VPN reviews

A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, protecting you on public Wi-Fi and keeping your browsing private from your internet provider and trackers. But VPNs are not all equal. Some keep logs despite “no-logs” marketing, leak your real IP through DNS, or slow your connection to a crawl.

At Cracking Station, VPNs are reviewed from a cybersecurity practitioner’s point of view by Mehmood Ali, a certified CEH and CEI instructor. Every review covers:

  • Privacy and security: encryption, audited no-logs claims, kill switch, DNS and IP leak protection, and company jurisdiction
  • Real-world performance: speed, server coverage, streaming access and use in restrictive countries
  • Value: first-term pricing versus renewal pricing, money-back guarantees and device limits
  • Usability: setup on Windows, Android, Linux and Kali, plus fixes for common errors

Our VPN reviews

Frequently asked questions

Are free VPNs safe?

Most free VPNs are not a good choice for privacy. They often limit speed and data, show ads, or make money by collecting and selling user data. A reputable paid VPN with an independently audited no-logs policy is the safer option.

What should I look for in a VPN?

Look for strong encryption, an audited no-logs policy, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, good speeds and fair renewal pricing, not just a cheap first-year deal.

Do I need a VPN for TryHackMe or Hack The Box?

Those platforms use their own OpenVPN configuration files to connect you to their labs. See our VPN setup guides for step-by-step instructions.

Some links in our reviews may be affiliate links. Our verdicts are based on hands-on testing, not commissions.

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