Best VPN services 2026: Expert tested and recommended

Virtual private networks encrypt your traffic, mask your IP address and add a layer of security that helps keep online communications private. They can limit marketer tracking, prevent data collection and sharing, unblock location-restricted content and give access to streaming libraries outside your region.

Many subscriptions also bundle extras such as ad blockers, Dark Web breach alerts, data-breach scanners and password managers. The guide was thoroughly revised for 2026 with updated top picks and alternatives. NordVPN is the top recommendation, noted for fast, consistent speeds, broad streaming support and a large server footprint.

It includes features such as P2P support, optional Double VPN, a kill switch and a pause function, and its apps for macOS and Windows were recently refreshed. Plans start at $2.69 per month on a two-year term; accounts allow 10 simultaneous connections and cover 126 countries.

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