![Best VPN for Beginners in 2022 [Basic Guide to VPNs]](https://vpnyou.info/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best-VPN-for-Beginners-in-2022-Basic-Guide-to-VPNs.png)
Cloudward.net may earn a small percentage of products purchased through our site. However, affiliate earnings do not affect how we review the Services.
VPNs are essential pieces of security software that protect your online activity and hide your identity from prying eyes, including hackers and ISPs. These programs are also the easiest to use. But not all VPNs are for everyone. This guide will walk you through the best VPNs for beginners to get you started.
The Best VPN for Beginners in 2022
There aren’t many VPNs with a steep learning curve, but for those who are new to the world, it’s crucial that the VPN is as smooth and user-friendly as possible. These VPNs fit this description.
User friendliness is the most important factor when choosing your first VPN. It shouldn’t take more than one click to connect and disconnect from a VPN server. Advanced options should be added to the menus you expect. Their function should also be clearly explained.
Additionally, you want the VPN to be secure. This is the main aim and purpose of a VPN. It shouldn’t surprise you that this should be a top priority when choosing a VPN. A VPN must include important security features such as a kill switch, solid VPN protocols, IP and DNS leak protection. Also, most of these features should be automatically enabled.
You should also look at how fast the VPN is. A VPN should have the least impact on your internet speed. When you use the fastest VPN provider, it won’t feel like you’re using a VPN. A VPN should be able to unblock most major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video without changing advanced settings.
VPN Features: A Quick Primer
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular VPN features and their features. For more information, check out our comprehensive guide to VPN features.
The Top 5 VPNs for Beginners: Tutorial Included
Without further ado, here are our top five VPN providers for beginners. Let’s kick things off with our number one pick, ExpressVPN.
1. ExpressVPN
The simplicity of ExpressVPN’s interface makes it a perfect choice for beginners.
What Does ExpressVPN Do?
ExpressVPN is the most trusted universal VPN. Its interface is as simple as can be: a simple power button to connect or disconnect and choosing a location. There are several variants of VPN that can be used on almost any device. Each VPN app comes with simple installation instructions.
It’s also the fastest VPN available. You’ll hardly notice it’s on as it has minimal impact on your connection speed (see our VPN speed comparison). Its ability to unblock all streaming platforms makes it a great option for streaming. ExpressVPN is an expert at unblocking all major streaming websites and offers a streaming experience without buffers.
There aren’t many advanced features, but it’s good for beginners who won’t use them anyway. Fortunately, you get everything you need to secure your connection, including a kill switch, leak prevention, and advanced VPN protocols like ExpressVPN’s custom Lightway protocol.
How Does ExpressVPN Work?
ExpressVPN is easy to use. To protect yourself and not change the location, you can simply press the power button to turn off the service.
To change your location, for example to access Netflix in another country, you need to click on the “selected location” button below the power button. Next, select a location from the search bar or from the list. You can also change ExpressVPN settings.
ExpressVPN allows you to change your settings and customize your experience.
ExpressVPN is expensive. The longer time frame eases some of the pain, but even with the discounted price, it’s still more expensive than the VPNs on this list. It’s good to have a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you’re not satisfied with your purchase. Read our ExpressVPN review to learn more about the service.
2. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a cheap alternative that is a good choice for new VPN users.
What Does CyberGhost Do?
CyberGhost is one of the most accessible virtual private networks thanks to its easy-to-use VPN app. If you’re not sure how to use a VPN, or if you’re unsure of its features, CyberGhost explains what each of its features do and how they can be useful to you. Although it’s not the fastest, it’s a top-quality VPN with great security features.
It also offers dedicated streaming servers that can stop certain streaming services. This includes country-specific websites such as local TV stations, although during our tests they didn’t deliver speeds for regular ones.
How Does CyberGhost Work?
Similar to ExpressVPN, CyberGhost’s desktop VPN app is intuitive and has a similar home page layout. The settings menu is well organized and each feature is described in detail, which not only explains what they are, but also shows real examples of how to use them.
CyberGhost provides practical examples of how you can benefit from its tools.
As one of the more secure VPN services, CyberGhost has many features, including a kill switch, split tunneling, and secure “NoSpy” servers to help with torrenting (it’s one of the best Pirate Bay VPNs). These features are unnecessary if users prefer to keep things simple. But CyberGhost lets you customize the app to suit your needs.
CyberGhost is a fantastic choice for people on a budget. While its monthly pricing rivals that of ExpressVPN, its three-year plan drops the price significantly. Longer plans come with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. However, the refund period for the monthly plan is only 14 days. Check out our CyberGhost review to learn more.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark is a fast and easy-to-use VPN service that lets you share a single subscription with family or friends.
What Does Surfshark Do?
Surfshark is a reliable alternative to CyberGhost, a well-designed VPN. It seems to be made with beginners in mind. Surfshark VPN clients are not as intuitive as ExpressVPN. They allow you to connect with one click and display functions in logically designed menus. Surfshark can unblock most streaming sites, but depending on the VPN servers, it may take a while to access Netflix.
Surfshark has all the usual features like split tunneling and a kill switch, but adds extras like an ad blocker and “NoBordersmode” that lets users surf the web in countries like China. Best of all, Surfshark gives you unlimited simultaneous connections, which means you can share your account with family and friends to split the bill.
How Does Surfshark Work?
Surfshark, like ExpressVPN, allows you to connect to the fastest server with just a click of a button. You can easily switch servers by simply changing the server list on the main screen. The “Settings” menu displays the most useful features, while the more advanced options are listed in the “Advanced” tab.
The Surfshark interface displays all servers on the home screen.
Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs available, but only if you opt for a two-year plan. Surfshark reviews the VPN and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
4. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access comes with advanced features but allows newcomers to use them.
Learn more about Private Internet Access:
What Does PIA Do?
PIA is a feature-rich VPN provider that makes even the most advanced features easy to understand and use. Not only is everything clearly laid out, but all functions are explained in terms of their functions. For example, you will never see a VPN try to explain the differences between the protocols they use, but PIA does so in extremely simple and understandable language.
PIA lets you choose between the tried and tested OpenVPN or the newer and more powerful WireGuard. In addition, you can use split tunneling, a powerful kill switch that blocks network traffic that does not pass through the VPN, and an ad blocker known as MACE.
However, we’ve taken away some usability points because the VPN app retreats to the system tray, meaning the window closes every time you click away.
How Does PIA Work?
PIA is located in your Windows system tray. It has a slightly more complex design than the previous entries. It still has the huge “connect” button and the list of servers, but it also displays your current IP address.
Clicking on the arrow at the bottom brings up a rather intimidating menu with shortcuts for each option. For those of you who are just starting out, don’t bother with this menu, just use the “Settings” menu, where each function is explained.
PIA provides PIA features in a clear and concise manner and even explains the advantages of one VPN protocol over another.
PIA has a discounted price, and its two-year VPN subscription is the most affordable on our best VPN list. Private Internet Access also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Check out our full review.
5. NordVPN
NordVPN is a powerful VPN packed with advanced features, but it can be overwhelming for beginners.
What Does NordVPN Do?
NordVPN is often referred to as an alternative to ExpressVPN. This is an extremely reliable VPN service with many useful features at half the price of ExpressVPN and highly recommended. We don’t recommend it for beginners because of its confusing user interface. This is mainly because of all the features that NordVPN includes in its VPN client.
NordVPN’s most distinctive feature is its wide selection of dedicated servers. There are servers for torrenting, multi-hop server and Onion Over VPN servers. These servers connect your Internet connection through the Tor network. Our VPN vs proxy vs Tor article has more information about the Tor network. Some of these servers are only compatible with specific VPN protocols, which can make them difficult to use.
How Does NordVPN Work?
NordVPN organizes its VPN apps around the world, allowing you to choose servers. It’s a bit cumbersome and not suitable for people without geography knowledge. There is also a list of servers.
Certain settings are in odd places (why does the auto-connect menu show protocols? ) and selecting specific protocols makes some special server options unavailable. NordVPN’s amazing security, privacy, and advanced features make it difficult to use once you get more comfortable with it. It is one of the best VPNs with privacy.
Certain NordVPN dedicated servers require a specific VPN protocol, which can be confusing.
NordVPN isn’t a cheap VPN, but it’s still very affordable considering everything it has to offer. Its two-year plan gives you the best bang for your buck, and if you’re not satisfied with the service, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, as you can see in our NordVPN review.
What Is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?
A VPN, or “virtual private network,” is an online service that encrypts network traffic to hide it from intruders and then routes it through its own servers. VPN software can appear to connect from another location, allowing you to access blocked content or bypass restrictions at school or work.
A VPN protects your Internet connection by making it inaccessible to anyone, even your ISP. This is the best way to protect your privacy online besides unplugging your router. It is an important network security tool and opens up new possibilities for secure access to online content.
Bypassing Restrictions With a VPN
If you just want to bypass website or app restrictions at work or school, just create with a VPN. To access local content – for example, if you want to watch a UK-exclusive show, you’ll also need to connect to a VPN server in that country.
How to Pick a Good VPN Service
Choosing a great VPN service involves finding one that has the right balance of essential features as well as accessibility and price. At a minimum, it should have anti-leakage and a kill switch, as well as a choice of VPN protocols such as OpenVPN or WireGuard. You should ensure that the VPN you choose does not record your activities.
A reliable VPN service is no more than $3 a month. If you find an offer that is much lower, it could indicate trouble. If you’re not limited by budget, we recommend using a no-compromise VPN like ExpressVPN.
NordVPN is a rich choice that offers great value with its long-term plans, but it can be a bit overwhelming for beginners.
What Is the Best Free VPN for Beginners?
Free VPNs are usually unreliable at best and dangerous at worst. They usually don’t have a no-login policy, so they can sell your data to advertisers or other criminals. They also usually have a data or bandwidth limit that makes them slow and unreliable. Some free VPN services have been found to bundle malware into their installers.
There are several good free VPNs out there, like the ones we’ve included in our best free VPN list. Windscribe is our top free VPN offering quality security and speed, but unfortunately it comes with an annual data limit of 10GB and a choice of only 10 server locations. It’s not the best choice for those new to the world, as its interface can be confusing and confusing.
Another great free VPN provider is ProtonVPN. It doesn’t limit your data, but it does limit your speed by placing free users on the busiest servers. However, it is more user-friendly thanks to its easy-to-read layout and helpful explanations of functions. Read our review comparing Surfshark to ProtonVPN to see how the two differ.
How to Use a VPN
Using a VPN can be as easy as pressing a button. Here’s a quick guide to using a VPN using ExpressVPN as an example.
Go to the VPN website and download the VPN app. Open the downloaded file and follow the wizard to install the VPN.
VPNs automatically connect you to the closest or fastest server. Click “Power” to connect to the selected server. Once connected, you are now protected.
How to Choose a VPN Server
If you want to select a specific server to connect to, follow the steps below.
Click the VPN server list button (ExpressVPN has “selected location” and “smart location” listed).
Find the server you want to connect to in the list of servers. You can browse the list manually or use our search function. You can save a place as you prefer for quick access.
Final Thoughts: Best VPNs for Beginners
As you can see from our list, ExpressVPN proves its worth as the most reliable VPN for beginners thanks to its speed, security and the ability to access blocked content, all in a decent and beginner-friendly package. ExpressVPN is a fantastic choice for a VPN for streaming, hacking, gaming, and Spotify VPNs.
CyberGhost is a viable alternative if you can handle slow speeds, and Surfshark and PIA are equally easy budget-friendly options. If you have more VPN experience, NordVPN is a worthy contender, rivaling ExpressVPN in terms of features and speed, but with a more confusing interface.
Do you agree? Which VPN service was your first? Have you tried any of the VPNs listed or would you prefer to see different VPN providers listed? Let us know in the comments below, and as always, thanks for reading. Check out our collection of VPN articles if you’re looking for a VPN for streaming, torrenting, or accessing blocked websites.
How do I setup a basic VPN?
Windows 10 allows you to create a VPN profile.
- Click the Windows button, and then select aSettingsa> aNetwork and Interneta> aVPN.a Click the Add VPN connection button.
- Select Windows (built-in) as the VPN provider from the drop-down menu. …
- Click aSave.a
What location is my IP address?
| IPv4 address | 66.249.64.251 Hide my IP with VPN |
|---|---|
| ISP | Google LLC |
| Proxy server | 66.249.64.251 |
| Platform | Android |
| Browser | Googlebot |
Comment omair d’ou vient l’adresse IP? Le Whois est un service fourni par les “registres des nombres de l’internet” qui sont en charge de la distributs des adresses des IP. C’est un outil de recherche publique et gratuit permissant d’bottenir des information sur “qui est” le proprietaire d’une adresse IP.
Quel est mon IP address ?
Cliquez sur aParametresa, puis aReseau et Interneta et enfin aWi-Fia. Selectionnez le reseau auquel vous etes connecte. Click on >. Faites defiler l’ecran jusqu’au bas de la fenetre : votre adresse IP sera affichee a cote de >.
What is my IP address and port?
All you have to do is type anetstat -aa at the command prompt and hit enter. This will create a list of your active TCP connections. Port numbers appear after the IP address. They are separated by a colon. For example, if your IP address is 192.168.
What is my LAN IP address?
Select the Ethernet network icon on the taskbar > Ethernet Connection. Under Ethernet, select Ethernet Network Connection. Find your IP address under Properties next to IPv4 address.
Is having a VPN worth it?
The short answer is yes. A VPN is a good investment, especially if you want to protect your online privacy and security while surfing the Internet. VPNs, also called Virtual Private Networks, allow users to create a private network on their computer using a public Internet connection.
Why You Shouldn’t Use a VPN A VPN may not be a good idea for downloading or gaming as it can slow down your connection. You can also suspend your VPN if you need to access content that is not available in your region.
Is having a VPN a good idea?
A reliable virtual private network (VPN) helps you surf the Internet safely. VPN security can protect your IP and also encrypt your online history. Government agencies are increasingly using it to block surveillance.
Is there a downside to having a VPN?
A VPN service can also have its drawbacks. Performance, speed and price. Good encryption always comes with some slowness. Due to the processing power required for encoding, a VPN service may slow down your Internet connection.
Is it better to have VPN on or off?
VPNs provide the best online security, so you should always turn on your VPN to protect yourself from cyber attacks and data leaks when using public Wi-Fi, as well as intrusive snoopers such as ISPs or advertisers. So always keep your VPN on.
Do I really need a VPN at home?
A VPN is highly recommended, especially for sensitive data. It should always be used to protect yourself from hackers, data breaches and leaks, and intrusive snoopers like ISPs and advertisers. VPNs encrypt your traffic and protect your privacy from third-party advertisers and cybercriminals.
Why you should not use a VPN?
VPNs can’t magically encrypt your data—it’s not technically possible. If the endpoint expects plaintext, you can’t do anything with it. When you use a VPN, only the part of the connection that connects you to the VPN provider is encrypted.
Do I need a VPN in 2022?
Since 1996, VPNs have protected our internet privacy. Protecting your data by improving connection security, a virtual private network allows you to browse anonymously and access geo-restricted content.
Is there a downside to using a VPN?
A VPN service can also have its drawbacks. Performance, speed and price. The best encryption always involves some delay. Due to the processing power required to encrypt data, a VPN service may slow down your internet connection.
Do you think the legitimate uses of a VPN outweigh the negatives?
The Bottom Line While some VPNs have drawbacks, it’s safe to say that the benefits outweigh the negatives. In addition to being able to access the content you want at any time, you can rest assured that your personal data will remain private.
Does VPN protect from hackers?
What can a VPN do to stop hacking attacks? It hides your IP address and redirects your internet traffic to make it difficult to track you. And by encrypting information transmitted over the Internet; this prevents anyone who wants to steal your information from reading it. This includes your ISP.
Can You Get Hacked Using a VPN? A compromised VPN can allow hackers to access your devices and use spyware or ransomware to target you. Leaked credentials. If your VPN security is compromised, anyone listening to your connection can view your data and traffic.
What does a VPN not protect you from?
It’s important to note that VPNs don’t work the same way as comprehensive antivirus software. They protect your IP and encrypt your internet history, that’s not all they can do. They won’t protect you, for example, if you go to phishing websites or download compromised files.
What are the dangers of using a VPN?
Why VPN is not secure. VPNs are not secure because they expose entire networks and networks to malware, DDoS attacks, spoofing attacks, and other threats. Once an attacker has breached the network through an untrusted device, the entire network can be wiped out.
Does VPN protect from spying?
Using a VPN While a VPN won’t stop spyware from being downloaded to your device, it will hide your location and stop your online activity from being tracked and tracked. The best VPNs also have anti-malware and ad-blocking software, such as CyberGhost.
What actually happens when you use a VPN?
VPN connections create a secure connection between your computer and the Internet. With a VPN, all data traffic sent to the Internet is transmitted through an encrypted virtual tunnel. It hides your IP address when you browse the Internet, making its location inaccessible to anyone. A VPN connection is also safe from external threats.
What are the downsides of using a VPN service? Similarly, there are some disadvantages to using a VPN service. Performance, speed and price. A good encryption system will always introduce some delays. Using a VPN service may slow down your internet connection due to the processing power required for encryption.
Is it better to have VPN on or off?
VPNs offer the most secure online security. You should always turn on your VPN to protect yourself from data leaks while using public Wi-Fi and to protect yourself from intrusive spies such as ISPs and advertisers. So always keep your VPN on.
What happens if you keep VPN on?
First, having your VPN active means you’re much less likely to be throttling your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Usually, your ISP limits your bandwidth if you stream content that takes up some network space and can cause constant buffering.
Should VPN be on or off on my phone?
If your VPN is there to keep you safe and anonymous, you’ll probably want to keep it on as long as you can. There are many apps on your phone that pass data in and out in the background. This may affect your privacy.
Can you be tracked if you use a VPN?
If you use a low-quality VPN, you may still be tracked. A quality VPN protects your data and hides your IP address by routing your activities through a VPN server; even if someone tries to monitor your internet activity, all they can see is the VPN server IP and complete bullshit.
Can the police track a VPN?
Although the police cannot monitor encrypted VPN traffic in real time, they can still request usage logs or other information from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Since your ISP knows you’re using a VPN, they can track you. VPN they can direct the police to them.
Can you detect if someone is using a VPN?
A packet capture showing that 100% of the computer’s traffic is sent to a single IP is a great indicator that the computer is using a VPN. Psiphon is an internet censorship bypass tool.
Is a VPN actually useful?
VPN software protects your information by masking your device’s IP address, then encrypting your data and routing it through secure networks to servers located in distant states or even other countries. In doing so, it hides your online identity, ensuring that you can surf the Internet safely and anonymously.
Why you shouldn’t use a VPN?
VPNs cannot magically secure traffic. This is technically impossible. If the endpoint expects plain text, you can’t do anything with it. When using a VPN, only the part that connects you to the VPN provider is encrypted.
Does a VPN even do anything?
A VPN connection hides your data traffic on the network and protects it from outside access. Unencrypted data can be accessed by anyone with network access who wants to view it. Hackers and cybercriminals cannot read this data without a VPN.
Sources :