Using a reliable VPN in Europe is very important. The role of virtual private networks in protecting your online privacy is simply invaluable. The last thing you need is to surf without the assurance that you are protected. In addition to this, there is also a need to unblock geo-restricted content online. A VPN will ensure that your identity remains anonymous. It masks your virtual location so that no one is able to track your web activity. You can get all these benefits only if you use the best VPNs for Europe. To help you get by, we’ll explain how to choose a good provider and suggest a few top VPNs that you can trust.
Table of Contents
Here are the Best VPNs for Europe
The most important feature of a realiable VPN provider is user protection. It is achieved by a set of comprehensive security functions as well as log-free policy. A strong encryption will code all traffic coming in and out of your device while leakage protection measures will prevent unprotected data to be seen. Along with that, a VPN should not cause significant slow-downs. A fast service will make it possible to stream videos, play online games, and download torrents comfortably. A vast server network is also vital. Now, when we have determined the key factors for a reliable service, let’s look at some of the best VPNs for Europe:
- Provider
- User Rating
- Our Review
- Price
PureVPN- 4807 Votes
- $3.24 / month
ExpressVPN- 3795 Votes
- $6.67 / month
These VPNs have all necessary qualities to safeguard your online activities and protect your traffic from monitoring. Let’s get to know each of our recommended providers a little bit better.
NordVPN
This is the world’s largest VPN service that supplies a sizeable number of security features. It implements the industry standard OpenVPN encryption protocol, which can be combined with extra functions for greater safety. For instance, a Double VPN option will encrypt all your traffic twice and Tor over VPN enables users to employ encryption together with the anonymous Tor browser. NordVPN delivers all necessary plus some bonus features such as Kill Switch, DNS leak protection, etc. The provider keeps no logs so all your online activity will be kept secret. NordVPN boasts a huge server network spanning all over the world so you have plenty of options to connect to. With very affordable prices, NordVPN is undoubtedly among the best VPNs for EU.
NordVPN Pros
- Panama jurisdiction;
- No logging policy;
- 256-bit AES encryption;
- 5,400+ servers in 60 countries;
- CyberSec anti-malware / antivirus feature;
- Torrenting is allowed;
- 6 connections at once;
- 30 day refund guarantee.
Cons:
- There are none seriously.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is the number one choice for a VPN in Europe when a connection speed is of the greatest importance. ExpressVPN will ideally suit gamers, torrent buffs, and streamers thanks to ultra-fast servers. The servers are available in 94 countries, all totally optimized for the best experience. ExpressVPN will even help you to choose the fastest server thanks to AI-powered SmartLocation feature. The service doesn’t forget about security – the top-of-the-line protocols, Internet Kill Switch, IP and DNS protection are available across the board. The provider supports torrenting and its split tunneling function allows using the encrypted and original connection simultaneously. ExpressVPN is not cheap but it’s definitely worth the price, especially when you can get a serious discount for an annual subscription.
ExpresVPN Pros:
- Offshore jurisdiction;
- Ultra Secure;
- Private, encrypted DNS servers;
- The fastest connection speed;
- Split tunneling;
- Network of 3,000 servers in 94 countries;
- Allows torrenting;
- 30-day money-back guarantee;
Cons:
- A bit pricey.
PureVPN
This VPN service from the British Virgin Islands is present in 78 countries around the globe. Its network is comprised of more than 2,000 servers and it’s constantly growing. PureVPN delivers a great balance of solid security functionality, decent speed, convenient software, and responsive customer service. The latest security protocols are available, including OpenVPN as well as Stealth protocols to avoid strong firewalls. PureVPN is an inexpensive service with steep discounts for annual plans, so why not give it a try?
Pure VPN Pros:
- Registered in the BVI away from the 14 Eyes;
- 6,500+ servers in 180 locations;
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Dedicated IP addresses;
- Kill Switch
- Connect 5 devices at the same time;
- Torrent-friendly;
- 31 day money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- Occasional DNS leak;
- Some minor logging
Free VPNs to Use in Europe
All our recommended providers are paid VPNs. ‘What about free service?’ you may ask. We have many arguments against such providers but we’ll highlight the most important of them. Free VPNs are not good for your security because they collect user information and may even sell it to whoever offers more. Their software is often confusing and infested with annoying ads, which make the connection unbearably slow. You won’t be able to stream or torrent – P2P traffic is always prohibited and most video services such as Hulu or Netflix ban free VPNs completely. But even if by some miracle you are able to connect to some streaming service, data caps will surely prevent you from getting an enjoyable pastime.
Why Use a VPN in Europe
There are a number of great benefits European users may have when enhancing their devices with a reputable VPN. Here are some reasons to get yourself such a service:
Avoid EU Government Surveillance
For quite some time, Europe had perhaps the most lenient internet regulations. However, after the 9/11 attack in the US, things got a little tight. Today, the level of surveillance in Europe and the scale in which it is done is alarming. From social media monitoring to apps and web traffic, people in Europe are constantly being watched and it’s getting to a point where most individuals are fed up with it. Germany, France, and the UK are countries that are grossly affected. However, if you don’t want to be a victim of this surveillance anymore, you can use a VPN to protect your privacy.
Protect Yourself from Cybercrime
In the last five years or so, cybercrime in Europe has risen immensely. People have become a target of hacks and espionage. It is estimated that people have lost in excess of $70 billion from cybercrime. This is such a staggering amount.
Here are some of the most affected countries by cybercrime:
- Germany
- Britain
- Spain
- Italy
- France
- Poland
If you are looking for indisputable safety and security, a VPN is vital. Even if you are not in these six European countries, you still need a protection, and a VPN will deliver it for you.
Bypass Online Streaming Restrictions
The internet has become a center of entrainment and with live online TV and streaming services, you just can’t afford to miss out. However, the idea of streaming, downloading, or uploading copyrighted materials can get you into a lot of trouble in the EU. In addition to this, online video services like Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Netflix have limited media catalogs while the US users can view thousands of titles. If you don’t want to put yourself at risk while enjoying online entertainment in the European Union, you need a good VPN to mask your identity and encrypt your traffic.
Privacy and Anonymity
The other important thing to note about using a VPN concerns the issue of privacy and security. Most people want to surf the net freely without the worry that someone could be watching what they are doing. The ultimate solution that will deliver outstanding privacy for you is the VPN. With such a service, you can surf whatever you want, stream anything you like, and no one will even have a clue as to what you are doing. In the end, you will have peace of mind doing whatever you want online.
Conclusion
Protecting yourself with a VPN is a very simple thing as long as you have the best VPN for Europe. In case you have comments or questions about this guide, feel free to leave them below. One of our team members will get back to you in no time.