Proton VPN review 2025

Ownership of Proton VPN belongs to Proton AG, whose biggest shareholder is the Proton Foundation – a Swiss nonprofit established to safeguard the company’s mission of privacy and freedom for its global user base.

Proton VPN provides a secure, encrypted connection between your device and one of its many international servers. The VPN hides your real IP address and encrypts your traffic, letting you browse or stream privately and securely. But with so many VPN providers making the same bold claims, is Proton VPN really a legitimate and safe option in 2025?

To find out, I teamed up with VPNpro experts to carry out extensive testing. I ran speed tests across multiple servers, evaluated the apps on different platforms, analyzed the privacy policy, tested for IP & DNS leaks, and explored streaming capabilities. In some cases, I contacted Proton VPN representatives directly to verify their claims while consulting with the VPNpro team whenever I needed more clarification during my testing.

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VPNpro verdict

Proton VPN delivers on its promises, especially when it comes to privacy and security. Its free plan, with no data limits, makes it an excellent choice for casual users who prioritize anonymity. The paid plans offer great value, providing access to a wide server network with more possibilities, fast speeds, and enhanced features for those needing more robust streaming or torrenting options.

Throughout our tests, Proton VPN proved to be very reliable, with excellent performance, strong encryption, and consistent ability to bypass geo-restrictions. Whether you’re a privacy-conscious user or a frequent streamer, Proton VPN offers a solid balance of performance and security.

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Proton VPN overview

Pressed for time? Here's a quick rundown of the key Proton VPN pros and cons, as highlighted by the experts at VPNpro.

Proton VPN pros

• Privacy-first VPN. Proton VPN is built with a strict no-logs policy and Swiss jurisdiction, making it ideal for users who prioritize anonymity and data protection.
• Robust security package. It offers top-tier encryption, secure protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, and advanced features such as Secure Core servers and NetShield ad blocker.
• Solid freemium version. ProtonVPN free plan has no data limits and access to multiple servers, providing genuine value without compromising on privacy.
• Massive server network. With thousands of servers across 117+ countries globally, users can enjoy better connections and more location options.
• Powerful bypassing. Proton VPN consistently unblocks streaming platforms and bypasses geo-restrictions and censorship to access global content from anywhere.
• Reliable speeds. Even during high demand, Proton VPN maintains consistent and fast performance suitable for streaming, browsing, and gaming.
• Transparent. The company is open about its practices, publishes transparency reports, and open-sources its apps for full independent audits.

Proton VPN cons

• Higher price. Proton VPN’s premium plans are on the higher end compared to some competitors, which might not suit users on a tighter budget.
• Limited free version. While generous in privacy and main functions, the free plan lacks advanced features, higher speeds, and access to the full server network.
• Few P2P servers. Torrenting support is limited to specific servers, which may restrict performance and options for users focused on file sharing.

Proton VPN price: not the cheapest VPN on the market

• The Plus plan costs $10.00/month (1-month subscription), $8.00/month (1-year subscription), or $6.63/month (2-year subscription)
• The Unlimited plan costs $12.99/month (1-month subscription), $9.99/month (1-year subscription), or $7.99/month (2-year subscription)
• All paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee

VPNpro constantly tracks the prices of the best VPN services, and when comparing the Proton VPN prices to others like Surfshark, which tends to be more affordable, Proton VPN is generally not considered a budget-friendly option. However, despite its higher price tag, it delivers excellent value thanks to its strong security package, focus on privacy, and robust performance.

On average, Proton VPN’s cost places it in the mid-to-premium range, which is fair considering its excellent VPN performance and extra features. You also get a Proton VPN free trial, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee with premium plans. Plus, for users looking to stay secure without spending, Proton VPN has a solid free version with no data limits.

Proton free VPN review

Proton VPN’s free plan stands out as one of the best no-cost VPN options available on the market. It doesn’t have bandwidth limits and offers exceptional privacy and security, which is impressive for a freemium.

This makes it a solid choice for users who want a VPN with key functions and decent online protection without paying. However, the free version does come with some limitations compared to Proton VPN’s paid plans. These include access to only a few server locations, potentially slower speeds due to higher user loads, and no support for P2P activities like torrenting. Despite these constraints, Proton VPN free plan remains a reliable and effective tool for more casual VPN users.

The free version stands out for its unlimited bandwidth, allowing users to browse, stream, and download content without worrying about hitting a data cap. This makes it attractive for those who want consistent access without interruptions due to limited usage.

However, a notable downside of the free plan is the limited server locations. Users are restricted to just five countries: Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, and the United States. This can limit the ability to access region-specific content or find optimal connection speeds depending on location. While it delivers strong privacy protection, this limitation may affect flexibility and performance for some users.

Proton VPN’s free version is still a great choice for privacy-conscious users who need basic protection for everyday browsing or accessing restricted content without paying. It’s especially suitable for students, casual users, or anyone new to VPNs. And yes, the Proton free VPN is safe – it's backed by strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and the reputation of a company known for quality cybersecurity services.

Servers: Proton VPN offers 9900 servers in 117 countries

With an impressive network of 9900+ servers across 117+ countries, Proton VPN provides users with extensive coverage, making it one of the most versatile VPNs out there. Such a wide and strategically distributed server fleet, as seen in the Proton VPN server list, supports both performance and privacy on a truly global scale. For users, Proton VPN servers bring several important advantages:

• Enhanced geo-restriction bypassing. With servers in diverse regions, Proton VPN enables users to access content restricted to specific countries. For instance, connecting to a server in the UK allows access to British streaming services, while a US server unlocks content of local platforms.
• Improved speeds. A broad server network reduces congestion by distributing user traffic across multiple servers. This distribution helps maintain high-speed connections, even during peak usage times.
• Better access to global content. Whether it's regional news, local streaming services, or international websites, Proton VPN's extensive server list ensures users can access a wide range of global content easily.

Here are some of the countries where Proton VPN has the most servers:

The Proton VPN server list also includes specialized servers optimized for streaming and some for P2P traffic, making it easier for users to torrent or watch shows on platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. In a nutshell, Proton VPN's expansive server network not only provides a smooth user experience with faster and more reliable connections but also offers greater flexibility in accessing content from around the world.

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Speed: lightning-fast performance

When it comes to Proton VPN speed, I’ve been genuinely impressed by how well it performs across everything from basic browsing to streaming and large downloads. On my 500 Mbps home connection, local servers consistently gave me speeds around 430 Mbps, retaining around 86% of my initial speed. Streaming content in 4K was smooth, with no buffering, and latency was barely noticeable. Even when I connected to servers farther away, like from Europe or Asia, I still got solid speeds. That’s more than enough for HD streaming, video calls, or any heavy-duty online task.

What stood out most was the stability. Downloads didn’t slow down or drop, even during peak hours. I’ve tried other big names like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, and although these providers are slightly faster, retaining a bit more of their original speeds, Proton VPN is not far behind with its results. It might not always hit the absolute fastest numbers, but the balance of speed and privacy, especially with Secure Core turned off, makes it one of the best options I’ve tried for performance that doesn’t sacrifice security.

Streaming: safe and smooth streaming across platforms

When I used Proton VPN for streaming, it delivered a reliable, smooth experience across the board. It unblocked major platforms like Netflix (including US, UK, and Japan libraries), Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and even smaller services like ITVX and Crunchyroll without fail. The dedicated streaming servers also helped. The videos loaded quickly, and I could stream in HD or even 4K with minimal to no buffering.

One feature I appreciated was split-tunneling, available on their Windows and Android apps. It let me stream through the VPN while keeping the rest of my internet traffic on the regular network, which kept everything running smoothly. While Proton VPN doesn’t offer Smart DNS, its extensive international server network makes it easy to find one that works, especially for bypassing regional restrictions, like accessing sports content that’s blacked out in a certain area.

Torrenting has also worked well for me. Proton VPN has some P2P-optimized servers, and download speeds have been consistently fast and stable. Occasionally, I’ve had to switch servers when a particular streaming site blocks access, but once connected, the performance is excellent. Overall, Proton VPN combines strong privacy with fast, reliable streaming capabilities, making it a great option for binge-watchers, sports fans, or anyone who wants unrestricted access to global content at an instant.

Privacy: a safe VPN for daily basis

Proton VPN is a reliable and secure VPN for everyday use, offering robust protection for your data. It uses industry-leading encryption standards, including AES-256 and ChaCha20, ensuring your connection remains safe. While it doesn’t utilize RAM-based servers, Proton VPN provides essential privacy features like a kill switch, two-factor authentication, and an always-on VPN option.

These features ensure that your data stays encrypted and your online activities remain private, even if your connection drops. With these protections in place, Proton VPN is a trustworthy choice for daily online security.

Here's a more detailed look at why Proton VPN is considered safe:

🔐All Proton VPN traffic is encrypted with AES-256 or ChaCha20

Proton VPN secures all user traffic using advanced encryption protocols, AES-256 and ChaCha20, to ensure robust protection for data transmitted over the internet. AES-256 (Advanced Encryption Standard with 256-bit keys) is widely recognized for its military-grade security and is commonly used by governments and cybersecurity professionals to protect sensitive information. ChaCha20, an alternative to AES designed for performance on devices without hardware acceleration, offers comparable security while being faster on mobile devices.

These encryption standards are paired with secure VPN protocols such as OpenVPN and WireGuard, which Proton VPN supports across its apps. By encrypting all traffic, whether it's casual web browsing, HD video streaming, or file transfers, Proton VPN protects users from data interception, Man-in-the-Middle attacks, and ISP tracking. This means that even on unsecured public Wi-Fi, your data remains private and unreadable to third parties. Proton VPN’s commitment to strong encryption underlines its mission to prioritize user privacy and online security.

📲Proton VPN does not keep logs of user activity or IP addresses

Proton VPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that user activity, IP addresses, and other sensitive information are not stored or recorded. This commitment is further reinforced by Proton VPN's headquarters in Switzerland, a country renowned for its strong privacy laws and its absence from international surveillance alliances like the Five Eyes.

By not storing logs, Proton VPN effectively checks the risks of exposing user data to third parties, upholding the highest standards of online privacy and cybersecurity. This approach helps ensure that even under legal pressure, user data remains private and secure. To validate its no-logs claims and maintain transparency, Proton VPN undergoes regular independent audits by trusted third-party cybersecurity firms.

🔍Proton VPN undergoes regular third-party audits

Third-party audits verify Proton VPN’s claims of its strict privacy policy. In July 2024, Proton VPN successfully passed its third consecutive annual audit conducted by Securitum, an independent European security firm. The audit involved a comprehensive review of Proton VPN's infrastructure, including server configurations, operating procedures, and security measures. Securitum's findings confirmed that Proton VPN does not log user activity, metadata, or any other information that could compromise user privacy.

This rigorous auditing process, combined with Proton VPN's open-source software and transparency initiatives, stresses its dedication to user privacy. By subjecting its infrastructure to independent inspection, Proton VPN ensures that its no-logs policy is not merely a claim but a verifiable practice. Such audits provide users with confidence that their online activities remain protected and anonymous, which aligns with Proton VPN’s core mission of safeguarding user freedom online.

👁️‍🗨️ All Proton VPN apps are open source

Proton VPN exemplifies transparency by making all its client applications open source, allowing the community to inspect, verify, and contribute to the code. This openness enhances trust, as independent security researchers can audit the software for vulnerabilities and ensure it adheres to Proton's strict privacy standards. The decision to open-source the apps aligns with Proton's original commitment to transparency and accountability, enabling users to verify that the applications function as claimed.

By releasing the source code, Proton VPN invites collaboration and scrutiny from the global cybersecurity community, fostering continuous improvement and innovation in privacy technology. This approach not only strengthens the security of Proton VPN but also empowers users to make informed decisions about their online privacy.

⛓️Secure Core feature adds an extra layer of protection

Proton VPN's Secure Core feature enhances user privacy by routing internet traffic through multiple secure servers before reaching its final destination. Initially, your connection passes through Proton's own servers located in privacy-friendly countries, such as Switzerland, Iceland, or Sweden, before being directed to your chosen server location. This multi-hop routing ensures that even if the final server is compromised, your real IP address remains concealed, providing robust protection against surveillance and network-based attacks.

All Secure Core servers are fully owned and operated by Proton VPN, housed in high-security data centers with full-disk encryption to prevent unauthorized access. While this extra security may result in slightly reduced connection speeds due to the additional routing steps, it’s worth it for users requiring enhanced privacy, such as journalists, activists, or individuals in regions with high surveillance. Secure Core is available to Proton VPN Plus subscribers and can be easily activated through the app's settings.

📍Proton VPN is based in privacy-friendly Switzerland

Proton VPN is headquartered in Switzerland, a country renowned for its robust privacy protections and political neutrality. Swiss law prohibits companies from assisting foreign governments with surveillance unless compelled by a Swiss court order, ensuring that Proton VPN cannot be forced to log user data or compromise its no-logs policy.

Additionally, Switzerland is not part of international surveillance alliances like the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or Fourteen Eyes, further shielding Proton VPN users from mass surveillance.

The Swiss legal framework also supports end-to-end encryption and restricts mandatory data retention, reinforcing Proton VPN's commitment to user privacy. Swiss legal environment allows Proton VPN to operate transparently and securely, providing users with a reliable service that prioritizes their privacy, data protection, and online freedom.

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Proton VPN apps: user-friendly for both novices and experts

I’ve used Proton VPN across several platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even Linux. I’ve consistently been surprised by how well the apps balance simplicity and advanced functionality. The updated Windows and iOS versions are particularly sleek. The layout is clean, and the quick connect button makes it incredibly easy to get started, even if you're new to VPNs. On my iPhone, I just tap once, and I’m instantly protected with no complicated setup or time wasted.

With all its simplicity, Proton VPN also accommodates more advanced users. On Windows and Android, I love being able to customize my connection profiles, switch between protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, and use Smart Protocol to let the app decide the best option based on my network. The iOS app gives me the flexibility to choose between IKEv2 and OpenVPN as well, which is a satisfying touch. Even on Linux, I’ve found the app refreshingly robust, with both graphical and command-line interfaces available depending on what I need.

As for performance and reliability, I’ve had nothing but good experiences. Even when I connected to servers halfway across the globe (like Japan), the speed and stability held up. There are also other smart features, like the discreet icon on Android, which hides the app in restrictive environments. For me, Proton VPN brings the perfect balance: it’s intuitive when I want it to be, and powerful when I need it to be.

Support: access to priority support and 24/7 live chat

Proton VPN provides strong customer support options, including 24/7 live chat and email assistance. The live chat feature is quick to respond, typically offering a solution within minutes, while email support is available for more detailed inquiries. Proton VPN also offers an extensive troubleshooting guide on its website, covering a wide range of common issues.

The support team is multilingual, with assistance available in several languages, making it accessible to a global audience. Premium users benefit from priority support, which ensures faster response times and more personalized assistance for technical issues. Overall, Proton VPN’s customer service is responsive and efficient, effectively handling both basic and advanced technical concerns.

Final thoughts: A top-tier VPN packed with performance and security

Proton VPN has proven to be one of the most reliable and secure VPNs available in 2025. Whether I was streaming, browsing, or accessing public Wi-Fi, it consistently delivers excellent speed, airtight security, and an intuitive user experience across all platforms. With an impressive number of global servers, Proton VPN stands out with its transparency and no-logs policy, backed by Swiss privacy laws.

Proton VPN’s connection stability ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5). In my experience, connection stability has been top-notch, even when hopping across continents or switching protocols, allowing for more flexibility without compromising reliability.

Proton VPN for privacy and features ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5). Features like Secure Core, NetShield ad-blocker, and full support for open-source auditing show a clear commitment to user privacy and trust, practically.

Proton VPN user consensus ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5). I’ve also kept an eye on reviews across Reddit and tech forums, and the feedback resonates with my own – people feel that Proton VPN offers top-tier protection with a user-focused approach.

Proton VPN overall value ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5). If you’re a privacy-minded user or simply looking for solid security, fast performance, and open-source credibility in one product, Proton VPN might be your fit.

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FAQ

Is Proton VPN legit?

Yes, Proton VPN is legit. It is operated by Proton AG, a reputable company based in Switzerland known for its commitment to privacy and security. Proton VPN is open-source, independently audited, and operates with a clear focus on user privacy, which aligns with its mission to protect user data. Additionally, it is owned by the Proton Foundation, a nonprofit organization, ensuring that the company acts in the best interests of its users. Proton VPN uses strong encryption protocols and has a transparent privacy policy, making it a trustworthy option for users concerned about online security.

What does Proton VPN do?

Proton VPN protects your online privacy by creating a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. This hides your real IP address, masks your location, and protects your internet traffic from hackers, ISPs, and other third parties. It also allows you to bypass geo-restrictions, giving you access to websites and streaming content that might otherwise be blocked in your area. Whether you're using public Wi-Fi or browsing at home, Proton VPN helps keep your online activity private and secure.

What is Proton VPN used for?

Proton VPN is used to enhance data privacy, security, and online freedom. People use it to protect their internet connection by encrypting their data and hiding their real IP address. It’s also commonly used to bypass internet censorship, geo-blocked websites, and limited streaming services. Whether you're looking to browse anonymously, stream from another country, keep your data safe from trackers and surveillance, or safely download or torrent, Proton VPN provides the tools to do it securely.

Is Proton VPN good for torrenting?

Yes, Proton VPN is good for torrenting. It supports P2P file sharing on specific servers that are optimized for safe and efficient torrenting. These servers offer strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and are located in countries with favorable privacy laws. Proton VPN also includes a kill switch and DNS leak protection, which help ensure your IP address stays hidden while downloading. While torrenting isn't supported on the free plan, all paid plans include access to P2P servers, making Proton VPN a secure and reliable option for torrent users.

How much does Proton VPN cost?

Proton VPN offers a free plan with no data limits and several premium options. The Plus plan costs $10.00/month, or as low as $6.63/month with a two-year subscription. The Unlimited plan, which includes Proton Mail, Drive, Calendar, and more, starts at $12.99/month or $7.99/month with a two-year plan. All paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.