Private Internet Access vs FastestVPN Comparison

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Diving into the realm of VPNs, we’re putting Private Internet Access vs FastestVPN under the microscope. Both are credible providers in the industry, each boasting distinct features and advantages. Making the right choice might seem daunting, but we’re here to dissect their offerings and help you decide which fits your needs best.

Overview

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the critical aspects of Private Internet Access (PIA) and FastestVPN, two heavyweights in the VPN industry. We’ll dissect their security measures, scrutinize their privacy policies, and test their speed capabilities to help you make an informed decision. Are you ready to discover which VPN offers the best balance of security, privacy, and speed? Let’s dive in.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access

Price: From $2.03/month

Trustpilot Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars

Refund Policy: Private Internet Access offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Official website: www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access (PIA) is best for individuals who prioritize privacy and security while browsing the internet or conducting online transactions.

Learn more about Private Internet Access

FastestVPN

FastestVPN

Price: From $1.66/month

Trustpilot Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Refund Policy: FastestVPN offers a 15-day money back guarantee.

Official website: www.fastestvpn.com

FastestVPN is best for individuals and businesses seeking secure, fast, and reliable internet access with enhanced privacy and data protection features.

Learn more about FastestVPN

PIA stands out with its robust network and unwavering commitment to user privacy. The ad and malware blocker is a testimony to its user-centric approach. I have navigated the internet waters safely and swiftly, thanks to the high-speed servers it hosts globally. It isn’t just a VPN service; it is a fortress of solitude in the bustling city of the internet, rightfully earning a 5-star rating! – Diego Rodriguez

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FastestVPN lives up to its name, offering blisteringly fast connections without compromising on security. Its user-friendly interface facilitates easy navigation while the customer support has been a beacon of reliability. It’s a VPN service that has catered to all my online needs proficiently, earning a full 5-star review with its performance! – Gabriela

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PIA has stood the test of time, offering a reliable VPN service characterized by a vast network of servers and strong security features. While the user interface could use a modern update, the service remains dependable, earning a sturdy 4-star rating. – Ji-Yong

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FastestVPN lives up to its name, providing users with speedy connections and robust security features. Though performing well, it could further enrich its service with additional features to compete with the top players. A fast and secure solution, rightfully earning a 4-star review. – Veronika Z.

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Pros & Cons

This chapter analyzes the strong and weak points of these two VPN platforms.

Winner is:

PIA offers a larger network of 3,300+ servers in 48 countries, superior security features such as kill switch and DNS leak protection, and proven no-logging policy audited by independent entities. FastestVPN, while cheaper, has a smaller network with servers in 31 countries, lacks a reliable kill switch, and its privacy policy is less transparent. Despite FastestVPN's attractive pricing, PIA’s robust security, larger server network, and proven commitment to privacy make it the overall winner.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access

Pros:
  • Unlimited bandwidth and connections: PIA allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices to its VPN at the same time. This is great for families or anyone who wants to use the VPN on multiple devices.
  • Strong security: PIA uses strong encryption and security features to protect your privacy. These features include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
  • Wide server network: PIA has a large server network with over 30,000 servers in over 78 countries. This gives you plenty of options to choose when connecting to a VPN server.
  • Affordable pricing: PIA is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market.
  • Good customer support: PIA has a good customer support team that is available 24/7. You can contact them via live chat, email, or a support ticket.
Cons:
  • Speed: PIA's speeds are not the fastest on the market. This can be a problem if you are using the VPN for streaming or gaming.
  • Not all streaming platforms work: PIA does not work with all streaming platforms, such as Netflix and Hulu.
  • No split tunneling: PIA does not offer split tunneling, which allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which apps do not.
  • Based in the US: PIA is based in the United States, which is a privacy-unfriendly jurisdiction.
FastestVPN

FastestVPN

Pros:
  • Affordable: FastestVPN is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market. You can get a monthly subscription for $5, a yearly subscription for $40, or a lifetime subscription for $40.
  • Good security: FastestVPN uses strong encryption and a no-logs policy to protect your privacy.
  • Unblocks streaming services: FastestVPN can unblock most major streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
  • Allows P2P file sharing: FastestVPN allows P2P file sharing, so you can torrent without worrying about getting copyright notices.
  • Easy to use: FastestVPN has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to set up and use.
  • Good customer support: FastestVPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.
Cons:
  • Slow speeds: FastestVPN's speeds are not the fastest, especially on long-distance connections.
  • Small server network: FastestVPN has a smaller server network than some other VPNs. This can limit your options for connecting to a specific server.
  • Limited features: FastestVPN lacks some of the features that you might find in other VPNs, such as split tunneling and a kill switch.

Key Features

This section compares the overall features of Private Internet Access (PIA) vs FastestVPN.

Private Internet Access (PIA) HQ and country of jurisdiction is United States, and Private Internet Access (PIA) supports Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS platforms. In addition, it also supports OpenVPN, routers, and has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.

FastestVPN HQ and country of jurisdiction is Cayman Islands, and FastestVPN supports a wide range of platforms and devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Routers, Roku, Kodi, PS4, Xbox, and Firestick.

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) offers robust security features, including 256-bit encryption and a strict no-logs policy. It supports P2P, has extensive server coverage and allows 10 simultaneous connections. FastestVPN, though less expensive, lacks PIA's advanced features. It offers 256-bit encryption and a no-logs policy, but has limited servers and permits 10 connections. Despite FastestVPN's cost-effectiveness, PIA's superior security, privacy, and extensive network make it the clear winner for comprehensive online protection.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access

  • Unlimited bandwidth and connections: PIA allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices to its VPN at the same time. This is great for families or anyone who wants to use the VPN on multiple devices.
  • Strong security: PIA uses strong encryption and security features to protect your privacy. These features include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
  • Wide server network: PIA has a large server network with over 30,000 servers in over 78 countries. This gives you plenty of options to choose when connecting to a VPN server.
  • Affordable pricing: PIA is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market.
  • Good customer support: PIA has a good customer support team that is available 24/7. You can contact them via live chat, email, or a support ticket.
  • Open-source apps: PIA's apps are open source, which means that anyone can inspect the code to make sure that it is not doing anything malicious.
  • No logs policy: PIA does not keep any logs of your online activity. This means that your ISP, government, or anyone else cannot track what you do online.
  • Ad blocker: PIA includes an ad blocker in its VPN apps. This blocks ads, trackers, and malware, which can improve your browsing experience and protect your privacy.
  • Split tunneling: PIA allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which apps do not. This can be useful if you want to use a streaming service that does not work with VPNs.
FastestVPN

FastestVPN

  • Strong security: FastestVPN uses strong encryption and a no-logs policy to protect your privacy. The encryption is military-grade, which means that it is very difficult to break. The no-logs policy means that FastestVPN does not track your online activity, so your data is never stored on their servers.
  • Affordable: FastestVPN is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market. You can get a monthly subscription for $5, a yearly subscription for $40, or a lifetime subscription for $40.
  • Unblocks streaming services: FastestVPN can unblock most major streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. This means that you can watch your favorite shows and movies even if they are not available in your region.
  • Allows P2P file sharing: FastestVPN allows P2P file sharing, so you can torrent without worrying about getting copyright notices. This is a great feature for people who want to download large files, such as movies or games.
  • Easy to use: FastestVPN has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to set up and use. Even if you are not tech-savvy, you should be able to get up and running quickly.
  • Good customer support: FastestVPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email. This is a great feature if you ever need help with the VPN.

Security Features

This section looks at important security features of Private Internet Access (PIA) and FastestVPN such as encryption methods, protocols, split tunneling, kill switch, and more.

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) and FastestVPN both offer robust security features including various VPN protocols, ad-blocking, no-logging, split tunneling, and a kill switch. However, PIA edges out FastestVPN due to its advanced security features like preventing IP address and DNS leaks, private DNS, Onion over VPN, obfuscated servers, and double VPN. While FastestVPN has a decent security suite, it lacks these advanced features. Therefore, when comparing VPN security features, Private Internet Access (PIA) is the clear winner.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access

  • 256-bit encryption: PIA uses 256-bit encryption, which is the strongest encryption available. This means that your data is scrambled into gibberish that cannot be read by anyone, not even PIA.
  • Kill switch: The kill switch is a feature that cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your real IP address being exposed.
  • DNS leak protection: DNS leak protection prevents your DNS queries being leaked to your ISP or other third parties. This ensures that your browsing activity remains anonymous.
  • No logs policy: PIA does not keep any logs of your online activity. This means that your ISP, government, or anyone else cannot track what you do online.
  • Open-source apps: PIA's apps are open source, which means that anyone can inspect the code to make sure that it is not doing anything malicious.
  • Ad blocker: PIA includes an ad blocker in its VPN apps. This blocks ads, trackers, and malware, which can improve your browsing experience and protect your privacy.
  • Split tunneling: PIA allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which apps do not. This can be useful if you want to use a streaming service that does not work with VPNs.
  • Encryption protocol: PIA supports two encryption protocols: OpenVPN and WireGuard. OpenVPN is a more mature and established protocol, while WireGuard is newer and faster.
  • Encryption cipher: PIA uses the AES-256-GCM cipher, which is the strongest cipher available. This means that your data is scrambled into gibberish that cannot be read by anyone, not even PIA.
  • Handshake: PIA uses the RSA-4096 handshake, which is the strongest handshake available. This ensures that your connection to the VPN server is secure.
  • Data authentication: PIA uses the GCM authentication method, which ensures that your data is not tampered with during transit.
FastestVPN

FastestVPN

  • 256-bit AES encryption: FastestVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption, which is the industry standard for VPNs. This means that your data is encrypted with a key that is 256 bits long. This is very difficult to break, even with the most powerful computers.
  • No logs policy: FastestVPN does not store any logs of your online activity. This means that they cannot track what websites you visit or what data you send and receive.
  • Kill switch: The kill switch is a feature that prevents your data being exposed if the VPN connection drops. This is important because it prevents your real IP address being revealed.
  • Ad blocker: FastestVPN includes an ad blocker that blocks ads and trackers. This can help to improve your privacy and security, and it can also make your browsing experience faster.
  • DNS leak protection: DNS leak protection prevents your DNS requests being leaked to your ISP or other third parties. This helps to protect your privacy and security.
  • 256-bit AES encryption: This is the strongest encryption available and is used by banks and governments to protect sensitive data. It is very difficult to break, even with the most powerful computers.
  • IKEv2/IPSec protocol: This protocol is designed to be more secure and efficient than older protocols. It is also more resistant to traffic analysis, which can make it more difficult for someone to track your online activity.
  • OpenVPN protocol: This is an open-source protocol that is known for its security and flexibility. It can be used on a variety of devices and platforms, and it is also very reliable.
  • WireGuard protocol: This is a newer protocol that is designed to be faster and more secure than OpenVPN. It is still under development, but it has the potential to become the new standard for VPNs.

Privacy Features

This section looks at the privacy features of FastestVPN vs Private Internet Access (PIA) in terms of country of jurisdiction (five-eyes surveillance) no-logging policy, independent auditing, and more.

Winner is:

Both Private Internet Access (PIA) and FastestVPN offer a no-log policy, ensuring your browsing data isn't stored. PIA edges ahead due to its proven court record of not logging, independent security audits, and its headquarters located outside the Five Eyes jurisdiction. Additionally, PIA supports crypto payments, underscoring its commitment to privacy. FastestVPN lacks independent audits and is based within a Five Eyes country, affecting its privacy score. Hence, for superior privacy features, PIA emerges as the winner.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access

  • No logs policy: PIA does not keep any logs of your online activity. This means that your ISP, government, or anyone else cannot track what you do online.
  • Open-source apps: PIA's apps are open source, which means that anyone can inspect the code to make sure that it is not doing anything malicious.
  • Kill switch: The kill switch is a feature that cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your real IP address being exposed.
  • DNS leak protection: DNS leak protection prevents your DNS queries being leaked to your ISP or other third parties. This ensures that your browsing activity remains anonymous.
  • Split tunneling: PIA allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which apps do not. This can be useful if you want to use a streaming service that does not work with VPNs.
  • Ad blocker: PIA includes an ad blocker in its VPN apps. This blocks ads, trackers, and malware, which can improve your browsing experience and protect your privacy.
  • Torrenting: PIA allows torrenting on all of its servers. This means that you can download and upload files anonymously without fear of being tracked.
  • Double VPN: PIA offers a double VPN feature that encrypts your traffic twice. This provides an extra layer of security and privacy.
  • Tor over VPN: PIA allows you to connect to the Tor network through its VPN. This can help you to further anonymize your traffic and protect your privacy.
  • No connection logs: PIA does not keep any logs of your VPN connections. This means that they cannot see which servers you connect to, how long you are connected for, or what websites you visit.
  • No traffic logs: PIA does not keep any logs of your internet traffic. This means that they cannot see what websites you visit, what files you download, or what data you send and receive.
  • No DNS logs: PIA does not keep any logs of your DNS queries. This means that they cannot see which websites you try to visit.
  • No payment logs: PIA does not keep any logs of your payment information. This means that they cannot see how you paid for your subscription or your credit card number.
FastestVPN

FastestVPN

  • No logs policy: FastestVPN does not store any logs of your online activity. This means that they cannot track what websites you visit or what data you send and receive.
  • Kill switch: The kill switch is a feature that prevents your data being exposed if the VPN connection drops. This is important because it prevents your real IP address being revealed.
  • Ad blocker: FastestVPN includes an ad blocker that blocks ads and trackers. This can help to improve your privacy and security, and it can also make your browsing experience faster.
  • DNS leak protection: DNS leak protection prevents your DNS requests being leaked to your ISP or other third parties. This helps to protect your privacy and security.
  • Tor over VPN: Tor over VPN is a feature that allows you to connect to the Tor network through FastestVPN. This can provide an extra layer of security and anonymity.
  • Double VPN: Double VPN is a feature that encrypts your traffic twice, once through FastestVPN and once through another VPN. This can provide even more security, but it can also slow down your connection.
  • No logs of your online activity: FastestVPN does not store any logs of your online activity, including your browsing history, IP addresses, timestamps, or any other metadata. This means that they cannot track what websites you visit or what data you send and receive.
  • No logs of your payment information: FastestVPN does not store any logs of your payment information, such as your credit card number or PayPal account information. This means that your financial information is safe and secure.
  • No logs of your device information: FastestVPN does not store any logs of your device information, such as your device's IP address, MAC address, or operating system. This means that your device is not identifiable to FastestVPN.
  • Independently audited: FastestVPN's no-logs policy is independently audited by Altius IT. This means that they have been vetted by a third party to ensure that they are not storing any logs of your online activity.

Speed Features

This section explores the speed features of Private Internet Access (PIA) and FastestVPN when it comes to server technology for download/upload speeds for streaming and torrenting.

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) and FastestVPN both offer high-speed connections, but third-party speed tests show PIA leading with faster download and upload speeds. PIA's large server network ensures consistently high server speed, reducing lag and buffering when streaming and torrenting. FastestVPN, while it does offer good speed, falls short in comparison, especially when accessing streaming sites where speed fluctuations are more noticeable. Therefore, for its superior speed performance, Private Internet Access (PIA) is the overall winner.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access

  • Over 35,000 servers: PIA has over 35,000 servers in over 78 countries. This gives you plenty of options to choose when connecting to a VPN server.
  • P2P-optimized servers: PIA has dedicated P2P-optimized servers for torrenting. These servers are designed to provide fast and reliable connections for torrenting.
  • Dedicated streaming servers: PIA has dedicated streaming servers for popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. These servers are designed to bypass geo-blocks and provide you with access to your favorite content.
  • Obfuscated servers: PIA has obfuscated servers that hide the fact that you are using a VPN. This can be useful in countries where VPNs are blocked or restricted.
  • Tor over VPN servers: PIA allows you to connect to the Tor network through its VPN. This can help you to further anonymize your traffic and protect your privacy.
  • Double VPN servers: PIA offers double VPN servers that encrypt your traffic twice. This provides an extra layer of security and privacy.
  • 10 Gbps servers: PIA's servers are all equipped with 10 Gbps connections, which means that they have the potential to offer very fast speeds.
  • Multiple protocols: PIA supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec. Each protocol has its own strengths and weaknesses in terms of speed.
  • Automatic server selection: PIA's automatic server selection feature can help you to connect to the fastest server available.
  • Bandwidth throttling protection: PIA's bandwidth throttling protection feature prevents your ISP throttling your VPN connection.
  • No data caps: PIA does not have any data caps on its VPN service. This means that you can use as much data as you want without having to worry about being throttled or charged extra.
FastestVPN

FastestVPN

  • P2P-optimized servers: FastestVPN has dedicated P2P-optimized servers that are designed for file sharing. These servers have high bandwidth and low latency, which can improve your speeds when downloading large files.
  • Dedicated IP addresses: FastestVPN offers dedicated IP addresses that can be used to bypass geo-restrictions and improve your privacy. These addresses are not shared with other users, so your traffic is more anonymous.
  • Obfuscated servers: FastestVPN offers obfuscated servers that can be used to hide your VPN traffic your ISP. This can be useful in countries where VPNs are blocked or restricted.
  • Multi-hop servers: FastestVPN offers multi-hop servers that can be used to encrypt your traffic multiple times. This can provide even more security and anonymity.
  • 10Gbps+ servers: FastestVPN has a network of over 250 servers in 37 countries. These servers are all equipped with 10Gbps+ connections, which means that they can provide fast and reliable speeds.
  • WireGuard protocol: FastestVPN supports the WireGuard protocol, which is a newer protocol that is designed to be faster and more secure than older protocols.
  • Automatic server selection: FastestVPN has an automatic server selection feature that can help you to connect to the fastest server available.
  • Bandwidth throttling: FastestVPN does not throttle bandwidth, which means that you can enjoy the fastest possible speeds.

Streaming & Torrenting Features

This section compares the streaming and torrenting features and capabilities provided by Private Internet Access (PIA) versus FastestVPN.

Popular Streaming Services
  • Netflix
  • Amazon Prime
  • Disney+
  • HBO Max
  • Paramount+
  • Hulu
  • Apple TV
  • Starz
  • ESPN+
  • Peacock
  • Canal Plus
  • Discovery Plus

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) excels in unblocking streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, and supports torrenting on all its servers. FastestVPN, while offering dedicated servers for torrenting, struggles with unblocking some streaming services. Both offer robust security, but PIA has a proven no-logs policy. When it comes to unblocking capabilities and torrenting, PIA comes out on top due to its superior performance in these areas.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access

  • Works with popular streaming platforms: PIA works with popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. This means that you can use PIA to bypass geo-blocks and access your favorite content anywhere in the world.
  • Dedicated streaming servers: PIA has dedicated streaming servers for popular streaming platforms. These servers are optimized for streaming and can help you to get the best possible streaming experience.
  • No bandwidth caps: PIA does not have any bandwidth caps on its VPN service. This means that you can stream as much as you want without having to worry about being throttled or charged extra.
  • No buffering: PIA's VPN servers are designed to provide fast and reliable connections. This means that you should not experience any buffering when streaming videos.
  • Easy to use: PIA's VPN apps are easy to use and have a simple interface. This makes it easy to connect to a streaming server and start watching your favorite content.
  • Allows torrenting on all servers: PIA allows torrenting on all of its servers. This means that you can download and upload files anonymously without fear of being tracked.
  • P2P-optimized servers: PIA has dedicated P2P-optimized servers for torrenting. These servers are designed to provide fast and reliable connections for torrenting.
  • No bandwidth caps: PIA does not have any bandwidth caps on its VPN service. This means that you can torrent as much as you want without having to worry about being throttled or charged extra.
  • No IP leaks: PIA has a strict no-logs policy and does not keep any records of your torrenting activity. This means that your IP address is never exposed, even if there is a leak.
  • Kill switch: PIA's kill switch is a feature that cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your real IP address being exposed.
  • Ad blocker: PIA includes an ad blocker in its VPN apps. This blocks ads, trackers, and malware, which can improve your torrenting experience and protect your privacy.
FastestVPN

FastestVPN

  • Unblocks most streaming services: FastestVPN can unblock most major streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. This means that you can watch your favorite shows and movies even if they are not available in your region.
  • High speeds for streaming: FastestVPN has a network of servers that are optimized for streaming. This means that you can enjoy smooth and uninterrupted streaming even on high-quality settings.
  • No buffering or lag: FastestVPN does not throttle bandwidth, which means that you can enjoy uninterrupted streaming without any buffering or lag.
  • Easy to use: FastestVPN has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to connect to streaming servers.
  • Allows P2P file sharing: FastestVPN allows P2P file sharing, so you can torrent without worrying about getting copyright notices.
  • Dedicated P2P servers: FastestVPN has dedicated P2P servers that are optimized for file sharing. These servers have high bandwidth and low latency, which can improve your speeds when downloading large files.
  • No logs policy: FastestVPN does not store any logs of your P2P activity, so you can torrent anonymously.
  • Kill switch: The kill switch is a feature that prevents your data being exposed if the VPN connection drops. This is important when torrenting, as it can protect you copyright infringement notices.

Support Features

This section looks at what kind of customer support you can expect from FastestVPN versus Private Internet Access (PIA).

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) and FastestVPN both offer customer support, but PIA has a more comprehensive approach. PIA provides 24/7 live chat support, a vast knowledge base, and a ticket system. FastestVPN, on the other hand, has email and live chat support, but lacks a dedicated support center. Customer support is essential in a VPN service for troubleshooting and resolving technical issues. Therefore, Private Internet Access (PIA) is the overall winner in providing the best support.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access

  • 24/7 live chat: PIA offers 24/7 live chat support. This means that you can get help a real person at any time of day or night.
  • Email support: PIA also offers email support. This is a good option if you have a question that is not urgent.
  • Knowledge base: PIA has a comprehensive knowledge base that covers a wide range of topics. This is a good place to start if you have a simple question.
  • Social media: PIA is also active on social media. You can reach out to them on Twitter, Facebook, or Reddit.
  • Forum: PIA has a forum where users can help each other. This is a good option if you are looking for help someone who has been in your shoes.
FastestVPN

FastestVPN

  • 24/7 live chat: FastestVPN offers 24/7 live chat support. This means that you can get help a customer support representative at any time of the day or night.
  • Email support: FastestVPN also offers email support. You can submit a ticket and a customer support representative will get back to you as soon as possible.
  • Knowledge base: FastestVPN has a knowledge base that contains articles and tutorials on a variety of topics, such as how to setup the VPN, how to troubleshoot problems, and how to use the different features.
  • Social media support: FastestVPN is also active on social media. You can contact them on Twitter, Facebook, and Telegram.

Check out how Private Internet Access (PIA) and FastestVPN stack up against other popular VPN services on the market.