The Safest VPN Service in 2024

Every click and keystroke could be exposed to prying eyes – from your ISP to potential cyber crooks – unless you are under the protective cloak of a VPN. Choosing the right VPN, however, is like navigating a maze with endless turns, given the myriad of options available.

You will want to select a VPN that effectively shields you from dangers like data breaches and unwanted surveillance. In this comprehensive guide, we will outline what defines a safe VPN and reveal why PureVPN stands out as one of the safest VPNs on the market.

How Does a VPN Keep You Safe?

A VPN protects your online activities by encrypting your traffic, turning it into a code that cannot be easily deciphered by unauthorized parties. This means that everything from your browsing history to your personal information is kept private, even on public Wi-Fi networks.

Additionally, a VPN masks your real IP address with one from their remote server, cloaking your virtual location. This prevents websites and snoopers from tracking your real geographical location and browsing habits, thereby enhancing your overall online privacy and security.

What Makes a Safe VPN? 

Determining the safety of a VPN service boils down to several key features that ensure your online activity remains private and secure. These include but are not limited to:

• Proven No-Logs Policy: A reliable VPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. This ensures it will have nothing to share with third parties like government entities. 

• Open-Source Protocols: Choose VPNs that support open-source VPN protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN. These benefit from collective scrutiny, with regular updates and patches to address any vulnerabilities.

• Advanced Encryption: The best VPNs employ robust encryption methods, such as AES-256 or even quantum-resistant encryption, to protect your online presence from prying eyes like hackers and nosy ISPs.

• DNS Leak Protection: Without DNS leak protection, your online activities could still be visible to outsiders, even when connected to a VPN. This feature is crucial for maintaining privacy.
  
• Internet Kill Switch: A kill switch is an essential safeguard. If your VPN connection drops unexpectedly, it prevents your IP address and data from being exposed to ISPs or malicious entities.

• Obfuscation: For users in regions with stringent censorship, obfuscation is critical. It helps the VPN traffic to appear as regular internet traffic, bypassing deep packet inspection (DPI) and other forms of VPN blocking.

PureVPN – One of the Safest VPNs Around!

PureVPN, having successfully completed four no-log audits and adopting an always-on audit approach, assures continuous oversight of its privacy practices. This robust privacy framework is strengthened by its operation out of the British Virgin Islands, a location known for its strong privacy laws.

The service supports a suite of modern protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, to keep your online activities secure and swift. Furthermore, PureVPN fortifies your data with AES 256-bit encryption and steps into the future with quantum-resistant encryption keys, offering a cutting-edge layer of security.

In addition, PureVPN ensures your real identity never leaks with features like DNS leak protection, an internet kill switch, and IPv6 leak prevention. It also provides obfuscated servers for those in highly-censored countries, and facilitates anonymous payments through cryptocurrency and gift cards.

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What is the Safest VPN Protocol?

Just like we prefer our parcels delivered swiftly and reliably, we seek the same efficiency in our online communications. This is why selecting the best VPN protocol is crucial for our digital transmissions. Here is a quick rundown of the safest options available to you:

1. WireGuard

WireGuard is gaining popularity for its simplicity and speed, standing out with a lean codebase that facilitates easy auditing. While WireGuard is designed with cutting-edge cryptography, it’s essential to note that its relative newness means ongoing scrutiny and updates will continue to shape its security landscape. 

2. OpenVPN

OpenVPN has stood the test of time as a secure and versatile VPN protocol. Its security is well-vetted, making it a trusted choice for protecting user data. While it may not be as fast as some newer protocols, its ability to balance speed with security – offering both UDP and TCP modes – makes it highly adaptable for various needs and network conditions.

3. IKEv2

IKEv2 is recognized for its fast performance and stability, particularly on mobile devices that switch networks often. Contrary to common misconception, IKEv2 can use both UDP and TCP for transport, though UDP is more common. It may not offer the same level of customization as OpenVPN, but it provides a solid balance of speed and security for many users.

How to Make Your VPN Connection More Secure

Your digital safety does not rely solely on your selected VPN provider. There are several steps you can take to further secure your VPN connection, such as:

1. Sign up using anonymous payment methods

Maximize your anonymity by using payment options that leave no trace, such as cryptocurrencies or gift cards. Pair this with the use of a disposable email address when signing up for VPN services to avoid any link to your personal identity.

2. Choose the most secure VPN protocol 

Research the tunneling protocols offered by your VPN provider. Prioritize services that support OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IKEv2 – these are the most advanced and secure protocols available. Their robustness is critical in preventing unauthorized access and ensuring the highest level of encryption.

3. Use your VPN’s DNS servers

To further obscure your digital footprint, make sure to use the DNS servers provided by your VPN. This integration is crucial to preventing your browsing data from being visible to outsiders, including your ISP, thereby fortifying your privacy.

4. Activate the kill switch

A VPN’s kill switch is a critical line of defense. It immediately halts internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing potential data leaks. Always ensure this feature is active to maintain continuous protection, especially when the VPN service is interrupted.

5. Stop IPv6 and DNS leaks

Regularly check your VPN for potential leaks to ensure that your online activity remains shielded from prying eyes. Correct VPN configuration is essential to prevent IPv6 and DNS leaks, which could otherwise expose your browsing details even while connected to the VPN.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the safest VPN to use?

The safest VPN would be one that enforces a strict no-logs policy, employs robust encryption methods like AES-256, includes an automatic kill switch, and supports multiple secure protocols such as OpenVPN and WireGuard. PureVPN, for example, offers all these features and more. 

Is VPN safe or risky?

Using a VPN enhances your online privacy and security, particularly when you opt for a reputable provider. However, it is essential to practice safe online habits alongside using a VPN to maximize your security.

Can a VPN be hacked?

While hacking a well-secured VPN connection directly is highly challenging, vulnerabilities in VPN software and protocols can be exploited. Learn more about whether a VPN can be hacked in detail.

Final Word

With its proven no-logs policy, robust encryption, and suite of security and privacy features, PureVPN is one of the top contenders for the safest VPN in 2024. However, while a premium VPN can significantly improve security, it does not guarantee 100% invulnerability. So, you must stay aware and take other actions alongside using a VPN to protect yourself from potential cyber dangers.