Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are at the forefront of providing users with this much-needed security, anonymity and privacy. A VPN works by routing your device’s Internet connection through a private server, rather than through your Internet Service Provider (ISP). This ensures that when your data is sent to the internet, it comes from the VPN rather than your computer.
Many VPN providers offer different security solutions, but the top contenders remain those that offer state-of-the-art encryption methods, user-friendly interfaces, fast connections and robust privacy policies. In 2023, many VPN services stand out, but Mullvad VPN shines the brightest among them. This article examines the offerings of various VPN services, with a special focus on Mullvad VPN and why it will be the best VPN service in 2024.
Here we will talk about some of the popular VPN services and compare their advantages for you as a customer:
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has been a fan favourite for years. The company’s extensive global server coverage (over 3,000 servers in 94 countries), robust platform support, excellent customer service, and commendable commitment to user privacy have earned it a considerable following. However, one major drawback that’s often highlighted is the service’s relatively higher pricing model compared to its competitors. Unfortunately, some time ago this service was purchased by Kape Technologies, a company based in Israel, which is notorious for not respecting the privacy of its customers. This is an important factor to consider before choosing this VPN service.
NordVPN
Based in Panama (but actually in Lithuania), NordVPN has made a name for itself with its high-speed connection and robust security measures. It boasts a massive network of over 5,400 servers in 59 countries around the world, providing users with a reliable and fast connection. NordVPN also uses advanced encryption standards, along with bonus features such as Double VPN and Onion over VPN for added security. However, NordVPN’s recent security breach has raised questions about its security, leaving users looking for more reliable alternatives.
Back in 2018, NordVPN’s network was hacked, and unfortunately they weren’t really honest with their customers up front, only officially acknowledging the hack after a few months.
For end users, it could be really important how their security is handled.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost is known for its user-friendly interface, making it the perfect choice for VPN newbies. It has a wide network of servers and offers robust security features, including AES-256 encryption, DNS leak protection and an automatic kill switch. However, its slower connection speeds and opaque ownership details have raised some eyebrows among more privacy-conscious users.
Like Express VPN, CyberGhost is a service provided by Kape Technologies, so in our opinion this may be a negative point that privacy-conscious users should be aware of.
Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is offered by a company based in Sweden and has been in operation since 2009. The name ‘Mullvad’ means ‘mole’ in Swedish, symbolising the service’s mission to help its users stay private and secure, like a mole burrowing underground.
One of Mullvad’s distinguishing features is its commitment to user anonymity. They have a no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track or store any data related to your internet activity. What’s more, Mullvad doesn’t even require an email address to sign up. Instead, users are given a randomly generated account number, which serves as the only identifier for the account.
The Sweden-based VPN provider prioritises user privacy, ensuring an anonymous, secure and private browsing experience. Mullvad’s unique approach to account creation and payment sets it apart from the competition, offering anonymous accounts identified only by a random number and accepting payments via bitcoin and even cash sent by post.
Mullvad VPN uses OpenVPN and WireGuard, the most secure and fastest VPN protocols available today. It offers AES-256 encryption, a kill switch and even blocks the WebRTC protocol to protect your privacy. In terms of global reach, Mullvad VPN has over 700 servers in 36 countries. While this may not compare to the extensive networks of ExpressVPN or NordVPN, Mullvad’s approach is quality over quantity. Users rarely experience server congestion and connection speeds are excellent (over 300Mbps depending on your location and the server you connect to), making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as streaming, gaming and downloading large files.
One of the standout features of Mullvad VPN is its transparency and commitment to privacy. Unlike many of its competitors, Mullvad is open about its operations and publishes regular transparency reports. It’s one of the few VPN providers to accept anonymous payments, allowing users to pay in cash or cryptocurrency to avoid sharing billing information.
As of this year (2024), Mullvad VPN is our winner among other VPN providers because it fulfils the main purpose of a VPN service, which is to provide a service that improves the privacy and security of its users.
Please note that our results may change in the future as the companies‘ strategy changes and as mentioned in this article, some companies are acquired by larger companies which would eventually influence their services to their users.
