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Private Internet Access (PIA) is a US-based virtual private network (VPN) provider that offers an affordable option for users looking to protect their online privacy. With a wide range of privacy and security features, PIA is a popular choice among budget-conscious individuals.
Pricing and Subscriptions
PIA stands out among other VPN providers for its competitive pricing. With subscriptions starting at just $8.45 per month in the US and £8.99 per month in the UK, PIA offers a cost-effective solution for those looking to secure their online activities. Additionally, the service offers discounted rates for longer-term subscriptions, with options for one, three, or six-year plans.
Privacy and Protection
One of the standout features of PIA is its commitment to privacy. The service has a clear and explicit no-logging policy, which has been independently audited to ensure its validity. PIA also publishes the source code for much of its software, allowing users to verify the security and privacy of the service.
As a US-based provider, PIA operates under the jurisdiction of the United States. While the US does not currently have mandatory data retention laws, the fact that PIA has been tested in court and found to have no logs is reassuring. The service has received various court orders and demands for data, but it has not handed over any logs, as it does not keep them.
Features and Usability
PIA offers a user-friendly interface that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The service provides graphical clients for Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as detailed instructions for setting up connections on other operating systems and devices. This wide range of compatibility allows users to protect their online activities across multiple devices.
The service also offers a range of features to enhance privacy and security. These include a VPN kill switch, which automatically cuts off internet traffic if the VPN connection is lost, and ad-tracker blockers to prevent online tracking. PIA also supports custom DNS and port forwarding, as well as offering a range of encryption settings for users to customize their VPN connection.
Performance
While PIA offers fast transfer speeds in Europe, its performance in the US is relatively poor. In recent tests, PIA’s WireGuard protocol achieved speeds of 48.8 Mbps in the UK, 85.6 Mbps in the Netherlands, and 20.8 Mbps in the US. These speeds are lower than those achieved by some other VPN providers.
Furthermore, PIA has been detected by most streaming services, making it a poor choice for users looking to stream content from platforms such as Netflix or Hulu. However, the service does offer some streaming-optimized endpoints that can be used as a workaround.
Verdict
Private Internet Access is a decent budget choice for users looking to protect their online privacy. With its affordable pricing, wide range of privacy and security features, and commitment to no-logging, PIA offers a reliable and secure VPN service. However, its relatively poor performance in the US and limited streaming capabilities may be a drawback for some users. For those looking for faster connection speeds and better streaming options, alternatives such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark may be more suitable options.