Top 10 Best Virtual Private Network (VPN) Software Platforms in 2021

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A virtual private network (VPN) software is defined as a program that allows online privacy and anonymity by creating an encrypted and private connection on the internet. With an increasing number of businesses opting to use virtual private network (VPN) services in recent times, finding the right VPN for an organization has become challenging. Making the right choice goes a long way to protect the data of an organization as well as its customers. This article explains the key must-have features and the top VPN software in 2021.

Table of Contents 

• Key Must-Have Features of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in 2021
  
• Top 10 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in 2021

Key Must-Have Features of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in 2021

A virtual private network (VPN) software is a program that allows online privacy and anonymity by creating an encrypted and private connection on the internet.

A virtual private network (VPN) gives businesses the ability to create a secure and private connection between work computers and the internet. This can be done over a public network (for example, public Wi-Fi at airports or in hotel rooms) by encrypting details of the origin, destination, and interaction.

While one cannot remain completely anonymous, a significant part of all internet usage remains concealed through the VPN. This goes a long way to protect the data of the organization and clients, particularly when security can be sketchy when one is using hardware or software that is not updated frequently. 

With many businesses resorting to VPN services in recent times and competition becoming increasingly intense, an organization must evaluate VPNs for the right features. The ‘SSL VPN market‘ research report by Brand Essence Market Research valued the SSL VPN at USD 3.59 billion in 2018 and projected that it would reach USD 5.96 billion by 2025 with a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. The industry is well on its way to achieving that goal. 

1. Enterprise support and plan

When choosing a VPN service, check whether it is designed for private users or businesses. It is important to explore and invest in plans specifically meant for businesses to allow for more seamless integration with your workspace. 

A business-centric VPN provides a company’s IT department the ability to manage all their VPN connections, with the flexibility of making accessible or withholding data from different categories of employees. This ensures that the data is safe. Individual plans will not be able to do this. With a business plan, a bonus would be the inclusion of anti-malware and a centralized billing system that can be tailored for a company. 

Also Read: What Is a Virtual Private Network(VPN)? Definition, Components, Types, Functions, and Best Practices

2. Encryption protocol

A VPN software should be transparent about the protocols it uses for encryption. Ideally, VPN services should utilize the latest encryption measures to ensure the safety of their client’s data. 

Businesses need features, such as AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN functionality, and products that offer independent auditing by a trusted third party. VPN services that accept anonymous payments offer incorporation of open source software if needed, and clearly disclose vulnerabilities are worth considering. Besides having measures to prevent IP and DNS leaks, a VPN should offer a range of protocols, such as kill switches, split tunneling, and Tor compatibility.

3. Firewalls

This is not an easily found service, but if a VPN service offers a firewall as an additional line of security for a connection, then it is an important aspect to consider. A firewall protects a device from potential hacker attacks. A firewall enhances the security quotient of a VPN by ten times. This does not, however, mean that without it, a VPN is vulnerable. 

4. Fast connectivity

Security is undoubtedly a vital feature in the choice of a VPN; however, speed is of critical importance as well. High-quality data encryption requires good internet speed. Slow connectivity does not bode well for a business – it can lead to downtime, glitches, and, as a result, low rates of conversion. When exploring VPNs for an organization, give the internet speed just as much consideration as security.

5. Multi-platform compatibility apps

With work-from-home (WFH) increasingly being the norm, a larger number of companies are adopting the bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policy to ensure that there is no workflow disruption. There are dangers with BYOD, which a VPN can address if chosen wisely. Most individuals tend to use a minimum of 3 to 4 devices to access work-related software.

Choosing a VPN that works on just one or two devices doesn’t offer flexibility. A good VPN service should offer cross-platform compatible apps to ensure seamless working systems. These should ideally include laptops, smart TVs, PCs/Macs, iOS/Android devices. In case a platform is not available, at least configuration files and tutorials should be part of the package. 

Also Read: Beyond the Zero Trust Hype: Is VPN Responsible for the Big Switch?

6. Privacy policies

The logging policies of VPNs can be vague. Ideally, a VPN service should have a zero logs policy, which means that there is no data stored, which may lead to the identification of the user. However, this is still a gray area with VPN services. While some VPNs store logs of bandwidth usage and load on the server for optimization purposes, many others also store data of the origin IP address, DNS requests, as well as other online activity details. 

Contractual jargon can be difficult to sift through. The main question that should be answered is what categories of data are stored in zero logs or minimal logs offerings. Bringing in a third party for such evaluation is a great approach. 

7. Server location

Distance plays an important role in the efficiency of VPN servers. Some companies with multiple branches worldwide prefer a company that has servers globally, which can service their many offices. Others prefer servers being close to their headquarters and data centers. The right distance can reduce the chances of a network failure, and this is an important feature to consider. 

8.Technical support

The role of a good VPN service provider does not end at providing a package. Of course, companies have IT departments to deal with network issues, but VPN services need to provide technical support as swiftly as possible when required. VPN errors can occur and can result in the devastation of a business’s bottom line, particularly those that are rooted in cloud services. Companies should evaluate a VPN service based on the kind of support it offers. 

9. Kill switch

VPN server failures can happen. In such cases, you need a kill switch that prevents any reconnection attempt with the internet until the VPN connection is back up again. Services offering this feature should make it to your list. 

10. VPN blocking prevention

Some countries don’t allow the use of a VPN. If you happen to be in such a country, there are ways to get around this. One way is to choose a service that provides VPN blocking prevention. This connection goes in stealth mode into the deep packet inspection system preventing it from being detected as a private connection. This way, you can still use a VPN despite a ban. 

With these key features in mind, a business will be able to evaluate potential VPN services, narrow them down to a few to be tried and tested before making a decision.  

Also Read: Your VPN Infrastructure Might Not Be as Secure As You Think 

Top 10 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in 2021

A VPN service should be evaluated based on some important parameters, such as the number of simultaneous connections it allows, the level of security it offers, and whether the service provides a money-back guarantee. Let’s look at the top 10 VPN services in 2021 based on six key features.

Disclaimer: This alphabetical listing is based on publicly available information and includes software that is the best fit for mid-to-large enterprises. Readers are advised to conduct their own final research to ensure the selection of the VPN software that is the right fit for your unique organizational needs.

1. CyberGhost 

CyberGhost is ideal for startups that are looking for a good, value-for-money deal. Although it does not offer exclusive business VPN services, it ranks high in terms of affordability and the number of simultaneous connections. However, it does not provide any advanced control features. Additionally, it cannot unblock major video streaming sites that may have geographic restrictions. 

Key features:
A. Offers 256-bit encoding security.
B. Offers five simultaneous connections on one account.
C. 3800 servers in 60 countries.
D. OS support: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux
E. Does not offer services that cater specifically to businesses.

Pricing: CyberGhost offers one, six, and 18-month plans, with the last one offering the most in terms of savings. The one-month plan is priced at $895 a month, the six-month plan is priced at $551 a month, and the 18-month plan is priced at $189 a month. 

Offers 45 days money-back guarantee.

Also Read: What Is Data Security? Definition, Planning, Policy, and Best Practices

2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a powerful VPN service and stands well on its own. It is fast and reliable and unblocks most restricted sites, and comes with great privacy features.

Key features:
A. Provides military-grade encryption.
B. Offers three simultaneous connections on one account.
C. OS support: PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux.
D.1500 servers in 94 countries.
E. Does not work for businesses looking for advanced controls for heavy-duty usage.

Pricing: ExpressVPN offers three plans – monthly at $12.95 a month, half-yearly at $9.99 per month, and annual at $8.32 each month. 

Offers 30 days money-back guarantee. 

3. Encrypt.me

Encrypt.me is an excellent VPN setup, especially for small businesses, because it offers an unlimited number of device connections on one account. It is simple to use, comes with a flexible pricing option, and uses a minimal interface that runs in the background constantly. 

Key features:
A. Security features include DNS protection, auto-secure function, content filtering, and private endpoints.
B. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
C. 78 locations on six continents.
D. Does not delete all logs but stores some amount of data. 

Pricing: Encrypt.me offers two plans – the unlimited plan at $9.99 per month and the annual plan at $99.99 per year. 

Offers 30-day money-back if purchase the software directly from the website. 

Also Read: What Is a Firewall? Definition, Key Components, and Best Practices

4. Hotspot Shield

This is a popular VPN choice for businesses looking for super-fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth, along with a host of high-end security features. It comes with a customized admin console and offers round-the-clock technical support. It also offers a free VPN with a limited set of features. 

Key features:
A. The security offered is military-grade 256-Bit encryption protocol and a strict no-logs policy.
B. Five devices can be linked to one account.
C. OS support: PC, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome.
D. Servers at 115 locations in 35+ cities.
E. Does not offer 100% zero-logging. 

Pricing: Hotspot Shield offers two plans – Premium at $7.99 and Premium Family at $11.99. It also offers a free trial plan.

Offers a 45-day money-back guarantee. 

5. HostNoc

HostNoc is a server hosting company that primarily rents business VPNs to organizations. A business will be able to rent a private company VPN for the exclusive use of your employees. Customer service is also available 24/7. HostNoc also offers services that grow with your business. 

Key features:
A. Offers a security guarantee of 99.99% uptime.
B. Five devices can be linked to one account.
C. Available for Windows and Linux-based servers.
D. Limited disk space on offer.
E. No option for yearly payment. 

Pricing: HostNoc offers four packages – HN-B1- B4, each with varying parameters of the services provided and varying price ranges. The pricing begins at $34.99 and goes up to $64.95. 

Offers money-back guarantee of 15 days. 

Also Read: DNS Spoofing: What It Is and How to Fight Back  

6. NetProtect – IPVanishOpens a new window

The main advantage IPVanish has over competitors is that it has a large network of servers. With such large networks, the chances of traffic congestion are lower, and this ensures good speeds. It comes with a host of security and privacy features and a searchable knowledge base. 

Key features:
A. The security offered is a default 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol, SHA512 authentication, DHE-RSA 2,048-bit
key exchange with perfect forward secrecy, Internet kill switch, and a strict zero-logs policy.
B. There is no metering of VPN connections.
C. OS support: Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Amazon.
D. 1500+ servers in 75 locations.
E. Does not offer browser connections. Security can be compromised because of shared IPs. 

Pricing: IPVanish offers plans for one month, three months, and one year. Prices begin at $10 a month for the monthly plan and go up to $6.49 per month for the annual plan. 

Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Click here to sign up for NetProtect – IP VanishOpens a new window

7. NordVPN

NordVPN is among the oldest VPN service providers and one of the best VPNs with a stellar legacy. It offers great value for money and competes well across all features with other service providers in the segment. It comes with unlimited bandwidth, ensuring speed while providing safety. 

Key features:
A. The security offered is military-grade 256-bit AES protocol, uses 2048-bit SSL keys, DNS leak protection enabled, strict zero-logs.
B. Six simultaneous connections per account.
C. OS support: Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux.
D. 5100 servers in 60 countries.
E. The service is not user-friendly. 

Pricing: NordVPN pricing starts at $12.38 per month. It does not offer a free trial.

Money-back guarantee of 30 days. 

Also Read: What Is a Phishing Email Attack? Definition, Identification, and Prevention Best Practices

8. Perimeter 81 Business VPN

Here is a specialized business VPN that allows businesses to deploy private VPN servers that staff members can connect to from anywhere across the world. It offers some unique security features, such as network segmentation, that keep any sensitive data safe from breaches. Businesses with multiple offices can set up site-to-site VPNs connecting two networks. 

Key features:
A. Offers security with 256-bit AES and network segmentation.
B. Five connections per account.
C. OS support: Windows, Chrome, Android, macOS, Linux.
D. 700 servers in 36 locations.
E. Not an affordable option. 

Pricing: Perimeter81 has three main packages – essential, premium, and enterprise. These can be availed on a monthly or annual basis. With the enterprise package, pricing can be customized. The pricing for this VPN service starts at $8.00 per year, per user. It does not offer a free trial.

Money-back guarantee of 30 days. 

9. TorGuard

Their wide selection of servers ensures that your business will always have a reliable connection. It offers expert-level configuration abilities. There are three business plans to choose from, and they vary based on the number of users it covers, along with dedicated IP and email addresses. 

Key features:
A. Offers security with 256-bit AES, stealth VPN. Plus, no logs are stored.
B. Supports all OS and devices.
C. 3000 servers at 50+ locations.
D. The number of simultaneous connections varies based on the package chosen.
E. Unimpressive latency performance. 

Pricing: TorGuard offers three packages – Anonymous Proxy, Anonymous VPN, Anonymous Email, and Privacy Bundle. Users can avail of recurring discounts applicable to each of these packages. They can choose from monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, annual, or biennial billing cycles. Anonymous Proxy is priced at $5.95 per month, Anonymous VPN is priced at $9.99 per month, Anonymous Email is priced at $6.95 per month, and Privacy Bundle is priced at $11.54 per month.

Money back guarantee of 7 days. 

10. VyprVPN

One of the main reasons VyprVPN ranks high on VPN service lists is that it manages its own servers, and that is a major plus point. The software is intuitive and simple to use. 

Key features:
A. Security features offer OpenVPN, PPTP, and L2TP/IPsec protocols, NAT Firewall, Vypr’s own Chameleon technology (2.0), and VPN blocking and throttling.
B. The number of simultaneous connections varies based on the package chosen.
C. 700 servers at 70+ locations.
D. Does not have an informative website.
E. Users have to pick a free trial to browse through all offerings. 

Pricing: VyprVPN offers a range of packages for enterprises. Prices begin at $2.50 per month in the 24-month plan and go up to $12.95 per month. The VPN service also offers 12-month plans. 

Money-back guarantee of 30 days.

Takeaway

VPN services help a business protect its data while giving employees the freedom to communicate within safe environments. It, therefore, becomes essential to conduct thorough research before choosing a VPN service that best suits your business needs. 

Did this article help you narrow down your research for the best VPN providers? Comment below or let us know on LinkedInOpens a new window , TwitterOpens a new window , or FacebookOpens a new window . We’d love to hear from you!