Daniel Schwartz Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-known name in the VPN industry. It boasts a robust set of features designed to enhance user privacy, security, and internet freedom. This PIA VPN review will delve into the various aspects of PIA, including its features, performance, security measures, pricing, and overall user experience. By the end of this detailed review, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what PIA offers and whether it’s the right VPN service for your needs.
Private Internet Access Company Background
PIA is operated by London Trust Media, Inc., and was founded in 2010. Over the years, it has grown to become one of the most popular VPN services worldwide, known for its strong commitment to user privacy and a no-logs policy. The company is based in the United States, which is sometimes a concern for privacy-conscious users due to the country’s data retention laws and membership in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. However, PIA has a proven track record of maintaining user privacy, which we’ll explore in more detail later.
Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN Features
- No-Logs Policy: PIA’s no-logs policy is one of its standout features. The company claims that it does not store any logs of user activity, connection times, or IP addresses. This policy has been tested in court cases where PIA was unable to provide user data because none was kept. This commitment to privacy is crucial for users who prioritize anonymity online.
- Large Server Network: PIA offers a vast network of servers, with over 35,000 servers in 78 countries. This extensive network ensures that users can always find a server with low latency and fast speeds. It also helps in bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content from different regions.
- Advanced Security Features: PIA uses top-tier encryption standards, including AES-256 encryption, and supports multiple VPN protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. It also offers additional security features such as an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling.
- MACE: MACE is PIA’s built-in ad and malware blocker. It blocks domains used for ads, trackers, and malware, providing an additional layer of security and a better browsing experience.
- PIA Browser Extensions: PIA offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. These extensions provide additional privacy features like blocking WebRTC leaks, ensuring your IP address is not exposed through your browser.
- Multi-Platform Support: PIA supports a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and even routers. This flexibility ensures that you can protect all your devices with a single subscription.
- 10 Simultaneous Connections: With PIA, you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one account. This is particularly useful for families or individuals with multiple devices.
Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN Performance and Speed
Speed is a critical factor when choosing a VPN, especially for activities like streaming, gaming, or torrenting. PIA generally offers impressive speeds thanks to its large server network. Independent speed tests show that PIA performs well, with minimal impact on download and upload speeds. However, speeds can vary depending on the server location and the protocol used.
For optimal performance, users can select the nearest server or let PIA choose the best server automatically. WireGuard, one of the supported protocols, is known for its speed and efficiency, making it a good choice for users needing high-speed connections.
PIA VPN Security and Privacy
Encryption and Protocols: PIA uses industry-standard AES-256 encryption, which is considered virtually unbreakable. It also supports a variety of VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and the newer, faster WireGuard protocol. This flexibility allows users to choose the best protocol for their needs, balancing security and speed.
Kill Switch: PIA includes a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your real IP address from being exposed and ensures your privacy remains intact even if there are connectivity issues.
DNS Leak Protection: DNS leaks can expose your browsing activity to your ISP, even when using a VPN. PIA provides DNS leak protection to ensure that all your DNS requests are routed through their secure servers, keeping your browsing activities private.
MACE: The MACE feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware. This not only enhances your security by preventing malicious sites from loading but also improves your browsing experience by blocking annoying ads.
No-Logs Policy: As mentioned earlier, PIA’s no-logs policy is a key aspect of its commitment to privacy. The company states that it does not collect or store any data related to user activity. This policy has been upheld in legal situations where PIA was unable to provide user data because none was kept. For users concerned about privacy, this is a significant assurance.
PIA VPN User Experience
Ease of Use: PIA offers user-friendly apps for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. The apps have a clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy to connect to a server, change settings, and use advanced features. The setup process is straightforward, with clear instructions provided for all devices.
Customer Support: PIA provides various support options, including a comprehensive knowledge base, email support, and live chat. The knowledge base contains detailed guides and troubleshooting articles that can help resolve common issues. Live chat support is available 24/7, providing quick assistance when needed.
Compatibility: In addition to supporting a wide range of devices and operating systems, PIA also works with various router firmware, including DD-WRT, Tomato, and pfSense. This allows users to protect all devices on their network by configuring the VPN on their router.
PIA VPN Pricing and Plans
PIA offers competitive pricing with three subscription plans:
- Monthly: $11.95 per month
- Yearly: $39.95 per year ($3.33 per month)
- Two-Year: $69.95 for two years ($2.69 per month)
All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free. The two-year plan offers the best value, providing significant savings compared to the monthly and yearly plans.
How is PIA for Torrenting and Streaming
Torrenting: PIA is a popular choice for torrenting due to its strong privacy features and high-speed servers. The no-logs policy ensures that your torrenting activity remains private, and the large server network provides plenty of options for fast downloads. PIA also supports port forwarding, which can improve download speeds for torrenting.
Streaming: PIA can unblock some streaming services, but it is not as reliable as some other VPNs specifically designed for streaming. While it works with Netflix in some regions, it may not consistently bypass geo-restrictions for all streaming platforms. Users looking for a VPN primarily for streaming might want to consider other options that specialize in unblocking content.
PIA VPN Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong privacy and security features: No-logs policy, AES-256 encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and MACE.
- Large server network: Over 35,000 servers in 78 countries.
- Flexible and user-friendly: Multi-platform support, easy-to-use apps, and up to 10 simultaneous connections.
- Competitive pricing: Affordable plans with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Good for torrenting: Supports P2P file sharing and port forwarding.
Cons:
- Streaming limitations: Not as reliable for unblocking all streaming services.
- US-based: While PIA has a strong no-logs policy, some users may be concerned about its base in the United States, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance.
Timeline of Updates and Improvements
09/12/2023
- Mobile App Updates: Released Android v3.21.0 and iOS v3.23.1 with bug fixes and new features like Wi-Fi warnings and improved automation​ .
10/09/2023
- New Server Locations: Added servers in seven new countries, expanding the network to 91 countries​ ​.
12/14/2023
- Client Update v3.5.3: Improved UI contrast, added data usage details, and enhanced split tunnel functionality on Linux​.
02/22/2024
- Apple TV App: Launched beta VPN app for Apple TV, providing enhanced smart home connectivity​ ​.
03/07/2024
- Client Update v3.5.5: Introduced new split tunnel system for macOS and fixed several issues on Linux​ .
04/23/2024
- Redesigned Android App: Launched a new Android app with a modern UI, dark mode support, and more customization options​ ​.
04/25/2024
- Second Security Audit: Completed a second independent audit by Deloitte to verify no-logs policy and server configurations​ ​.
05/30/2024
- Android TV App: Released a redesigned Android TV app, now compatible with Dedicated IP​ ​.
06/2024
- Quarterly Transparency Reports: Began publishing transparency reports quarterly, detailing legal requests and PIA’s responses​ ​.
Final Thoughts
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a solid choice for users who prioritize privacy and security. Its no-logs policy, strong encryption, and extensive server network make it a reliable VPN for protecting your online activities. While it may not be the best option for streaming enthusiasts, it excels in other areas such as torrenting and overall internet privacy. With competitive pricing and a user-friendly interface, PIA offers excellent value for both novice and experienced VPN users. Whether you need a VPN for everyday browsing, secure file sharing, or protecting your personal information, PIA is a worthy contender in the crowded VPN market.
FAQs
1. How secure is Private Internet Access (PIA)?
PIA uses AES-256 encryption, one of the strongest encryption standards available. It also implements a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your online activities are not tracked or stored. Features like MACE, the kill switch, and split tunneling further enhance security.
2. Can PIA unblock Netflix?
Yes, PIA can unblock Netflix and other streaming services. It provides access to content from different regions, allowing users to watch shows and movies that might be unavailable in their location.
3. How many devices can I connect with PIA?
You can connect up to ten devices simultaneously with a single PIA subscription. This includes a range of devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and routers.
4. Is there a free trial available for PIA?
While PIA does not offer a free trial, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee. This allows users to test the service risk-free and get a full refund if they are not satisfied within the first month.
5. What platforms does PIA support?
PIA supports a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers. It also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, as well as support for devices like smart TVs and gaming consoles.
