When considering privacy and security, PIA VPN stands out as one of the top options. Explore its features, performance, pricing, and additional details in this comprehensive review.
Private Internet Access has established itself as a prominent figure in the VPN industry over the years. With a vast server network spanning 91 countries, it delivers swift speeds via its adaptable application. Its compatibility extends to Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, and routers.
Although its presence in the heavily monitored United States may cause hesitation for some users, PIA’s combination of security, speed, and user-friendliness positions it as a robust VPN solution for the current year.
Private Internet Access VPN pricing
| Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 year | $3.33 per month |
| 3 years (+4 months free) | $1.98 per month |
| 1 month | $11.95 per month |
| 7-day free trial | Free via Android and iOS (account can be used in desktop apps after mobile sign in) |
All three PIA subscriptions offer identical features, ensuring no key features are missed regardless of the plan chosen.
Opting for PIA VPN’s one-year subscription at $3.33 per month is the most cost-effective choice, placing it in the middle tier for yearly plan pricing.
While the three-year plan, priced at $1.98 per month, is highly affordable, the extended commitment may not be worthwhile for everyone. Conversely, PIA VPN’s one-month plan is pricier than many competitors, making the former two subscriptions more appealing options.
PIA provides a 30-day money-back guarantee for all plans. Although a full-fledged free version would benefit first-time VPN users, PIA offers a seven-day trial via its mobile app (available on iOS and Android).
During testing, I discovered seamless access to the desktop version using the same credentials from the seven-day mobile trial. While a dedicated desktop trial is preferable, this workaround is convenient and simple to set up.
My recommendation is to fully utilize the seven-day mobile trial across various devices, allowing hands-on experience with the service before committing to a subscription.
Is Private Internet Access VPN safe?
PIA VPN offers both OpenVPN and WireGuard, two leading security protocols, providing users with a balanced blend of security and speed. It employs 256-bit AES encryption, includes a dependable kill switch, and safeguards against DNS leaks.
However, there are drawbacks stemming from PIA’s operational base in the United States and its ownership by Kape Technologies, which previously had a history associated with distributing malware and adware. PIA asserts its independence from Kape despite the acquisition.
To address security concerns, PIA maintains a strict no-logs policy, audited by Deloitte in 2022, and employs RAM-only servers to automatically erase any potential user data traces. Additionally, the company issues a Transparency Report detailing court orders and requests for logs, reaffirming its commitment to user privacy.
In my view, despite valid concerns regarding ownership and jurisdiction, PIA demonstrates itself as a secure and dependable VPN service in 2024.
Key features of Private Internet Access VPN
PIA VPN offers a combination of conventional and distinctive VPN features, catering to potential buyers’ varying needs. Now, let’s delve into some of the standout features offered by PIA.
Impressive server fleet
Figure A
PIA VPN boasts servers spanning across 91 countries, offering users a wide array of locations to select from. While PIA doesn’t disclose its precise server count, estimates range from approximately 10,000 to nearly 35,000 servers.
These figures are notably impressive, particularly when compared to the server counts of leading VPN competitors, which typically range from 3,000 to 5,000 servers. The extensive server network proves advantageous for users aiming to bypass geo-restrictions or seeking high-speed connections from servers nearby.
Furthermore, PIA recently announced the deployment of 50 servers in each of the 50 U.S. states, further enhancing its network coverage.
Figure B
For U.S. residents, this serves as a valuable addition, enabling access to blocked sports or news broadcasts, as well as unlocking geo-restricted accounts and services limited to particular states.
Customizable VPN experience
PIA provides users with options to tailor their VPN usage. One method is through its automation feature, allowing you to configure automated actions for the VPN each time it connects to a specific network.
Figure C
For instance, you have the option to instruct PIA to activate the VPN when your device connects to an open or insecure network, or deactivate it when you switch to an Ethernet connection.
Additionally, PIA VPN offers users the ability to bookmark or pin specific sections of the application for convenient access.
Figure D
This straightforward and handy usability feature facilitates enhanced customization, particularly for users keen on prioritizing specific features or statistics over others.
Unlimited device connections
Private Internet Access VPN has upgraded its subscription to permit an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections, replacing its previous 10-device limit. While the previous allowance was already generous, the shift to unlimited connections is a noteworthy enhancement.
This feature is particularly valuable for VPN users juggling numerous devices for both professional and personal purposes.
Performance: Is Private Internet Access VPN fast?
Throughout my evaluation of PIA, I consistently experienced satisfactory speeds. Utilizing the VPN for activities such as streaming 4K and 1080p YouTube videos, participating in online video conferences, and utilizing Google Workspace apps (Drive, Docs, and Keep), I encountered no noticeable delays or slowdowns. PIA VPN also delivered commendable performance in terms of download and upload speeds, with the upload speed experiencing minimal reduction compared to other VPNs.
Furthermore, PIA VPN effectively maintained DNS leak protection. Multiple tests using a public DNS leak tool across different servers yielded no leaks.
Regarding in-app performance, I found Private Internet Access to be among the speediest VPNs I’ve used. Switching servers and establishing new connections were notably swift and efficient, even when connecting to distant locations.
However, I encountered a minor issue that slightly detracted from PIA’s performance. Upon initially switching to the WireGuard protocol, PIA failed to establish a connection to a server. This issue persisted even when attempting servers closer to my location, in contrast to the app’s performance with OpenVPN. Nevertheless, after restarting the application twice, the bug appeared to resolve itself, allowing me to connect.
Based on my research, it appears that while some users have encountered similar issues, they are typically minor and easily resolved.
Private Internet Access VPN servers and locations
While Private Internet Access VPN does not disclose the exact number of server types, it has previously stated an estimated range of 10,000 to 35,000 servers, positioning it among the largest server networks available. These servers are distributed across 91 countries, offering extensive coverage.
Geographically, Private Internet Access VPN maintains server presence in the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. Notably, PIA ensures at least one server in each of the 50 U.S. states, which is advantageous for U.S. citizens seeking diverse server locations within the country.
Regrettably, Private Internet Access VPN does not offer specialized servers for streaming or torrenting. However, it features PIA NextGen servers, which are colocated servers fully owned and managed by PIA, operating on advanced, high-speed, and secure hardware.
In summary, while PIA’s expansive server network is commendable, the absence of specialized server types for security, streaming, or torrenting is a notable area for improvement.
PIA VPN pros
- Impressive 10,000-35,000 server suite.
- Very customizable VPN experience.
- Servers for all 50 U.S. states.
- Reliable kill switch.
- Fast upload and download speeds.
- 7-day trial via mobile versions.
PIA VPN cons
- US-based, owned by controversial Kape Technologies.
- No free version.
- No specialized servers.
- WireGuard protocol may be buggy.
How good is PIA VPN?
In 2024, Private Internet Access VPN stands out as a reliable VPN option. With its extensive server network, customizable application, and support for unlimited device connections, it offers a robust service. Additionally, its provision of 50 servers covering all 50 U.S. states enhances its appeal, particularly for American users seeking localized servers.
Despite potential concerns surrounding its U.S. operations and parent company, PIA VPN effectively addresses essential aspects, making it a highly viable choice in the current VPN landscape.
How we evaluated Private Internet Access VPN
In my evaluation of PIA VPN, I conducted a thorough examination of its standout features, pricing, and real-world performance. I also spent time using PIA via their Windows application.
To assess upload and download speeds, I utilized Ookla’s public Speedtest. Additionally, I performed multiple DNS leak tests using DNSLeakTest.
Ultimately, I assigned a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars to PIA VPN based on various factors, including its protocols and pricing, using an internal algorithm. This rating considered PIA VPN both independently and in comparison to other VPN services currently available.
