Private Internet Access
A long-running VPN with unlimited devices, open-source apps and lots of advanced settings.
- Verified facts
- 5 of 5
- Alternatives ranked
- 5
- Approved reviews
- 0
- Visits sent from here
- 0
About Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access, usually called PIA, is one of the older commercial VPNs and is now owned by Kape Technologies, the same group behind CyberGhost and ExpressVPN. It appeals to people who like to tinker: the apps expose protocol, encryption, port forwarding, split tunnelling and DNS settings that many rivals hide. Its no-logs claims have been tested in court cases in the past, and its desktop and mobile apps are open source. One subscription covers unlimited devices, and add-ons include dedicated IPs and antivirus. Pricing is subscription based, with long plans much cheaper per month than paying monthly, and a 30-day money-back guarantee for first-time users. Servers cover over a hundred countries. Apps run on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, browsers and routers. It suits technically minded users who want control over their connection, and households with many devices.
Best for: Tinkerers who want port forwarding and fine-grained settings on unlimited devices.
Pros and cons
What works
- Unlimited simultaneous devices
- Port forwarding and detailed connection settings
- Open-source desktop and mobile apps
Why people leave
- Monthly plan is expensive compared with long terms
- Busy interface for beginners
- Owned by a group that also runs several rival brands
Top Private Internet Access alternatives
See all 5- 1
Surfshark66.5Also covers unlimited devices, with a simpler interface.
- 2
Windscribe62.6Similar power-user settings plus a free plan and pay-per-location option.
- 3
Proton VPN59.6Open-source and audited, with Swiss jurisdiction and a free tier.
- 4
Mullvad VPN57.2Simpler flat pricing and anonymous accounts.
- 5
IVPN55.3Privacy-first provider with anonymous accounts and open-source apps.
Why people left Private Internet Access
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Private Internet Access: common questions
Is Private Internet Access free?
No, Private Internet Access is a paid product. Monthly price: $11.95/month (checked on Private Internet Access's own site).
Is Private Internet Access open source?
No, Private Internet Access is not open source. Open-source alternatives include Windscribe, Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN.
What platforms does Private Internet Access run on?
Private Internet Access is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android and Browser extension.
What are the best alternatives to Private Internet Access?
The highest-ranked Private Internet Access alternatives right now are Surfshark, Windscribe and Proton VPN. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.