A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can keep people safe while browsing the web and unlock countless movies and shows from streamers like Netflix. According to Ofcom, the average person in the UK spends four hours and 30 minutes online every day, with 95% of the population aged 16 and over having internet access at home. With important aspects of everyday life, such as banking and doctor appointments, now going digital, the need for security is essential.
VPN services from brands including Proton VPN can protect users from hackers or scammers, keeping their data safe. They can also unlock a world of movies and TV shows, both in the UK and abroad, on major streaming platforms like Netflix or Disney+. However, some first-time users may find VPNs confusing, and there are many rival providers on the market.
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network – or VPN – is a technology that can be used for security while surfing the web. It allows people connected to the internet via their computer, laptop, smartphone or tablet to protect and encrypt their traffic and browsing data. It can help block ads, trackers and malware and ensure travellers can browse the internet safely and anonymously while using insecure public WiFi.
VPNs can also be used to unblock geo-restricted content and access websites that may only be available in certain countries. Many people use a VPN to unblock UK-based platforms such as streaming apps so they can watch certain movies and TV shows from abroad. The same applies to geo-restricted video games, with a VPN also allowing players to connect to the same servers as their friends. While this is a completely legal and legitimate online tool, some companies and broadcasters may consider the use of a VPN as a breach of their terms of service. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure their use of a VPN is legal, and the Mirror does not encourage any illegal use of a VPN.
How does a VPN work?
A VPN works by setting up a secure, encrypted connection between a device and the internet through servers managed by brands like Proton VPN. The VPN acts like a middleman between a device and an internet service provider (ISP) such as Sky or Virgin Media, with data fed through and protected by the VPN’s servers. This hides online activity from the ISP and also conceals a user’s IP address, the unique identifier attributed to any device using the internet. It can also change a device’s IP address to one in a different location, making the website or platform believe the device is actually elsewhere.
How to get a VPN
VPNs are available online for desktop computers, laptops, smartphones and more from a range of providers, including Proton VPN. This brand offers all the features mentioned above with access to servers in 140 countries. Customers can currently get up to 70% off a VPN subscription when signing up for one of its monthly or annual plans. The biggest discount comes with Proton’s two-year plan at £2.39 per month (was £7.99), which saves £134 from the original price. A caveat is that this must be paid upfront at £57.36 for the first 24 months, after which it will renew at £67.08 every 12 months unless cancelled.
Other subscriptions include Proton’s one-year plan at £3.19 (was £7.99), saving £58, and its monthly-rolling plan at £7.99. While more expensive, the latter offers much greater flexibility than those with long-term commitments. However, all three options come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so they can be tried risk-free.
Other VPN deals
Other popular brands include Express VPN, which offers savings up to £266 across its three subscription tiers. The most affordable option is its 28-month Basic plan at £69.72 (was £279.72), which comes with the chance to win an iPhone 17 Pro, 10 simultaneous connections and access to servers in 105 countries. NordVPN is another well-known brand and currently offers up to 75% off plus three months of extra service from £69.93 (was £234.63). While a more expensive option than ProtonVPN and ExpressVPN, this provides access to servers in a whopping 224 locations, as well as 10 simultaneous connections.
ProtonVPN claims it is trusted by more than 100 million users around the world, some of whom have left glowing reviews on Trustpilot. “I’ve had nothing but a good experience with them,” one says. “They have a proven record and are upfront about all their policies. Their service covers everything. I use their VPN because it’s fast and reliable and has many features and servers.” Another says: “Good VPN provider with solid reputation. I tried a few, but Proton is much better than their competitors. Lots of servers to choose. I tried the desktop app a few times for browsing only, and it’s pretty fast.” However, the same reviewer also noted a downside, adding: “Only downside is their two-year billing, which is a pretty long commitment.” While another five-star review says: “I’ve used Proton VPN for over two years without a single issue. The connection is consistently fast and stable across all protocols, and the apps work like a charm on both desktop and mobile.”
