...
Back to Home

Private Internet Access VPN Review

A long-trusted US-based VPN offering customizable security, unlimited devices, and strong privacy tools.

PIA Key Features
Server Network35,000+ servers in 84–91 countries, including all 50 US states
Privacy & AuditsStrict no‑logs policy, independently audited by Deloitte; open‑source apps
Encryption & ProtocolsWireGuard, OpenVPN; AES‑256; Kill switch; split tunneling; SOCKS5 proxy; port forwarding
Speed & PerformanceWireGuard speeds up to ~810 Mbps (US), ~690 Mbps (UK); OpenVPN generally slower—avg ~150 Mbps
Streaming & TorrentingStreaming support for Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer; optimized for torrenting with port forwarding
Device SupportUnlimited simultaneous connections
Advanced FeaturesHighly customizable apps, ad‑blocker (MACE), Linux support
Pros
  • Huge server network: 35,000+ servers across 84–91 countries, strong US state coverage :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
  • Reliable no‑logs privacy, audited by Deloitte, and open-source clients :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
  • Unlimited device connections – great value for families :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
  • Robust feature set: port forwarding, MACE ad blocker, split-tunneling, SOCKS5 :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
  • Strong support for torrenting, including port forwarding and P2P-optimized servers :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Cons
  • Speed lag behind top competitors; WireGuard is fast but inconsistent :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
  • Based in the US (Five Eyes jurisdiction), which may concern privacy purists :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  • Streaming works, but may require server switching :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
  • Customer support can be slow or unhelpful in some cases :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Privacy & Jurisdiction

PIA is headquartered in the US but maintains a strict no‑logs policy, which has been verified through court cases and audits conducted by Deloitte. Its open-source clients further enhance transparency. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Speed & Performance

WireGuard delivers strong performance in key regions—tests report up to ~810 Mbps in the US and ~690 Mbps in the UK. However, overall speed retention averages around 60–63%, lagging behind leaders like NordVPN and Surfshark :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}. For most use cases like HD streaming and downloads, PIA performs reliably.

Streaming & Torrenting

PIA supports major streaming platforms including Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, thanks to streaming‑optimized servers. It’s also widely praised as a top choice for torrenting, offering port forwarding for faster downloads and consistent P2P support across servers :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

Advanced Features

The apps offer deep customization: kill-switch (standard and advanced), split tunneling (app-based and website routing), MACE ad/malware blocker, SOCKS5 proxy, and customizable protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN) :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}. Linux users and advanced users will especially appreciate the flexibility.

Support & Device Compatibility

PIA supports all major platforms—including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, browser extensions, Linux GUIs—and allows **unlimited simultaneous connections**, a strong value for multi-device households :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}. Support options include live chat and email, though response quality can vary :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.

Claim PIA Deal Back to reviews