activists, and non-profit representatives facing censorship or surveillance can apply for a free Surfshark One subscription, which includes VPN, antivirus, secure search, and data leak alerts.

To apply, head to Surfshark's website, navigate to the Emergency VPN page, and fill out the application form detailing how a free subscription would support your work.

NordVPN, CyberGhost, IPVanish, and Mullvad run similar emergency programs. For basic protection, Proton VPN Free, Windscribe Free, and PrivadoVPN Free are solid no-cost options.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Have you ever been caught out by sneaky data roaming charges when traveling abroad? I certainly have, and it can end up costing hundreds.

You might think the best VPNs are only good for encrypting your data and enhancing your digital privacy. But that's not all. Some of the best travel VPNs now include free eSIMs in their plans — and ExpressVPN is one of them.

ExpressVPN Advanced includes three days of unlimited holiday.com eSIM data, while subscribing to ExpressVPN Pro increases this to five days.

Right now, the 28 month plans start at $3.59 per month (billed as $100.58 upfront) and there's the usual 30-day money-back guarantee if you just want to test it for one trip.

Two deals to choose from

Unlike traditional roaming, a travel eSIM functions as a digital secondary line, allowing you to tap into local networks to access data without paying your home carrier’s inflated daily rates.

Simply select your travel destination and you're away – plus there's no worrying over physical SIM cards.

Holiday.com eSIM data is included in ExpressVPN Advanced and Pro. There's three days of unlimited data with Advanced, and five free days with Pro. Both plans come with four extra free months of VPN protection and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

• ExpressVPN Advanced: $3.59 per month ($100.58 upfront, pre-tax) + 4 months FREE
• ExpressVPN Pro: $5.99 per month ($167.78 upfront, pre-tax) + 4 months FREE

With coverage across 100 countries and the option for regional or global bundles, the flexibility here is solid. If you outlast your included window, topping up is handled via the holiday.com app, which keeps things centralized.

It’s a smart pairing: while an eSIM handles your basic connectivity, it doesn't provide encryption or IP masking on its own. Using it alongside ExpressVPN’s network—now spanning 189 locations—fills that security gap.

You can protect up to 12 devices on one plan, and you'll also benefit from ExpressVPN's extended privacy suite. It includes the ExpressKeys password manager, ExpressMailGuard, and Identity Defender (for US users).

No other leading VPN includes eSIMs with unlimited data, although IPVanish does includes free eSIMs with its plans. ExpressVPN's plans are a touch expensive. So, if you’re purely hunting for the cheapest monthly cost, budget-friendly picks like Surfshark or PrivadoVPN are still the better value.

However, if you want a high-performance VPN that genuinely solves the travel data headache in a one click, this bundle is the best option we've seen so far.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

With rising censorship and privacy-harming legislation, more and more people are turning to the best VPNs.

Hundreds of VPNs exist, but they don't all protect your data in the same way – some don't protect it at all.

We're noticed heavy traffic to our JumpJump VPN review, especially from users in Russia. It's a barebones VPN, with little in the way of features. Its lack of documentation and vague claims leaves us questioning its privacy credentials, and it doesn't disclose which protocol it uses.

Speeds are pretty good, and it does encrypt your data. Its streaming performance wasn't the worst, and with yearly plans costing approximately $2 per month, it's an affordable VPN option – there's also a free version.

However, there are plenty of VPNs that can match, or better, JumpJump VPN when it comes to streaming, speed, and price – and above all, they're genuinely safe. Whether you're in Russia, or you've stumbled across JumpJump VPN, we've gathered three alternatives you should consider downloading instead.

Amnezia VPN

Founded by Russian activists, Amnezia VPN is one of the best Russia VPNs, and it offers physical servers in the country. This may be a cause for concern for some, but they are RAM-only and all data is wiped on shutdown. The VPN's strict no-logs policy means it collects minimal data in the first place.

Amnezia VPN said its presence in Russia was a direct response to user demand, and it is designed for Russian expats who may still need to securely access Russian websites and region-restricted services like banking and government websites.

Amnezia VPN isn't feature-rich, but it has the basics. There's a kill switch and split tunneling, while its obfuscating AmneziaWG protocol effectively combats internet censorship.

Our testing saw Amnezia VPN's speeds peak at 251 Mbps, which is slow compared to the fastest VPNs, but good enough for daily browsing and streaming. However, Amnezia VPN isn't one of the best streaming VPNs. It struggled to unblock a range of services, but that's not its primary goal.

Seven devices can be protected on one plan, and its apps are basic, but easy to use. A one-year plan costs $4 per month ($48 upfront) and the six-month plan costs ~$4.66 per month ($28 upfront). Both come with a 7-day money-back guarantee.

There is also a free plan, AmneziaVPN Free, with unlimited data and no registration required. This is only available to users in certain regions facing internet censorship. These are: Africa, Brazil, Cuba, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Turkey, Venezuela, Vietnam, and the UK.

Proton VPN

Proton VPN features in our best VPNs list, and is one of the most private VPNs available. The Swiss-based VPN boasts speeds of over 1,500 Mbps and it has servers in more countries than any of its major rivals. There's over 20,000 servers covering 145 countries and 191 locations – including a location in Russia.

Alongside core features such as Secure Core, split tunneling, and NetShield, Proton VPN's threat protection, Proton VPN has a host of dedicated anti-censorship features. The obfuscating Proton Stealth protocol, Proton VPN Free, and Guest Mode, are some examples.

10 devices can be protected on one plan, and there's no tiered system – so you receive everything Proton VPN has to offer. Its no-logs policy has been independently audited, and it's a great streaming VPN.

A two-year plan costs $2.99 per month ($71.76 upfront) and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. As mentioned above, there's a free version, Proton VPN Free. Its features are limited compared to its premium counterpart, but it's one of the best free VPNs.

PrivadoVPN

PrivadoVPN is pretty much the cheapest premium VPN you can get your hands on. A 27 month plan costs $1.11 per month ($30 upfront pre-tax). There's also PrivadoVPN Free, our number-one free VPN recommendation.

But cheap doesn't equal bad. It's a secure, fast VPN, and while not packed with features, has all the fundamentals and is easy to use. There's a robust kill switch on all platforms, split tunnelling, and obfuscation in the form of Scramble for OpenVPN.

It also includes an ad and malware blocker, powered by Control Tower. It's not brilliant, but handy to have included with your subscription.

PrivadoVPN's apps aren't the most intuitive, but they're fairly easy to use and cover all leading platforms – 10 simultaneous connections are allowed on one plan.

Server size is fairly small, with 67 locations in 50 countries, but most major locations are available. Speeds are incredibly impressive, peaking at 2,334 Mbps in our testing. Streaming unblocking is mixed.

PrivadoVPN successfully unblocked Netflix and Disney+ in the US and UK, but struggled elsewhere. It failed to unblock Amazon Prime Video in any region, but managed to access regional services in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Tom's Guide has an exclusive deal with Norton VPN that gets you a free $30 Amazon gift card when you sign up to any two-year plan.

Plans start at $2.49 per month ($59.99 total) but, thanks to the gift card, the upfront cost of your Norton VPN subscription is effectively reduced by half – it costs $60, but you'll get $30 back in vouchers.

The offer is shared with our friends at TechRadar and runs until July 1, 2026. All plans comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to put it through its paces before you make up your mind.

At $2.49 per month on a two-year plan, Norton VPN undercuts NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN on price. Add in the $30 gift card and you're getting a premium-level VPN without the price tag to match.

A serious VPN from a household name

Norton VPN has come a long way in a short time. Eighteen months ago, it was a mid-tier product that struggled to compete with the best VPNs. Today, it's a serious contender – fast, secure, and powerful.

Its security credentials are hard to fault. It has an audited no-logs policy – meaning your browsing activity isn't stored or shared – and features like a kill switch, Double VPN, IP Rotation, and the proprietary Mimic stealth protocol which stops you getting spotted as VPN traffic.

It was also excellent at streaming in our recent May 2026 tests. It unblocked every service we tested it with first time, with only Australian services 7Plus and 9now taking a few tries. Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ were accessed first time, in every region.

Its peak speeds of 1,010 Mbps mean you can stream anything in 4K, as well as game and browse to your heart's content.

It's worth noting that Apple users get a slightly stripped-back experience, though. OpenVPN isn't available on Mac or iOS, and split tunneling is limited to Windows and Android.

Norton VPN also measures usage by devices rather than simultaneous connections, which can feel restrictive if you're juggling a lot of hardware.

If that's a deal-breaker for you, then try either Surfshark or Private Internet Access. Both are low-price and offer unlimited simultaneous connections.

That said, neither matches Norton VPN's streaming performance, and neither comes with an exclusive gift card offer like this one.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

The Tom's Guide team spends all day, every day navigating the world of VPNs to find you the best deals and recommend which privacy tool is right for you.

When it comes to the best VPN for most people, NordVPN is the clear winner. It's a class-leader in many areas, boasting super-fast speeds, powerful performance, and top-tier privacy and security.

Its multi-tiered subscription model means there's a plan for every price point and use case, with each level unlocking some great extra features.

NordVPN is currently on sale, with two-year plans starting at $3.09 per month ($83.43 upfront pre-tax) and three months extra thrown in for free.

It's not the greatest NordVPN deal we've ever seen. But a saving is a saving, and NordVPN is one of the very best VPNs out there.

Four tiers of plan

NordVPN offers up to four tiers of plan, depending on your region. Two-year plans costs more upfront, but the equivalent price per month is the cheapest. Every plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and right now, two-year plans come with an extra three months of protection.

You can check out our NordVPN prices and plans page for a full rundown of each available plan:

• NordVPN Basic: 2 years + 3 months FREE: $3.09 per month (billed as $83.43)
• NordVPN Plus: 2 years + 3 months FREE: $3.59 per month (billed as $96.93)
• NordVPN Complete: 2 years + 3 months FREE: $4.99 per month (billed as $134.73)
• NordVPN Prime: 2 years + 3 months FREE: $6.99 per month (billed as $188.73)

Near-flawless streaming unblocking and top-tier privacy

NordVPN is a high performer in most areas, but streaming is one of its best. In our testing it unblocked almost everything we threw at it. It unblocked every region of Netflix and Disney+ first time, as well as regional services like BBC iPlayer, Channel 4, 9now, and TVNZ+.

No issues were encountered with Amazon Prime Video in the US, UK, Canada, or Japan. It did fail to unblock Amazon in Australia and New Zealand, and it struggled with the notoriously tricky US YouTube test – but this was a common theme across most VPNs in this round of testing.

We saw peak speeds of 1,284 Mbps, and with 211 server locations in 135 countries, you'll almost certainly find the server you need.

Post-quantum encryption is supported on all platforms, and NordVPN had its no-logs policy independently audited for the sixth time in February 2026 – passing with flying colors.

10 devices can be protected on one plan, and core VPN features include a kill switch, Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and Meshnet.

If you go for a premium NordVPN plan, extra features include Threat Protection Pro, which protects against ads, malware, and trackers, the NordPass password manager, scam protection, and NordProtect.

Price hikes and apps

Arguably NordVPN's biggest downside is its price hike on renewal. It's the worst offender out of the major VPNs, with price hikes exceeding 280%. However, this will only happen if you let your plan auto-renew. Simply add more time to your subscription before it ends to get around this. So, if you're already a NordVPN subscriber, this deal can be added to your existing plan.

While $3.09 per month is a good NordVPN deal, it's not the greatest. We're not expecting the price to drop much lower anytime soon, but when it comes to Black Friday, it's safe to say plans will cost less than $3 per month.

Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN – NordVPN's three biggest rivals – all cost less, but their feature offerings vary.

NordVPN's apps have undergone a UI update in recent months, but they're still not the most intuitive or beginner-friendly. They're by no means tricky to use, but VPNs like ExpressVPN and Surfshark cater more directly to beginners and ease-of-use.

Overall, NordVPN is the best VPN for most people. It's fast, powerful, and secure. Right now you can pick up a 27 month subscription, starting at around $3 per month.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Norton Neo, the "AI-native" browser from cybersecurity titans Norton will now come with a built-in VPN.

The update, which released on May 4, also includes anti-phishing and anti-fingerprinting features which aims to improve privacy and security within the Chromium-based browser.

It's powered by one of the strongest challengers to the best VPNs, Norton VPN.

The VPN itself is adaptable, meaning that it "intelligently adapts" to sensitive sites, turning on and off as needed, with particular use cases being noted as banking and healthcare websites. The VPN uses "VPN for Agents", a new technology that creates a separate encrypted tunnel for AI agent traffic, for this level of autonomy.

The free browser's latest update will be intriguing to those interested in trying out Norton's new software, with the adaptive VPN being free for all users, unlike their VPN, which we've recently rated very highly.

Automated VPN

Neo's VPN is powered by Norton VPN. No separate app or subscription is required, and the VPN is covered by Norton's strict, and independently audited, no-logs policy. Anti-fingerprinting and ad blocking run in the background, protecting you from trackers.

However, it's not as powerful as the standard Norton VPN app, it's a watered down version. For example, there are fewer servers and country locations to choose from. Locations in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, and Poland are currently available.

"The VPN integrated into Norton Neo is powered by Norton VPN technology," said Howie Xu, Chief AI and Innovation Officer at Gen. "As with any VPN integrated into a broader product experience, we’ve optimized the implementation for the browser environment and currently support a core list of countries."

"The experience is designed to deliver seamless privacy and security protections directly within Norton Neo, while leveraging the trusted VPN technology behind Norton VPN," Xu added.

We have previously found Norton Neo surprisingly pleasant to use. Back in February, Tom's Guide noted its ease and efficacy when it came to organising browser tabs, alongside other features. If the VPN is as smart as the rest of the browser, it could be a genuinely handy feature.

In addition to the new VPN feature, the update also brings some other security and privacy features. According to Gen Threat Labs, part of Norton's parent company, 83 percent of blocked attacks were web-based, which the new update attempts to handle, adding protection against indirect prompt injection attacks, essential to help keep the browser's AI, and the user, safe.

Other security updates include new ways to counter malicious and phishing websites, which is also available in webmail through Norton's Scam Analyzer engine.

In-built VPNs are increasingly common

VPN integration into browsers is growing trend across the industry. Opera and Firefox both now include VPNs as part of their standard feature set. While they tend to be less feature-rich than dedicated VPNs, they're very accessible, and will likely only improve with time.

According to Howie Xu, "every AI feature added to a browser is another attack surface, and people shouldn't need to be security experts to feel safe online."

Xu said: "With Norton Neo, protection isn't a setting you turn on, it's the foundation. The VPN adapts on its own, phishing is caught before you click, and your AI queries can't be turned against you."

How to try out Norton Neo

If you're curious about trying out these new features, you can download Norton Neo for free from the official website.

If you've already got it installed, you can update it from within the browser, if it hasn't already automatically updated.

Norton Neo is currently available for both Windows and Mac.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Urban VPN has announced the launch of a "new in-house, WireGuard-based protocol," which it claims to be up to four times faster than regular VPN speeds.

The protocol is named Urban LinkX, and is active on over half of Urban VPN's global servers. Currently it can be used on Android and iOS, with Mac and Windows support due by the end of May.

Urban VPN isn't included in our best VPN list, and despite labelling itself as "one of the largest free VPN services globally," it doesn't make our best free VPN list either. In fact, we've previously raised concerns about its privacy credentials.

Investigations have found the Urban VPN Proxy browser extension collects and shares sensitive personal data, while its privacy policy has stated it collects and shares your information with third-parties.

These are serious red flags. So, to coincide with its new protocol, we're re-investigating Urban VPN to see if anything has changed – and whether it's safe to use.

A suspicious privacy policy

Urban VPN kicks off its privacy policy by saying "we do not want to know your identity and we do not collect data to try and figure out who you are." It adds that "any data collected from you simply by your use of our product will never be used to figure out who you are or to send you targeted ads."

This is a good start. However, nowhere in Urban VPN's privacy policy, or on its website, does it mention a no-logs policy. This is crucial to be considered as one of the most private VPNs, and many go one step further by having its no-logs policies independently audited.

In rare cases, as happened to Windscribe and Private Internet Access, these policies are proven in court.

Urban VPN says it doesn't collect "sensitive" data – which includes race, health, and biometric data – but does collect some forms of identifiable data.

It also appears, in some cases, to collect browsing data. In the case of its free Android app and browser extensions, the privacy policy says:

"We may collect your web browsing data, which includes search engine results page, the web pages you visited, clicked stream data, information about the content that you viewed (the ad campaign), information about where you viewed the content (website or the app or extension) and the products viewed, searched, added to the cart, and purchased."

This is a serious invasion of privacy, and something that should never be collected by a VPN. Urban VPN does say this is collected with your consent, and you can withdraw this consent, but the fact it's collected in the first place is a big red flag.

As part of the browsing data it collects, Urban VPN says AI data is included. It collects prompts and outputs, and admits "some sensitive personal information may be processed" as a result.

Collecting this isn't Urban VPN's purpose, but it "cannot fully guarantee the removal of all sensitive or personal information."

Not only is the data collected, it is shared. Urban VPN's privacy policy says the data is "shared with our affiliate company based on consent." Said affiliate company – B.I Science (2009) Ltd. – will use this data "for marketing research and commercial use."

B.I Science (2009) Ltd. uses the data to create commercial "insights" and it shares these with "Business Partners."

Despite this data collection, Urban VPN says it does not "track or collect information about users’ activities across sites or applications."

"Do not sell"

Nestled within the About section of its website, Urban VPN has a "Do not sell" page. It reads: "If you would like Urban VPN to stop selling your data anonymously to 3rd parties please follow these steps." It then walks you through the steps to take to opt-out of data sharing.

Again, there's a small consolation in the fact Urban VPN doesn't hide its data collection and sharing. It'd be far worse if it did. But none of these signs point towards a safe VPN, and Tom's Guide strongly recommends you avoid using it.

Tom's Guide contacted Urban VPN to ask why it doesn't commit to a no-logs policy. We also asked its reasons for collecting user data, and selling it to third-parties.

At the time of publication, we have received no reply.

Too good to be true

On its website, Urban VPN claims it's "the only 100% free, 100% fast & 100% anonymous VPN in the world" and highlights that it's trusted by over 100 million users.

The free VPN boasts "unlimited bandwidth" and 82 server locations, which is far more than any of the free VPNs we recommend. However, claims like this are often too good to be true and you'll likely end up paying with your data.

Free VPNs like PrivadoVPN Free, Windscribe Free, and Proton VPN Free can't match their paid counterparts. They are limited in the features they offer, but they're genuinely safe and won't collect your data.

Any free VPN claiming to offer a complete package, with no downsides, should be avoided.

A new protocol, but stay away

We will commend Urban VPN for launching its new Urban LinkX protocol. Many VPNs – free or paid – don't do this. Urban VPN says its "real-world" Android testing showed download speeds double, and upload speeds quadruple, when compared to its previous protocol implementation.

It's live on 394 of Urban VPN's 692 servers, with access for premium users on Android and iOS – Windows and Mac support is due at the end of May 2026.

But stay away.

Urban VPN collects and sells your data and poses a serious risk to your online privacy. It doesn't hide this, but its data collection is vast, and there are concerns about the connections between its browser extension and AI chatbots.

We recommend avoiding Urban VPN if you value your data. There are a number of secure free VPNs available, as detailed in our best free VPN guide.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

An analysis of VPN accounts has revealed a number of VPNs allow you to sign up using insecure and easy-to-hack passwords.

At least seven VPNs we tested accept "password" and "12345678," but others have far stronger requirements. Having a minimum character limit, and using a mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols, are some of the rules users have to abide by.

When signing up for an account with one of the best VPNs – and any account for that matter – we recommend using complex, secure passwords.

The best password managers help you generate and store secure strong passwords, and leading VPNs, including NordVPN and ExpressVPN, include password managers in their plans.

VPNs are champions of digital privacy and online safety, so we'd expect them to follow strict rules when it comes to password creation. Some do, but others don't – and some big names failed our tests.

What did we test?

Apart from some notable exceptions, most VPNs require you to create an account to sign up for a subscription. This usually requires a username and password. It's important this password is as secure as possible, and we'd expect VPNs to champion password safety.

Tom's Guide tested 25 VPNs, creating accounts and entering passwords to see what rules each enforced. We asked:

• Did the VPN display password rules?
• If yes, how many rules does a VPN have?
• Are these rules enforced?
• Does the VPN allow you to have seriously unsafe passwords?
• Is 2-factor authentication (2FA) an option?

Our test passwords were:

• password
• 12345678
• 1234pass
• @1234567

We should stress that this analysis concerns user account security – the password you create to log in via app or website. We are not remarking on the security of VPN servers, and how well each VPN protects your data.

The worst offenders

We identified four VPNs which allowed insecure passwords and had no option for 2-factor authentication (2FA):

• FastestVPN
• Hotspot Shield
• OysterVPN
• ZoogVPN

FastestVPN didn't display any rules prior to entering a password. Once typing, it says passwords must be a minimum of eight characters. There were no other rules, and we entered all test passwords without issue. There was also no 2FA. This was the same for OysterVPN.

Hotspot Shield only had one rule – your password must be at least six characters long. All our test passwords could be used, and there was no 2FA.

ZoogVPN's one rule was minimum character length, and it wasn't visible up front. When we started typing, it said at least five characters were needed. We tried five, and it then said six were needed. This was the only rule, all our test passwords were accepted, and there's no 2FA.

Three VPNs accepted one or more of our test passwords, but did support 2FA. These were AirVPN, CactusVPN, and TorGuard.

AirVPN only required a minimum of three characters, accepted "password" and "12345678". CactusVPN allowed us to enter anything, even a single character. TorGuard only asked for a minimum of four characters. It blocked "password", but accepted "12345678" and others.

How did the best VPNs fare?

The five VPNs included in our best VPN guide were all analyzed:

• NordVPN
• Surfshark
• ExpressVPN
• Proton VPN
• Private Internet Access (PIA)

Surfshark was the most impressive VPN out of the five. It enforced six rules, with passwords requiring at least:

• 8 characters
• 1 uppercase letter
• 1 lowercase letter
• 1 number
• 1 symbol (e.g., ! @ # ?)

All our test passwords were blocked, clearly stating why. 2FA is supported for additional security.

Surfshark also completed a "non-breached password" check. This identifies any passwords that have been exposed online, and makes it difficult to enter common passwords with minimal changes.

For example, @Password1 follows the rules, but Surfshark doesn't allow it. Surfshark's results were impressive, and it clearly makes a considered effort to ensure its users' accounts are protected with stronger passwords.

NordVPN and PIA enforced standard password rules. A minimum of eight characters were needed for both, along with the inclusion of numbers, lowercase and uppercase letters. NordVPN also required a symbol to be included. Both VPNs support 2FA and each blocked our test passwords.

ExpressVPN didn't enforce as many rules as we'd have liked. Passwords have to be between eight and 124 characters and contain at least one symbol. We'd have preferred to see more rules, such as letter and number requirements.

It blocked our four test passwords, but due to the lack of letter requirements, @1234567 was accepted. 2FA is supported.

It's worth noting that ExpressVPN will often send a code to your associated email address to log in, rather than you entering a password.

The lack of rules is a slight downside, but the 124 character limit is impressive, as is 2FA and the option to log in via code. ExpressVPN's account security is more "different" than inherently good or bad.

Of our top five picks, Proton VPN was arguably the biggest disappointment. It warns you of vulnerable passwords and provides detailed suggestions. There's 2FA support, and it even provides a secure password generator.

However, this is all advice, not enforced rules. The only requirement is a minimum eight-character length. Both "password" and "12345678" were accepted.

While Proton VPN should be commended for offering great advice, and providing the necessary tools to secure your account, none of it is enforced. The VPN allows you to enter some terribly weak passwords.

Other notable results

Alongside Surfshark, PureVPN was a top performer. It enforces four rules:

• 8-52 characters
• A mixture of uppercase and lowercase letters
• A mixture of letters and numbers
• The inclusion of at least one special character

All our test passwords were blocked, and PureVPN explained why. A secure password generator is provided and 2FA is supported. PureVPN does an excellent job at helping users protect their account and we can't ask for anything more.

PrivadoVPN also performed well, and enforced more rules than most – six in total. Passwords must include at least:

• 8 characters
• 1 uppercase or lowercase letter
• 1 number
• 1 special character from %[]&!-@_#$^&*(){}=+;.,<>/~ symbols

The first character must be a letter or number, and passwords can't contain non-english characters or a space.

PrivadoVPN clearly states which rules are being broken, as well as identifying where any problems are. All our test passwords were blocked, but 2FA isn't supported.

We tested numerous other VPNs, and most performed as we'd expect. They enforced standard password rules, covering character limits, the inclusion of numbers and symbols, and blocked our test passwords.

IPVanish, Norton VPN, CyberGhost, and Hide.me all fell into this category. Norton VPN and Hide.me support 2FA, while IPVanish and CyberGhost don't.

We were happy with how most VPNs performed, with a handful going above and beyond. Some major names could do better, while others need to seriously improve their password requirements.

We'll again stress how important it is to protect your accounts with complex, secure passwords. It is the first line of defence when protecting your online accounts.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Surfshark has just launched its dedicated Vega OS app, meaning you can now install one of the best VPNs on the latest Amazon Fire TV devices – including the 4K Select Fire Stick.

You can download the best cheap VPN to protect your data from hackers, and unlock geo-restricted streaming content.

Surfshark's limited-time birthday deal sees prices drop to $1.78 per month ($48.06 upfront, pre-tax), making it one of the best VPN deals around right now. Three extra months are included with all one- and two-year plans, and a 30-day money-back guarantee as standard.

Surfshark combines speed, power, ease of use, and affordability. There's apps for all major platforms and you can protect an unlimited number of devices on one plan. You'll have to hurry though, its birthday deal ends on Monday, May 11.

Three tiers of plan

Surfshark has three tiers of subscription. All come with an additional three months of VPN protection and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Each plan unlocks extra features, and you can decide which tier suits you best. The two-year plan represents the best per month value, but you will pay more upfront.

You can explore all plans in detail on our Surfshark prices and plans page.

• Surfshark Starter: $1.78 per month ($48.06 upfront, pre-tax)
• Surfshark One: $2.08 per month ($56.16 upfront, pre-tax)
• Surfshark One+: $4.18 per month ($112.86 upfront, pre-tax)

A great VPN for streaming

Surfshark has consistently been one of the best streaming VPNs. Thanks to its Vega OS update, you can stream your favorite shows on even more devices. Whether it's Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, the Apple App Store, or Google Play, head to your app store of choice and search for Surfshark.

In our testing, Surfshark unblocked US Netflix and Disney+, Amazon Prime Video in the UK, along with its regional services BBC iPlayer and Channel 4. It had no trouble with Netflix and Disney+ in Canada and Japan. It unblocked all regional services in Australia and New Zealand, as well as Disney+ in both countries.

Surfshark isn't perfect however. It failed to unblock Amazon Prime Video in all regions except the UK. Many VPNs have been struggling with Amazon Prime Video recently, so Surfshark isn't alone here.

It also failed to unblock UK Netflix and Disney+. Surfshark has successfully unblocked these services in the past, so we'd expect this failure to be a blip.

Cheap yet powerful

At all levels, Surfshark is a powerful VPN. Core VPN features include post-quantum encryption support, multi-hop, split tunneling (Surfshark calls it Bypasser), and a kill switch. There's also Alternative ID, which allows you to generate a fake online alias.

It implements the WireGuard protocol as standard, but launched its own proprietary protocol, Dausos, in April 2026 – which claims to be 30% faster and grants users their own VPN tunnel.

Speaking of speeds, Surfshark is capable of exceeding 1,000 Mbps when using WireGuard and Dausos, with OpenVPN speeds a very respectable 825 Mbps.

There's 4,000+ servers in 100 countries and 142 locations worldwide, and Surfshark is beginning to roll out 100 Gbps servers for even better performance.

Surfshark is a class leader when it comes to privacy and security. All of its servers are RAM-only, meaning any stored data is wiped upon shutdown. There's also very little data stored in the first place, with Surfshark successfully passing a second independent no-logs audit in June 2025.

Antivirus, scam alerts, identity theft insurance, and the Incogni data removal service are just some of the features included in Surfshark's premium plans.

It's not the most customizable, lending itself more to casual VPN users, but Surfshark blends power, performance, and affordability, and is a great VPN choice.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

ExpressKeys – formerly known as ExpressVPN Keys – is the simple and secure password manager from one of the best VPNs, ExpressVPN.

Like many of the best password managers, ExpressKeys enables you to generate and store secure, complex passwords, alongside logins, notes, and credit card information.

Previously, ExpressKeys was part of the ExpressVPN app, but it now has its own standalone app, making up part of ExpressVPN's new privacy suite. ExpressKeys access comes bundled with ExpressVPN Advanced and Pro, with plans starting from $3.59 per month.

Historically, you could continue using ExpressKeys even after your ExpressVPN subscription had expired, freely adding and generating passwords, at no extra cost. But ExpressVPN has recently changed this. While legacy ExpressVPN users can still access their stored information, nothing new can be added – rendering ExpressKeys somewhat useless unless you reactivate your subscription.

If you're one of these legacy users, you might want to export your passwords and switch to another passwords manager – here's how.

Setting up

You can export your ExpressKeys passwords using both its mobile app and desktop browser extension. ExpressKeys offers a smoother, more intuitive experience on mobile devices, and that's where I typically access my login details.

However, I found the export/import process was easier to achieve via desktop, and I'll explain why further down.

ExpressKeys allows you to store passwords, logins, secure notes, credit cards, and authenticators – all these details can be exported.

Before doing anything, make sure you're logged into your ExpressKeys app. You may be asked to enter your vault password – you'll also need this later, so make sure you have it to hand. If you don't, you'll need to contact ExpressVPN support.

Ensure you have all the details you want to export, and ideally, have an alternative password manager ready to import them into.

Although you can do both, I'd recommend exporting via desktop, especially if you're going to be importing your data into another password manager. The exporting process is actually more secure on mobile. But when importing, you're often prompted to do this via a web page, making desktop far easier.

Exporting via mobile

Opening your ExpressKeys app on mobile brings up your dashboard. Here you'll see an overview of all your stored information.

First, select the Account icon in the top right of the screen – it looks like a person. This will bring up your account information. Scroll down to Password Manager Settings and click Export your Data.

You'll be asked to enter your vault password, so make sure you have that handy. If you've lost it, you'll have to contact ExpressVPN support before proceeding.

After entering your vault password, you'll see a message telling you your data will be exported as an encrypted ZIP file.

You'll then be prompted to create a password for this file, and you'll need to enter it to access your data.

It's important to enter a secure password as, once unlocked, all your exported data will be visible. Once you've created and entered your password, you'll have the option to choose the export destination – I exported my data to Files on iPhone.

Once exported, you can navigate to your chosen destination, enter your password, and view your exported data.

From here, you can either leave the data as it is, or import it to another password manager. I'll talk you through how to import your data into another password manager later on.

Exporting via desktop

Although ExpressKeys is a mobile-first app, it has a browser extension too. If you don't already have this installed, head to the Chrome Store and install it. You'll have to enter your login details to access your vault.

Exporting via desktop is a similar process to mobile. Once logged in, you'll be greeted by a dashboard which lists all your login details.

To start exporting, click the Options tab in the top right, then click Settings. In Settings, scroll down to Data, and click Export data as CSV.

You'll be asked to enter your primary password – this should be the same as your vault password on mobile. Once entered, you'll be able to export your data by clicking Export Password Data.

Unlike mobile, you're not prompted to enter a password to protect this data, and it doesn't appear to be encrypted as standard. You should therefore be extra vigilant over where you're exporting the file and who might be able to access it – we wouldn't recommend exporting passwords on a shared or work computer.

After clicking export, and choosing your destination, you should receive a message saying your password data was exported successfully.

Like mobile, the file will contain all your details in full, meaning they can be read by anyone. So take extra care when opening it.

Importing to another password manager

If you've gone to the trouble of exporting your data from ExpressKeys, you'll likely want to import it to another password manager.

There are plenty of good options out there, but for this example we're looking at two password managers linked to two of the best VPNs – Proton Pass and NordPass, from the teams behind Proton VPN and NordVPN respectively.

I opened the mobile apps of both password managers, navigated to settings, and selected the option to import my data. However, I found that both prompted me to use a web page to import my data, and I couldn't easily import via mobile.

This was a slight pain and is the main reason I'd recommend exporting via desktop.

NordPass is included in NordVPN Plus plans and above, with prices starting at $3.59 per month. It's also available as a standalone plan. Proton Pass comes as part of the Proton Unlimited plan, which costs $9.99 per month and also includes Proton VPN. It's available as a standalone plan, and you can access a limited version for free.

With NordPass, once logged in, you'll see a range of options to add password data. Alongside creating details from scratch, you can import from a browser, password manager, or spreadsheet.

To import your CSV file, click Import from spreadsheet. You can then select the file and click import.

However, when importing my data, NordPass only imported my email and password, not my secure note or credit card information. The app supports both secure notes and credit cards, so I'm not sure why these didn't transfer over as well. In contrast, Proton Pass allowed me to import all three pieces of data.

After importing, my data was stored in both apps and ready to access.

Despite a few quirks, exporting your password data from ExpressKeys, and importing it to another password manager, is a relatively easy process. Exporting via mobile is more secure, but exporting via desktop makes importing more straightforward.

No matter which app you choose, we recommend signing up to an alternative password manager if you're a legacy ExpressKeys user – or resubscribing to ExpressVPN. Having secure complex passwords is crucial for protecting your accounts and data, and using a password manager allows you to generate and store your information with ease.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Norton VPN has launched VPN for Agents, a dedicated tool designed specifically for autonomous AI agents.

Unlike the best VPNs, which protect the device and network that an agent operates through, VPN for Agents creates a separate encrypted tunnel for agent traffic, keeping it distinct from your own browsing activity and giving you greater control over where agents connect and what they access.

This is the first consumer VPN of its kind to support multiple simultaneous tunnels across different countries, meaning agents can operate across several regions at once. It requires no downloads or client setup, and is built on Norton VPN's existing secure infrastructure.

VPN for Agents is another example of Norton VPN's recent feature drive. As noted in our Norton VPN review, the provider has been rolling out advanced capabilities at pace, including multi-hop connections, IP rotation, and its proprietary Mimic stealth protocol.

What VPN for Agents does

VPN for Agents introduces what Norton VPN describes as "multiple tunnel technology" – the ability to run AI agents simultaneously across different countries. This addresses a practical limitation of traditional VPNs, which weren't designed to handle the high-frequency, multi-service communication patterns that autonomous agents generate.

Where a standard VPN routes all traffic (yours and your agent's) through a single tunnel tied to one location, VPN for Agents separates that traffic entirely.

Your agent gets its own encrypted connection, its own IP address, and the ability to operate across regions without affecting your personal browsing. Norton VPN says this also helps reduce tracking and profiling of agent activity, and can deliver more consistent results when agents need to access region-specific content or services.

"With VPN for Agents, we've delivered two industry firsts: multi-tunnel technology that lets agents operate independently across different countries simultaneously, and an AI-native architecture that requires zero installation," said Norton VPN Product Lead, Himmat Bains.

"These weren't incremental improvements – they required us to rethink what a VPN can be. This is all while we continue with our Norton VPN roadmap with many exciting updates due in the coming weeks," Bains added.

Why is Norton VPN doing this?

As AI agent adoption has grown, so has the security gap – traditional VPNs weren't built to distinguish between a person's traffic and an agent's, or to control where agents connect independently.

Norton VPN isn't the first to move in this direction. In April, Windscribe launched a native VPN integration for OpenClaw, giving AI agents autonomous control – though that solution requires CLI installation and manual configuration, making it better suited to technically confident users.

Norton VPN's no-download approach positions VPN for Agents as the more accessible option for mainstream consumers.

Gen Digital's Chief AI Innovation Officer Howie Xu said: "As people embrace AI agents and use them to manage more of their digital lives, they deserve security and privacy that keep pace."

How to sign up

VPN for Agents is available now, though access is currently limited. To sign up, visit ai.gendigital.com/agentvpn – no software download or client installation is required.

Once registered, you'll receive an access token and setup instructions. Norton VPN says the VPN works with any AI agent, and you don't need an active Norton VPN subscription to sign up.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

NordVPN has added an AI Voice Detector to its Chrome browser extension, giving users a way to identify whether a voice they hear online is human or AI-generated. The feature works in real time, analyzing audio from active browser tabs, and flagging potential deepfakes as you browse.

This new addition arrives as AI voice cloning tools become more accessible and harder to detect, with synthetic audio increasingly used in scams and impersonation attempts.

NordVPN, which is the best VPN for most people, says the tool runs entirely on-device, meaning no audio is recorded or stored.

How NordVPN's AI Voice Detector works

Widely regarded as one of the best Chrome VPN extensions, NordVPN's add-on now includes the AI Voice Detector, which can be enabled to monitor audio from any active browser tab. Once activated, it captures the audio stream and processes it using a local neural network trained on thousands of real and AI-generated samples.

The system analyzes acoustic characteristics such as tone, pitch, and cadence to determine whether a voice is human or synthetic. NordVPN says the feature does not record or interpret conversations, and is technically incapable of understanding what is being said.

The VPN also says it does not access user identity, browsing history, cookies, or account data at any point during the detection process. All analysis happens locally on the device, and stays private.

The tool delivers results in real time through a color-coded system: green for human speech, red for AI-generated voices, and amber for results that are less certain. A small notification also appears on the webpage while the audio continues to play normally.

The system deletes any temporary audio buffers as soon as detection stops or the tab is closed.

Why NordVPN is adding AI voice detection now

AI-generated voices are becoming increasingly realistic, with some tools able to clone a voice from just a few seconds of audio. This has contributed to a rise in impersonation scams, fake calls, and misleading content online.

"AI-generated voices have become one of the most convincing tools in a scammer's arsenal, and most people have no reliable way to tell the difference," said Domininkas Virbickas, Product Director at NordVPN. "We built an AI Voice Detector to close that gap."

The feature also builds on NordVPN's growing focus on anti-scam tools. It sits alongside features like Threat Protection Pro, its scam checker, and call protection.

How to use NordVPN's AI Voice Detector

The AI Voice Detector is currently available to NordVPN Chrome extension users. To get started:

• Open the NordVPN Chrome extension
• Enable the AI Voice Detector feature
• Play audio in any browser tab
• Check the real-time result shown in the extension or on the page

Once enabled, the tool runs automatically in the background and does not interrupt playback. As with other AI detection tools, accuracy will depend on the model and real-world use, and false positives may still occur.

If you're not already using NordVPN, plans start at $3.09 per month ($83.43 upfront, pre-tax), with three extra months included and a 30-day refund period.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

ExpressVPN has released v14.1.0 for its Mac, Windows, and Linux desktop apps, bringing a wave of usability improvements and bug fixes across all three platforms.

The update, released on April 30, arrives off the back of a busy period for ExpressVPN's desktop apps, which have undergone significant development over the past year.

The latest update is more focused in scope than previous releases, targeting everyday usability rather than headline new features. Kill switch controls are now faster, start-up behavior is more flexible, and sleep reconnection is more reliable. Accessibility has also seen a meaningful overhaul, with full keyboard navigation, improved screen reader support, and clearer focus cues added across all three apps.

While the changes are less dramatic than recent updates, which brought split tunneling to Mac and a full GUI to Linux for the first time, they address friction points that everyday users are most likely to encounter. It also reflects ExpressVPN's continued polishing of its desktop experience and commitment to being one of the best VPNs.

Updates affecting all platforms

Version 14.1.0 delivers the same core set of improvements across Mac, Windows, and Linux. The most immediately noticeable change is to the kill switch – users can now toggle it on or off without an extra confirmation step, streamlining a control that previously required an unnecessary click to action.

Start-up behavior has also been addressed. A new setting lets users keep the app minimised when it launches, so it no longer interrupts your workflow by opening front and centre every time your device boots.

Sleep reconnection has similarly been improved, with the app now re-establishing a VPN connection more reliably when a device wakes from sleep – a small but meaningful fix for users who frequently move between active and idle states.

A login loop bug has also been resolved. Previously, attempting to sign in with an expired account could cause the app to get stuck in a cycle – that issue has now been fixed across all three platforms.

Finally, accessibility has received a significant upgrade. Full keyboard navigation has been added, screen reader support has been improved, and VPN status is now announced more clearly. Focus and selection cues across the app have also been sharpened, making ExpressVPN more usable for those who rely on assistive technology.

Updates unique to each platform

Windows is the only platform to receive exclusive updates in this release. The Lightway Turbo section of the app has been refreshed with a cleaner, more streamlined design – a cosmetic change, but one that brings the protocol's settings in line with the tidier aesthetic ExpressVPN has been working toward across its desktop apps. A system tray icon bug has also been fixed, with the VPN status icon now updating correctly when using Combined mode.

Mac and Linux share an identical feature set in this release, with no platform-specific additions beyond the core updates covered above.

It's worth noting that both platforms have received substantial exclusive upgrades in recent months. Mac gained split tunneling and a full command-line interface via the Qt framework rollout in December 2025, while Linux received Dedicated IP support and post-quantum WireGuard at the same time.

Version 14.1.0 consolidates and refines those foundations rather than expanding them further.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Surfshark is the latest VPN to release an app for Amazon Fire devices running Vega OS. The Linux-based OS was released back in October 2025, alongside the Amazon Fire Stick Select.

However, at launch, almost none of the best VPNs had native apps for the new OS. When VPN support finally arrived in a November 2025 update, only NordVPN and IPVanish had apps ready to download.

Surfshark has now joined them, cementing its place as one of the best Fire Stick VPNs. Using a VPN with your Fire TV device protects your data, can help prevent cyberattacks, and allows you to unlock a range of geo-restricted streaming content.

Security and speed

Surfshark already has an app for older Fire TV devices, ones that support the Android-based Fire OS. The introduction of Vega, which is Linux-based, meant a new app had to be created from scratch.

According to Surfshark, the app's creation focused on "deep system integration and total user security," and was the result of a lot of "time and effort."

"We worked on the new Vega OS app with our 'online security made easy' mindset," explained Justas Pukys, Senior Product Manager at Surfshark.

"By encrypting all your streaming activity, the VPN fully protects you from snoopers like internet service providers, third parties, and bad actors. This ensures your traffic is secure, and your streaming habits and personal data are private, known only to you," he added.

Fire TV VPNs don't just protect against threats – they allow you to unlock geo-restricted content. Surfshark is one of the best streaming VPNs, and can successfully unblock major streaming sites, including Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.

It has 142 locations in 100 countries worldwide, and boasts speeds of over 1,000 Mbps thanks to its WireGuard protocol implementation. A VPN helps stop ISP throttling, ensuring a smoother streaming experience, and Surfshark's unlimited device connections policy means you can install it on all your devices.

Using a VPN on a Fire Stick or Smart TV can also protect against cyberattacks. Man-in-the-middle attacks are some of the most common. This is where data moving between your device and streaming service is intercepted and modified. In worst case scenarios, this can lead to stolen account credentials and payment information. By encrypting your traffic, a VPN helps to prevent this.

You may also want to use your Fire TV device while travelling, or away from home, potentially connecting to free public Wi-Fi. Unsecured networks can be compromised by hackers and used to access your data. Again, the encryption provided by a VPN keeps your data safe.

Surfshark said: "Fire TV users, along with other smart TV enthusiasts, need to ensure protection against cyberattacks by enabling a VPN, as hackers are constantly testing and deploying new techniques that can start with your smart TV and compromise your entire smart home ecosystem."

How to download Surfshark's Vega OS app

Surfshark's Vega OS can be downloaded directly from the Amazon app store. Open the store, search for Surfshark, and click download.

Once installed, log in to your Surfshark account, and connect to a server. You'll need to subscribe to a Surfshark plan if you don't already have one.

Two-year plans work out the cheapest per month, but costs more upfront. 27 month Surfshark plans start at $1.78 per month ($48.06 upfront, pre-tax). There are three tiers of plan to choose from and each comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

At this stage, WireGuard is the Vega OS app's primary protocol. The newly released, faster, Dausos, is still in beta and therefore not supported at this stage.

Alongside this, the new app only supports Surfshark's core VPN features.

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