A Comprehensive Assessment of Private Internet Reach VPN: Is PIA VPN Effective?
Fast facts on Private Internet AccessOur Evaluation: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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For quite some time, Private Internet Access has been actively engaged in the VPN sector. It boasts an extensive squadron of servers spanning 91 countries, delivering rapid speeds through its adaptable application. It supports various platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, and routers.
Though its operations in the surveillance-emphasized United States might influence certain users, the amalgamation of security, speed, and user-friendliness makes PIA a robust VPN offering this year.
Pricing Plans for Private Internet Access VPN
| Time Span | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 year | $3.33 monthly |
| 3 years (+4 months free) | $1.98 monthly |
| 1 month | $11.95 monthly |
| 7-day trial | Costless on Android and iOS (account available on desktop apps post mobile log-in) |
All three PIA subscriptions offer identical features, ensuring you won’t miss out on any key aspects by opting for a particular plan.
The annual subscription of PIA VPN, priced at $3.33 per month, presents the best value proposition and is notably budget-friendly compared to similar one-year schemes by rival VPN providers. For instance, ExpressVPN’s yearly offering costs $6.25 monthly, and NordVPN’s Starter one-year package is priced at $4.59. While these VPNs justify their costs with unique features, PIA VPN’s one-year option appears to be a good deal initially.
The three-year plan, at $1.98 per month, is also economically viable, but the commitment to a three-year duration may not suit everyone’s preferences. Lastly, PIA VPN’s monthly plan fits within the price range of other similar services and lacks the cost-effectiveness seen in the two previous subscriptions.
Similar to most contemporary VPNs, PIA includes a 30-day money-back guarantee across all plans. While a full-fledged free version would be advantageous for new VPN users, PIA offers a seven-day trial via its mobile app (iOS and Android).
During my evaluation, I discovered that I could utilize the same account obtained from the seven-day free mobile trial and gain a seamless experience.then access a desktop version of PIA with the same login details. Opting for a dedicated desktop trial is recommended, but the workaround for a trial version was straightforward and simple to establish.
To maximize your experience, I suggest making full use of the seven-day trial on your mobile and using it across all your devices. This way, you can familiarize yourself with the service before committing to any payments.
Is Private Internet Access VPN secure?
Private Internet Access VPN incorporates two of the most crucial security protocols today: OpenVPN and WireGuard. By combining these protocols, users benefit from a blend of security (via OpenVPN) and speed (using WireGuard). Additionally, the service employs 256-bit AES encryption, includes a reliable kill switch, and guards against DNS leaks.
Despite Private Internet Access VPN’s strong security features, there are some drawbacks. Firstly, the service operates within the United States, raising concerns for individuals skeptical of the country’s surveillance practices. Furthermore, the VPN’s ownership under Kape Technologies, which acquired Private Internet Access in 2019, could be a point of contention.
Kape Technologies, formerly known as Crossrider, had previous associations with distributing malware and adware before rebranding and transitioning into the cybersecurity sector. In response, Private Internet Access clarified the acquisition, stressing that the VPN operates independently from Kape.
To address privacy concerns, Private Internet Access VPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, assuring users that it does not store user IP addresses, browsing history, or session timestamps.
The service’s no-logs policy was independently verified by Deloitte in 2022. Additionally, Private Internet Access recently underwent a second audit in April 2024 to reaffirm its security posture, including its server network and incident management systems—also conducted by Deloitte.
In my perspective, third-party audits play a vital role in evaluating VPN services. While providers may make assurances regarding data security, validation through independent audits holds more weight. I appreciate Private Internet Access VPN for actively engaging in these audits to uphold the integrity of their service.
Furthermore, Private Internet Access VPN employs RAM-only servers, ensuring any potential user data remnants are automatically wiped upon restart. The service’s open-source nature allows privacy advocates to scrutinize the source code for vulnerabilities.
Moreover, the company maintains a public Transparency Report outlining any court orders or data requests, reiterating their commitment to zero-data retention policies.
In conclusion, despite concerns over ownership and jurisdiction, Private Internet Access has demonstrated its reliability and security as a premier VPN service in 2024.
Notable characteristics of Private Internet Access VPN
Private Internet Access VPN presents a range of standard and unique features to cater to potential VPN users. Let’s delve into some of the standout features of the service.
Impressive server network
Private Internet Access VPN boasts servers located across 91 countries, providing users with a wide array of destinations to connect to. Though the exact number of servers isn’t advertised, reports suggest a range from 10,000 to nearly 35,000 servers.
These figures are quite impressive, especially compared to other leading VPN providers with 3,000-5,000 servers. The extensive server count offers significant benefits for users seeking to bypass geo-restrictions or achieve faster speeds by connecting to servers near their location.
Furthermore, Private Internet Access recently introduced 50 servers in each of the 50 U.S. states.
If you are an American citizen, this feature provides an added benefit, allowing you to view restricted sports or news broadcasts, or access accounts and services with geographical restrictions limited to specific states.
Personalized VPN Experience
Users of PIA can tailor their VPN experience in various ways. One option is the automation tool, which lets you configure automated tasks for the VPN upon connection to a specific network.
For instance, you can program PIA to activate the VPN when your device hooks up to an open or unsecured network, or to switch off when connecting via an ethernet cable.
PIA VPN also empowers users to save or pin specific sections of the app for easy access.
This helpful usability feature offers greater customization, particularly if users wish to prioritize specific features or statistics over others.
Unlimited Device Connections
PIA now permits an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections with one subscription. The service previously imposed a limit of 10 devices, and although that was towards the upper end of allowable connections, the enhancement to unlimited connections is well received.
This feature is often underestimated, particularly by VPN users with multiple devices for either work or personal purposes.
See: SMB Security Pack (TechRepublic Premium)
Performance: How fast is Private Internet Access VPN?
Throughout my usage of PIA, I experienced fairly rapid speeds. I utilized the VPN to stream 4K and 1080p YouTube videos, participate in online video meetings, and work on Google Workspace apps (Drive, Docs, and Keep) — all without noticeable delays or performance decreases.
In terms of DNS leak prevention, it performed admirably. I tested PIA VPN with a public DNS leak tool multiple times and found no leaks after multiple tests with various servers.
Regarding speed tests, PIA VPN displayed dependable results. In terms of downloads, it demonstrated speeds 39.31% slower than my internet provider. For uploads, there was a 26.9% speed reduction compared to my ISP. While not the quickest I have encountered, any speed reduction within the range of 20-40% is viewed positively — especiallygiven that a VPN can result in decreased speeds.
I must commend PIA VPN for delivering satisfactory speeds in terms of both uploads and downloads, unlike some other VPNs that often exhibit slower upload rates.
Regarding server switching, PIA was swift in this aspect. It seamlessly established new connections and switched to different VPN locations promptly, even when connecting to more distant servers.
Regrettably, I encountered a minor issue that slightly hindered PIA’s performance from being flawless. Upon trying to switch to the WireGuard protocol for the first time, PIA faced difficulty connecting to a server. This occurred even when connecting to servers closer to my location, in stark contrast to the app’s performance with OpenVPN. Nevertheless, after restarting the application twice, the problem seemed to resolve itself and I was able to establish a connection.
Based on my investigation, a few users have reported a similar problem. However, it appears to be a bug that has been rectified and is now easily solvable.
Private Internet Access VPN servers and locations
Although PIA VPN does not specify the exact number of its server types currently, it has previously stated having approximately 10,000 to 35,000 servers. These servers are distributed across 91 countries, making it one of the most extensive server networks available today.
In terms of locations, PIA boasts servers in various regions such as the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. Notably, PIA ensures there is at least one server in every U.S. state, which is advantageous for U.S. residents seeking to utilize servers across different states.
Regrettably, PIA VPN does not feature dedicated servers for streaming or torrenting. However, they do offer what is referred to as PIA NextGen servers. These are colocated servers exclusively owned and managed by PIA, operating on improved, faster, and more secure hardware.
Overall, it is challenging to dispute the vast server network comprising tens of thousands of servers, and the inclusion of servers for all U.S. states is commendable. Nevertheless, it would be beneficial if PIA incorporated more specialized server categories for enhancing security, streaming, and torrenting purposes to further refine the server network.
Private Internet Access VPN ease of use
When examining the desktop interface of PIA VPN, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider. On a positive note, the user has the flexibility to customize the main dashboard according to their preferences, which I find commendable.
The feature that allows bookmarking enables users to prioritize their favored features, settings, or VPN statistics at the top of the application. Furthermore, PIA VPN permits users to rearrange these sections in their preferred sequence.
The application of PIA VPN presented somewhat awkward user interactions. Specifically, I observed delays and unevenness when moving across its options, exploring the server catalog, or transitioning to a different VPN server.
To clarify, the application remains functional, and all features perform as promised. Nevertheless, I believe it gives a somewhat less refined sense to the entire application usage compared to other leading VPNs such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN – whose apps are marginally superior in terms of user experience, based on my personal viewpoint.
Advantages of PIA VPN
- Impressive range of 10,000-35,000 servers.
- Highly customizable VPN interface.
- Server availability for all 50 U.S. states.
- Dependable kill switch.
- Rapid upload and download speeds.
- 7-day trial offered on mobile editions.
- Open-source software.
Disadvantages of PIA VPN
- Headquartered in the U.S. and owned by contentious Kape Technologies.
- No complimentary version available.
- Lack of specialized servers.
- Potential instability with WireGuard protocol.
- Desktop application feels slightly awkward.
Quality of PIA VPN
Private Internet Access VPN proves to be a sound selection in 2024. It boasts an extensive server network, a customizable VPN app, and the capacity for unlimited device associations. Additionally, its 50-state servers are particularly beneficial for individuals in the U.S. seeking state-specific server options.
While the U.S. base and parent company may raise some apprehensions, the strengths of PIA VPN make it a highly viable VPN solution in today’s landscape.
Alternatives to Private Internet Access VPN
Though PIA VPN offers quality service, it may not align perfectly with your requirements. Here are analogous alternatives below that could cater better to your needs.
| Mullvad VPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial cost (annual) | $5.27/month | $4.59/month | $2.99/month |
| Network of servers | 610+ servers across 48 countries | 6,800+ servers spanning 111 countries | 3,200 servers in 100 countries |
| Standout feature | Anonymous payment methods, external audits, and cost-effective monthly subscription | Encrypted file-sharing capability, dual VPN, and disguised servers | Unlimited device connections, consistently high VPN speeds, and varied subscription options |
Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN stands out for privacy-conscious users. It employs an anonymous account numbering scheme that allows customers to subscribe without disclosing personal information. Additionally, it maintains an independently verified no-logs policy to safeguard user data from potential breaches.
To delve deeper, refer to our comprehensive Mullvad VPN review.
NordVPN
NordVPN is among the highly acclaimed VPN services available. Delivering consistent speeds, a robust server network, and multiple third-party audits, it integrates advanced security elements like built-in malware protection and secure file sharing, contributing to its all-encompassing security framework.
To discover more, explore our detailed NordVPN review.
Surfshark
In the year 2024, Surfshark stands as a popular VPN choice. It features a user-friendly interface suitable for novices, robust encryption, and continuous customer support access. With a strong track record in unblocking streaming content, Surfshark garners positive recognition.
For additional insights, check out our complete Surfshark VPN review.
Evaluation of Private Internet Access VPN
My assessment of PIA VPN underwent comprehensive scrutiny of its standout features, pricing, and real-world performance. I also interacted with PIA through its Windows application.
To measure upload and download speeds, I ran PIA VPN using Ookla’s public Speedtest. In parallel, I conducted multiple runs of PIA VPN through DNSLeakTest to analyze potential DNS leakages.
Ultimately, I assigned a rating to PIA VPN based on factors such as protocols and pricing using an internal algorithm, resulting in a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. This evaluation considered PIA VPN both independently and relative to other contemporary VPN offerings.
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