Private Internet Access Review
Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a robust set of features that make it an attractive choice for anyone seeking to enhance their online privacy and security. One of the key reasons to choose PIA is its strong commitment to user privacy, demonstrated by its strict no-logs policy and independent audits. This ensures that your online activities remain confidential and protected from third parties, including government surveillance, your ISP, and hackers.
Another compelling reason to choose PIA is its user-friendly design and extensive server network. The software is easy to install and use, with an intuitive interface that makes it accessible even for those new to VPNs. The availability of over 29,000 servers in 77 countries ensures that users can find a reliable connection for streaming, torrenting, or bypassing geo-restrictions. Additionally, the ability to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with a single subscription makes PIA a versatile and cost-effective solution for individuals and families alike.
Pros:
- Strong AES-256 encryption
- No-logs policy independently audited
- Extensive server network
- Consistently fast speeds
- User-friendly interface
- Ad and malware blocking with MACE feature
- 24/7 support
- 10 simultaneous connections
- Kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection
Cons:
- Based in privacy-unfriendly United States
- Somewhat less advanced features than major competitors
- Not all servers support streaming services
Privacy and Security
First thing's first: Private Internet Access is headquartered in the United States. That's a bit of a red flag as the USA is much more likely to force a VPN to hand over records than a small country or island government. That said, PIA goes above and beyond to counter this concern and ensure the privacy and security of their users.
First, they don't record logs of any kind. While saying and doing things are very different, a previous FBI subpoena confirmed that Private Internet Access does in fact record nothing. They've even gone so far as dropping out of Russia because new laws risked their users' privacy. The AES-256 cipher with a potential RSA 4096 cryptosystem maxes out VPN encryption to keep your data yours. The company is truly committed to privacy so it's one of the few US companies that's safe to use.
On the security front, PIA confidently steps up to the plate once again. The company's leak protection is rock solid. They protect fully against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. DNS and WebRTC leaks are among the most common ways to reveal an IP address so it's great to see. Anti-malware and ad blocking software add both convenience and an extra layer of internet protection. They also offer an internet killswitch to mitigate risk if the VPN connection drops. All in all, PIA is a top choice for privacy and security.
Speed
Private Internet Access offers a slew of privacy/security options that can be detrimental to internet speeds. Luckily these can all be customized as needed. With comfortably safe settings, download speeds on a fiber line typically measure between 30 and 50Mbps in Europe and America, with slightly lower upload speeds. Outside of those locations, speeds were roughly 20% slower. We found these speeds plenty fast for more bandwidth intensive activities like P2P torrenting worldwide. Latency is also on the low end for a VPN, though if you are gaming on a VPN, you'll definitely want to pick a location close to where you live. They also offer the increasingly popular WireGuard protocol to enhance speed and performance without sacrificing security.
PIA further excels with its extensive server network. They boast over 29,000 servers in 77 countries, providing users with a wide range of options for bypassing geo-restrictions and enhancing privacy. The large number of servers also helps to distribute user load, reducing the likelihood of congestion and maintaining high speeds. It's less likely you'll have to change servers multiple times with PIA to find fast speeds compared to less notable VPNs.
Ease and Usability
PIA is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible to both novice and experienced users. The installation process is straightforward and can be completed within minutes. The software’s interface is clean and intuitive, allowing users to easily navigate and configure settings. Key features such as server selection, connection status, and advanced settings are readily accessible from the main dashboard. The VPN supports a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, ensuring compatibility with most devices. Additionally, PIA supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for families or users with multiple devices.
Support
PIA offers robust customer support to help users with any issues they might encounter. The support team is available 24/7 through live chat and email, providing timely and knowledgeable assistance. Users have generally reported positive experiences with the support staff, highlighting their professionalism and effectiveness in resolving technical problems.
In addition to direct support, PIA provides an extensive online knowledge base, which includes FAQs, setup guides, troubleshooting tips, and detailed articles on various features. These resources are well-organized and easy to navigate, allowing users to find solutions independently if they prefer. The combination of responsive customer support and comprehensive online resources ensures that users can rely on PIA for assistance whenever needed.
Bottom Line
Private Internet Access scores well in every segment that matters for a VPN service. They're reliable and excel in privacy, security, speed, and usability. Its strong encryption, no-logs policy, and comprehensive protection features make it a strong choice for users seeking privacy and security online. The user-friendly interface, extensive server network, and excellent customer support further enhance its appeal, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
While PIA offers many advantages, it is important to note that laws may change in the United States that restrict how they operate business. So far, that hasn't been an issue, but it is something to stay mindful of if you subscribe to PIA's service. Finally, worldwide speeds outside of the USA and Europe may be a bit slower, but we doubt it's significant enough to matter for most people.
