How to use VPN
Let me guess—you’re here because you’re tired of feeling exposed every time you jump online. Maybe you’re worried about snooping ISPs, advertisers tracking your every click, or just the sheer number of data breaches in the news lately. Whatever it is, I get it. Online privacy feels like an uphill battle these days. I’ve been down this rabbit hole too. After testing 15+ VPNs over the last few years, I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming the choices can be. A lot of them promise the world but don’t deliver where it really counts. Others sneak in hidden fees or come with clunky apps that make you want to throw your phone across the room. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to waste hours sorting through all of them. I’ve done the legwork for you. In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what to look for in a VPN for privacy, what features are overhyped, and which ones are worth your money. I’ll even throw in some common mistakes to avoid (trust me, I’ve made a few). By the end of this, you’ll know how to pick the perfect VPN for your needs—no tech jargon, no fluff. Let’s get started.
Our Top 2 Picks for 2025
After testing 15+ options, these are the ones that actually deliver.
NordVPN
Editor's Choice - Industry-leading network and double VPN security
Surfshark
Best value for money with premium features
Quick Comparison Table
At a glance — see how they stack up.
| Product | Key Feature | Best For | Standout | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN Best | Military-grade encryption | 7,000+ servers across 120+ countries | No-logs policy verified | View Deal |
| Surfshark | Unlimited device connections | Budget-friendly pricing | CleanWeb ad blocker included | View Deal |
Detailed Breakdown
NordVPN
Pros
- Military-grade encryption
- 7,000+ servers across 120+ countries
- No-logs policy verified
Consider
- Slightly higher price than budget options
- Can be slow on some distant servers
Surfshark
Pros
- Unlimited device connections
- Budget-friendly pricing
- CleanWeb ad blocker included
Consider
- Smaller server network than competitors
- Occasional connection drops reported