TECHNOLOGY

PIA VPN Review: “Fastest VPN” – High-Speed, Secure Access

PIA VPN: A Reliable and Secure VPN Service

If you are looking for a VPN service that offers fast, secure and flexible online browsing, you might want to consider PIA VPN. PIA VPN is a popular VPN provider that has over 35,000 servers in 78 countries, allowing you to access any content you want from anywhere in the world. Whether you want to stream your favourite shows, browse the web anonymously, or protect your data from hackers and snoopers, PIA VPN can help you achieve your online goals.

PIA VPN uses strong encryption and protocols to ensure your online privacy and security. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard, which are among the most secure and fastest VPN protocols available. It also has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not record or store your online activities or personal information. You can also use features like a kill switch, split tunnelling, ad blocking, and dedicated IP address to enhance your online experience and security.

PIA VPN is compatible with various platforms and devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, and more. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account, or even more with the VPN router feature. You can also use PIA VPN on different browsers, such as Chrome, Firefox and Opera. PIA VPN allows you to stream and share content on various platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, YouTube and more.

PIA VPN offers affordable and flexible pricing plans for different needs and budgets. You can choose from monthly, yearly or two-year plans, starting from USD 11.95 (CAD 16.20) per month or USD 28.47 (CAD 38.45) per year with a two-year subscription (2 years for USD 56.94 or CAD 76.91)¹². You can also get a dedicated IP address for an extra fee of USD 5 ($CAD 6.75 per month¹². PIA VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free.

If you need any help or have any questions about PIA VPN, you can contact their 24/7 customer support team via email or live chat.

PIA VPN is a reliable and secure VPN service that offers many benefits and features for online users. Whether you want to access geo-restricted content, browse the web privately or protect your data from cyber threats, PIA VPN can help you achieve your online goals. You can sign up for PIA VPN today and enjoy a fast, secure and flexible online browsing experience.

Private Internet Access is a personal VPN service that allows users to connect to multiple locations. In 2018, former Mt. Gox CEO Mark Karpelès was named chief technology officer of PIA’s parent company, London Trust Media. In November 2019, Private Internet Access was acquired by Kape Technologies. Wikipedia
Founded2009
Initial releaseAugust 2010

Difference Between PIA VPN and other VPNs

There are many VPN services available in the market, but PIA VPN stands out for its large server network, affordable pricing, and advanced features. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as being based in a Five Eyes country and having limited streaming capabilities. Here are some of the main differences between PIA VPN and other VPN services:

Server network: PIA VPN has over 35,000 servers in 78 countries, which is one of the largest server networks among VPN providers. This means you have more options to choose from and more chances to find a fast and reliable connection. However, some of the servers are virtual, which means they are not physically located in the country they claim to be. Other VPN services, such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN, have fewer servers but they are all physical and located in more countries.

Pricing and plans: PIA VPN offers affordable and flexible pricing plans for different needs and budgets. You can choose from monthly, yearly or two-year plans, starting from USD 11.95 (CAD 16.20) per month or USD 28.47 ($CAD 38.45 per year with a two-year subscription (2 years for USD 56.94 or CAD 76.91). You can also get a dedicated IP address for an extra fee of $USD 5(CAD 6.75) per month¹². PIA VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free. Other VPN services, such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN, have similar or higher pricing plans but they also offer longer money-back guarantees (45 days for NordVPN and 30 days for ExpressVPN).

Streaming and content access: PIA VPN can unblock some popular streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. However, it may not work with other platforms, such as Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Other VPN services, such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN, can unblock more streaming platforms and offer better performance and video quality. They also have more servers optimized for streaming and can bypass more geo-restrictions and censorship.

Security and privacy: PIA VPN uses strong encryption and protocols to ensure your online privacy and security. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard, which are among the most secure and fastest VPN protocols available. It also has a strict no-logs policy, which means it does not record or store any of your online activities or personal information. You can also use features like a kill switch, split tunnelling, ad blocking and dedicated IP address to enhance your online experience and security. However, PIA VPN is based in the US, which is a member of the Five Eyes alliance that shares intelligence information among its members. This means that PIA VPN may be subject to government surveillance or requests for user data. Other VPN services, such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN, are based in more privacy-friendly jurisdictions (Panama and the British Virgin Islands respectively). They also have more security features, such as diskless servers, obfuscated servers, double VPN, Tor over VPN, and TrustedServer technology.

In conclusion, PIA VPN is a reliable and secure VPN service that offers many benefits and features for online users. However, it also has some limitations compared to other VPN services, especially when it comes to streaming and content access. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may want to consider other options before choosing PIA VPN as your VPN provider.

Can I use PIA VPN for Torrenting?

Yes, you can use PIA VPN for torrenting. PIA VPN allows torrenting in the USA on all its servers. The VPN allows P2P traffic on its entire 35,000+ worth of server network. It also offers split tunnelling, port forwarding, and seeding on all its servers (except for the US).

PIA VPN uses strong encryption and protocols to ensure your online privacy and security when torrenting. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard, which are among the most secure and fastest VPN protocols available. It also has a strict no-logs policy, which means it does not record or store any of your online activities or personal information. You can also use features like a kill switch, ad blocking and dedicated IP address to enhance your online experience and security.

PIA VPN is compatible with various torrent clients, such as uTorrent, qBittorrent, Deluge, and more¹². You can also use PIA VPN’s SOCKS5 proxy to add an extra layer of security and speed to your torrenting¹². However, you should always use the VPN along with the proxy, as the proxy alone does not encrypt your traffic or hide your IP address².

PIA VPN is a reliable and secure VPN service that offers many benefits and features for torrenting. You can sign up for PIA VPN today and enjoy a fast, secure and flexible torrenting experience.

PIA VPN Multiple Device

According to the information we found, you can use PIA VPN on unlimited devices with one subscription. This means you can install and connect PIA VPN on any mix of routers, computers, or mobile devices that you choose. However, if you have a large number of devices at home, you may want to consider setting up a router configuration for PIA VPN. This will allow all devices behind the router to be represented as a single connection to the PIA VPN network, and free up your mobile devices for use elsewhere. You can find more information and guides on how to set up a router configuration for PIA VPN on their website and blog.

PIA VPN Review:

PIA VPN For Online Gaming

You can use PIA VPN for online gaming. PIA VPN is a fast, secure and reliable VPN service that can enhance your gaming experience in many ways. Here are some of the benefits of using PIA VPN for online gaming:

Lag-free gaming: PIA VPN can reduce your ping and latency by connecting you to the nearest and fastest server available. You can also use the WireGuard protocol, which is one of the fastest and most secure VPN protocols available. PIA VPN also prevents your ISP from throttling your bandwidth when you play data-intensive games.

DDoS attack protection: PIA VPN can protect you from malicious players who may try to disrupt your gaming session with DDoS attacks. PIA VPN hides your real IP address and assigns you a new one, making it harder for attackers to target you. You can also use features like a kill switch and dedicated IP address to enhance your online security.

– Content access: PIA VPN can help you access geo-restricted games and content from anywhere in the world. You can connect to servers in 78 countries and play games that are not available in your region, or get cheaper regional pricing. You can also stream and share content on various platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, YouTube and more.

PIA VPN is compatible with various platforms and devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, routers and more. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account, or even more with the VPN router feature. You can also use PIA VPN on different browsers, such as Chrome, Firefox and Opera.

PIA VPN offers affordable and flexible pricing plans for different needs and budgets. You can choose from monthly, yearly or two-year plans, starting from USD 11.95 CAD 16.20) per month or $USD 28.47(CAD 38.45) per year with a two-year subscription (2 years for USD 56.94 or CAD 76.91). You can also get a dedicated IP address for an extra fee of USD 5 (CAD 6.75) per month¹². PIA VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free.

PIA VPN is a reliable and secure VPN service that offers many benefits and features for online gaming. Whether you want to enjoy lag-free gaming, protect yourself from DDoS attacks, or access geo-restricted content, PIA VPN can help you achieve your online goals. You can sign up for PIA VPN today and enjoy a fast, secure and flexible online gaming experience.

PIA VPN Features

PIA VPN has many features that make it a reliable and secure VPN service. Here are some of the main features of PIA VPN:

Large server network: PIA VPN has over 35,000 servers in 78 countries, allowing you to access any content you want from anywhere in the world.

Strong encryption and protocols: PIA VPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports OpenVPN and WireGuard, which are among the most secure and fastest VPN protocols available.

No-logs policy: PIA VPN does not record or store any of your online activities or personal information, ensuring your online privacy and anonymity.

Kill switch: PIA VPN has a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing any data leaks or exposure.

Split tunnelling: PIA VPN allows you to choose which apps or websites to route through the VPN and which ones to use your regular internet connection, giving you more control and flexibility over your online traffic.

Ad blocking: PIA VPN has a built-in ad blocker that blocks ads, trackers, malware and phishing sites, improving your online security and browsing experience.

Dedicated IP address: PIA VPN offers dedicated IP addresses for an extra fee of USD 5 (CAD 6.75) per month, which can help you avoid blacklists, bypass captchas, and access restricted services.

Unlimited devices: PIA VPN allows you to use the service on unlimited devices with one subscription, or even more with the VPN router feature.

Streaming and content access: PIA VPN can unblock some popular streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. However, it may not work with other platforms, such as Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.

Torrenting and P2P support: PIA VPN allows torrenting in the USA on all its servers and supports P2P traffic on its entire server network. It also offers split tunnelling, port forwarding, and seeding on all its servers (except for the US). You can also use PIA VPN’s SOCKS5 proxy to add an extra layer of security and speed to your torrenting.

Customer support: PIA VPN has a 24/7 customer support team that you can contact via email or live chat. You can also find useful information and guides on their website and blog.

Difference Between OpenVPN and WireGaurd

OpenVPN and WireGuard are two VPN protocols that differ in the following ways:

– OpenVPN is flexible with the algorithms it uses, whereas each WireGuard version uses one fixed set of algorithms.
– OpenVPN uses certificates for identification and encryption, whereas WireGuard uses public key encryption for those tasks.
WireGuard is much faster than OpenVPN, and it also consumes around 15% less data.
– WireGuard handles network changes better than OpenVPN.
OpenVPN has been thoroughly tried and tested, is more privacy-friendly, and is supported by a larger number of VPNs.

Both protocols are secure and reliable, but they have different advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and preferences.

How Fast Is Private Internet Access VPN?

VPNs often slow down your connection—the encryption process creates some lag. However, a premium VPN service with a vast server network and fast VPN protocols such as PIA makes browsing even faster. For instance, when the VPN encrypts your traffic data, it prevents throttling connection speeds that typically come from your ISP because of your connection time, location or site.

Private Internet Access combines fast-paced OpenVPN with WireGuard, a performance-optimized protocol, which is faster and more reliable than other protocols to give you a fast and stable connection. Also, PIA has a global network of next-generation VPN servers optimized to produce as much as 10 Gbps connection speeds. With these 35,000 servers in 84 countries, you can easily connect to one to upload and download content faster since there’s less server overcrowding. Also, PIA’s split tunnelling feature sends only high-bandwidth traffic through the VPN, so you can browse and stream as much content as you want with optimum speed.

When we tested PIA using Ookla’s speed test, the average upload speed was 20 Mbps, while the average download speed was 170 Mbps. Its download latency was 326ms. Its upload latency was better, with a lesser measure of 320ms. While these numbers may not be the best, it’s worth noting that we didn’t notice any hassles when using PIA.

Also, the results we got from using PIA beat other top VPN services, including TorGuard VPN, NordVPN and CyberGhost. NordVPN delivered an average download speed of 149 Mbps over a download latency of 364ms, while TorGuard VPN’s average upload speed was 14 Mbps with an upload latency of 319ms. We got the lowest delivery out of the four providers from CyberGhost, which downloaded content with an almost regular download speed of 45 Mbps and 0.9 Mbps for uploading.

PIA also offers every user unlimited bandwidth, allowing you to download, upload or stream as much content as you want without speed throttling or restriction of data usage.

PIA VPN DNS and Data Centers

PIA VPN has two main features that are related to DNS and data centres: Smart DNS and RAM-only servers.

Smart DNS is a feature that allows you to access geo-blocked content from other regions and add it to different devices. Smart DNS is not used in the PIA app and does not change your IP address. Smart DNS provides better speeds as the connection is not encrypted². You can find Smart DNS when signing into the Client Control Panel, below Dedicated IP. You can choose from different devices and locations, and get a Smart DNS IP address that you can use on the desired device. You can add up to three devices with Smart DNS.

RAM-only servers are servers that delete all your session data on each reboot, ensuring that no logs or traces of your online activity are stored on the server. PIA VPN uses RAM-only servers for its entire server network, which consists of over 35,000 servers in 78 countries. RAM-only servers provide more privacy, security, and performance than traditional hard disk servers. PIA VPN also uses colocated servers, which means that they own and operate their servers, rather than renting them from third parties. This gives PIA VPN more control and flexibility over its server network.

PIA VPN Customers Service

There are different ways to contact PIA VPN customer service, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some of the options you have:

– You can visit their website and fill out a contact form with your name, email, department, subject, and message. You can also find a list of frequently asked questions and solutions on their website.
– You can visit their support portal and submit a ticket with your name, email, department, subject, account identifier, and message. You can also attach files or screenshots to your ticket if needed.
– You can use their live chat feature on their website or support portal and chat with an agent in real-time. The live chat is available 24/7 and you can choose your preferred language.
– You can send them an email at helpdesk@privateinternetaccess.com and expect a reply within 24 hours.
– You can also find useful information and guides on their blog and social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Reddit, and more.

PIA VPN Prices

PIA VPN prices are as follows:

– The monthly plan costs USD 11.95 (CAD 16.20) per month.
– The yearly plan costs USD 3.33 (CAD 4.50) per month or USD 39.95 (CAD 54.00) annually.
– The two-year plan costs USD 2.19 (CAD 2.96) per month or USD 55 (CAD 74.25) for the whole period, and it also includes 3 months free.
– You can also get a dedicated IP address for an extra fee of USD 5 (CAD 6.75) per month.

PIA VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free. PIA VPN also offers some premium add-ons, such as privacy-first antivirus and smart DNS, for an additional cost. You can find more information and deals on their website and blog.

Verdict: Should You Use PIA VPN?

Private Internet Access targets privacy-conscious individuals and businesses seeking a VPN with advanced privacy and security features. PIA also allows customization, so it’s suitable for you if you want some control over your VPN.

PIA for Personal Use

PIA is a good choice for personal use. It gives you access to restricted content without compromising your security and ensures you don’t get distracting ads and malware that can tamper with your data. PIA’s fast internet speed also makes streaming and torrenting your favourite shows and events fast and easy.

PIA for Business Use

Businesses that want to keep their company-wide secrets and protect their customers’ data should use PIA. Its Corporate VPN feature offers specialized protection at discounted rates, and the VPN router allows your team members to connect as many devices as they want. This VPN service also offers dedicated IP service and antivirus, offering businesses more data protection.

 

PIA VPN vs. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost and PIA offer their features at cheap rates. You’ll get 24 hours to try CyberGhost’s premium features on Windows and macOS, three days for Android and seven days for iOS, but none on PIA. However, the two VPN providers offer a money-back guarantee—PIA offers 30 days, while CyberGhost users get 45 days. CyberGhost allows you to connect to seven devices simultaneously, while PIA enables unlimited devices.

CyberGhost has fewer servers, 9,700-plus in 91 server locations, while PIA has over 35,000 in 84 countries. It also offers specific benefits to small businesses with its Corporate VPN.

PIA VPN vs. NordVPN VPN

NordVPN and PIA VPN don’t offer any free trial, but you will get a full refund if you’re not satisfied with their features after 30 days. While they offer nearly the same amount for monthly subscriptions, PIA beats NordVPN when you make a long-term commitment. Also, it boasts 35,000 servers, whereas NordVPN has only 5,400-plus servers.

Private Internet Access also allows connection with unlimited devices, while NordVPN allows only six at the same time. However, NordVPN offers a more flexible VPN for businesses, offering three pricing tiers for its business VPN, NordLayer. PIA’s Corporate VPN provides only one plan.

PIA VPN vs. TorGuard VPN

TorGuard offers you seven days to check if its features suit your needs. PIA does not offer any trial; however, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee that gets you a full refund if you’re displeased with its services. TorGuard offers only a seven-day guarantee. PIA and TorGuard offer 24/7 support and dedicated IP, but TorGuard’s Pro and Premium plans have the feature embedded for free, while PIA has you paying for it separately.

For the number of devices you can use simultaneously, PIA stacks higher because it allows for unlimited devices. TorGuard allows only eight. Also, PIA has over 35,000 servers available for users, whereas TorGuard offers only 3,000-plus.

PIA VPN vs ExpressVPN

PIA VPN and ExpressVPN are both popular and reputable VPN services that offer many features and benefits for online users. However, they also have some differences that may affect your choice depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some of the main differences between PIA VPN and ExpressVPN in terms of features:

– Server network: PIA VPN has over 35,000 servers in 78 countries, which is one of the largest server networks among VPN providers. This means you have more options to choose from and more chances to find a fast and reliable connection. However, some of the servers are virtual, which means they are not physically located in the country they claim to be. ExpressVPN has fewer servers (around 3,000) but they are all physical and located in more countries (94). ExpressVPN also has more servers optimized for streaming and can bypass more geo-restrictions and censorship.

– Pricing and plans: PIA VPN offers affordable and flexible pricing plans for different needs and budgets. You can choose from monthly, yearly or two-year plans, starting from USD 11.95 (CAD 16.20 per month or USD 28.47 (CAD 38.45) per year with a two-year subscription (2 years for USD 56.94 or CAD 76.91). You can also get a dedicated IP address for an extra fee of USD 5 (CAD 6.75) per month⁸⁹. PIA VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free. ExpressVPN has similar or higher pricing plans but they also offer longer money-back guarantees (45 days for NordVPN and 30 days for ExpressVPN).

– Streaming and content access: PIA VPN can unblock some popular streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. However, it may not work with other platforms, such as Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. ExpressVPN can unblock more streaming platforms and offer better performance and video quality. It also has more servers optimized for streaming and can bypass more geo-restrictions and censorship.

– Security and privacy: PIA VPN uses strong encryption and protocols to ensure your online privacy and security. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard, which are among the most secure and fastest VPN protocols available. It also has a strict no-logs policy, which means it does not record or store any of your online activities or personal information. You can also use features like a kill switch, split tunnelling, ad blocking and dedicated IP address to enhance your online experience and security. However, PIA VPN is based in the US, which is a member of the Five Eyes alliance that shares intelligence information among its members. This means that PIA VPN may be subject to government surveillance or requests for user data. ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is a more privacy-friendly jurisdiction. It also has more security features, such as diskless servers, obfuscated servers, double VPN, Tor over VPN, and TrustedServer technology.

In conclusion, PIA VPN and ExpressVPN are both reliable and secure VPN services that offer many benefits and features for online users. However, ExpressVPN is the better VPN overall. It is faster than PIA VPN on long-distance connections, excellent for streaming, and more secure due to its diskless server technology. While PIA VPN is cheaper than ExpressVPN, it also has some limitations when it comes to streaming and content access. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may want to consider other options before choosing PIA VPN or ExpressVPN as your VPN provider.

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