The VPN market is crowded and the promises sound alike: "the fastest," "complete privacy," "thousands of servers." To understand whether there is a real difference behind these claims, you need to compare measurable criteria rather than marketing language. For a general guide that explains what a VPN is and the basic selection principles, you can find it on the blog; this article goes a step further and shows which criteria you should use to compare services.
Note: VPN services' server counts, protocols and privacy audits change often. For this reason, rather than giving figures for each service, we explain what to look at and the limits of each. Before buying, check the service provider's current page and independent audit reports.
6 basic criteria for comparing VPNs
| Criterion | What to look at | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Protocol, server proximity, server load | Quality of streaming, downloads and video calls |
| Privacy policy | No-log commitment and independent audit | Whether your traffic data is stored |
| Headquarters country | The legal jurisdiction where the company is registered | Data requests and legal obligations |
| Server network | Number of countries, server variety | Location options and peak-hour distribution |
| Security features | Kill switch, DNS leak protection, encryption | Preventing data leaks when the connection drops |
| Device and usage | Number of simultaneous devices, app quality | Support for phones, computers, TVs and routers |
Speed: what should you actually measure?
VPN speed is not a single number. Your base connection speed, the distance of the server you choose, the protocol you use and the current load on the server together determine the result. In general, WireGuard-based protocols offer a faster and less battery-hungry structure than older protocols; many services offer their own optimized WireGuard version.
A simple method for comparing speed: run a speed test with the VPN off, then repeat the same test with the VPN on, on a nearby and a distant server. Measure at different times of day, since peak hours can give different results. Before concluding that a VPN is slow, test by switching to another server.
Protocols briefly
- WireGuard (and derivatives): A next-generation, lightweight code-base protocol. It is usually the fastest and most battery-friendly option.
- OpenVPN: A long-established protocol with wide compatibility. It may be a bit slower but works reliably on restricted networks.
- IKEv2: Preferred on mobile devices because it re-establishes the connection quickly when switching networks (from Wi-Fi to mobile data).
If the app chooses the protocol automatically, that is the best option for most users. If you have a connection problem, changing the protocol manually and trying again is the first troubleshooting step.
Three checks after installation
- IP check: With the VPN on, search for "my IP address"; the address shown should differ from your real address.
- DNS leak test: If the service does not route your DNS queries through its own servers, your internet provider may still see which sites you visit. Check this with independent sites that run DNS leak tests.
- Kill switch test: Turn on the kill switch in the VPN app and deliberately disconnect; you should see that the internet is also cut off. Otherwise, the protection is not working as you expect.
These tests take a few minutes, and if you do them within the refund period before purchase, they make the decision easier.
Privacy: how reliable is the no-log claim?
Every VPN says "we don't keep logs." Three things determine the value of this claim:
- Independent audit: Has an independent audit firm verified that the policy works in practice?
- Transparency report: Does it publish how it responds to official data requests?
- Track record: Has it been able to prove that it kept no logs in court requests or incidents?
The country where the company is registered also matters; some jurisdictions impose data retention obligations. No VPN makes you fully anonymous. Accounts you log in with, cookies and browser fingerprints are still other traces. A VPN hides your network traffic from your internet provider and from third parties on a shared network; it does not eliminate every form of tracking.
Server network: how many servers are enough?
The number of servers is a big marketing headline but is not decisive on its own. More important are that the servers are close to your location, that there is sufficient variety across continents, and that load balancing is done well. Whether the servers belong to the provider or are rented is also a privacy detail; services that run their own hardware can audit more effectively. Also check whether dedicated or static IP options are included in the package.
A brief look at some services
NordVPN
A service known for its broad server network, its own WireGuard-based protocol and additional security features. It states that it supports its no-log policy with independent audits. If you want to try it for a short period, LisansX offers the NordVPN Basic 3-month option.
IPVanish
A service that stands out for not limiting the number of simultaneous devices; this is attractive for those who want to protect many devices at home. It emphasizes that it operates its own network infrastructure. You can review the IPVanish VPN product from its product page.
Kaspersky VPN
The VPN solution of a company known for antivirus software; it is usable together with its security suite. It offers a simple interface aimed at general users. Kaspersky Premium VPN 1-year is a VPN-only option; if you want to use it together with antivirus, Kaspersky Premium Total Security may be a more comprehensive package.
The scope, device limit and renewal terms of all these services differ. You can see the full range of security and VPN products in the Security and VPN category.
Which priority for which use?
- Open Wi-Fi security: The kill switch, strong encryption and automatic connection are important.
- Remote work: A stable connection, low latency and compliance with the company's VPN policy.
- Multi-device home use: The number of simultaneous devices and router support.
- Travel: A broad server network and obfuscated connection options that work in the countries you visit.
- File downloads and heavy data: Speed and unlimited bandwidth.
Using a VPN to get around streaming platforms' geographic restrictions may conflict with the terms of use of many services. Before making a purchase decision for this purpose, read the terms of the relevant service. Also, banking and payment apps may treat logins from foreign IP addresses as suspicious and temporarily lock the account; turning off the VPN before such transactions often prevents problems.
Router and multi-device use
Instead of protecting every device in the home one by one, it is possible to run the VPN at router level; devices such as smart TVs and consoles, where apps cannot be installed, are then protected as well. However, a router-based setup requires technical knowledge, and since it routes all traffic through the same server, a speed loss may be noticeable. Installing the app on a few main devices is more practical for most users. For services with a simultaneous connection limit, count the number of devices in your home in advance; a plan offering unlimited connections makes a difference for large families.
There is also the question of sharing with family members. Each service's terms of use determine who the subscription can be shared among. Read the terms before using the account with people outside the household.
Why can free VPNs be risky?
The infrastructure cost has to be paid for somehow. A free VPN earns its revenue from advertising, from selling data, or by steering users to a paid plan through limited use. The risk of data collection and ad tracking is higher with free services, and some apps request extra permissions. For sensitive use, choosing a reliable, audited paid service is healthier.
Decision checklist
- Determine your main purpose: security, speed, access, multiple devices.
- Read the privacy policy and the independent audit reports.
- Run a speed test on your own connection.
- Verify the number of devices and platform support.
- Read the refund and trial terms; start with a short-term plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a VPN reduce my internet speed?
Some drop is expected due to encryption and the additional routing. With a good service and a nearby server, this difference is too small to be noticed for most uses.
Is using a VPN legal?
In many countries it is legal in itself; however, carrying out illegal activity through a VPN is a crime. Knowing your local legislation and your organization's policies is your own responsibility.
Can a VPN and antivirus replace each other?
No. A VPN protects your network traffic; antivirus scans your device for malware. The two complement each other.
Do I need a VPN on my phone as well?
Yes, especially if you often use open Wi-Fi networks. Features such as mobile apps, automatic connection and the kill switch are important on phones too.
