Compare Top VPN Apps For Android - December 2024

Why Android users should use a VPN service

Much like their iOS counterparts, phones and tablets running on the Android platform have VPN support built in. That sounds a lot more convenient than it actually is, because the process of setting up the built-in VPN option and getting connected is not easy, to say it mildly. The available VPN protocols also do not (yet) include the OpenVPN option, widely considered to be the state-of-the-art protocol today. A better option is to install a separate VPN app, preferably from an Android-dedicated provider. Installing and activating the app by connecting to one of the available servers is all you have to do to secure your phone.

It is a bad idea to go online on any of your Android devices without the extra security a VPN provides. Your internet traffic will be secured, which means your provider can’t watch over your shoulder, unsecured public WiFi networks are no longer a threat to the safety of your personal data, your IP address is hidden and on top of all that, you are also able to access content you normally don’t have access to based on your location.

What is VPN protection?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a security tool that provides a wide range of benefits. Surf the web without having to worry about the security of your personal information. Safe and private access to content from anywhere in the world: TV shows, social networks, sports and news channels, video/ audio streaming, dating sites, gaming sites, et cetera. A VPN encrypts your connection to the internet to prevent hackers from accessing your data.

You need to use a VPN connection to…

• … secure your Wi-Fi connection, especially on public networks.
• … browse the web anonymously, without compromising your privacy.
• … unblock all internet content. No more limitations or barriers.
• … hide your IP address from prying eyes.
• … change your virtual location to access any content from anywhere in the world.
• … browse freely without worrying about any censorship issues.

How to compare VPN services?

While researching VPN services, we identified five key criteria you should take into consideration when choosing a VPN service.

• Security: to meet current security standards, a VPN service should offer a basic set of security features, including 256-bit encryption, DNS server anonymity, and a complete absence of connection logs.
• Speed: a major concern regarding the use of VPN software is the negative impact it has on your device’s performance and speed. Generally speaking, using a VPN service will increase a device’s latency, while it decreases upload and download speed. Checking which VPN will have the least impact on your browsing experience is recommended.
• Connection stability: using a VPN provider is great until it suddenly disconnects, which is not an uncommon thing to happen. It is important to choose a VPN service that offers a stable connection with as little as possible connection problems or downtime.
• Price: buying a VPN system subscription is not expensive. For a nominal fee, you’ll receive a range of protection features to ensure your online safety. It’s essential to check which VPN service offers the best value for money.
• Platform/ device accessibility: make sure the VPN service you choose is scalable and, once installed, can be used on all or at least most of your devices and is compatible with major operating systems.