Private Internet Access VPN Review: A Cheap, High-value VPN For All
Keeping your internet stuff private is important now. Have you heard of Private Internet Access VPN? It is a service that protects what you do online. Private Internet Access VPN uses strong codes to secure your Internet traffic. It keeps your personal information safe from bad people trying to see it.
Private Internet Access VPN is from the United States. The U.S. has good laws to protect privacy. Internet security experts made it. They wanted to help people stay private online.
Private Internet Access VPN has servers in many countries around the world. This lets you access any internet things from anywhere. No one will know where you really are. It hides what you do online. It keeps your identity a secret.
In this detailed PIA VPN review, we will discuss pricing, payment methods, supported devices, protocols, and features and how to improve your online privacy with PIA VPN.
Why Have So Many People Recently Chosen Private Internet Access VPN?
Keeping your online activities private is very important. Many people are choosing Private Internet Access VPN. It is one of the best for privacy. It was made by experts who care about internet privacy.
Private Internet Access VPN is in the United States. The U.S. has rules to stop people from spying on your internet use. It uses very strong codes to hide what you do online. Hackers, advertisers, or spies cannot see your activities.
Private Internet Access VPN has a no-logging rule. This means it never keeps records of the websites you visit, videos you watch, or files you download. Your private internet stuff stays a total secret. It is special because it works well and is easy to use. Security pros check it has no holes for spying.
It has servers all over the world. You can access any internet content from any country. No one will know where you really are. Private Internet Access has easy apps for phones, tablets, and computers. The apps have great extras like stopping the internet if you get disconnected. It costs a fair price each month for these protections.
Overall, Private Internet Access VPN gives you a safe and simple way to browse privately. No company, hacker, or government can see what you do online. That’s why many people are choosing it now.
Get Started With PIA VPN
- Top-rated VPN for macOS 10.15 Catalina Mac
- Ultra-fast speed in {country} in 2025
- Save 50% off with VPN.com Discount
- Get a 30-day Money Back Guarantee
Overall Rating: 4.1/5
Performance
Rating: 4.7/5
Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN makes your internet super fast. You get quick, reliable connections. It has servers all over the world. You can easily connect to one close to you at the fastest speed. There is no slow internet. Everything runs at full speed with it, just like not using a virtual private network. Videos, games, downloads – all go lightning fast when connected nearby.
Security and Privacy
Rating: 5/5
Private Internet Access VPN keeps you safe and private online. They never record your activities – experts checked. Very strong codes lock up your data tight. Their servers automatically delete everything after you use them. With no records, strong encryption, auto-deleting servers, and their location – your privacy stays completely protected.
Features
Rating: 4.4/5
It has cool extras like split tunneling to pick which apps use the virtual private network. It also has a built-in speed test to help find the fastest server. While it doesn’t have as many custom settings as some virtual private networks, it still includes lots of useful features. The tools give you flexibility and speed boosts.
Ease of Use
Rating: 4.7/5
Private Internet Access VPN is super duper and easy and perfect for new users. The apps are basic and simple. It works on Windows, Macs, Linux, Android, and iPhones/iPads. Setting it up is fast – just click a couple of times. Most people say they had no trouble installing and using it on phones, tablets, or computers.
Customer Support
Rating: 4.5/5
Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN has excellent customer support. Their big help center offers lots of guides and tutorials. They offer 24/7 live chat support to get help anytime you need it.
Value for Money
Rating: 4.6/5
It has different price options that are reasonably priced compared to others. The excellent security, privacy, and performance make it a great value for many people.
Distribution of Private Internet Access VPN Users
North America (30%)
Many people in North America want to keep their online activities private. There have been news stories about companies misusing people’s information or the government spying on what citizens do online.
So people use virtual private networks like Private Internet Access VPN to keep their internet activities secure and away from others. North America has great, fast internet in most places, making it easy to use data-heavy services like VPNs without slowing down your connection or browsing experience.
Another big reason people in North America use Private Internet Access is to access streaming shows, movies, and other online content that is usually blocked in their area. A virtual private network helps them get around these location blocks and watch whatever they want, from wherever they are.
It’s like having a secret trick to access the full, open internet without any borders or limitations! The privacy and access combo is a real game-changer for online freedom in North America.
Europe (25%)
In Europe, strict privacy laws like GDPR make people aware of data protection concerns. This drives them to use VPNs to protect their online activities.
Different laws across European countries control access to online content and services. So people use VPNs to bypass these location restrictions by making it seem like they’re browsing from another country.
Like North America, Europe has widespread high-speed internet, allowing smooth virtual private network usage without slowing down performance.
Asia (20%)
In some Asian countries like China, the government blocks and bans many internet sites and services. virtual private networks are very popular there because they allow people to get around this strict censorship. With a virtual private network, they can freely access the open, unrestricted internet as intended.
As more people get online in highly populated places like India and Indonesia, they become aware of privacy risks on the internet. They don’t want their activities tracked or exposed, which is why they use privacy tools like Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN – to keep their browsing and streaming private, away from prying eyes and data collectors.
South America (15%)
Internet access keeps growing in South America. More people are online, and they realize the importance of privacy and security tools like virtual private networks.
In some unstable areas of South America, virtual private networks offer a secure way to communicate, protecting users from government surveillance and allowing them to access restricted internet content.
Other Regions (10%)
This covers areas like Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Oceania, where virtual private network usage could be driven by different reasons in each region. Some of these regions may have less developed internet infrastructure, while others are more technologically advanced. This affects how widespread VPN adoption is.
People may use Private Internet Access VPN to get around local censorship of websites and content, enhance their privacy from surveillance, or securely access entertainment from other countries.
The reasons for using it can vary significantly by region based on censorship levels, internet access, privacy laws, and technological development. But its encryption and ability to bypass restrictions while hiding your identity make it useful worldwide for both security and entertainment purposes.
Features Of Private Internet Access VPN
No-Logs Rule
- Feature: Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN has a strict no-logs rule. It never keeps any records of what you do online.
- Benefit: This makes sure your private internet stuff and browsing history stays a total secret. Nobody can ever see what websites you visit. It keeps you completely anonymous with no records of your activities.
WireGuard Codes
- Feature: It uses brand-new WireGuard codes to hide your data.
- Benefit: WireGuard codes keep all your online activities super secure with really strong encryption. But the codes also give you blazing-fast internet speeds for watching videos or playing games online.
Split Tunneling Trick
- Feature: This cool trick lets you pick which apps use the tunnel and which ones don’t.
- Benefit: You can keep just certain online activities safe with encrypted tunneling. But other apps can bypass the tunnel for the absolute fastest speeds possible.
Kill Switch
- Feature: If the tunneling connection ever stops working, the kill switch blocks all internet traffic right away.
- Benefit: This stops any of your private data from leaking out by making sure nothing goes online without the tunneling protection covering it up.
Secret Proxy
- Feature: PIA VPN includes a built-in secret proxy called SOCKS5.
- Benefit: You can use this proxy to be even more anonymous online and to get around internet blocks or restrictions.
Streaming Unblocking
- Feature: It perfectly for streaming Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and more from any place worldwide.
- Benefit: You can access and watch all your favorite shows and movies without any blocks, no matter what country you’re in. No buffering or interruptions when streaming.
Super-Fast Speeds
- Feature: Even with all the strong encryption, it gives you incredibly fast speeds for downloading and uploading.
- Benefit: Get the best security without any slowdown in performance. Perfect for streaming HD video, gaming online, or transferring huge files quickly.
Device Compatibility
- Feature: PIA VPN has easy apps for Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android, and lots of other devices.
- Benefit: You can secure all your internet browsing across every phone, tablet, laptop, and computer you own with just one Private Internet Access subscription.
Feature
Description
Rating (1-5)
How Fast Is Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN?
Web Browsing (92%)
With Private Internet Access VPN, browsing the internet will feel just as fast and smooth as when you are not using a virtual private network at all. It’s designed to preserve around 92% of your regular internet speeds. So websites load lightning-quick, almost exactly like they normally would.
But with that small speed tradeoff, you get incredible online safety and privacy that keeps your activities fully protected. It gives you the best of both worlds – blazing-fast internet while ensuring your data stays locked down tight.
HD Streaming (78%)
Watching high-definition video requires good speeds. With PIA VPN, you will still get 78% of your usual streaming speeds without the virtual private network, which is quite fast! While you might encounter slightly longer buffering times compared to not using a virtual private network, HD video streams should still play smoothly overall.
Online Gaming (88%)
Playing games online needs super-fast internet for fast reflexes and no delays. The great thing is that it maintains an impressive 88% of your usual gaming speeds, with speeds that are quick during online gaming, so you won’t even notice the slight difference from not using a virtual private network at all.
Large File Download (72%)
The most demanding task is downloading really large files, which requires maximum bandwidth. With PIA VPN, you can expect performance at 72% of your usual download speeds without a virtual private network. So, while those massive file downloads may take a bit longer with the virtual private network on, you can still download quite quickly while ensuring total security and privacy.
Overall, Private Internet Access VPN does an excellent job of keeping your internet nearly as fast as usual for all common online activities. Just a small, hardly noticeable slowdown to achieve complete privacy protection!
Speed And Performance
VPN Protocols and Speed
Private Internet Access uses different secure "languages" called protocols to talk to their servers. The latest WireGuard protocol is extremely fast yet still has very strong security. It's the top choice for getting excellent internet speeds. They also have older protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2 which are reliable and private but not quite as blazing fast as WireGuard. Still, you won't notice much slowdown.
SOCKS5 Proxy
Private Internet Access includes a built-in SOCKS5 proxy server that provides an additional layer of anonymity for your online activities. While not as secure as the VPN itself, the proxy can help bypass certain internet restrictions and enhance your privacy.
Server Load and Distribution
If too many people use the same Private Internet Access server, it can create Internet traffic jams that slow down your connection speeds. However, private Internet access lets you easily see how crowded each server location is. You can then simply pick one with fewer users for a smooth, wide-open full-speed experience. It have massive server network spans the globe, so you can connect to whichever one is closest to where you are. Choosing a nearby server minimizes the distance your data travels for maximum quickness.
Performance For Specific Activities
Private Internet Access is specially optimized for flawless video streaming performance, giving you a direct high-speed connection to Netflix and other streaming services. You can binge-watch in beautiful crystal-clear HD or 4K quality without any frustrating delays, buffering, or interruptions. For online gaming, their servers deliver lightning-fast, low-latency connections with super low ping times to ensure silky smooth responsive gameplay free of any lags, stutters, or choppiness. It also has dedicated servers optimized specifically for full speeds when downloading or torrenting large files.
Security Features Impact on Speed
While its robust security features like their Kill Switch do create some minor technical overheads, in real-world use their impact on overall connection speeds is negligible. You get maxed-out security balanced with high-performance speeds.
Servers And Locations
Country
Number of Servers
Features Available
Pricing
Plan
Price per Month
Total Cost
Features
Additional Costs
- Taxes: Depending on your location, taxes may be added.
- Yearly Discount: Paying yearly upfront provides a massive ~72% discount.
- Payment Options: Major credit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin, and other options are accepted.
- Refund Policy: If unsatisfied, request a full refund within 30 days for any reason.
The basic plan covers all of its core VPN features. The annual subscription provides excellent value compared to the monthly pricing. It accepts a variety of secure payment methods and has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Get Started With PIA VPN
- Top-rated VPN for macOS 10.15 Catalina Mac
- Ultra-fast speed in {country} in 2025
- Save 50% off with VPN.com Discount
- Get a 30-day Money Back Guarantee
Does PIA VPN Work Effectively With Streaming Services Like Netflix To Access Geo-restricted Content?
Yes, it works well for streaming Netflix and other sites with location blocks.
Specialized Streaming Servers
Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN has special servers just for streaming video that bypass the blocks and location restrictions put up by streaming platforms.
Consistently Unblocks Libraries
Private Internet Access VPN can consistently unblock different Netflix libraries from countries all over the world. Even when streaming platforms try new ways to block VPNs, they quickly find a workaround to keep those streaming servers working.
Fast Streaming Speeds
With features like WireGuard and server optimizations, Private Internet Access’s streaming servers give fast enough speeds for smooth HD and 4K video streaming with very little buffering. The app makes it easy – you simply pick the streaming server for whatever location you want to watch from.
Simple to Use And Unlimited Data Usage
No complicated setup is needed. There are no data limits for how much you can stream through it. While no VPN can 100% guarantee access forever due to the back-and-forth with streaming sites, It is widely considered one of the most reliable choices based on actual user experiences.
So whether you want U.S. Netflix or Indian Hotstar or to bypass any other region’s locks, Private Internet Access virtual private network is an excellent pick for safe, buffer-free streaming.
Private Internet Access VPN and Streaming Sites
Private Internet Access VPN works super well for streaming from different sites. It has special servers that are just for streaming video. These servers are made to get around any location blocks easily. Here’s how it does with some popular streaming platforms:
Netflix
Works Excellently
PIA VPN can always unblock multiple Netflix libraries from all over the world. It gives you fast speeds for smooth streaming without any stuttering.
Hulu
Works Excellently
It bypasses Hulu’s VPN blocks with no problem by using the special streaming servers. You can stream Hulu from anywhere.
Amazon Prime Video
Works Very Well
It can unblock Amazon Prime Video in many regions worldwide. Sometimes Amazon may notice and block certain servers, so you may need to try others.
Disney+
Works Excellently
Private Internet Access VPN is good at unblocking all the Disney+ shows and movies from any country you want to watch. The streams play perfectly.
BBC iPlayer
Works Well
It works with BBC iPlayer too. But sometimes you may need to switch to a different streaming server location if one gets blocked.
HBO Max
Works Excellently
Private Internet Access VPN reliably unblocks HBO Max every time. You can stream all the HD content from HBO Max without any hiccups or interruptions.
Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN is an outstanding choice for streaming. It bypasses all those annoying geo-blocks on platforms to let you access a huge range of content libraries from around the globe. It also gives you great streaming speeds and stable connections for an exceptional overall watching experience.
How To Install Private Internet Access VPN?
Windows
- Go to the Private Internet Access website. Create account.
- Download the Windows app installer.
- Run the installer and follow the instructions.
- Open the app and log in.
Common issue: App crashes/closes on startup.
Solution: Temporarily disable the antivirus, then reopen the app.
Mac
- Visit the website. Create account.
- Download the Mac installer file.
- Open the downloaded file. Drag the app to the Applications folder.
- Open the app from Applications. Log in.
Common issue: Mac gatekeeper prevention
Solution: Go to Security settings to allow third-party apps.
Android
- Open the Google Play Store on an Android device.
- Search for “Private Internet Access”. Install app.
- Open the app and log in to your account.
Common issue: Can’t connect or slow speeds.
Solution: Enable the VPN permission.
iOS
- Open the App Store on iPhone/iPad.
- Search and download the app.
- Open app & log in to your account.
Common issue: VPN disconnects from the lock screen.
Solution: Enable “Connect On Demand” in Settings.
Linux
- Go to the website. Create account.
- Open Terminal on Linux. Enter the relevant command line.
- Log in from the Terminal using your account details.
Common issue: Missing kernel module errors.
Solution: Install Linux kernel headers/devel package.
For any persisting installation issues, it has detailed setup guides in its support knowledge base. Their 24/7 live chat can also provide real-time assistance.
Are There Any Known Issues With Using PIA VPN On Particular Types Of Devices Or Operating Systems?
In general, reputable virtual private network providers like Private Internet Access VPN aim to support the latest and most popular devices and operating systems across desktop and mobile platforms. However, there can occasionally be isolated compatibility issues, especially with older software versions or more niche device configurations.
- On Desktop: For desktop usage, we would expect Windows and macOS apps to work smoothly on most modern hardware running updated OS versions.
- On Mobile: On mobile, its iOS app should integrate seamlessly with newer iOS versions on updated iPhone/iPad models. Their Android app may require a reasonably recent Android OS version, as very old versions can sometimes cause app issues.
- Linux Support: Private Internet Access VPN provides a command-line tool for Linux users. While it should function well on mainstream Linux distros like Ubuntu, there could potentially be some quirks on smaller niche distributions.
Ultimately, any compatibility problems are likely to be edge cases. However, it is still wise for users to quickly check its website for any compatibility advisories about their specific device/OS setup before subscribing. Their customer support could also verify full functionality.
Overall, we would expect Private Internet Access VPN to provide a relatively hassle-free experience across most mainstream and updated device platforms. However, due diligence on verified device support is prudent for any VPN service.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No logs policy: It never tracks or records what you do online. Keeps you private.
- Strong encryption: Uses super secure coding to fully lock up your data and internet. Hackers cannot break in.
- SOCKS5 proxy: A built-in proxy server provides an additional layer of anonymity.
- Lots of servers: Over 35,000 servers in 78 countries. Access anything globally while staying anonymous.
- Streaming and torrents: Great for watching shows/movies and private downloading from specialized servers.
- Easy apps: Simple apps that anyone can easily set up and use on any device.
- 24/7 support: Get help anytime through live chat support if you need it.
- US-based: Based in the privacy-friendly United States.
Cons
- No split tunneling: It lacks a split tunneling feature to help you choose which apps use the it.
- Limited customization: Not as many advanced settings and tweaks compared to other VPNs.
- No free trial: You can’t test it for free; you can only get your money back within 30 days if unsatisfied.
Facing Problems?
Even a good VPN can sometimes have issues come up. But don’t worry; there are easy ways to fix problems!
Check Help Guides
Private Internet Access VPN has a section with lots of help guides. These guides explain common problems and how to solve them. The guides can help you fix most issues.
Ask Customer Support
Private Internet Access VPN has a customer support team you can contact anytime, day or night. You can chat live, email, or send a support ticket. The support people will help you get issues resolved.
Update the App
Make sure you have the newest version of the app installed on your devices. Older app versions might have problems that are fixed in the new one.
Check Your Settings
Look carefully at how you have set up the VPN and make sure the settings are correct. Sometimes adjusting the settings can clear up problems. Here is a detailed guide on setting up a VPN on any device.
Switch Servers
If you are connected to one PIA VPN server location and having trouble, try switching to a different server somewhere else. A fresh new connection might work better.
Check Compatibility
Make sure the devices and software you have meet all the system requirements for it. Incompatible setups can cause errors.
The keys are using the help guides, keeping the app updated, checking your settings are right, testing different servers, and asking the support team for assistance when needed. Following these troubleshooting steps should get any Private Internet Access VPN issues all cleared up.
Why Use Third-Party Resellers?
You can buy Private Internet Access directly from their website. However, some people choose to get it from VPN.com instead. There are some good reasons for this:
- Bundle Deals: VPN.com may bundle it together with other VPN tools and services. You can get this bundle at a discounted cheaper price.
- Special Pricing: VPN.com negotiates special lower prices just for their site. This lets customers save money on it.
- More Support: VPN.com provides extra technical support to help you set up and adjust settings and fix any problems you may have with it.
- Compare VPNs: The VPN.com site lets you easily compare all its features and costs to other top VPN options. This helps you choose the best one.
- Trusted Site: VPN.com has a well-known good reputation with positive reviews. This makes you feel safe purchasing from them.
- Special Offers: Sometimes VPN.com runs special limited-time promotional offers for it at extra low prices.
The main advantages are bundles, discounts, more support, comparison help, being a trusted name, and getting special promotional deals. But you must make sure to only purchase from VPN.com, as they are an authorized reseller approved by its officials. This ensures you get a real legitimate subscription with full access and updates.
While its website works great, VPN.com provides extra value through its unique offers, bundles, and top-notch customer service to get the very best deal on it.
Get Started With PIA VPN
- Top-rated VPN for macOS 10.15 Catalina Mac
- Ultra-fast speed in {country} in 2025
- Save 50% off with VPN.com Discount
- Get a 30-day Money Back Guarantee
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use private internet access for?
You can use it on laptops, phones, TVs, and more. It works on Windows, Macs, iPhones, Androids, and most devices.
How many devices at once?
You can connect 10 devices at the same time with one subscription. Have it on all your phones, tablets, and computers together.
Is there a free version?
No free version. But you can try it out. If you don’t like it after 30 days, you get your money back.
Can they see what I do online?
No, they cannot see your online activities. They have a no-logs rule. Your internet stuff stays private and secret.
Does it have a kill switch?
Yes, it has a kill switch. If it disconnects, it blocks all internet right away. So your information stays hidden.
How are mobile apps kept safe?
The apps use very strong codes. Experts regularly check and fix any holes to keep the apps super secure.
Any device problems?
It works great on the newest devices and updates. Sometimes really old devices may have small issues, but support helps.
Does it slow down gaming?
Using a VPN can add tiny delays for gaming. But Private Internet Access tries to avoid lags as much as possible.
The Bottom Line
Most people purchase Private Internet Access directly from their official website. However, buying from other vetted resellers can sometimes be advantageous. Resellers may bundle it with other services at a discount.
They could offer exclusive promotional pricing just for their platform. Some provide extra hand-holding support too. Their sites also conveniently let you compare it to other top VPN options.
Resellers sometimes have special limited-time deals as well. Just be sure to only buy from resellers that are formally approved by them to ensure you get a legitimate subscription.
In the end, it depends on your priorities. If you want potential bundles, discounts, or additional support, checking trusted third-party resellers is worthwhile. If not, its website works perfectly fine.
The most important factor is using a high-quality VPN service to secure your internet activities across all devices. Let us know if you need any other assistance with it!
