BEST VPN TEST

Best VPN for Security

Kill switch, leak protection and encryption defaults.

What Should You Look For in a VPN for Security?

  • Encryption — Strong encryption protects your traffic from interception. AES-256 and ChaCha20 are common strong standards used by reputable providers.
  • Kill Switch — A kill switch blocks internet traffic if the VPN drops, helping prevent unencrypted data leaking outside the tunnel during disconnects.
  • DNS Protection — DNS protection routes your domain lookups through the VPN or a secured resolver, reducing the risk of DNS leaks and spoofing.
  • Threat Protection — Threat protection suites may block malicious domains, files, or trackers before they reach your device. Scope and effectiveness vary by provider.
  • Malware Protection — Some VPNs include malware blocking as part of a broader security suite. This can add a layer of defense but should not replace dedicated antivirus software.
  • Device Coverage — Security features are only useful if they reach the devices you use. Check that protections are available across your platforms, including mobile and router.

Compare VPNs for Security

All cells remain placeholders until verified data is entered manually. No VPN is marked as a winner; every provider has equal visual status.

VPNStatus
NordVPNPending test
ExpressVPNPending test
SurfsharkPending test
CyberGhostPending test
Proton VPNPending test

Why VPN Performance Matters for Security

Security features protect your traffic and devices from a range of threats, but no single feature covers everything. Encryption secures data in transit, a kill switch prevents leaks during drops, and DNS protection reduces spoofing risk. Threat and malware protection add further layers, but they should complement, not replace, dedicated security software. The most secure setup combines several features that are actually enabled on the devices you use.

How We Test VPNs

We test each VPN with our own subscription on real devices, using a consistent methodology across speed, streaming, gaming, privacy, security and price.

Explore VPN Profiles

NordVPN

All-round pick for speed and streaming once tests are in.

Status: Pending test · View profile

ExpressVPN

Premium consistency and polished apps.

Status: Pending test · View profile

Surfshark

Strong value; device limit pending verification.

Status: Pending test · View profile

CyberGhost

Beginner-friendly apps and labeled servers.

Status: Pending test · View profile

Proton VPN

Privacy-first; no-logs policy under review.

Status: Pending test · View profile

Frequently Asked Questions

What security features should a VPN have?

[EDITABLE ANSWER — Common security features include strong encryption, a kill switch, DNS protection, and optional threat or malware blocking. Which matter most depends on your threat model.]

What is a kill switch?

[EDITABLE ANSWER — A kill switch blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, helping prevent unencrypted data from leaking outside the tunnel.]

What is DNS protection?

[EDITABLE ANSWER — DNS protection routes your domain lookups through the VPN or a secured resolver, reducing the risk of DNS leaks and spoofing.]

What is threat protection?

[EDITABLE ANSWER — Threat protection suites may block malicious domains, files, or trackers before they reach your device. Scope and effectiveness vary by provider.]

Does a VPN protect every device?

[EDITABLE ANSWER — Only devices with the VPN active are protected. Some platforms, like consoles, may require router-level setup. Check coverage for all your devices.]

Affiliate Disclosure: Best VPN Test is an independent comparison site. Some links are affiliate links — if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Scores come from our own tests; we never sell placement.