If your online world this December feels dominated by adverts urging you to buy a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you are certainly not alone. From podcast sponsorships to YouTube ad breaks, the push for these digital privacy tools has reached a festive fever pitch as we approach the new year.
The seasonal surge in VPN promotions
The timing is no coincidence. With new online safety legislation coming into force and heightened concerns over data security during the holiday shopping and travel period, the marketing for VPN services has intensified. The message is clear: protect your data on public Wi-Fi, shield your digital footprint during the sales, and safeguard personal details while travelling.
But for many entering 2025, fundamental questions remain. What does a VPN actually do, and is it a necessary expense for the average person? We break down the essentials to help you decide if a subscription should be part of your cyber-savvy New Year's resolutions.
Understanding the VPN basics
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that encrypts your internet connection and masks your online activity. It creates a secure tunnel for your data, shielding your browsing from potential interception by hackers on public networks, or from tracking by advertisers and even your own internet service provider.
The core question is: do you need one? For everyday internet use—such as online banking, shopping, or streaming—a VPN adds a robust layer of security. This is particularly valuable on vulnerable public Wi-Fi in locations like cafes, airports, and hotels. For frequent travellers, a VPN also allows seamless access to UK-based services like BBC iPlayer or online banking, which can be geo-blocked abroad. Furthermore, it can help prevent price discrimination on flights or insurance based on your browsing history.
Key features and what to look for
When evaluating a VPN provider, several features are critical. Prioritise services offering military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not store records of your activity. Connection speed is vital for uninterrupted streaming and browsing, so look for providers with optimised servers. A large, global server network offers more options for switching virtual locations.
Consider how many devices you need to protect. Most reputable VPNs allow between 5 and 10 simultaneous connections, covering smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even smart TVs under one account. Some offer apps for Amazon Fire Sticks or router installation to protect an entire home network.
Pricing models vary. Monthly plans offer flexibility but are more expensive, while annual or multi-year plans require upfront payment but are cheaper overall. Be wary of free VPNs, which often impose data caps, throttle speeds, or pose security risks. A paid service from a reputable provider is a safer bet, and many offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free trialling.
Comparing top VPN providers for UK users
The market is crowded, so we've analysed some of the best-known services based on user reviews and current festive offers.
ExpressVPN (Trustpilot: 4.6/5) is praised for its speed and reliability with streaming services like Netflix. Its two-year plan costs £4.04 per month with four extra months free.
NordVPN (Trustpilot: 4.4/5) is lauded for strong security features like Double VPN. Its two-year plan is currently £2.59 per month, a 71% discount.
Surfshark (Trustpilot: 4.3/5) stands out for allowing unlimited device connections. Its two-year plan is £1.69 per month with three additional months free.
CyberGhost VPN (Trustpilot: 4.5/5) is noted for its user-friendly interface and a lengthy 45-day money-back guarantee. A two-year subscription is £1.92 per month.
ProtonVPN (Trustpilot: 4.2/5) earns respect for its transparent privacy policies and a useful free tier. Paid two-year plans start from £3.59 per month.
Is a VPN a worthwhile investment?
Ultimately, if you value online privacy, security on public networks, and unrestricted access to content, a VPN is a sensible and increasingly affordable investment. With the rise in online scams and data breaches, it provides a straightforward layer of protection for your household's digital life. The key is to choose a reputable provider whose features—be it speed, server locations, or device limits—align with your specific needs and budget.
