Private Internet Access

Updated December 15, 2022 Visit Private Internet Access

Overall Score 8.7

Highlights

Verified no-logs privacy policy
Advanced Privacy-enhancing features
Largest server network in the industry

Works With

Overall Rank

Refund Policy

yes

Setup Time

2 minutes

Devices

Operating System

Android, IOS & Chrome

Best Price

$2.03

Private Internet Access Ratings

Overall Score 8.7

8.9

Security

8.6

Speed

9.2

Servers

8.7

Support

8.5

Price

General overview

Private Internet Access VPN, also known as PIA, is another exceptional service among the top-notch VPNs in the market. The service is known for its largest server network of 17000+ servers, approximately in 84 countries worldwide. In addition, the VPN is one of the few services with a verified no-logs policy. However, it is based in a privacy-unfriendly country, the United States, but still having a verified no-logs policy can withstand its unreliable jurisdiction.

PIA uses the best security features and protocols to mask users’ anonymity, such as WireGuard, AES-256-bit encryption, Kill switch, and more. The VPN has custom apps for various applications like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Fire TV. You can also use PIA on up to ten devices simultaneously on a single subscription.

Score 8.9

Security

PIA has one of the best privacy-enhancing features and policies in the VPN industry. The VPN uses the most advanced WireGuard protocol and OpenVPN protocol, as well as IKEv2/IPSec and L2TP/IPSec. Moreover, all the protocols are backed with AES-256 encryption, the highest level of encryption used by many government organisations. The VPN also uses the essential kill-switch feature that prevents your data from being exposed in case of sudden disconnection.

In addition, PIA also owns and operates its own private DNS servers, which means users’ DNS requests are settled by the VPN itself rather than the ISP. Private Internet Access also comes with a wide range of advanced security features to protect users’ data and improve their browsing experience. Its advanced features include Ad-blocker, Dedicated IPs, SOCKS, Split tunneling, and more.

Score 8.6

Speed

PIA is a super-fast VPN service that provides consistent speeds on both local and international servers. The VPN records 93Mbps and 94Mbps download and upload speeds on short distances –a speed loss of only 6%, which is well enough for browsing, torrenting or streaming. In contrast, PIA also provides exceptional speeds on far-flung server connections. On long-distance like in Australia, the service drops 30% to 35% speeds, which means PIA is speedy and can be relied on to connect to any side of the world.

Score 9.2

Servers

Private Internet Access leads the VPN ranking apropos servers by operating 17000+ servers in 84 countries. The VPN has widespread servers globally; it covers all 50 US states, most by any VPN in the country. Also, Europe and Asia are covered the most by PIA, while the availability of servers in other continents like South America, Oceania, Asia and Africa is also impressive.

Additionally, PIA is decent for streaming content. It unblocks US Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video. The VPN’s fast speed and extensive server /network mean you won’t experience difficulty in streaming content in HD or 4K.

Private Internet Access is ideal for torrenting. Its strict no-logs policy, advanced privacy features and fast speeds support the users in performing P2P activity safely and smoothly.

Score 8.7

Support

PIA VPN has average but reliable customer support compared to other premium VPNs. It offers a 24/7 Live chat feature, Guides, Knowledgebase, and Email support.

The VPN’s live chat can be initiated from the bottom right corner of the webpage. Their live chat support is knowledgeable and responsive, and they address your queries within minutes. Moreover, the VPN’ has a detailed knowledge base and Guides. You can learn about its features, set-up, troubleshooting, and account problems, from these respective sources.

PIA’s email support is also very efficient; you must submit a ticket including your problem and other information. The VPN’s email support is quite well, but you can expect a slow reply.

Score 8.5

Prices

Private Internet Access is one of the most economical VPN services considering its features. Its monthly and six-month plan is on par. However, its 2-year plan (including two free months) attracts customers costing $2.03, the cheapest and most value-for-money service. Whereas these are the pricing plans of PIA VPN

Monthly plan costs $11.99/mo
6-Month plan costs $7.50/mo; billed $45 per six months
2-Year plan costs $2.03/mo; billed $56.94 for the first two years and yearly after that

Payment Methods

Private Internet Access allows the following payment methods:

Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover)
PayPal
Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Bitpay, Ethereum, and Litecoin)

Refund Policy

PIA has a 30-day refund policy on all of its subscription plans.

Overview - Conclusion

Private Internet Access is indeed an ideal premium VPN service. It has everything the user needs for a better browsing experience. Its largest server network, robust security features and super-fast speeds suit both experienced and newbies.

Features

Operating System
Simulaneous Connections 10
Protocols IKEv2/IPSec, L2TP/IPSec, OpenVPN(TCP/UDP), Wire Guard
Logs Policy
Works With
Payment Methods
Money Back Guarantee

Frequently Asked Questions

No, PIA has a robust no-logs policy and is independently audited by Big4 firm; Deloitte. Despite operating in the US (Five Eyes Alliance Member), the VPN doesn’t collect any of its user’s data.

To upgrade the account, users have to reach out to the Client Control Panel. Additionally, users have to ensure their billing methods to confirm their payments and verify their accounts.