How to choose the most suitable VPN app for your mobile device?

Let us begin this article by first explaining what a VPN actually is and why it should be used by everyone. Namely, a VPN or a virtual private network is there to help you create a secure connection while surfing the web and thus protect your private information and surfing habits from prying eyes on public Wi-Fi.

Just think about all the times you were using a public Wi-Fi network to answer your emails, to check your bank account, to shop online, or even to scroll on Instagram. Any data transmitted during these online times could be accessed by a stranger using the same public network.

Thus, if you do not want to be a subject of online scams, you are in need of a virtual private network that will give you online privacy and security. Luckily, VPNs are not just for computers anymore - you can set up a VPN on your (iPhone and Android) phone too. However, it is important to remember that not every app is the same and that you need to find one suitable for your mobile device! If interested in how to do that, keep on reading.

Decide Why You Need VPN First

If you walk into a tech store looking for a laptop, will you buy the first one you come across? Probably not. The same applies to virtual private networks or VPNs. As mentioned earlier, each VPN is different, and you must choose one that suits your needs.

For instance, if you want a VPN for your entire household or for your entire office, that is, if you want to share your VPN with family members or colleagues, you will need one which is router-based and which allows multiple connections. If you are a relentless traveler, you will need one that has servers all around the world and that offers maximum security.

It is all about needs and priorities. Thus, before anything else, decide why you need a VPN! Try making a list of features that are most important to you and you will probably have a much easier time deciding on which VPN app to use for your mobile device.

Take Location into Account

Keep in mind that VPN does not have servers in every place in the world. So, if you plan on moving to a certain country or city, or if you plan on just visiting them for some time, it would be a good idea to check whether they have a VPN server nearby.

This is especially important for some countries in Asia, like China and Korea, which are well-known for their limited Internet service. If you plan on going there, you need to choose a VPN app that can adequately and completely undertake all the censorships and restrictions present in the country.

By using the right VPN app, you will be able to gain access to restricted websites all around the world and overcome imposed censorship blocks.

Check the Quality and the Features of Each App

Every app comes with a different set of qualities. Moreover, each app puts some qualities first - encryption, speed, privacy, etc. Thus, it is your job to decide which features you need the most when it comes to choosing a VPN app for your mobile device.

For instance, if you are in need of hiding your internet activity and location, you will need a VPN app that puts privacy in the first place. Or, if you need to access some kind of content that is geographically blocked, you will need a VPN app that puts unlocking certain content in the first place.

The list of qualities, that is, the list of features each app claims to have is long. So, do your research. And, as previously said, consider all of your priorities and needs first and then find an app that has corresponding qualities which can solve your problems.

Ensure Your App is User-Friendly (If Necessary)

If you are tech-savvy, then you can neglect this part. But, if you are not, well, be sure that the 'user-friendly' feature must be on top of your priority list when using a VPN on your mobile phone.

Using VPN apps is far from being a walk in the park. You may find yourself in trouble while trying to set up a VPN app on your phone, either on an iPhone or Android. Thus, if the technology is not your thing, you may want to find an app that offers simple installation and activation, and of course, usage. Apps that offer 'virtual setup-s' are best for this, as they do not require any activity from your part, that is, they install and activate themselves.

Moreover, it would be a good idea to find an app that offers a reliable 24/7 customer service as well. Apps wh have this feature allow their users to contact someone who will help them with any problem they may have. So, keep this in mind, especially if this is your first time enrolling in a VPN world.

Do Not Neglect the Payment Method

One of the most overlooked things when choosing a VPN app for a mobile phone is the payment method. It is important to know that the prices of these apps can vary a lot. They vary depending on their providers and, of course, depending on the features they offer. The payments methods vary too. For example, you can pay in cash, by using credit cards, by using anonymous systems like BitCoin, or even by using gift cards.

Nowadays, there are also free VPN apps that can be downloaded, but we do not recommend using them. Remember, if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. In the same manner, even if you will not be paying your VPN app with money, you will be paying it with something else like ads, bad quality streaming, fickle protection, etc.

Thus, stay away from free VPN apps! If you are short on cash, better choose a more affordable app that has limited features, but still features that you need and that get the job done.