Resources

VPN Resources

VPN Guides & Resources

Welcome to the VPN Select Guide resource center.

Whether you’re completely new to VPNs or already use one regularly, our resources are designed to help you understand VPN technology, compare services, and use your VPN effectively.

VPN Basics

What Is a VPN?

Learn what a virtual private network does, how it encrypts internet traffic, and how it can help protect your connection.

How Does a VPN Work?

Understand VPN servers, encrypted connections, IP addresses, tunneling, and VPN protocols.

Do You Need a VPN?

A VPN can be useful for certain privacy, security, travel, and public-Wi-Fi situations, but it isn’t a replacement for good security practices.

VPN vs. Proxy

Learn the differences between VPNs and proxy servers and when each technology may be appropriate.

Privacy & Security

What Is a No-Logs VPN?

Learn what VPN logging policies mean and what information providers may collect.

What Is a VPN Kill Switch?

Understand how a kill switch can help prevent internet traffic from continuing outside the VPN connection.

VPN Encryption Explained

Learn about encryption and why it matters when choosing a VPN.

VPN Leaks Explained

Learn about DNS, IP, and other potential leaks and how they can affect privacy.

VPNs for Different Uses

Best VPNs for Streaming

Compare VPN features that can be useful for streaming and accessing content while traveling.

Best VPNs for Gaming

Learn how VPNs can affect latency, routing, security, and gaming performance.

Best VPNs for Travel

Discover considerations for travelers who frequently connect to unfamiliar Wi-Fi networks.

Best VPNs for Public Wi-Fi

Learn how VPNs can provide an additional layer of protection when using hotel, airport, coffee-shop, and other public networks.

VPNs for Multiple Devices

Compare providers based on device compatibility and simultaneous connections.

VPN Technology

Explore guides covering:

  • WireGuard
  • OpenVPN
  • IKEv2
  • VPN tunneling
  • Split tunneling
  • Multi-hop VPNs
  • Obfuscated servers
  • DNS protection
  • IPv6 protection
  • Dedicated IP addresses
  • VPN routers

Choosing a VPN

Before selecting a provider, consider what you actually need from your VPN.

Privacy-focused users may prioritize logging policies, audits, ownership transparency, and jurisdiction. Other users may care more about speed, streaming, device support, or price.

There is no single VPN that is automatically perfect for every user.

Use our Best Of and Comparisons sections to narrow down your choices.