Private Internet Access Review 2024: Can it Compete With Others?

Private Internet Access is a VPN service that offers great value. It has over 25,000 servers in 77 countries globally. This makes it one of the largest VPN networks in the industry.

Its apps and clients are easy to use and packed with security features. All these features are available for just a few dollars a month. This makes it seem almost too good to be true.

But, PIA also has a bad reputation for being unreliable. Sometimes it works well, unblocking any restriction. But other times, it can be very frustrating.

So, does it have what it takes to compete with the best? Here are the results of our extensive tests on Private Internet Access.

TL; DR – Table Overview of Crucial Private Internet Access Features 

How Fast is PIA? – Testing their Speed and Reliability

Private Internet Access isn’t the fastest VPN out there. We knew this before we started testing. But, it’s in the top ten for speed, so we expected good performance. Here’s what we’ve learned from the PIA speed and reliability tests.

We tested Private Internet Access’ speed using a dedicated network for 1-2 users. This ensured our results were fair and not affected by other devices. First, we checked our network connection speed without a VPN:

Next, we tested Private Internet Access’ speeds by connecting to nearby servers. Here’s the speed of PIA’s local servers:

Then, we tested how PIA performs with a remote server. Here’s how PIA’s service performed when connected to a server on the other side of the globe:

We also tested PIA’s “Choose Automatically” option. Here are the results:

We were impressed by how intuitive and functional their “Choose Automatically” feature is. It even outperformed a local server we chose manually.

It’s worth noting that these screenshots are averages from several tests. PIA offered very inconsistent testing results between each speed test. So, you can’t always expect the same performance, even with a local server.

Overall, PIA offers above-average download and upload speeds, and relatively stable ping across all servers. But, its inconsistent performance is something to consider if you’re looking for a fast VPN.

Private Internet Access Servers – Locations and Availability

Private Internet Access has the largest server base among its competitors. It has over 25,000 VPN and Proxy servers across 99 locations in 77 countries. This means you can find a server close to you, no matter where you are. Plus, it includes a SOCKS5 proxy in its service.

The service uses only bare-metal servers for better security and performance. This means there are no virtual servers that could be hacked.

PIA has introduced RAM servers to improve its network. These servers are part of their Next Generation network. They are in beta but show great promise for the future.

Private Internet Access offers fast VPN speeds and unlimited data transfer. They also have “Premium VPN Bandwidth”. But, their support didn’t clearly explain what this means, except for unlimited data.

Is PIA Safe? – Overview of their Security Features

Private Internet Access is known for its strong security and privacy features. It’s a top VPN for those who value their privacy. Here’s a detailed look at PIA’s security features:

• Kill Switch – This feature is on by default to block leaks if your connection drops.
• PIA Mace – You can block ads, trackers, and malware with this privacy preference.
• Split Tunneling – You can choose which apps use the VPN while others use your real IP.
• Port Forwarding – PIA supports port forwarding for faster torrenting and remote access. You can learn more here.
• DNS Custom Configuration – Their Next Generation migration project uses private IPs for servers.
• Custom Proxy Preferences – You can redirect your VPN connection through another location with these preferences.
• Dedicated IP Settings – You can buy a dedicated IP from any country for extra security. It’s great for businesses.

PIA also lets you choose your handshake and data encryption for your connection. This adds to the flexibility of their service.

Does Private Internet Access Log User Data?

No, Private Internet Access doesn’t log any user activities or personal info. They don’t keep records of your IP, time spent online, or websites visited. This makes PIA a top choice for those who value their privacy.

Private Internet Access Available Protocols

Private Internet Access offers fewer protocols than its competitors. Their apps only support a couple of options. This is due to their Next Generation project, which removed most protocols.

Let’s look at the two main protocols PIA offers:

• OpenVPN (UDP vs. TCP) – This protocol is the default in all PIA apps. It balances performance and security well. It works great on all platforms and is considered the best in its class.
• WireGuard – Created in 2016, WireGuard is a new, open-source protocol. It’s known for being simple and not using much device resources. It’s different from other protocols available.

If you want many protocols, PIA might not be for you. The lack of L2TP/IPSec and IKEv2 might bother advanced users. But, beginners and casual users won’t notice any issues with the two protocols available.

Private Internet Access Streaming Capabilities

Streaming with Private Internet Access can be inconsistent. Until last year, PIA servers were unreliable at unblocking streaming sites, like Netflix. They’ve improved, but some issues remain.

PIA has been useful in accessing US, UK, and Canadian Netflix versions. The main issue is it can’t unblock major sites consistently.

We also tried unblocking other big streaming sites. Netflix aside, PIA servers struggled with BBC iPlayer but worked well on Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video.

PIA outperforms many competitors in unblocking streaming platforms. Yet, it can’t match ExpressVPN and NordVPN, which are better at unblocking Netflix. For now, we suggest using another VPN for streaming.

PIA P2P Support – Can You Torrent Using this VPN?

While PIA isn’t the best for streaming, it’s great for torrenting. It has many servers, advanced settings, and no bandwidth limits.

It also has a zero-log policy, keeping your torrenting activities private. A key feature is port-forwarding, which boosts torrenting speed.

PIA makes torrenting easy. You can test P2P speeds without downloading anything. Torrenting is supported on every PIA server.

We tested P2P on both local and remote servers. Our network supports up to 2Mbps upload speed without a VPN. Here’s how it performed:

Looking at the comparison above, torrenting speed drops when using remote connections. The remote connection only reaches half our usual download speed without a VPN. Yet, it’s good enough for users who need to access and download from restricted P2P platforms.

Is Private Internet Access Expensive? – A Look at Their Pricing Plans

Private Internet Access has three price plans: monthly, yearly, and bi-yearly subscriptions. Their monthly plan is quite pricey, matching some of the most expensive VPNs. But, committing to their service for a longer time can lead to great savings, like with the two-year plan. You can see the prices in the image below:

The image shows that the bi-yearly plan saves a lot of money over time. It works out to just over a couple of dollars a month for two years. Plus, those who choose the two-year plan get BoxCryptor for their PIA subscription duration.

Other than the BoxCryptor bonus deal, all three subscription plans offer the same service features. These include free email breach monitoring, up to 10 simultaneous connections, and access to 25,000+ servers in 77+ countries.

You can choose from close to a dozen different payment solutions for your subscription. This includes major credit cards, PayPal, and Amazon Payments. Non-recurring buyers can also use Bitcoin, Ripple, CashU, and others.

Can I try Private Internet Access for Free?

No, Private Internet Access doesn’t offer a free trial plan. But, they have a 30-day money-back guarantee. This lets you try their service risk-free.

Recently, they increased their money-back offer from one week to 30 days. Getting your money back is easy. Just open a new ticket with their support team, and they’ll handle your refund request quickly.

Private Internet Access Apps and Programs

Private Internet Access has VPN apps and extensions for all major platforms. We tested each one to give you the most accurate info. Let’s look at how Private Internet Access performs on each popular device and platform:

Private Internet Access for Windows

The PIA Windows app offers a lot of freedom to customize your online experience. It has several sections for different features. Here’s a detailed overview:

• Privacy – You can adjust kill-switch settings and turn on PIA MACE to block ads and malware.
• Network – Switch between name servers, enable split tunneling, and more.
• Connection – Customize your connection preferences, including encryption and handshake type.
• Proxy and Dedicated IP Sections – Tailor your proxy preferences and secure remote connections with a dedicated IP address.

The app is easy to use, despite its many features. You can use Quick Connect to connect to nearby servers. There’s also a search bar for finding specific servers. The client shows useful info, like download and upload usage, and has an automatic VPN snooze function.

Private Internet Access for macOS

The Private Internet Access macOS app is similar to its Windows counterpart. It offers most of the same options, including split tunneling. It has fewer privacy features but enough advanced settings.

The macOS app is more intuitive than the Windows app. It’s designed for 64-bit macOS devices only.

Private Internet Access for Android

The Android app of Private Internet Access offers a lot of features. You can switch between protocols and adjust proxy settings. There’s also a kill switch for extra security when Wi-Fi drops.

You can download the app from their website or the Google Play Store. It has many features in a user-friendly app. The only thing missing is split tunneling, found in desktop apps.

Private Internet Access for iOS

The iOS app of Private Internet Access works well without slowing down your device. It has the same features as the Android app, but lacks MACE ad-blocking.

Private Internet Access Browser Extensions

Private Internet Access offers three browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. They redirect your traffic through an HTTPS proxy server.

The extensions look like the app, making it easy to use. You can use them with just one tap. They also let you adjust settings and use split-tunneling.

The extensions work on their own or with the app. They offer more features than most VPN extensions.

Private Internet Access for Routers

Private Internet Access is available for routers. You can secure your network by buying a router with PIA pre-installed. Or, you can set it up on your own router if it supports it.

For more info on supported routers and setup, visit their website.

How to Install Private Internet Access Apps?

Installing Private Internet Access apps is easy. Most steps are the same for all devices. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose the right PIA app for your device on their website.
2. Download and install the client.
3. Enter your login details after installation.
4. Accept any permissions or confirmations.
5. Open the app and connect to a server.

These steps work for any device. If you need help, PIA has a detailed knowledge base.

They provide step-by-step guides with screenshots. These guides help you install the app smoothly, even if you’re new to VPNs.

PIA Customer Support and User Experience

Private Internet Access is known for its top-notch customer service. They provide around the clock customer support through a very efficient live chat service.

To reach their support, you need to share some personal details first. This includes your email address, network type, and connection method.

If you don’t want to talk to live support, you can submit a ticket on their site. Or, you can browse their FAQ page or search their support library. Their library has lots of information on PIA’s service.

PIA is also on popular social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Youtube. They are very active on Reddit too, but we’ll talk more about that later.

Private Internet Access Customer Experience From Around the Web

We also check the web to see what people say about Private Internet Access. This VPN is very active on social media, including Reddit.

We look at many user review sites, like Google Play, for direct feedback. Let’s see how PIA does with its users online:

Private Internet Access User Opinions on Google Play

Private Internet Access has over 32,000 user reviews and a 4.5 rating on Google Play. But, they don’t reply to comments and reviews like some other VPNs do. We hope they will start responding to help improve their reputation.

Here are some recent praises and complaints they’ve received on Google Play:

What does Reddit Think of Private Internet Access?

PIA has its own subreddit with almost 13,000 members. They share updates and chat with the community often. Users can ask questions and get quick answers.

Many Reddit threads talk about PIA. It shows how many people use PIA for privacy. People like PIA for torrenting but some say it’s not good for streaming. They also mention some app bugs.

Does PIA Offer a Good VPN Service? – The Bottom Line

Does PIA offer a good VPN service? In short, yes, Private Internet Access is a solid VPN. It’s not perfect, but it’s a strong tool at a good price.

Despite some issues with connection speeds and website unblocking, PIA has great features. It’s a top pick for those seeking security and privacy. Plus, it’s great for torrenting.

But, if streaming is your main goal, look elsewhere. PIA has the chance to be among the best if it fixes its problems.

Private Internet Access FAQs

Is Private Internet Access Safe?

Yes, PIA is very safe. It’s a top choice for privacy. It doesn’t keep logs or user info.

Where is Private Internet Access Based?

PIA is in the US, with its base in Denver, Colorado. This might worry some users. But, the US doesn’t require data retention, so PIA can’t be forced to log data.

Who owns Private Internet Access?

By the end of 2019, PIA was sold to Kape Technologies. This move was met with skepticism. Kape Technologies has a history with browser toolbars that might not be wanted.