✅ VPN Buyer’s Checklist

Your quick-scan guide to choosing a VPN that actually keeps you safe.

🔒 Core Privacy & Security

• ☐ No-Logs Policy – Verified by audit or real-world cases.

• ☐ RAM-Only Servers – Nothing written to hard drives.

• ☐ Jurisdiction – Based outside surveillance alliances.

• ☐ Strong Encryption – AES-256 or ChaCha20 with modern protocols.

• ☐ Kill Switch – Internet shuts off if VPN drops.

• ☐ Leak Protection – DNS / IPv6 / WebRTC covered.

⚙️ Advanced Features

• ☐ Double VPN / MultiHop – Routes through two servers for extra privacy.
  👉 Not sure if you need it? Learn when Double VPN is worth it →

• ☐ Onion over VPN – Adds Tor network anonymity.
  👉 Curious how it compares to Tor alone? See the Onion over VPN breakdown →

• ☐ Obfuscation / Stealth Mode – Works in censorship-heavy regions.

• ☐ Ad / Tracker / Malware Blocking – Blocks phishing, trackers, intrusive ads.

• ☐ Dedicated IP (Optional) – Static IP for banking & work access.

• ☐ Port Forwarding (Optional) – Great for torrenting & servers.

🌍 Servers & Performance

• ☐ Server Locations – Coverage where you need it.

• ☐ Server Speeds – Independent tests show minimal slowdown.

• ☐ Streaming Support – Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer unblocked.

• ☐ Torrenting / P2P – Allowed and optimized servers available.

• ☐ Simultaneous Connections – 6+ minimum; unlimited is best.

👨‍💻 Usability & Transparency

• ☐ User-Friendly Apps – Works across Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers.

• ☐ Open-Source Apps (Optional) – Extra transparency.

• ☐ Independent Audits – Regular, published security audits.

• ☐ Customer Support – 24/7 live chat or fast email support.

• ☐ Anonymous Payments – Crypto, gift cards accepted.

💼 Small Business Use

• ☐ Multi-User Management – Central dashboard for teams.

• ☐ Dedicated Gateways/IPs – Trusted access points for staff.

• ☐ Site-to-Site Networking – Link office and cloud securely.

• ☐ Compliance Features – HIPAA / SOC2 / GDPR support.

💰 Pricing & Value

• ☐ Free Trial or Refund – 30-day money-back guarantee.

• ☐ Affordable Long-Term Plans – Aim for under $4/month.

• ☐ Clear Refund Policy – No hidden terms.

⚡ Next Step:

✅ You’ve got the checklist.
👉 Now see our guide to Double VPN vs Onion Over VPN to decide if advanced privacy is worth it for you.