Private Internet Access VPN Review (2024): How Good is PIA VPN?
Private Internet Access VPN Review (2024): How Good is PIA VPN? TechRepublic
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Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Private Internet Access VPN
Private Internet Access Fast facts
- Our rating: 4.2 stars out of 5
- Pricing: Starts at $3.33 (annual plan)
- Key features:
- 10,000-35,000 servers across 91 countries.
- Customizable VPN experience.
- Unlimited device connections.
Private Internet Access has been a long-time player in the VPN space. It has a massive server fleet that spans across 91 countries and offers fast speeds through its customizable application. Supported platforms include Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Smart TVs and routers.
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While its operation in the surveillance-heavy United States may sway some users, PIA’s balance of security, speed and usability make it a strong VPN solution this year.
Private Internet Access VPN pricing
| Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 year | $3.33 per month |
| 3 years (+4 months free) | $1.98 per month |
| 1 month | $11.95 per month |
| 7-day free trial | Free via Android and iOS (account can be used in desktop apps after mobile sign in) |
All three subscriptions for PIA come with the same set of features, so you won’t have to worry about missing any key features if you choose one plan over the other.
PIA VPN’s one-year subscription is the most reasonable at $3.33 per month. It slots in at the middle tier in terms of VPN pricing for a yearly plan.
The three-year plan is also very affordable at $1.98 per month, but the $2-dollar spend may not be worth it if you don’t want the three-year-long time investment. Lastly, PIA VPN’s one-month plan is more expensive than many competitors, so it’s best to go with either of the two former subscriptions instead.
Like most modern VPNs, PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for the three plans. While I do wish that PIA had a full-fledged free version (which would be great for first-time VPN users), it does provide a seven-day trial through its mobile application (iOS and Android).
In my testing, I found that I could use the same account I got through the seven-day mobile free trial and then log into a desktop version of PIA using the same credentials. Having a dedicated desktop free trial is preferred, but the workaround for the free trial was painless and easy to set up.
My recommendation would be to fully utilize the seven-day mobile free trial and use it on your desktop or device of choice. This way, you get some hands-on time with the service without spending on an initial payment.
Is Private Internet Access VPN safe?
PIA VPN comes with two of the most important security protocols today: OpenVPN and WireGuard. This gives users a good balance of security (with OpenVPN) and speed (with WireGuard). It also uses 256-bit AES encryption, has a reliable kill switch and protects against DNS leaks.
With PIA VPN’s company background, there are drawbacks. First, PIA operates in the United States, which can be a red flag for users that are wary of the country’s surveillance practices. Next is PIA VPN’s ownership. Like CyberGhost VPN, it’s currently owned by Kape Technologies — which acquired PIA back in 2019.
Kape (formerly Crossrider) had been associated with distributing malware and adware before it rebranded and started moving into the cybersecurity industry. PIA itself addressed the acquisition and emphasized that the VPN service operates as a separate entity independent of Kape.
In terms of addressing security concerns, PIA VPN does have a no-logs policy, which states that it does not keep records of user IP addresses, browsing history, session timestamps and the like.
This no-logs policy has been independently confirmed and verified by Deloitte in 2022. The VPN service also utilizes RAM-only servers, which means any possible traces of user data are automatically erased upon reboot.
Lastly, the company has a public Transparency Report that outlines court orders and requests for logs. It reiterates that because the service doesn’t log any information, it doesn’t hand over any data to law enforcement.
In my opinion, while PIA’s ownership and US operations are valid concerns, the service has done enough to show that it is a safe and viable VPN service in 2024.
Key features of Private Internet Access VPN
PIA VPN comes with both industry-standard and unique VPN features for prospective VPN buyers. Let’s take a look at some of PIA’s highlight features.
Impressive server fleet
PIA VPN offers servers spread out across 91 countries, giving users a broad range of locations to choose from. In addition, while PIA doesn’t advertise the exact server count it has, it reportedly has around 10,000 to almost 35,000 servers.
These are very impressive numbers, especially since top VPN competitors only have around 3,000-5,000 servers. The high server count will benefit users who plan on unblocking geo-restricted content or want a quality server near their location for faster speeds.
PIA also recently announced that it now has 50 servers in all 50 U.S. states.
Customizable VPN experience
PIA allows users to customize their VPN experience in a few ways. One way is through its automation feature, which enables you to set automated actions for the VPN whenever it connects to a given network.
For example, you can set PIA to activate the VPN if your machine connects to an Open or unsecure network or have it turned off if you connect via an ethernet cable.
PIA VPN also enables users to bookmark or pin certain parts of the application to appear on top.
Unlimited device connections
PIA now allows an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections with one subscription. The service formerly had a 10-device limit, and while that was in the upper range of allowed device connections, the upgrade to having unlimited connections is
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | Target 9.c: Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the Internet in least developed countries by 2020 | The article discusses Private Internet Access (PIA) as a VPN service that provides fast speeds and operates across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, and routers. This indicates the availability and accessibility of internet services. |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements | The article mentions PIA’s no-logs policy, which states that it does not keep records of user IP addresses, browsing history, session timestamps, etc. This indicates the protection of user privacy and the promotion of fundamental freedoms. |
| SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | Target 17.16: Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology, and financial resources | The article mentions PIA’s transparency report, which outlines court orders and requests for logs. This indicates the commitment to transparency and accountability in partnership with stakeholders. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: techrepublic.com
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