Best VPN for Preventing Data Tracking by Advertisers

Choosing a VPN can feel like a daunting task, especially with so many options out there. But if you’re looking to keep advertisers from tracking your every move online, you’re in the right place. A good VPN can lock down your data and keep those pesky ads at bay. In this article, we’ll be diving into some of the best VPNs that help keep your online activities private and secure. Let’s get started!

1. NordVPN

When it comes to protecting your data from advertisers, NordVPN stands out as a top choice. It’s packed with features that keep your online activities private and secure. Let’s dive into what makes NordVPN a favorite among privacy enthusiasts.

Key Features

• Privacy-Friendly Location: NordVPN is based in Panama, a country known for its strong privacy laws, which means your data stays safe from prying eyes.
• Advanced Encryption: With up-to-date encryption protocols, your internet traffic is always secure. NordVPN offers features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN for those who need extra layers of protection.
• Large Server Network: Boasting over 7,100 servers in 118 countries, NordVPN ensures fast and reliable connections, whether you’re streaming, gaming, or just browsing.

Performance

NordVPN is renowned for its speed. In recent tests, it showed minimal speed loss, making it ideal for streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol ensures quick connections without sacrificing security.

Usability

NordVPN’s apps are user-friendly and available on almost every platform imaginable, from Windows and MacOS to Android and iOS, and even niche devices like Apple TV. This makes it accessible for everyone, whether you’re tech-savvy or not.

Additional Benefits

• Threat Protection: This feature blocks ads and malicious sites, enhancing your browsing experience and conserving data. It’s almost like having an ad blocker built into your VPN.
• Cryptocurrency Payments: For those who value anonymity, NordVPN allows payments via cryptocurrencies, adding an extra layer of privacy.

NordVPN offers a robust suite of privacy features in an intuitive package, making it a great choice for both casual users and those with serious privacy needs.

NordVPN’s Threat Protection powers Saily’s ad blocker, enhancing the browsing experience by reducing interruptions and conserving mobile data. This feature alone can make a significant difference in your online privacy and overall internet experience.

Pricing

NordVPN offers competitive pricing with plans starting at $13 monthly, but discounts are often available during sales events. While it might be pricier than some budget options, the features and security it provides are well worth the investment.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a VPN that prioritizes privacy and delivers excellent performance, NordVPN is a solid choice. Its combination of speed, security, and user-friendly design makes it a standout option in the crowded VPN market.

2. Surfshark

When it comes to privacy and security, Surfshark stands out with its robust features and affordability. Surfshark offers unlimited device connections, making it a perfect choice for families and tech-savvy users with multiple gadgets. The VPN’s commitment to a strict no-log policy ensures your online activities remain private, and its privacy-friendly jurisdiction in the Netherlands adds an extra layer of protection.

Key Features

• No-Log Policy: Surfshark doesn’t track or store your online activities, ensuring total privacy.
• Unlimited Connections: Connect as many devices as you want with a single subscription.
• Advanced Encryption: Uses AES-256 encryption, one of the most secure encryption standards available.
• Kill Switch: Protects your data by disconnecting your internet if the VPN connection drops.

Performance

Surfshark is known for its impressive speed, maintaining up to 86% of your original internet speed. This makes it ideal for streaming, gaming, and other data-heavy activities. With over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, Surfshark provides fast and stable connections worldwide.

Pricing

Surfshark offers competitive pricing, especially with its long-term plans. Starting at just $2.19/month for a two-year plan, it’s one of the most affordable high-performance VPNs. Plus, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

Surfshark combines speed, security, and affordability, making it a top choice for users looking to protect their privacy without breaking the bank.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a top choice for those serious about privacy and security. It’s renowned for its robust privacy measures, ensuring your data remains protected from prying eyes. Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN benefits from a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, which keeps it out of reach of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance.

Key Features

• RAM-Based Servers: These servers enhance privacy by wiping all data upon reboot, leaving no trace of your online activity.
• Custom Lightway Protocol: This protocol ensures fast and secure connections, making it ideal for streaming and browsing.
• No-Logging Policy: ExpressVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning your data is never stored or shared.

Streaming Capabilities

ExpressVPN excels at bypassing geo-restrictions, allowing you to access content from services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney Plus, no matter where you are in the world. It’s particularly effective for streaming sports events and out-of-market games.

Device Compatibility

You can use ExpressVPN on almost any device, from Windows and Mac to iOS and Android. There’s even support for routers, allowing you to protect every device on your home network.

Pricing

While ExpressVPN is on the pricier side, with monthly costs around $13, it includes a suite of security features, such as a password manager and identity theft protection. Consider the value of these additions when weighing the cost.

ExpressVPN’s Data Removal feature is part of its comprehensive identity protection services, offering an extra layer of privacy.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Strong privacy protections
• Fast and reliable connections
• Excellent for streaming

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to other VPNs
• Limited to eight simultaneous connections

ExpressVPN is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their online privacy and access global content seamlessly. Its advanced security features and commitment to privacy make it a standout option in the crowded VPN market.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a solid choice if you’re looking for a VPN with a robust server network and reliable privacy features. With over 10,000 servers in more than 100 countries, it offers a vast array of options for users. This makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy streaming, as it can unblock a wide variety of content from different regions.

Key Features of CyberGhost

• NoSpy Servers: These are special servers operated by CyberGhost itself, located in Romania. They offer enhanced privacy since Romania’s laws are favorable to VPNs and don’t require data retention.
• Kill Switch: Available on all platforms, this feature ensures that your internet connection is cut off if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, protecting your data from exposure.
• Content Blocker: CyberGhost includes a feature to block malicious websites, tracking scripts, and ads, which is great for maintaining privacy and improving browsing speed.

Pricing and Plans

CyberGhost offers flexible subscription plans, including a competitive two-year plan that is quite affordable. Users can also take advantage of a free trial to test its features. If you’re exploring budget-friendly options, check out free VPN services for alternatives to paid plans. Here’s a quick look at the pricing:

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extensive server network
• User-friendly interface
• Strong privacy features

Cons:

• Connection speeds can be inconsistent
• Some advanced features are missing

CyberGhost provides a comprehensive VPN solution with a focus on privacy and ease of use. While it may not have all the advanced features of some competitors, its vast server network and user-friendly design make it a strong contender for those looking to prevent data tracking by advertisers.

For those interested in trying it out, CyberGhost offers a free trial that allows users to explore its features without commitment.

5. Mullvad

Mullvad is a standout choice for those valuing anonymity and privacy online. With a flat fee of $5 per month, Mullvad keeps things simple, avoiding the complex pricing schemes many competitors use. This straightforward approach is refreshing and caters to users who dislike long-term commitments or hidden fees.

Mullvad operates with a network of over 684 servers in 44 countries. While this might seem small compared to some giants in the industry, it covers key locations and maintains impressive speeds. Recent tests showed only a 13.5% speed reduction, which is quite remarkable, considering many VPNs can slow down your connection by 50% or more.

One of Mullvad’s most appealing features is its commitment to privacy. Users can sign up without providing personal information; no email or username is needed. Instead, a random account number is generated for each user. Mullvad also supports anonymous payments, including cash sent by mail, ensuring no personal data is stored.

For security, Mullvad uses AES 256-bit encryption and supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. The VPN’s kill switch and DNS leak protection are always on, adding an extra layer of safety. In an independent audit by Radically Open Security in 2023, Mullvad’s no-logs policy was verified, reinforcing their transparency claims.

Mullvad also offers a Multihop feature, enhancing security by routing your internet traffic through multiple servers. This additional layer of protection is perfect for users who want to make sure their online activities are kept private.

Here’s a quick rundown of Mullvad’s strengths and weaknesses:

• Pros:
• Cons:

Mullvad is a fantastic choice if privacy is your top priority. Its unique sign-up process and strong security features make it a reliable option for those serious about keeping their online activities private. However, if streaming is your main concern, you might need to look elsewhere.

6. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is a solid choice for those who prioritize privacy and security. It’s not just a VPN; it’s part of a broader suite of privacy tools offered by Proton, which includes ProtonMail, ProtonDrive, and ProtonCalendar. ProtonVPN stands out with its commitment to transparency and security, making it a reliable option for users who need robust protection against data tracking.

Key Features

• Stealth Protocol: ProtonVPN’s proprietary Stealth protocol uses obfuscation to make VPN traffic appear like regular traffic, bypassing network restrictions in countries with strict internet regulations.
• Secure Core Servers: These servers add an extra layer of security by routing traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly locations, such as Switzerland and Iceland, before exiting to the internet.
• Open Source: ProtonVPN’s apps are fully open-source, allowing anyone to review the code, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness.

Pricing

ProtonVPN offers a free tier with access to servers in five countries, but for more features, their paid plans start at $10 per month. Annual plans are available at $60 for the first year, renewing at $80 annually.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Strong privacy focus with no data retention laws in Switzerland.
  • Offers both free and paid plans.
  • Fast speeds suitable for streaming and gaming.
• Cons:
  • Higher pricing compared to some competitors.
  • Limited customer support options.

ProtonVPN is particularly appealing for individuals who need a VPN for work-related tasks that require high privacy standards. Its combination of speed, security, and transparency makes it a noteworthy contender in the VPN market.

7. Atlas VPN

Atlas VPN is a relatively new player in the VPN market, but it has quickly gained a reputation for being a reliable choice for those looking to enhance their online privacy. One of its standout features is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. This makes it a great option for families or individuals with multiple gadgets.

Atlas VPN offers a freemium model, with a limited free tier providing access to servers in three locations: Amsterdam, Los Angeles, and New York. While the free tier is helpful, it caps usage at 5 GB per month, which might not suffice for heavy users.

Key Features:

• Unlimited device connections: Ideal for users who need VPN coverage across multiple devices.
• Streaming support: Works seamlessly with services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
• Advanced security features: Includes split tunneling, rotating IPs, malware blocking, and ad blocking.

Pros:

• Unlimited device connections.
• Streaming-optimized servers.
• Strong security features.

Cons:

• Limited server locations.
• Free tier has a 5 GB data cap.

Atlas VPN provides a dependable service focused on enhancing online privacy and security. It features fast performance and strong encryption, making it an effective choice for users seeking to protect their internet activity.

For those willing to upgrade, the premium version offers more server locations and enhanced features, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their privacy. Despite a few drawbacks, such as a limited number of servers, Atlas VPN remains a strong contender in the VPN space.

8. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a budget-friendly VPN option that emphasizes user privacy and transparency. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a VPN without breaking the bank. With PIA, you get access to a vast network of servers and a variety of features designed to enhance your online experience.

Key Features

• Encryption Options: PIA stands out by allowing users to adjust their encryption settings. You can choose between 256-bit AES encryption, which is the default, and 128-bit AES for faster speeds when privacy isn’t as crucial, like streaming or gaming.
• User-Friendly Apps: Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, PIA’s apps are intuitive and easy to use. They also offer features like split tunneling, which lets you decide which apps use the VPN and which use your regular internet connection.
• Privacy Focused: Unlike many VPNs, PIA doesn’t log IP addresses or usage metrics by default. This means less data is collected about your online activities, which is a big plus for privacy-conscious users.

Performance

PIA’s speeds are generally good, though there can be a noticeable drop in upload speeds. Here’s a quick look at the performance metrics:

User Benefits

1. Customization: PIA offers a high level of customizability with options like split tunneling and adjustable encryption.
2. Security Features: The MACE feature blocks ads and malware, enhancing your browsing experience without additional software.
3. Automation: You can automate connections to the fastest server or a specific server when you start your device or connect to a public Wi-Fi network.

For those who prioritize privacy and affordability, Private Internet Access is a solid choice. Its combination of customizable features and a strong privacy policy makes it a reliable option for everyday users.

Consider this top 2025 VPN service if you’re looking for a provider that prioritizes user privacy by collecting significantly less data compared to other no-logs VPNs.

9. VyprVPN

VyprVPN is a standout when it comes to privacy and speed, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to keep advertisers at bay. This VPN excels in providing a secure and private browsing experience, ensuring that your data remains your own.

Key Features

• Chameleon Protocol: This unique protocol scrambles your metadata to prevent deep packet inspection, which is a fancy way of saying it helps you bypass censorship and keep your activity private.
• No-Log Policy: VyprVPN ensures that none of your browsing data is stored, which is great for maintaining privacy.
• Public Wi-Fi Protection: Automatically connects you to the VPN when you join an untrusted network, keeping your data safe from prying eyes.

Performance

VyprVPN offers impressive speeds across its global server network. Whether you’re streaming, browsing, or gaming, you can expect a smooth experience without annoying lags.

User Experience

The app is straightforward, making it easy to connect and switch between servers. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, you’ll find it simple to use.

For those serious about privacy, VyprVPN is a reliable choice. Its unique features and commitment to security set it apart in a crowded market.

Consider VyprVPN if you want a VPN that balances speed and security effectively. Its strong performance in 2025 makes it a top contender for anyone focused on privacy and streaming.

10. IPVanish

IPVanish is known for its exceptional speed, making it one of the fastest VPNs available. This speed is crucial for users who prioritize smooth streaming and quick downloads. With over 2,400 servers in 108 countries, IPVanish offers a wide range of server options to ensure a stable and fast connection.

Key Features of IPVanish

• Security: IPVanish uses 256-bit AES encryption, ensuring your data remains secure. It also features a kill switch to protect your data if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
• Privacy: IPVanish has a strict no-logs policy that has been audited by third-party firms, ensuring that your browsing data is not stored or shared.
• Multi-hop: This feature allows your traffic to pass through two servers, adding an extra layer of security.

Performance

IPVanish is recognized for its exceptional download speeds, outperforming many other VPNs tested. It offers a cloud browser service that lets users browse using a server-based browser, reducing exposure to trackers and malware.

Customer Support

IPVanish provides excellent customer support, available 24/7 via phone and live chat. This is a standout feature as many VPNs do not offer phone support or round-the-clock service.

IPVanish is a solid choice for those who need a VPN with fast speeds and robust security features. Its audited privacy policy and excellent customer support make it a reliable option for privacy-conscious users.

Pricing

IPVanish’s pricing is competitive, with options like $13 per month or $40 for the first year. However, the renewal price increases to $90 annually, which is something to consider when budgeting for a VPN.

IPVanish is a great option for students and anyone looking to enhance their online privacy and security without breaking the bank. With its strong performance and user-friendly features, it’s a VPN worth considering.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. Picking the right VPN to keep advertisers from snooping around your data isn’t just about speed or price. It’s about finding one that ticks all the boxes for privacy and security. Whether you’re streaming your favorite shows or just browsing, a solid VPN can make a world of difference. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN are top contenders, each with their own perks. But remember, the best VPN for you is the one that fits your needs and keeps your online life private. Give them a try, see what works, and enjoy a more secure internet experience. Happy browsing!

NordVPN

What makes NordVPN a top choice for privacy?

NordVPN offers a RAM-only server network and advanced security features like Double VPN, ensuring high privacy standards.

Can I try NordVPN for free?

Yes, NordVPN provides a 30-day risk-free trial, allowing you to test its features without any restrictions.

Does NordVPN have a kill switch?

Yes, NordVPN includes a kill switch in all its apps to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops.

Where is NordVPN based?

NordVPN is based in Panama, a country known for its strong privacy laws.

How does NordVPN protect against ISP tracking?

NordVPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it invisible to your ISP and ensuring your online activities remain private.

What is NordLynx?

NordLynx is NordVPN’s custom protocol, designed to provide fast speeds and strong security.