I. Introduction
A VPN or virtual private network is a security tool that encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address. This enhances your online privacy and anonymity as it prevents third parties such as hackers, your ISP, and government agencies from monitoring your online activities. However, while many VPN services are available, they are pricey, and not everyone can afford them. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean that you should compromise your privacy. This article presents you with tips and tricks on how to get a VPN for free without compromising your security.
II. 5 Best Free VPNs of 2021: A Comprehensive Guide
There are many free VPN services in the market, but not all are trustworthy and secure. The following are the top five best free VPNs of 2021 that offer great security features, speed and reliability to protect your online privacy:
- ProtonVPN: One of the most reliable free VPN services that offer unlimited bandwidth and top-notch security features. However, you only get access to servers located in three countries.
- NordVPN: While NordVPN offers premium services, it also offers a 7-day free trial. This is a great option for anyone looking to try the features before purchasing the service.
- WindscribeVPN: This VPN offers 10GB of free data monthly and is easy to use. However, it’s important to note that this may not be enough data for those who stream videos or other large files.
- Hide.me VPN: This VPN offers 10GB of free data per month and is a great option for people who need a reliable VPN service for occasional use.
- TunnelBear VPN: This VPN provides 500MB of free data monthly, has easy-to-use apps, and offers great security features. However, the free data quota may not be enough for everyday tasks.
III. How to Use a VPN for Free: Top Tips and Tricks
While most VPN services charge subscription fees, there are some ways to access free VPN services without compromising your security. Here are some methods that you can consider:
- Free trial periods: Most VPN services provide free trial periods, which range from 7 to 30 days. During this time, you can access all of the features of the VPN service for free. This is a great way to test the service before making a commitment and purchasing a long-term plan.
- Money-back guarantees: Some VPN services offer a money-back guarantee, which gives you a period to try out the VPN, and if dissatisfied, you can request a refund.
- Limited free versions: Some VPN services provide a free version with limited features such as bandwidth, data, or the number of servers you can connect to. While these versions may not offer the full set of features, they can still provide great protection for occasional internet users.
It’s also important to maximize the use of any free VPN service that you choose. Some of the tips that you can use include:
- Using your VPN for specific tasks that require privacy and security while allowing other non-sensitive activities to pass through your ISP.
- Choosing a free VPN service that provides unlimited bandwidth to avoid data limits.
- Connecting to a VPN server that is close to your physical location to reduce the distance that your internet traffic travels, as this can result in faster speeds.
It’s also important to avoid data limitations and time restrictions by checking the VPN service’s usage limits before you sign up.
IV. Free VPN vs Paid VPN: What are the Pros and Cons?
While free VPN services are great for users who can’t afford to pay for a premium service, they are not without their shortcomings. Here are some of the pros and cons of using a free VPN as opposed to a paid VPN:
The Pros of a Free VPN
- Free VPN services are cost-effective and affordable for those who can’t afford paid VPN services.
- They are easy to use and require fewer configurations when compared to paid VPN services.
- They are accessible to everyone without requiring any subscriptions or payment information.
- They provide most of the standard VPN features such as encryption, hiding your IP address, and unblocking geo-restricted sites.
The Cons of a Free VPN
- Free VPN services have limited features such as bandwidth, server locations and speed, which can be frustrating for heavy internet users.
- They have limited security features that may not offer complete privacy and security when browsing the internet.
- They usually come with many ads that can be annoying and disruptive to the user experience.
- Users of free VPN services are more likely to have their data and privacy compromised than those using paid VPN services.
Overall, if you’re an occasional internet user, then a free VPN service may be suitable for you. However, if you’re a heavy internet user who handles sensitive information, it’s better to invest in a paid VPN service that provides top-notch security and features.
V. How to Get a Free VPN for Windows, Mac, or Mobile Devices
Each VPN service has its installation and configuration process. However, most VPN providers have a similar installation process. The following are the steps to follow while getting a free VPN for Windows, Mac, or mobile devices:
- Choose a VPN provider: Choose a reliable VPN provider that has a free version such as Windscribe VPN or ProtonVPN.
- Download the VPN app: Download the VPN provider’s app from the official website and install it on your device.
- Sign up for a free account: Open the app and sign up for a free account by providing your email address and choosing a password.
- Connect to a server: Once your account is set up, connect to a VPN server of your choice and start browsing safely and privately.
While setting up your VPN, it’s important to take note of any limitations or specific configurations that the VPN provider requires to operate effectively.
VI. Are There Any Reliable Free VPN Providers?
While there are many free VPN providers, not all are trustworthy and secure. Some free VPN services may expose your data to third parties or hackers, leading to loss of your privacy and security. However, the following free VPN services are reliable:
- ProtonVPN
- Windscribe VPN
- TunnelBear VPN
- Hotspot Shield VPN
- Hide.me VPN
While these free VPN providers provide great security features, it’s important to note that they may have limited features, speed, or monthly data limits. It’s also important to avoid untrustworthy VPN services that may compromise your data and privacy.
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, a VPN is an essential tool that you need to protect your privacy when browsing the internet. While it may be difficult to afford premium VPN services, there are free VPN services that you can use to secure your internet browsing. Be sure to use reliable free VPN providers such as Windscribe VPN, ProtonVPN, and TunnelBear VPN, and avoid compromising your security by following tips that maximize the usage of these free VPN services. Whether you choose a free or a paid VPN service, the most important thing is to browse the internet safely, securely, and privately.
