Private Internet Access Review
Open-source apps, an audited no-logs policy and by far the largest server count here, at one of the lowest long-term prices in the category.
No-Logs Open-Source Kill Switch
Open-source apps, an audited no-logs policy and by far the largest server count here, at one of the lowest long-term prices in the category.
Private Internet Access supports two widely used open-source VPN protocols: WireGuard and OpenVPN. WireGuard is designed for lightweight, efficient connections, while OpenVPN gives users more control over encryption and connection settings. PIA’s applications are also open source, allowing researchers and users to inspect the client code rather than relying entirely on the provider’s claims.
PIA includes both a standard VPN Kill Switch and an Advanced Kill Switch. The standard option prevents traffic from leaving the VPN tunnel during an unexpected connection loss, while the advanced mode can block traffic even when the VPN itself is switched off. Split tunneling is available on supported platforms and lets users decide which apps or IP addresses should use or bypass the VPN.
Another privacy feature is PIA MACE, which blocks domains associated with ads, trackers and malware. Multi-Hop can route VPN traffic through an additional Shadowsocks or SOCKS5 proxy, while obfuscation can help disguise VPN traffic on restrictive networks.
PIA operates a strict no-logs policy that has been independently reviewed by Deloitte. Its VPN servers are RAM-only, meaning they do not use persistent disk storage for VPN session data. The company’s no-logs claims have also been tested in real court cases.
PIA provides streaming-optimized server locations in addition to its regular VPN locations. Its apps cover major desktop and mobile platforms as well as Android TV and Apple TV, while router configuration can extend VPN protection to additional devices.
P2P traffic is supported across PIA’s network. An important advantage for torrenting is port forwarding, which is available on selected servers and can improve connectivity for P2P applications. PIA also provides unlimited bandwidth, so there is no monthly VPN data allowance to manage.
PIA currently provides 154 VPN locations across 91 countries, including servers in all 50 US states. Some locations are virtual, meaning the IP address corresponds to the selected country while the physical server is located elsewhere. PIA clearly identifies these virtual locations.
Its NextGen infrastructure uses 10-Gbps connections, providing substantial capacity for activities such as streaming, downloads and gaming. WireGuard is generally the more lightweight protocol, although actual performance depends on server distance, network congestion, device and the user’s original connection.
PIA offers monthly, annual and multi-year subscriptions. Longer commitments reduce the effective monthly price considerably compared with paying month to month. Promotional pricing changes over time, so users should check the current checkout price before subscribing.
At the time of checking, PIA lists its monthly subscription at $11.95/month, while discounted annual and multi-year offers are available. PIA also clearly displays the applicable renewal cost at checkout.
New eligible subscribers receive a 30-day money-back guarantee. Some purchases, including Apple App Store subscriptions, gift cards and third-party deals, are subject to different refund rules.
PIA also sells Dedicated IP as an optional paid add-on. Its token-based implementation is designed so that the Dedicated IP cannot be associated with a particular VPN account on the server side.
PIA provides native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS, along with support for browsers, smart TVs, routers and other devices. One subscription supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making PIA particularly practical for households with many devices.
The apps provide considerably more customization than a simple connect-and-forget VPN. Users can configure protocols, DNS settings, encryption, port forwarding, split tunneling, automation, kill switch behavior and Multi-Hop. This flexibility is useful for advanced users, although beginners may need more time to understand all the available settings.
PIA provides 24/7 customer support through live chat and email, backed by an extensive online knowledge base. Support documentation covers installation, billing, account management, connectivity, protocols and advanced configuration.
This combination of direct support and detailed technical documentation is especially useful with a highly configurable VPN such as PIA.
Yes, its apps are open source and available for independent review.
PIA does not cap simultaneous connections on a single subscription.
In the United States, which some privacy-focused users prefer to avoid; its audited no-logs policy is the main counterargument to that concern.
No, its no-logs policy has been reviewed by Deloitte, and it has a public record of having no user data to hand over in real legal cases.
Yes, P2P traffic is allowed across its entire server network.