These days, it is not uncommon for general individual web users to use VPNs as they seek personalized and secure internet surfing. In particular, with many users attempting to bypass domestic blocking of overseas networks, we have summarized the types of global VPNs with high user ratings, along with their pros and cons.

1. Nord VPN

A company that was a small VPN just two years ago has grown into the fastest and most powerful VPN on the market today. One of the factors contributing to this is the expansion of its server network; it added over 2,000 servers during the first half of 2018 and is reported to have more than 5,100 servers across over 60 countries worldwide. This has not only improved performance but also enabled users to surf the web at the highest speeds.

At the same time, the company has further upgraded its security features by including AES 256-bit encryption and double VPN tunneling. It has also added additional security tools such as CyberSec, which are rarely found in most VPNs. Furthermore, NordVPN allows you to bypass China's internet firewall as well as online censorship in Russia. This company is based in Panama, and since Panama does not belong to any of the 5/9/14 Eyes intelligence alliance nations, no government agency can force it to share information. Moreover, NordVPN does not even possess any information to share in the first place, as it enforces a strict no-logs policy.

2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN, which has received excellent ratings in all areas, boasts outstanding performance in security, server locations, speed, and access to geo-restricted content. However, while the high cost is the only downside, testing over several months has confirmed that the service fully justifies the high price point with its incredible speeds and exceptionally secure apps.

Looking at the security aspect, ExpressVPN is located in the British Virgin Islands, which is a very security-sensitive country that does not belong to any of the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance nations. In addition, it provides various security protocols including OpenVPN and supports security features such as strong no-log policy enforcement, DNS/IP leak protection, and network lock (kill switch).

3. Cyber Ghost VPN

CyberGhost VPN is a service optimized for enhancing online security and bypassing government censorship. Located in Romania, the VPN service is free from the 14 censorship countries that share signal information. Furthermore, CyberGhost VPN does not store user activity logs, ensuring that no one can track the online records of users connected to CyberGhost servers.

4. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN from Sweden is a product of a country that values privacy above all else. With a legal and strict no-logs policy and 2048-bit encryption, PrivateVPN safely protects users from threats lurking in the network. Excellent features, such as automatic clear switching and built-in leak protection, also serve as safeguards against unexpected leaks, successfully meeting the diverse needs of users.

Not only does it prioritize privacy, but it also features port forwarding and P2P capabilities that torrent enthusiasts will absolutely love. It also includes a feature for connecting up to six devices simultaneously, which is appealing to those skilled in advanced technology. However, the story is quite different when it comes to content blocking. While PrivateVPN works fine with most web services, you will likely be disappointed if you use it on certain sites (such as Netflix).

While users might encounter different results if they try it themselves, the still-lackluster server variety (around 100) inevitably leads to skepticism, even though PrivateVPN has prepared a Netflix guide on their site. The speed is also not particularly impressive. It is not extremely slow, but one cannot expect lightning-fast speeds either.

The good news is that you can receive a full refund if you cancel your subscription within a month, provided you feel that PrivateVPN is not the service you were looking for. With a refund guarantee and excellent customer service, you can verify if this VPN is the right fit and even have the opportunity to reverse your decision.

While there are various other VPN providers, it appears that the key factor is ultimately how well a VPN can satisfy stability and personal security needs.