In 2025, digital life is more interconnected than ever. Whether you want to watch Netflix from abroad, secure your data on public Wi-Fi, or browse without being monitored, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an essential tool. With massive data collection and an abundance of marketing offers, protecting your privacy and accessing content freely is a priority. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right VPN? This article presents the 5 best VPNs, tested for speed, security, streaming compatibility, and value for money. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, discover the ideal solutions for browsing with peace of mind.
1.What is a VPN?
A VPN, or virtual private network, is a tool that establishes a secure connection between your device and the internet via a remote server. By masking your real IP address, it assigns you a new address corresponding to the location of the chosen server, such as a city in the United States, Japan, or the United Kingdom. Your data is encrypted, making your online activity invisible to hackers, your Internet service provider (ISP), or other entities. VPNs are legal and widely used to maintain privacy, access geo-restricted content, or secure remote work.
2.What is a VPN used for?
In 2025, a VPN offers many advantages:
Privacy: Protects your personal information from advertising tracking and online surveillance.
Security: Secures your connections on public Wi-Fi networks (cafes, airports, hotels) with encryption.
Access to geo-restricted content: Unblocks platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, or BBC iPlayer, no matter where you are.
Anonymous downloads: Allows you to download via P2P without your ISP seeing your activity.
Restriction bypassing: Access sites that are blocked on certain networks, such as in businesses or schools.
Secure remote working: Protects business data when connecting remotely.
3.How does a VPN work?
A VPN operates in three simple steps:
Connect to the server: Using the VPN app, you select a server in a country of your choice. Your data is redirected to that server.
Data encryption: The VPN uses strong encryption (usually AES-256) to protect your data, making it unreadable to anyone trying to intercept it.
IP masking: The server replaces your IP address with its own, making it appear as if you are browsing from a different location.
Result: Your internet traffic is secure and anonymous, and you can access content as if you were somewhere else. Modern protocols such as NordLynx, OpenVPN, and WireGuard ensure an optimal balance between speed and security.
4.Overview of the 5 best VPNs
After extensive testing evaluating speed, security, streaming compatibility, number of servers, and price, here are the 5 best VPNs in 2025:
1. NordVPN
Overview: Based in Panama, NordVPN is the global leader with over 6,400 servers in 111 countries. Strengths:
NordLynx protocol offering ultra-fast speeds (up to 950 Mbps in tests).
AES-256 encryption, audited no-logs policy, kill switch.
Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and other platforms.
Advanced features: Double VPN, Onion over VPN, malware protection.
Weaknesses: High monthly price with no long-term commitment.
Pricing: Starting at $3.99/month (2-year subscription), 30-day money-back guarantee.
Best for: Streaming, security, demanding users.
2. ExpressVPN
Overview: Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN offers more than 3,000 servers in 105 countries. Strengths:
Consistent speeds (up to 900 Mbps), perfect for 4K streaming.
Intuitive interface compatible with all devices (PC, mobile, Smart TV).
Unblocks all major streaming platforms.
24/7 customer support via live chat.
Weaknesses: More expensive than its competitors.
Pricing: Starting at $6.67/month (1-year subscription), 30-day money-back guarantee.
Best for: Simplicity, streaming, novice users.
3. Surfshark
Overview: Based in the Netherlands, Surfshark offers more than 3,200 servers in 100 countries. Strengths:
Unlimited simultaneous connections, ideal for families or multiple devices.
Competitive price: starting at $2.49/month (2-year subscription).
Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, and other services.
RAM-only servers for enhanced security.
Weaknesses: Fewer servers in some regions compared to NordVPN.
Pricing: Starting at $2.49/month (2-year subscription), 30-day money-back guarantee.
Best for: Limited budgets, multiple devices.
4. CyberGhost
Overview: Based in Romania, CyberGhost has over 10,000 servers in 100 countries. Pros:
Servers optimized for streaming (Netflix, Disney+, etc.).
User-friendly interface, perfect for beginners.
Affordable price: starting at $2.03/month (2-year subscription).
45-day money-back guarantee, the longest on the market.
Weaknesses: Speeds can be inconsistent on distant servers.
Pricing: Starting at $2.03/month (2-year subscription).
Best for: Streaming, tight budgets, simplicity.
5. Proton VPN
Overview: Based in Switzerland, Proton VPN focuses on privacy with more than 5,600 servers in 90 countries. Strengths:
Strict no-logs policy, independently audited.
High-performance free version, rare in the industry.
Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, and other platforms.
Secure Core feature for maximum security.
Weaknesses: Fewer servers in some regions compared to CyberGhost.
Pricing: Starting at $4.99/month (2-year subscription), 30-day money-back guarantee.
Best for: Privacy, privacy-conscious users.
5.How to choose the right VPN?
To find the ideal VPN, consider your specific needs:
Streaming: Check compatibility with Netflix, Disney+, or other platforms. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are excellent in this area.
Privacy: Look for an audited no-logs policy and a privacy-friendly jurisdiction (Proton VPN, NordVPN).
Budget: Surfshark and CyberGhost offer the best value for money.
Speed: Opt for modern protocols such as NordLynx or WireGuard (NordVPN, Surfshark).
Devices: Make sure the VPN is compatible with your devices (PC, mobile, Smart TV). Surfshark allows unlimited connections.
Customer support: 24/7 live chat is a plus (ExpressVPN, CyberGhost).
Practical tips:
Take advantage of money-back guarantees (30 to 45 days) to try it out risk-free.
Choose servers close to your location to optimize speed.
Enable the kill switch to prevent data leaks in case of disconnection.
6.Conclusion
In 2025, a VPN is essential for safe and free browsing. NordVPN stands out for its versatility and speed, ExpressVPN for its ease of use, Surfshark for its attractive price, CyberGhost for its dedicated streaming servers, and Proton VPN for its commitment to privacy. Whether you're looking to stream videos, download anonymously, secure your data, or stick to a budget, there's a VPN for you. Take advantage of trial periods or money-back guarantees to test them out and take control of your digital life today.
7.FAQ
Are VPNs legal? Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries, as long as they are used for lawful activities. They are commonly used for privacy and streaming.
Can I use a free VPN? Free VPNs, such as the free version of Proton VPN, are suitable for basic use, but they often have limitations (speed, servers, data). For streaming or downloading, a paid VPN is recommended.
How do I unblock Netflix with a VPN? Choose a reliable VPN (NordVPN, ExpressVPN), connect to a server in the country corresponding to the desired library, and refresh Netflix. Servers optimized for streaming make access easier.
Which VPN for P2P downloading? NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN are ideal thanks to their dedicated P2P servers, no-logs policy, and kill switch for increased security.
