Private Internet Access vs StrongVPN Comparison

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In the competitive world of VPN services, choosing the right one can be daunting. Among the top contenders are Private Internet Access (PIA) and StrongVPN. Each brings unique strengths to the table, catering to different user needs. In this comparison review, we delve into the key features of Private Internet Access (PIA) vs StrongVPN, offering valuable insights to help you make an informed choice.

Overview

Dive into a detailed comparison of two top-tier VPN giants: Private Internet Access (PIA) and StrongVPN. This unbiased, expert analysis focuses on key aspects such as security features, commitment to privacy, speed performance, and more. Understand PIA’s robust security measures, its dedication to user privacy, and how it fares against StrongVPN‘s high-speed servers and strong encryption. Find out which one reigns supreme in the VPN world of online safety and anonymity.

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

StrongVPN

StrongVPN

Price: From $3.97/month

Trustpilot Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Refund Policy: StrongVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Official website: www.strongvpn.com

StrongVPN is best for individuals and businesses who prioritize online security and privacy, and need a reliable VPN service for uninterrupted browsing, downloading, and streaming.

Learn more about StrongVPN

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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StrongVPN has been a bastion of online privacy, offering a secure and fast connection across a vast network of servers. Its user interface is intuitive, facilitating easy access to various features that enhance the browsing experience. It’s been a pillar of strength in safeguarding my online presence, warranting a solid 5-star rating! – Isabella

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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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StrongVPN lives up to its name by offering strong and reliable connections coupled with robust security features. However, the user interface could benefit from a more intuitive design. Overall, a reliable option that deserves a 4-star rating. – Ayaan R.

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Pros & Cons

This chapter examines the strengths and weaknesses of these two VPN platforms.

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) and StrongVPN both offer robust security, but PIA stands out with its larger server network, support for torrenting, and ad-blocking features. StrongVPN, while having a simpler interface and strong encryption, falls short with its smaller server network and lack of ad blocking. Additionally, PIA's no-logs policy is proven in court, offering a higher level of trust. Considering the wider range of features, stronger privacy assurance, and competitive pricing, PIA is the clear winner in this comparison.

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.
StrongVPN

StrongVPN

Pros:
  • Strong security features: StrongVPN uses strong encryption and a no-logs policy to protect your privacy.
  • Large server network: StrongVPN has over 950 servers in 65 countries, so you can find a server that is close to you for fast speeds.
  • P2P support: StrongVPN allows P2P file sharing on all of its servers, so you can torrent without worrying about getting caught.
  • 12 simultaneous connections: StrongVPN allows you to connect up to 12 devices at the same time, so you can share your VPN with your family and friends.
  • 24/7 customer support: StrongVPN has 24/7 customer support available via live chat and email.
Cons:
  • Slow speeds: StrongVPN's speeds can be slow, especially on long-distance connections.
  • No split tunneling: StrongVPN does not offer split tunneling, so all of your traffic will be routed through the VPN, even if you only want to encrypt some of it.
  • No dedicated IP address: StrongVPN does not offer dedicated IP addresses, so your IP address will change each time you connect to the VPN.
  • Expensive: StrongVPN is one of the more expensive VPNs on the market.

Key Features

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

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.

StrongVPN HQ and country of jurisdiction is United States, and StrongVPN supports Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire Stick, and routers.

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) edges out StrongVPN with its robust security features, larger server network, and proven no-logs policy. While StrongVPN excels in ease of use and customer support, PIA's ability to consistently bypass geo-restrictions, coupled with more affordable pricing plans, makes it a more compelling choice overall. Thus, for a balance of security, performance, and value, Private Internet Access takes the crown in this head-to-head comparison.

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.
StrongVPN

StrongVPN

  • Strong security features: StrongVPN uses strong encryption and a no-logs policy to protect your privacy.
  • Large server network: StrongVPN has over 950 servers in 65 countries, so you can find a server that is close to you for fast speeds.
  • P2P support: StrongVPN allows P2P file sharing on all of its servers, so you can torrent without worrying about getting caught.
  • 12 simultaneous connections: StrongVPN allows you to connect up to 12 devices at the same time, so you can share your VPN with your family and friends.
  • 24/7 customer support: StrongVPN has 24/7 customer support available via live chat and email.

Security Features

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

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) and StrongVPN both offer robust VPN security features. PIA supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec protocols, while StrongVPN supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, SSTP, and L2TP protocols. Both offer IP address and DNS leak protection. However, PIA stands out with its MACE feature for adblocking and data tracking prevention, a proven no-logging policy, and advanced features like Split Tunneling and a Kill Switch. StrongVPN lacks an adblocking feature and its no-logging policy is less reputable. PIA also offers P2P support, which StrongVPN lacks. Therefore, when it comes to security features, Private Internet Access (PIA) wins.

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.
StrongVPN

StrongVPN

  • 256-bit AES encryption: This is the same encryption used by banks and governments to protect their sensitive data. It is considered unbreakable by current technology.
  • No-logs policy: StrongVPN does not keep any logs of your online activity. This means that they cannot track your browsing history, what websites you visit, or what files you download.
  • Kill switch: This feature will automatically disconnect your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This can help to protect your privacy if the VPN connection is interrupted.
  • DNS leak protection: This feature prevents your DNS requests leaking outside of the VPN tunnel. This can help to prevent your real IP address being exposed.
  • Double VPN: This feature routes your traffic through two VPN servers, which can provide an extra layer of security.
  • Split tunneling: This feature allows you to choose which apps and websites will use the VPN and which will not.
  • SHA256 authentication: This ensures that your connection to the VPN is secure and that your data is not intercepted.
  • Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS): This feature generates new encryption keys for each session, making it more difficult for attackers to decrypt your data even if they have access to older keys.
  • DNS leak protection: This prevents your DNS requests leaking outside of the VPN tunnel, which can help to prevent your real IP address being exposed.
  • WebRTC leak protection: This prevents your WebRTC traffic leaking outside of the VPN tunnel, which can help to prevent your real IP address being exposed.
  • 256-bit AES encryption: This is the most secure encryption standard available. It is used by banks and governments to protect their sensitive data.

Privacy Features

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

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) and StrongVPN both offer robust privacy features. Both have a strict no-log policy, protecting your browsing data from third parties. However, PIA stands out with its proven track record in court and transparent independent auditing. It also offers private browsing, supports crypto payments, and is based outside the Five Eyes jurisdiction, in the privacy-friendly Switzerland. While StrongVPN has similar offerings, it's headquartered in the US, a Five Eyes country, which could pose a potential risk. Therefore, for privacy, PIA is 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.
StrongVPN

StrongVPN

  • No-logs policy: StrongVPN does not keep any logs of your online activity. This means that they cannot track your browsing history, what websites you visit, or what files you download.
  • Kill switch: This feature will automatically disconnect your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This can help to protect your privacy if the VPN connection is interrupted.
  • DNS leak protection: This prevents your DNS requests leaking outside of the VPN tunnel, which can help to prevent your real IP address being exposed.
  • WebRTC leak protection: This prevents your WebRTC traffic leaking outside of the VPN tunnel, which can help to prevent your real IP address being exposed.
  • Double VPN: This feature routes your traffic through two VPN servers, which can provide an extra layer of security.
  • Split tunneling: This feature allows you to choose which apps and websites will use the VPN and which will not.
  • No connection logs: StrongVPN does not keep any logs of your VPN connections. This means that they cannot see what websites you visit, what files you download, or how long you stay connected to the VPN.
  • No traffic logs: StrongVPN does not keep any logs of your internet traffic. This means that they cannot see what data you send or receive over the VPN.
  • No IP address logs: StrongVPN does not keep any logs of your IP address. This means that they cannot see where you are connecting from.
  • No DNS logs: StrongVPN does not keep any logs of your DNS requests. This means that they cannot see what websites you are trying to visit.
  • No payment logs: StrongVPN does not keep any logs of your payment information. This means that they cannot see how you paid for the VPN.

Speed Features

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

Winner is:

Private Internet Access (PIA) and StrongVPN both feature good speeds, but PIA excels. Third-party speed tests give PIA higher marks for both download and upload speeds due to its vast network of servers. PIA maintains server speed even during peak times, which is great for streaming sites and torrenting. StrongVPN also offers good speeds but can be inconsistent and drops during peak times. When it comes to speed, PIA stands as the clear winner of the two.

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.
StrongVPN

StrongVPN

  • StrongVPN has a large server network with over 950 servers in 65 countries. This means that you should be able to find a server that is close to you, which can help to improve your speeds.
  • StrongVPN offers dedicated IP addresses. This means that you will always be assigned the same IP address when you connect to the VPN. This can be useful for tasks such as gaming or streaming, where you need a consistent IP address.
  • StrongVPN offers obfuscated servers. These servers are designed to hide the fact that you are using a VPN. This can be useful in countries where VPNs are blocked or restricted.
  • StrongVPN offers P2P-optimized servers. These servers are optimized for file sharing. This can be useful if you want to download or upload large files using a VPN.
  • StrongVPN offers streaming-optimized servers. These servers are optimized for streaming video and audio. This can be useful if you want to watch Netflix, Hulu, or other streaming services using a VPN.
  • StrongVPN uses a variety of VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec, SSTP, and L2TP/IPSec. OpenVPN is the default protocol and is known for its balance of speed and security. WireGuard is a newer protocol that is known for its speed, but it may not be as secure as OpenVPN.
  • StrongVPN has a large server network with over 950 servers in 65 countries. This means that you should be able to find a server that is close to you, which can help to improve your speeds.
  • StrongVPN offers a kill switch feature. This feature will automatically disconnect your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This can help to protect your privacy if the VPN connection is interrupted.
  • StrongVPN offers a speed test feature. This feature allows you to test the speed of your VPN connection to different servers. This can help you to find the best server for your needs.

Streaming & Torrenting Features

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

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) can unblock multiple streaming platforms and supports P2P torrenting on all servers. However, StrongVPN excels in unblocking geo-restricted content including Netflix and Amazon Prime, and also allows torrenting. While both are excellent choices, StrongVPN has an edge with its more reliable unblocking capability and user-friendly apps. So, in terms of unblocking streaming services and using for torrenting, StrongVPN would be the winner.

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.
StrongVPN

StrongVPN

  • StrongVPN can unblock most streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. This is because StrongVPN has a large server network with servers located in many different countries. This allows you to connect to a server in the country where the streaming service is located, which can help you to bypass geo-restrictions.
  • StrongVPN offers streaming-optimized servers. These servers are optimized for streaming video and audio, which can help to improve your streaming experience.
  • StrongVPN does not throttle your bandwidth. This means that you should be able to stream HD video without any buffering or lag.
  • StrongVPN offers a kill switch feature. This feature will automatically disconnect your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This can help to protect your privacy if the VPN connection is interrupted.
  • StrongVPN allows P2P file sharing on all of its servers. This means that you can torrent without worrying about getting caught.
  • StrongVPN uses strong encryption to protect your data. This means that your torrenting activity is hidden your ISP and other third parties.
  • StrongVPN does not throttle your bandwidth. This means that you should be able to torrent at full speed.
  • StrongVPN offers a kill switch feature. This feature will automatically disconnect your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This can help to protect your privacy if the VPN connection is interrupted.

Support Features

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

Winner is:

Customer support is crucial for a VPN service as users often require help setting up or troubleshooting. Private Internet Access (PIA) excels with a comprehensive knowledge base, live chat, and 24/7 email support. StrongVPN also offers 24/7 support, but lacks live chat option. While both services provide solid support, PIA wins due to its wider range of support options, particularly its live chat feature, providing users with immediate assistance.

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.
StrongVPN

StrongVPN

  • 24/7 live chat: StrongVPN 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: StrongVPN also offers email support. This is a good option if you have a more complex issue that you need help with.
  • Knowledge base: StrongVPN has a comprehensive knowledge base that covers a wide range of topics. This is a good resource if you can't find the answer to your question in the live chat or email support.
  • Tutorials: StrongVPN also offers a number of tutorials that can help you get started with the VPN. These tutorials cover topics such as how to install the VPN, how to connect to a server, and how to use the VPN's features.

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