PIA vs PureVPN Comparison

When it comes to choosing between Private Internet Access (PIA) and PureVPN, both are established names in the VPN industry.

However, the question remains: which one is more suitable for the average user?

To answer this, we analyzed various aspects of both services, focusing not just on their security features, but also on the overall user experience they provide.

Our findings have culminated in a thorough and unbiased comparison of PIA and PureVPN, which you can explore below.

Additionally, if you're weighing your options with these two VPNs, don't overlook CyberGhost and NordVPN.

Both alternatives offer competitive pricing and, based on our evaluations, tend to outperform PIA and PureVPN in several areas.

The iOS application for IPVanish is currently not accessible, and there is no indication of when it will be back online.

When comparing Private Internet Access (PIA) and PureVPN, both providers present similar subscription durations and enticing promotional offers.

However, PureVPN's two-year package boasts a 68% discount, while PIA offers a slightly lower 59% discount. At first, this might appear to favor PureVPN, but it's essential to note that PureVPN generally has higher pricing. Even with their discount, PIA's one-year rates remain more competitive.

On the other hand, PureVPN shines with its extended money-back guarantee. They provide a generous 31-day window for users to explore the service, install it on multiple devices, and ultimately evaluate its fit for their needs. In contrast, PIA only offers a seven-day money-back guarantee. Both services ensure that customers can cancel within the guarantee timeframe and receive a full refund without hassle.

For those considering Private Internet Access, the two-year plan offers a notable 58% savings.

Conversely, PureVPN users can take advantage of an impressive 70% discount with their two-year subscription.

Both PureVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA) permit connections for up to five devices simultaneously.

However, PureVPN stands out slightly because it provides dedicated applications for Amazon Fire TV and Firestick, along with an official add-on for Kodi.

In contrast, PIA primarily offers software for the most commonly used operating systems.

When it comes to routers, both services treat them as a single connection, effectively safeguarding all connected devices.

It's worth mentioning that users must manually install the VPN software on their routers for protection.

Both VPNs also offer extensions tailored for popular web browsers.

These extensions are designed to secure your browsing data and enable access to prominent websites; however, it's crucial to understand the key difference between a full VPN application and a browser extension.

A VPN app encrypts all internet traffic from your device, while a browser extension typically functions only as a proxy for browser-specific traffic.

Consequently, browser extensions do not support anonymous usage of file-sharing services or provide the inherent anti-DDoS defenses that a full VPN connection offers.

Both Private Internet Access (PIA) and PureVPN offer functionalities to access popular streaming platforms.

PIA has the edge in accessing an extra Netflix library, while PureVPN can unlock services like BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video, which PIA cannot.

PureVPN provides a unique feature allowing users to select their preferred location directly or get one assigned to access specific services.

However, this feature isn’t always reliable; for instance, while there’s an option for unblocking ABC, it fails to work, possibly due to updated geo-blocking tactics or the server being blocked.

Despite PureVPN claiming to be "the most safe and secure VPN in China," users have been informed by customer support that the service does not function effectively there.

The website is currently inaccessible due to the Great Firewall, making it impossible for users in China to register.

Conversely, PIA also faces challenges in China, which the company describes as "very difficult."

Although it does manage to connect intermittently, with its primary website blocked and no mirrors available, we suggest not relying on PIA for consistent access while in China.

Both PureVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA) offer outstanding mobile applications.

PureVPN presents a user-friendly interface with a four-panel layout on its main screen.

This allows users to easily select from various server options tailored for streaming, bypassing restrictions, ensuring security, or facilitating file-sharing.

After selecting a specific mode, users can swiftly connect to an appropriate server or opt for a particular one with just a few taps.

In contrast, the desktop application of PureVPN may present some challenges for users.

It initially opens in streaming mode, which might not suit everyone.

To switch modes, users need to click on change mode located on the left side of the interface.

This action directs you to a preferences section where various modes are listed.

The main interface includes a menu for selecting countries, enabling you to filter servers based on geographical locations, whether by country or city.

For those looking to access popular streaming services, there’s an option to switch to purpose , which highlights specific servers designed for unblocking content.

When comparing the desktop applications of these two VPN services, a key distinction is that users only need to launch Private Internet Access (PIA) to adjust settings or log in.

For connecting, it’s a straightforward process: just right-click the icon in the taskbar and select your desired location.

Although PIA may not provide as many intricate configuration options as other VPN providers, it still grants users a reasonable level of control regarding their connection preferences and timing.

The comparison between Private Internet Access (PIA) and PureVPN highlights significant differences in their server offerings.

PureVPN, despite having a smaller overall server count, boasts an impressive reach, covering over four times the number of countries compared to PIA. However, it's important to note that many of PureVPN's servers are virtual, meaning they are not physically located in the country you select. These virtual servers are indicated by a subtle “v” icon, which can be easy to overlook.

On the other hand, Private Internet Access prioritizes speed and reliability by concentrating its server clusters in densely populated and high-traffic regions such as North America and Europe. This strategic placement allows most users to experience fast, low-latency connections, although those in regions like Africa and the Middle East may encounter slightly reduced speeds.

Both VPN services offer the flexibility to select servers located in specific cities. However, PIA users must first set their desktop application to connect by region before city options appear. The mobile app automatically enables this feature, making it easier for users on the go. This city selection capability is especially advantageous for sports enthusiasts or those wanting to access local television broadcasts from abroad, as certain platforms, like NHL.tv and NBC, limit access based on geographic location.

The following section outlines the countries where PIA and PureVPN have established servers:

VPN Comparison Overview

Both Private Internet Access (PIA) and PureVPN support multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP, and PPTP. However, PureVPN goes a step further by offering SSTP and IKEv2, which can enhance browsing speeds. In contrast, users of PIA's desktop and mobile applications are limited to OpenVPN unless they opt for manual setup for other protocols. This limitation is somewhat atypical, as many well-known VPN services allow users to switch between protocols seamlessly within their applications.

When it comes to encryption, both services utilize 256-bit AES, providing robust protection that is virtually unbreakable. The distinction lies in their authentication methods: PIA employs 4096-bit RSA keys, while PureVPN uses 2048-bit RSA keys. Although both offer strong security, the longer RSA-4096 keys of PIA present a greater challenge for potential attackers.

While neither VPN includes a cloaking feature, both do provide a kill switch in their applications for desktop and mobile platforms. This is a notable advantage, especially since many mobile VPNs forgo this functionality. The inclusion of a kill switch is particularly beneficial for users on public Wi-Fi networks, which can often be unpredictable and insecure.

Based in the United States, Private Internet Access (PIA) operates within the jurisdiction of the Five Eyes alliance, which includes Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. This could potentially allow these countries to monitor U.S. citizens and share any collected information with the U.S. government.

However, there’s a silver lining: PIA does not maintain any logs of user activity.

This assertion has been validated in court on two occasions, ensuring that users can trust the company’s commitment to privacy.

The only data PIA retains is the email address used for registration, allowing users to maintain a high level of anonymity by opting for a disposable email and making payments through cryptocurrencies.

Conversely, PureVPN has faced significant challenges regarding user privacy in the past.

Although it has long professed to safeguard user anonymity, it has a controversial history, notably in 2017 when it provided connection logs to the FBI, which resulted in a user’s arrest.

Since then, PureVPN has revised its privacy policies and asserts that it now keeps no logs.

Moreover, users can enhance their anonymity during registration by utilizing various untraceable payment options offered by the service.

Private Internet Access (PIA) and PureVPN have distinct approaches when it comes to IP address allocation.

With PIA, users connecting to the same server share a single IP address. This shared allocation makes it nearly impossible to trace individual activities back to specific users.

In contrast, PureVPN provides each user with a unique static IP address, although it does offer shared server options as well. While this setup can make tracking user activities more straightforward, it may also reduce the likelihood of triggering automatic fraud detection systems, especially beneficial for activities like online banking from different locations.

When it comes to DDoS protection, neither PIA nor PureVPN has dedicated servers designed specifically for this purpose. However, simply using a VPN provides a level of defense. Attackers will only see the IP address of the VPN server, thus targeting a broader network rather than an individual device. Most leading VPN services are equipped to handle such attack scenarios effectively.

Both Private Internet Access (PIA) and PureVPN provide customer support options that cater to users' needs, yet there are significant differences between the two.

PureVPN stands out with its live chat feature, allowing users to receive immediate assistance for their inquiries. In contrast, PIA lacks this option, which can make it more challenging to get quick responses.

For PIA, users are required to create a free account to access its ticketing system, which limits them to having only one active ticket at a time. If they try to submit a new ticket, it simply replaces the existing one, resulting in repetitive answers from support, which can lead to user frustration.

On the other hand, both services excel in providing resources such as searchable knowledge bases and comprehensive guides. These guides include step-by-step instructions, often accompanied by screenshots, to help users effectively navigate installation or troubleshooting issues. Additionally, both companies maintain YouTube channels where users can find helpful video tutorials.

To evaluate the responsiveness of their customer support teams, we posed three questions to each service. While two of the inquiries were straightforward, the third required a more detailed response. We reached out to PureVPN directly via email, but since PIA does not respond to unsolicited emails, we submitted all our questions through their ticketing system.

When we reached out for support, PureVPN responded quickly, while Private Internet Access (PIA) had a more inconsistent reply time, with one instance leaving us waiting over a day. Both services did not provide in-depth answers but shared links for further information on relevant issues.

After evaluating the pros and cons of these two VPNs, we found it challenging to declare a clear winner. Each excels in different areas: PIA is recognized for its strong user privacy protection, while PureVPN boasts a broader server network, allowing access to more streaming services.

The two VPNs offer comparable security features, configuration options, and customer support. They both support anonymous registration, deliver high-speed connections, and permit up to five simultaneous device connections. Therefore, either option could be a solid selection, but if anonymity is your priority, PIA stands out as the safer choice. Conversely, if accessing your favorite streaming services from overseas is more important to you, PureVPN is the more dependable option.

Since both VPNs come with a money-back guarantee, there's no rush to decide. You have the opportunity to test PureVPN for 31 days and PIA for 7 days, with the option to request a full refund if you are not satisfied. No matter which you opt for, we believe you will appreciate the service you receive.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a virtual private network that enables users to access region-restricted content on Netflix by connecting to servers in different countries. By using a Netflix VPN, viewers can bypass geographical restrictions and enjoy a broader range of content by choosing a server from the desired region, logging into Netflix, and streaming the available shows and movies.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you're looking to access region-restricted content by using a Netflix VPN, you may want to consider the SafeShell VPN . This VPN service offers a host of benefits that make it a standout choice for Netflix users. One of the key advantages of SafeShell VPN is its high-speed servers, which are specifically optimized for Netflix streaming. These servers ensure that you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without interruptions, providing lightning-fast connection speeds for buffer-free playback and high-definition streaming.

Moreover, SafeShell VPN allows you to connect multiple devices at once, supporting up to five simultaneous connections across various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more. This makes it an ideal choice for households with multiple users who want to watch Netflix on different devices. The exclusive App Mode feature of SafeShell VPN enables you to unlock and access content from multiple regions, providing a diverse range of streaming options. Additionally, with top-level security through the proprietary "ShellGuard" VPN protocol, SafeShell VPN ensures your data remains protected. Say goodbye to issues like " netflix vpn not working " due to outdated software; SafeShell keeps you connected and secure with its cutting-edge technology and robust features.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

To enjoy Netflix content from various regions, SafeShell VPN offers a straightforward solution. Begin by subscribing to SafeShell VPN by visiting their official website and selecting a plan that suits your budget and requirements. Once you've chosen your plan, click the "Subscribe Now" button to proceed. Next, download and install SafeShell VPN by navigating to their website and selecting the correct version for your device, whether it's Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android. Once installed, launch the SafeShell VPN app and log into your account. SafeShell Netflix VPN supports two modes, but for an optimal Netflix experience, it is recommended to select the APP mode.

After setting up, the next step is to choose your VPN server. Browse through the list of available servers and pick one located in the region whose Netflix content you wish to access, such as the US, UK, or Canada. Click on "Connect" to link to the selected server. With the VPN connection established, open the Netflix app or website and log in with your Netflix credentials. This setup will allow you to enjoy streaming the content available in the region you've chosen, all while using SafeShell Netflix VPN to ensure a seamless viewing experience.