**Proton VPN Review: A Dependable and Secure VPN for Users Focused on Privacy**
*Editor’s Note: This marks the beginning of a series of VPN reviews we are refreshing in line with our updated VPN testing methodology, which you can [explore in detail here](https://mashable.com/about/how-we-test-vpns).*
### Overview
[Proton VPN](https://zdcs.link/QKO578?pageview_type=RSS&template=review&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=Proton%20VPN&object_type=review&object_uuid=06HBLJCtTCcm2CpdsbstK7S&short_url=QKO578&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Ffeeds%2Frss%2Fall) is a VPN service dedicated to security and user privacy. Headquartered in Switzerland, it adheres to strict no-logs practices, offers open-source applications, and champions internet freedom initiatives. Additionally, it provides a unique free VPN option with no data restrictions, making it a favored choice for privacy-focused individuals.
After using Proton VPN for an extensive week, I found it to be a dependable and comprehensive VPN, featuring robust security measures, impressive performance, and an extensive server network. Although there are a few minor issues, it stands out among the best VPNs currently available.
### Proton VPN Pricing
Proton VPN provides both a free option and a premium plan known as [Proton VPN Plus](https://zdcs.link/zj4vqL?pageview_type=RSS&template=review&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=Proton%20VPN%20Plus&object_type=review&object_uuid=06HBLJCtTCcm2CpdsbstK7S&short_url=zj4vqL&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Ffeeds%2Frss%2Fall). The prices listed were accurate as of March 2025:
– **Monthly plan:** $9.99 per month
– **Yearly plan:** $4.99 per month ($59.88 billed upfront)
– **Biannual plan:** $4.49 per month ($107.76 billed upfront)
Post the initial term, the annual and biannual plans transition to a renewal price of $79.95 annually ($6.66 per month), representing an increase of 33% and 48%, respectively. Though not ideal, these hikes remain lower than some rivals.
Moreover, Proton VPN presents a **Proton Unlimited** subscription that combines Proton VPN with Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, and Proton Drive, with pricing varying from $7.99 to $12.99 monthly.
The **free plan** comes without data limits but offers restricted server access and fewer features. Unlike many free options, Proton VPN does not depend on advertisements or sell user data to maintain its free service.
### Is Proton VPN Trustworthy?
Founded in 2017, Proton VPN is operated by **Proton AG**, which is a Swiss entity owned by the nonprofit **Proton Foundation**. The organization has established a solid reputation for privacy and security, backing digital freedom causes and upholding a strict no-logs policy.
#### Privacy Policy and Transparency
Proton VPN is committed to a **no-logs policy**, ensuring it does not monitor or retain user activity. This policy has been independently **audited every year since 2022**, with the most recent audit in July 2024 affirming its compliance with privacy standards.
In addition, Proton VPN publishes a **transparency report**, updated whenever the organization receives legal requests for user data. As of September 2024, all such requests have been rejected based on the company’s no-logs policy.
Proton VPN also made all its applications open source in 2020, enabling independent security professionals to review its code. Such transparency is uncommon in the VPN sector, highlighting its commitment to safeguarding privacy.
### Performance and Features
#### Server Network
Subscribers of Proton VPN Plus enjoy access to over **11,800 servers in 117 countries**, establishing it as one of the largest VPN networks available. This guarantees speedy and stable connections, with city-specific server options for more accurate location masking.
#### Speed and Reliability
Throughout my evaluations, Proton VPN exhibited **remarkable speed and consistency**. My download speed reduced by only **5.7% on a local server** and **13% on a UK server**, which is outstanding for a VPN. The **VPN Accelerator** feature, activated by default, aids in maintaining swift speeds.
#### Security and Encryption
Proton VPN accommodates various protocols, including **WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its proprietary Stealth protocol** designed to evade censorship. It utilizes **AES-256 encryption**