Best VPN for Android
Today, we are constantly connected to the world around us with our smartphones, computers, and other modern day technology conveniences. But whether you're sporting a feature-packed Android phone or the latest iPhone model, it's important to make sure that your personal information is safe and secure from the latest hackers and security threats.
Although you may think of Windows and Mac computers as being the most vulnerable to security threats, Android phones can be at risk as well. While the information you send across networks and unsecured Wi-Fi connections has the possibility of being listened in on by third-parties, a great VPN for Android will prevent this kind of interference from happening.
In addition to third-parties, your cellular network and apps you have installed may send data back to their servers as well. Some of the companies which do this have ethical standards and intentions that are questionable.
A VPN will anonymize your data and protect your privacy. Many VPN services exist to meet your needs, but not all are created equal. It’s best to use a VPN that can meet the specific needs of your Android device.
Why Get a VPN for Android Now?
Each new Android operating system that Google releases has new vulnerabilities, and each new app you download may be hiding flaws as well.
Google has developed some amazing technology and has become a part of our lives. How many times have you had an argument with a friend, only to “Google” the answer?
However, the company has come under scrutiny for privacy issues before, and although we would like to think great things about the company, their intentions and ability to gather our personal information is certainly questionable.
A VPN will help protect your personal data from Google, any apps you install, and any governmental inquiries into your personal information. When connecting your phone to a public Wi-Fi connection at a library or coffee shop, a VPN will help protect you from anyone who tries to break into your data.
A great VPN won’t collect your information or private data, but some may keep anonymous logs.
In addition to the privacy and security protection that a VPN provides, a VPN for Android will also allow your phone to anonymize its location. Your phone will be able to access services it otherwise wouldn’t be able to based on its geographic location.
For example, you will be able to access US Netflix services if you live in or a vacationing in a foreign country where it would otherwise be unavailable.
Interested in getting a VPN for your Android phone? Continue reading to discover more about VPN services and what you can expect when using one.
What Makes the Best VPN for Android?
Before you begin looking for a VPN, you should decide what features matter most to you.
Security
You'll want to consider what kind of security protection the VPN service will offer your Android phone. What additional security measures can they provide? What kind of encryption do they use?
A great VPN will have more server locations which will further increase your anonymity.
Privacy
Make sure that the VPN you choose for your Android phone is trustworthy. Some VPNs will keep logs of your personal information such as sites you have visited and your IP address.
While some good VPN providers will keep anonymous logs of your activities, ideally you should use a VPN that won’t keep any logs at all.
Keep in mind that a VPN will be subject to regulations and standards where the company is based. Certain government reporting standards may be required depending on the country the company is in.
Speed
Depending on how you use your phone, you will want to make sure the VPN you decide on will be as fast as possible and won’t slow you down.
If you’re a multimedia junkie and plan to browse Youtube and stream Netflix at all hours of the day, you’ll want to compare VPN speeds.
Each of our reviews at VPNsRus includes a speed test, so be sure to compare when choosing the best VPN for you.
Bandwidth
Again, depending on how you use your Android phone, bandwidth may or may not be a dealbreaker for you. In basic terms, bandwidth is the amount of data that you are allowed to send and receive through a VPN each month.
Look for a VPN for Android that provides unlimited bandwidth, and you'll avoid bandwidth overage fees, while drastically cutting down on hassles you may face.
Support
Look for a service provider that has experience with mobile and Android users. In what way do they offer support? Can you speak or chat with a live person? Do they offer 24/7 assistance?
Is there a money-back guarantee?
There are a lot of VPN service providers out there. VPNsRus has combed through all of the information so that you don’t have to. Be sure to check out our reviews to get the scoop on which VPN will be right for you.
Free VPN for Android
While several free VPN service providers and VPN apps exist for Android, it’s important to be well-informed before choosing one.
Most free VPNs have shortcomings when it comes to the above considerations such as security, privacy, bandwidth, and speed. Compared to a quality paid service they will have lower encryption abilities and a lower data cap. Third-party software or junk could end up being installed on your Android phone along with the VPN.
Untrusted free VPNs may also be in the business of selling your data – basically meaning that installing a free VPN may completely backfire and do the opposite of your intentions of using a VPN in the first place!
Using a free VPN for your Android phone can be a risk that you may regret taking, but there are some great free VPN apps out there. TotalVPN and TunnelBear are two good free VPNs that are available as an Android app.
Just be sure to choose wisely by viewing our list of the best free VPNs, or consider going with a trusted paid Android VPN instead.
How to Set Up a VPN for Android
Android phones can connect to a VPN quite easily. VPN capability is built right into Android phones. VPN apps also exist to help with the process.
Using a Settings File
If your VPN has provided you with a settings file, then you will need to use it to connect to your VPN. Downloading and clicking on the file will allow all relevant settings to be updated easily and effortlessly.
Manual Set Up
To set up a VPN connection on your Android phone, first of all, you’ll need to go into your settings. Then, look for the “Networks” or “More Networks” tab. Click on the VPN tab. Click on the “+” button.
Fill in any server details for your VPN provider and use any advanced options if necessary.
Next, you will be returned to the VPN page. Your new VPN connection will have appeared. Click on the connection, and then add your username and password. Tap connect, and you're done!