Introduction
Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN is a long-standing player in the VPN industry, widely recognized for its robust security measures, extensive server network, and a strict no-logs policy. Owned by Kape Technologies, PIA has built a reputation for protecting user privacy while remaining affordable and user-friendly.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into PIA’s unique features, its security protocols, server capabilities, and real-world performance. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your online privacy, stream geo-restricted content, or safely engage in P2P activities, PIA could be a solid choice among VPNs. Here’s everything you need to know about PIA, from setup and compatibility to speed and reliability, as well as how it compares to other leading VPN providers like those in this guide to the best VPN software.
What is Private Internet Access (PIA)?
Established in 2010, PIA has long been a go-to option for users prioritizing online anonymity and unrestricted internet access. With over 35,000 servers in 91+ countries, PIA offers one of the most extensive server networks globally, giving users a range of options for optimized speed and access. It’s especially popular in the United States, where it maintains servers across all 50 states—a feature that can be valuable for users seeking U.S.-specific content or local IP addresses.
One standout feature of PIA is its strict no-logs policy, which has been independently verified in real-world cases. Unlike some VPN providers that claim but do not always deliver on privacy, PIA has been tested and validated in court to retain no user logs. Furthermore, PIA has recently adopted open-source applications, allowing anyone to inspect its code for security vulnerabilities, adding transparency that privacy-conscious users appreciate.
Another advantage is PIA’s affordability. With competitive pricing across its subscription tiers, PIA provides solid value, especially for long-term users. While there is no free version, its risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee allows new users to explore its features without commitment.
In the following sections, we will analyze PIA’s capabilities in-depth, covering essential aspects like security protocols, server performance, and compatibility.
Software specification
Main Features of Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access offers a broad set of features, making it a versatile choice for privacy-conscious users, streamers, and those in need of consistent connectivity across multiple devices. In this section, we’ll explore PIA’s core offerings in security, server coverage, speed, and device compatibility.
Security and Encryption
PIA prioritizes security with strong encryption standards and customizable settings, giving users control over their privacy levels.
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Advanced Encryption Options: PIA offers robust encryption protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard, two of the industry’s most secure and efficient options. OpenVPN is known for its reliability and security, while WireGuard provides faster connections due to its streamlined codebase. For those wanting an extra layer of customization, PIA allows users to adjust their encryption level, balancing security and speed according to their needs.
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Kill Switch and Leak Protection: PIA’s kill switch is available on all major platforms, ensuring that internet traffic is completely cut off if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops. This feature is critical for users who prioritize privacy, as it prevents data exposure in case of sudden disconnection. Additionally, PIA successfully passed DNS and WebRTC leak tests, confirming that user IP addresses remain hidden and requests are routed securely through private DNS servers.
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No-Log Policy and Audits: PIA has a strict no-log policy that has stood up to real-world scrutiny. Unlike many VPNs that merely claim to retain no user data, PIA’s no-logs policy has been verified in court cases where the company was unable to provide user data due to a lack of logs. This assurance of data privacy is further enhanced by PIA’s transparency reports and open-source code, which allow third parties to validate its security measures.
Server Network and Locations
PIA’s expansive server network offers extensive global coverage, ensuring reliable access to content worldwide while supporting high-speed connections.
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Global Coverage and Server Count: With over 35,000 servers in 91+ countries, PIA boasts one of the largest server fleets in the VPN industry. This vast network gives users access to a variety of international content and provides enhanced connection stability. PIA’s large server network also means that there’s less likelihood of server overcrowding, which can slow down speeds during peak times.
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Server Availability by Region: PIA covers major regions extensively, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and beyond. Notably, it has servers in all 50 U.S. states, making it a strong choice for U.S. residents looking to access region-specific content or maintain a consistent connection to local IPs. This feature is particularly useful for users wanting localized results, such as those who rely on streaming or shopping services that provide regional offerings.
Connection Speeds and Performance
While VPN speed can vary based on factors like server location and protocol, PIA is generally recognized for its impressive performance on local servers and decent speeds internationally.
- Speed Test Results: PIA performs well on U.S. servers, frequently achieving speeds comparable to industry leaders. On international servers, while speeds can sometimes be slower, the WireGuard protocol significantly boosts performance, reducing latency and providing faster download speeds. This makes PIA an ideal choice for users prioritizing high-quality streaming and gaming experiences.
Streaming and Torrenting Capabilities
For users interested in streaming and torrenting, PIA supports access to multiple streaming services and provides features specifically designed for safe and optimized P2P sharing.
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Access to Streaming Services: PIA’s extensive server network allows users to unblock popular streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. Although some services, such as Disney+ and Hulu, are occasionally restricted, PIA’s optimized U.S. servers generally provide reliable access for users aiming to bypass regional content restrictions.
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P2P and Torrenting Support: PIA is highly regarded for its torrenting capabilities. It supports P2P file sharing across its entire server network and includes features like port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxies, which boost download speeds and ensure secure file transfers. For users who engage in frequent torrenting, PIA’s kill switch, leak protection, and no-log policy provide additional layers of security, reducing the risks associated with P2P activities.
Compatibility with Devices and Platforms
PIA offers compatibility across a wide range of devices, making it accessible and versatile for users with multiple devices or non-traditional hardware.
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Device Support: PIA has dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux, along with extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Each app comes with a consistent design, making it easy to switch between devices. Notably, PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections, so users can secure all their devices with a single subscription.
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Smart DNS and Router Compatibility: For users on devices that don’t support VPNs directly, such as certain gaming consoles or smart TVs, PIA offers a Smart DNS tool, which enables DNS-level protection without full encryption. Additionally, PIA is compatible with routers, allowing users to extend VPN coverage across their entire network with a manual setup.

Pros and Cons
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros of Private Internet Access (PIA)
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Strong Security Features
PIA is well-regarded for its robust security measures, which include a kill switch that works reliably across major platforms, preventing accidental data leaks if the VPN connection drops. Additionally, PIA provides extensive leak protection for DNS, IP, and WebRTC, ensuring your true IP address stays hidden from prying eyes. The security measures are complemented by a strong encryption setup, including OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, offering customizable encryption levels that let users balance speed with security. -
Large Server Network
With over 35,000 servers spread across 91+ countries, PIA’s server network is one of the most extensive among VPN providers. This vast network not only ensures stable connections due to lower server overcrowding but also enhances access to content globally, including coverage in all 50 U.S. states. The expansive U.S. server network is particularly beneficial for users who want to access region-specific content or who need stable U.S.-based IP addresses for work or streaming. -
Affordable Long-Term Pricing
Compared to many competitors, PIA offers one of the most affordable pricing structures for long-term plans. For users willing to commit to multi-year subscriptions, the monthly cost drops significantly, making PIA a budget-friendly option without compromising on features. Additionally, it allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, which is rare in the VPN market and ideal for families or users with many devices. -
Reliable Streaming and P2P Support
PIA is compatible with most major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer, although its success with Disney+ and Hulu can vary. For torrenting, PIA supports P2P traffic across its entire network and offers advanced options like port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxies, which enhance download speeds while keeping user identities secure. PIA’s commitment to privacy through its no-logs policy also reassures users engaging in P2P activities. -
Customizable Security Settings
Unlike some VPNs that offer a one-size-fits-all approach to security, PIA allows users to tailor their encryption and protocols. Users can choose between OpenVPN and WireGuard, two top-tier protocols that provide both security and speed. PIA’s flexibility in encryption settings is a strong advantage for users who may want to adjust their VPN settings based on the activity—such as optimizing for speed when streaming or gaming and enhancing security when browsing sensitive sites.
Cons of Private Internet Access (PIA)
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Slower Speeds on International Servers
While PIA delivers high speeds on local (especially U.S.) servers, it can experience slower speeds on international servers, which may affect users who need fast connections for activities like HD streaming or gaming. This limitation could be a drawback for users primarily needing access to far-off locations where PIA’s speeds might be more variable due to higher latency. -
Limited Streaming Access for Certain Platforms
Although PIA reliably unblocks Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer, users may find limitations with platforms like Disney+ and Hulu, which have strong VPN detection algorithms. Users who specifically want VPN access for these platforms might find the inconsistency challenging and may prefer a VPN with specialized streaming servers for a more seamless experience. -
Ownership Concerns
PIA’s ownership by Kape Technologies, a company previously associated with adware, raises questions among privacy-conscious users. While PIA has made significant efforts to reinforce its commitment to privacy through transparency reports, open-source applications, and a strong no-logs policy, some users may still have concerns due to the company’s U.S.-based jurisdiction, which is subject to data-sharing alliances like the 5 Eyes Alliance. -
WireGuard Bugs on Certain Devices
While WireGuard generally enhances PIA’s connection speeds, some users have reported occasional bugs when switching to this protocol, particularly on certain devices. These issues often involve initial connection failures, requiring users to reconnect or switch back to OpenVPN. Although these bugs are generally manageable, they may be an inconvenience for users seeking a seamless experience across all protocol options.

Pricing and Packages
Pricing and Plans of Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) offers competitive pricing across multiple subscription tiers, making it an affordable option for users looking for long-term VPN solutions. With flexible plans that cater to different budgets, PIA provides an economical way to access premium VPN features without compromising on security or performance. Let’s explore the available plans:
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1-Month Plan: PIA’s monthly plan costs $11.95 per month. This is a good option for users who want to try the VPN without a long-term commitment, though it’s significantly more expensive on a month-to-month basis than the long-term plans.
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1-Year Plan: The 1-year plan reduces the monthly cost to $3.33 per month (billed annually). This plan offers better value for users who are comfortable committing to a year but don’t want to lock in for an extended period. It’s a middle-ground option that balances affordability with flexibility.
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3-Year + 4 Months Plan (Best Value): For the best savings, PIA offers a 3-year plan with an additional 4 months free, bringing the cost down to just $1.98 per month. This plan represents a significant discount of 83% off the monthly price, making it one of the most budget-friendly long-term VPN options available. For users who are satisfied with PIA’s features and are ready to commit, this plan provides the best value overall.
All PIA plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service without risk. This refund policy is especially helpful for those trying the service for the first time, as they can explore all features before making a final decision.
Additionally, PIA offers add-on services such as dedicated IP addresses and antivirus protection for an extra fee, giving users the flexibility to customize their subscriptions based on specific needs.
Quick Summary of PIA’s Pricing Plans:
- 1 Month: $11.95 per month
- 1 Year: $3.33 per month (billed annually)
- 3 Years + 4 Months Free: $1.98 per month (billed every three years)
Setup Process and User Interface
How to Set Up Private Internet Access (PIA)
Setting up Private Internet Access (PIA) is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users. PIA’s installation process is straightforward across all major devices, with dedicated apps and detailed instructions provided on their website.
Registration and Installation Process
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Choose a Plan and Create an Account: Begin by selecting a subscription plan on the PIA website and entering your email to create an account. Payment can be made using various options, including credit cards, PayPal, and even cryptocurrency for users who prioritize anonymity.
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Download and Install the App: After signing up, download the PIA app compatible with your device. PIA offers apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux, along with browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. There are also setup guides for configuring PIA on routers, which allows users to secure their entire network.
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Log In and Connect: Open the app, log in with your credentials, and you’re ready to go. Simply select a server location and hit the “Connect” button to start securing your connection. The PIA interface is intuitive and designed for easy navigation, with quick access to essential settings.
User Interface and Ease of Use
PIA’s app interface is clean, straightforward, and user-friendly, making it accessible for both tech-savvy users and beginners. The design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, which results in a fast and responsive user experience without unnecessary clutter. Users can easily switch servers, adjust security settings, and access support resources directly from the app.
One of the standout features of PIA’s app is its customization options. Users can fine-tune their VPN experience by adjusting encryption levels, choosing between OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, and setting up automatic connections based on network preferences. The app also supports split tunneling, which allows users to route specific apps or websites outside of the VPN tunnel—a helpful feature for those who need direct access to local services or banking sites that may block VPN traffic.
Customer Support and Resources
PIA offers a solid range of customer support options, ensuring that users have access to assistance when needed.
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Support Channels: PIA provides 24/7 live chat support, which is particularly helpful for resolving urgent issues. Additionally, users can reach support via email if they prefer written responses or have more complex queries.
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Knowledge Base and Tutorials: For users who prefer self-help resources, PIA has an extensive knowledge base filled with guides, troubleshooting steps, and FAQs. These resources cover everything from basic setup and installation to advanced features like configuring PIA on a router or using the Smart DNS tool.
PIA’s support options are well-rounded and designed to accommodate users with varying levels of technical knowledge, ensuring that help is readily available whether through direct support or self-service resources.
Software Capabilities
Performance of Private Internet Access (PIA) in Real-World Scenarios
PIA’s performance is generally solid, especially on local servers, where it delivers fast speeds and reliable connections. However, like many VPNs, performance can vary depending on the server location and the protocol in use. Below, we cover some key aspects of PIA’s performance based on real-world testing.
Speed and Bandwidth Performance
PIA is known for providing reliable speeds, particularly on servers located within the same country or region as the user. With the WireGuard protocol enabled, users can often achieve higher speeds compared to OpenVPN, making it ideal for bandwidth-heavy activities like streaming and large file downloads.
In speed tests, PIA has shown strong performance on U.S. servers, often matching or coming close to industry leaders. Users can generally expect smooth HD and even 4K streaming on nearby servers without buffering issues. However, on international servers, speeds may occasionally drop, leading to increased latency and potentially slower load times for websites and media. While PIA performs well overall, users needing fast international speeds may experience minor slowdowns on distant servers.
Stability During Long Connections
For users who need to stay connected to the VPN for extended periods, such as for remote work or gaming, PIA performs reliably. The VPN’s kill switch feature provides an extra layer of protection during long sessions, ensuring that no data is leaked if the connection unexpectedly drops. This stability makes PIA a good choice for users who require uninterrupted access for long periods.
During long sessions, especially with the OpenVPN protocol, PIA has shown consistent stability without unexpected disconnections. This reliability is a benefit for users who need constant protection, such as those working remotely or participating in online gaming, where sudden connection drops could cause disruptions.
Reliability for Streaming and Gaming
PIA has positioned itself as a reliable VPN for streaming, unblocking popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. While some servers work with additional platforms such as Hulu and Disney+, PIA’s success with these services can vary due to their strong VPN detection systems. Nonetheless, PIA remains a solid option for users primarily interested in streaming U.S. content, as its large U.S. server network provides reliable access.
For gaming, PIA’s low latency on nearby servers makes it a good choice for online multiplayer games, where fast response times are crucial. PIA’s combination of stable connections and low-latency performance provides a smooth experience for gamers, minimizing lag and disconnections.
Quick Summary of PIA’s Performance:
- Local Speeds: Fast and stable, especially on WireGuard
- International Speeds: Decent but can vary by region
- Long Connection Stability: Reliable, especially with kill switch protection
- Streaming Access: Consistent with most platforms, including Netflix
- Gaming: Low latency for smooth online gaming
This in-depth overview of PIA’s setup process and performance gives users a clear picture of what they can expect, from ease of installation to reliable speeds and access across multiple use cases.
User’s Privacy and Security Measures
Security and Privacy of Private Internet Access (PIA)
Security and privacy are fundamental to PIA’s offerings, making it a popular choice for users who prioritize data protection. PIA has a strong reputation in the industry for its encryption protocols, no-logs policy, and leak protection. Below, we’ll dive into these features and explain why PIA stands out as a secure VPN.
Encryption Standards and Protocols
PIA provides users with a choice of industry-leading encryption protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. OpenVPN is known for its high level of security and is widely regarded as the gold standard for VPNs. On the other hand, WireGuard is a newer protocol that provides faster speeds while still maintaining robust security. This flexibility allows users to prioritize either speed or security based on their specific needs.
In terms of encryption, PIA uses AES-256, the same standard used by financial institutions and governments to secure sensitive data. This level of encryption ensures that user data remains safe and private, even in the event of an attempted interception. PIA also allows users to adjust encryption settings for OpenVPN, offering options to reduce the encryption level if they prioritize speed over maximum security.
DNS and IP Leak Test Results
PIA offers complete protection against DNS, IP, and WebRTC leaks. Leak protection is crucial because leaks can reveal a user’s real IP address, compromising their anonymity even when connected to a VPN. PIA has consistently passed leak tests, showing that its apps route all traffic through secure DNS servers without exposing any identifiable data.
PIA’s app automatically enables DNS leak protection, ensuring that all DNS requests go through encrypted tunnels rather than public servers. This feature is especially valuable for users concerned about ISP tracking or for those who want to keep their browsing activity completely private. With full DNS and IP leak protection, users can trust PIA to maintain their online anonymity across all supported devices.
Logging and Privacy Practices
PIA’s no-logs policy is one of its most important privacy features, and it’s been verified through real-world court cases. Unlike some VPN providers that only claim to avoid logs, PIA has been tested in legal scenarios and has demonstrated that it does not retain any user data. This no-log approach means that even if PIA were asked to provide user information, it would have nothing to hand over.
PIA’s no-logs policy has been further validated by independent audits, adding another layer of trust. For additional transparency, PIA regularly publishes transparency reports that provide insights into any requests for data that PIA receives from authorities. Given PIA’s U.S. jurisdiction, where data privacy laws are more lenient, the company’s commitment to protecting user data without logging or storing any information is a reassuring guarantee for privacy-conscious users.
PIA also recently made its apps open-source, allowing security experts and users to examine the code for potential vulnerabilities. This move enhances trust, as users can confirm that the VPN software operates without hidden functionalities that might compromise privacy.
Quick Summary of PIA’s Security and Privacy:
- Protocols: OpenVPN and WireGuard for balance between speed and security
- Encryption: AES-256, with customizable options
- Leak Protection: Full DNS, IP, and WebRTC leak protection
- No-Logs Policy: Verified by court cases and audits
- Transparency and Open-Source Code: Regular transparency reports and open-source apps

Customer Service
Customer Support and User Feedback
PIA offers reliable customer support with multiple options for users seeking assistance. Additionally, user feedback on review sites and social media provides valuable insights into the VPN’s performance, helping prospective users understand the real-world experience of using PIA.
Customer Support Review
PIA’s customer support is available 24/7, offering live chat for immediate assistance, as well as email support for more complex inquiries. Users generally find PIA’s live chat helpful for quick questions, and it’s a convenient option for resolving setup issues or troubleshooting connectivity problems.
In addition to direct support, PIA has a comprehensive knowledge base on its website. This resource includes guides for setting up the VPN on various devices, troubleshooting common issues, and configuring advanced features like split tunneling and Smart DNS. These resources are valuable for users who prefer self-help options or want to learn more about PIA’s features in depth.
PIA’s support resources are organized and detailed, making it easy for users to find answers to specific questions without needing to contact support. The combination of live chat, email, and an extensive knowledge base provides a well-rounded support system for users at any level of technical knowledge.
User Reviews and Feedback
User feedback for PIA is generally positive, with many users praising its security features, server network, and affordable pricing. On review platforms like Trustpilot and social media, PIA has a solid reputation, especially among users who prioritize privacy and value a large server network.
Some users, however, have reported occasional bugs when switching to the WireGuard protocol, particularly with initial connection failures that may require a restart or switching back to OpenVPN. While these issues are usually resolved with updates or by reconnecting, they may be an inconvenience for users expecting a seamless experience.
In terms of streaming, users have mixed experiences with PIA’s access to certain platforms like Disney+ and Hulu, as mentioned earlier. Nonetheless, most users find that PIA consistently unblocks major services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, making it a reliable choice for those who prioritize U.S.-based streaming options.
Overall, PIA’s user feedback emphasizes its strengths in privacy and affordability, while noting minor areas for improvement, such as occasional performance issues with specific protocols and streaming access limitations.
Competition
Comparing Private Internet Access (PIA) with Competitors
While Private Internet Access (PIA) is a strong VPN option with unique features, it’s essential to understand how it stacks up against other popular VPN providers. In this section, we’ll compare PIA to three leading VPNs—NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark—focusing on key factors like security, streaming support, pricing, and server network.
PIA vs. NordVPN
Security and Privacy: Both PIA and NordVPN prioritize privacy, but NordVPN has an edge with its Double VPN feature, which routes your traffic through two VPN servers for added encryption. While PIA offers AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy backed by court cases, NordVPN’s third-party audits of its no-logs policy provide an extra layer of trust.
Server Network: PIA has a larger server network with over 35,000 servers in 91+ countries, compared to NordVPN’s 5,500+ servers in 60 countries. However, NordVPN offers more specialized servers, such as Onion Over VPN and obfuscated servers, which may appeal to users with specific privacy needs.
Streaming: NordVPN tends to perform better with streaming services, reliably unblocking platforms like Disney+, Hulu, and Netflix. PIA, while effective for Netflix and Amazon Prime, has limitations with Disney+ and Hulu, where NordVPN consistently succeeds.
Pricing: PIA is generally more affordable, especially for long-term plans, with its 3-year plan offering significant savings. NordVPN’s pricing is slightly higher, though it occasionally offers discounts that bring it closer to PIA’s price range.
Summary: NordVPN is ideal for users seeking enhanced privacy features and more reliable streaming access, while PIA is a budget-friendly choice with a vast server network.
PIA vs. ExpressVPN
Security and Privacy: Both PIA and ExpressVPN have strong reputations for security, but ExpressVPN uses Lightway, its proprietary protocol, which offers fast speeds and robust security. PIA’s security features are customizable, allowing users to choose between OpenVPN and WireGuard, but ExpressVPN’s protocol tends to offer more consistent performance across regions.
Server Network: PIA has a larger overall server network, but ExpressVPN’s 3,000+ servers are strategically located in 94 countries, providing broader geographical diversity. ExpressVPN’s servers are also known for their reliability and high performance, particularly for users in regions with restricted internet.
Streaming: ExpressVPN has an excellent track record with streaming, consistently unblocking Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer across multiple countries. While PIA works well for U.S.-based streaming, ExpressVPN is often more reliable for global streaming access, especially on restrictive platforms.
Pricing: ExpressVPN is one of the more premium VPNs in the market, with higher monthly and annual costs than PIA. However, ExpressVPN justifies this premium pricing with strong global coverage, excellent customer support, and specialized features like its dedicated router app.
Summary: ExpressVPN is recommended for users willing to pay a premium for high performance, global streaming access, and advanced security features, while PIA is better suited for those prioritizing affordability and extensive server options.
PIA vs. Surfshark
Security and Privacy: Surfshark offers a comparable level of security to PIA, with AES-256 encryption and additional features like MultiHop (similar to Double VPN). Surfshark also has a strict no-logs policy and provides CleanWeb, an ad and malware blocker. PIA offers a similar ad-blocking feature but lacks MultiHop.
Server Network: PIA has a larger server network overall, but Surfshark provides over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, covering more regions globally than PIA. Surfshark’s server count may be smaller, but its country coverage is broader, making it a good option for users needing access in more diverse regions.
Streaming: Surfshark is known for its strong streaming capabilities, successfully unblocking Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more. While PIA works for most U.S. streaming services, Surfshark’s higher success rate with international streaming platforms gives it an edge for users seeking unrestricted global streaming access.
Pricing: Both Surfshark and PIA are budget-friendly, especially for multi-year plans. Surfshark’s 2-year plan is slightly cheaper than PIA’s equivalent, and it also offers unlimited device connections, which is a significant advantage for households with multiple devices.
Summary: Surfshark is a solid choice for users who need reliable streaming access and unlimited device connections at an affordable rate, while PIA is ideal for users looking for a more extensive server network within the U.S. and other major regions.
Quick Summary of Comparisons:
- NordVPN: Better privacy features and streaming capabilities; slightly higher pricing.
- ExpressVPN: Premium performance, global streaming access; higher cost.
- Surfshark: Excellent streaming, unlimited devices; affordable but smaller server count.
Conclusion
Final Verdict on Private Internet Access (PIA)
After a thorough review of PIA’s features, pricing, and performance, it’s clear that PIA is a solid choice for users who value privacy, affordability, and extensive server options. With strong encryption standards, customizable security settings, and a verified no-logs policy, Private Internet Access offers reliable protection for users concerned about online privacy and data security.
Summary of Key Points
PIA excels in providing robust security with AES-256 encryption and options for OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. Its no-logs policy has been tested in real-world scenarios, adding credibility to its privacy claims. Additionally, PIA is one of the more budget-friendly VPNs, especially with its multi-year plan that brings the monthly cost down significantly. With over 35,000 servers in 91+ countries, including servers across all 50 U.S. states, PIA offers flexibility and accessibility for users seeking both local and international server options.
Its large server network is ideal for those looking to access U.S.-specific content or those needing diverse server options. Moreover, with unlimited simultaneous connections, PIA is a convenient solution for households or users with multiple devices.
Recommendations for Specific User Needs
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Best for Privacy-Conscious Users: PIA’s strict no-logs policy, validated by court cases, makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize privacy and data security. Customizable settings allow for flexible VPN configurations, which can be particularly valuable for users with specific security requirements.
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Best for Streaming U.S.-Based Content: PIA’s extensive network of U.S. servers provides dependable access to American streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. While it may not consistently unblock Disney+ or Hulu, it’s a solid option for U.S.-centric streaming needs.
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Best for Budget-Conscious Users: PIA’s affordable long-term pricing, especially on the 3-year plan, makes it one of the best-value VPNs on the market. With unlimited device connections on a single subscription, it’s highly economical for families or users with multiple devices.
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Not Ideal for Global Streaming Access: If your main priority is unrestricted access to global streaming platforms across various regions, options like NordVPN or ExpressVPN might provide more consistent access. For a more comprehensive comparison of top VPNs for global streaming, you can check out this guide to the best VPN software.
Final Verdict: Private Internet Access is a reliable, privacy-focused VPN that combines strong security features with affordable pricing, making it a top choice for users seeking privacy and value. While it has some limitations with specific streaming services and speed variability on international servers, it remains a robust and trustworthy solution for those looking to enhance online privacy without breaking the bank.
Have more questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Private Internet Access (PIA) a secure VPN?
Yes, PIA uses advanced security measures, including AES-256 encryption and protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. It also has a strict no-logs policy verified in court, ensuring user privacy.
Does PIA keep logs of user data?
No, PIA follows a strict no-logs policy. This has been proven in court cases where PIA could not provide user data due to the absence of any logs.
Can I use PIA for streaming Netflix and other platforms?
Yes, PIA works with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. However, it has inconsistent access to Disney+ and Hulu, which may detect VPN usage.
How much does PIA cost?
PIA offers three plans: $11.95 per month, $3.33 per month for a 1-year plan, and $1.98 per month for a 3-year plan with 4 months free, making it very affordable.
Does PIA support torrenting and P2P sharing?
Yes, PIA is torrent-friendly, supporting P2P sharing across its network. It also offers SOCKS5 proxies and port forwarding to enhance torrenting speeds.
Does PIA work in restricted regions like China?
PIA can work in restrictive regions, including China, using obfuscation methods like Shadowsocks. However, performance may vary based on government restrictions.
What devices and platforms are compatible with PIA?
PIA has apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. It also supports browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge), routers, and even Smart DNS for consoles and smart TVs.
Can I install PIA on my router?
Yes, PIA is compatible with routers, allowing you to secure all devices on your network. However, it requires manual setup, and tutorials are available for guidance.
Does PIA offer a kill switch?
Yes, PIA includes a kill switch on all major platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS), which blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
Is there a free trial or money-back guarantee for PIA?
PIA doesn’t offer a free trial, but it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing new users to test the service risk-free.
How many devices can I connect with one PIA account?
PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections with one account, making it ideal for users with multiple devices or families sharing a subscription.