Net Neutrality and VPNs

In late 2017, net neutrality supporters in the United States encountered a significant challenge. Despite widespread backing for regulations ensuring equal treatment of all internet traffic by Internet Service Providers (ISPs), corporate priorities overshadowed public interest. On December 14, the FCC voted to roll back regulations that prevented ISPs from blocking websites, throttling speeds, and censoring content.

The battle for net neutrality is far from over. The newly altered rules will take time to implement, and lawmakers from both political parties are proposing legislation to solidify net neutrality or its absence into law.

The implications for consumers in the U.S. are yet to be fully understood. However, history shows that ISPs have exploited their privileged position even before the repeal. With the recent changes, they now possess the capability, motivation, and legal authority to steer users toward content that favors their interests while sidelining other content.

Regardless of future developments, utilizing a VPN can help maintain net neutrality on a personal level. A VPN, or virtual private network, encrypts your internet traffic and directs it through a server of your choice. This process ensures that your ISP cannot discriminate against you based on the type or destination of your traffic, as they are unable to see the content.

For those in a hurry, here’s a quick overview of the top VPNs that support net neutrality:

• ExpressVPN : Our top recommendation, known for its outstanding security features and fast global servers. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  
  

• NordVPN : A cost-effective option that provides solid privacy and security with a wide range of servers.

  
  

• CyberGhost : An affordable choice with user-friendly applications and robust security measures.

  
  

• IPVanish : Offers fast, secure, and private connections with excellent unblocking capabilities.

  
  

• PrivateVPN : A rising network focusing heavily on user security and privacy.

  
  

However, it's important to note that not all VPNs are equal in quality. Our selection of the best VPNs for net neutrality is based on critical factors such as:

• Robust encryption standards

  
  

• Protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks

  
  

• Use of shared, dynamic IP addresses to obscure user activity among a large user baseEnsure your online activities remain private with a VPN that boasts a strict no-logs policy.
  This means your usage data and personal information are never stored or tracked.

  
  

Additionally, prioritize a service that offers high-speed connections for a seamless browsing experience.
This combination guarantees both confidentiality and efficiency while you navigate the internet. Feb 2025ExpressVPN stands out for its advanced security measures and commitment to user privacy, making it an ideal choice for those who value net neutrality.

Employing 256-bit AES encryption alongside perfect forward secrecy, it creates a robust and secure tunnel for your online activities.

The desktop applications offer top-tier protection against potential leaks from DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC, ensuring your data remains safe even if the connection falters.

In case of a connection drop, the built-in kill switch, referred to as “network lock,” will immediately stop all internet traffic, preventing any unencrypted data from being exposed to your ISP.

Notably, ExpressVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, as demonstrated by a significant incident in Turkey where authorities found no relevant user information during a server raid.

ExpressVPN has consistently advocated for net neutrality, reinforcing its position as a reliable option for accessing geo-restricted streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.

Users will appreciate the fast connection speeds, making it easy to download large files and enjoy high-quality streaming.

A single subscription allows for simultaneous connections on up to three devices, providing flexibility for users.

The service is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and select Wi-Fi routers.

Key Features Include:

• Exceptional privacy and security standards
• Protection against DNS leaks and shared IP addresses
• No traffic logs maintained
• User-friendly applications across major platforms
• High speeds suitable for streaming and torrenting
• 24/7 live chat support for technical assistance
• Slightly higher pricing compared to competitors

For those prioritizing net neutrality, ExpressVPN emerges as the top recommendation. Its extensive server network is tailored for optimal performance, combined with easy-to-navigate applications across all operating systems.

With a 30-day money-back guarantee, users can explore the service without risk.

Explore our comprehensive review of ExpressVPN for further insights.

NordVPN and CyberGhost Overview

When it comes to online security, NordVPN truly stands out.
It offers military-grade encryption and safeguards against DNS and IPv6 leaks.
Additionally, NordVPN provides a range of specialized servers aimed at enhancing privacy, stability, and speed.
These options include VPN over Tor, Double VPN, Anti-DDoS, and ultra-fast streaming servers.
Subscribers benefit from access to over 1,000 servers located worldwide.
The company maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that even during data center raids, user-identifiable information remains secure.

NordVPN excels at bypassing restrictions on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.
While the speeds are average, the connections remain stable enough for smooth video streaming without interruptions.
One account allows for simultaneous connections on up to six devices.

Applications are user-friendly and available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

• Specialized servers designed for enhanced security and speed, such as Double VPN
• Top-tier encryption coupled with DNS leak protection
• Thousands of servers tailored for specific uses across 60 countries
• Affordable pricing for a well-established provider
• Intuitive apps across most platforms
• May not be the best choice for beginners

For those seeking an economical option, NordVPN offers excellent value.
It competes effectively in all categories, featuring robust security measures and allowing six devices on one account.
A 30-day money-back guarantee adds to its appeal.

Explore our comprehensive review of NordVPN for more insights. CyberGhost offers users the flexibility to choose servers tailored not only by location but also by their intended use. Whether you're looking to browse anonymously, stream content, torrent, or secure your public Wi-Fi, specific profiles are available for each purpose.

Your connection is fortified with 256-bit encryption and perfect forward secrecy, ensuring safety across all chosen profiles. Additional features such as anti-malware and anti-tracking can also be enabled for enhanced protection.

When it comes to streaming, CyberGhost can access several popular platforms including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. Importantly, the service maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your browsing activities and metadata remain private. DNS leak protection is also integrated into the service.

CyberGhost apps are compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices, making it accessible across various platforms.

Key Features:

• Robust encryption and a solid commitment to user privacy
• Built-in DNS leak protection and strong security measures
• Testing has shown commendable server performance
• User-friendly apps suitable for novices
• Limited access to all major streaming services

As a budget-friendly option, CyberGhost provides an easy setup with impressive privacy features, zero logging, and DNS leak safeguards. However, it may face challenges when accessing some high-demand streaming sites. A 45-day money-back guarantee is also offered for peace of mind.

For a detailed evaluation, check out our comprehensive CyberGhost review.

VPN Service Comparisons and Warnings

IPVanish stands out as a seasoned provider in the VPN landscape, boasting an extensive network of servers worldwide.

Utilizing robust 256-bit encryption alongside perfect forward secrecy, IPVanish offers top-tier security to users.

The company maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that no user activity data is recorded.

Additionally, users benefit from built-in IPv6 and DNS leak protection, along with customizable IP address rotation while connected.

A popular choice among Kodi enthusiasts, IPVanish features an easily accessible APK file, a user-friendly interface compatible with remote controls, and seamless integration with various Kodi add-ons.

For Amazon Fire TV Stick users, IPVanish has a dedicated app, making it an ideal solution for those looking to install Kodi.

With reliable connections and unlimited bandwidth, IPVanish allows users to enjoy uninterrupted video streaming without buffering issues.

The service is compatible with applications on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices.

Key features include:

• Built-in DNS and IPv6 leak protection, traffic obfuscation, and a kill switch.

  
  

• High-speed servers optimized for both streaming and downloading.

  
  

• Excellent compatibility with Kodi devices.

  
  

• A firm no-logs policy.

  
  

• Limited functionality in China.

  
  

• Claims of around-the-clock customer support, although response times for tickets may extend to a few days.

  
  

Supporting up to 10 devices simultaneously, IPVanish is recognized for its large server network and ability to manage multiple connections effortlessly.

While the service is user-friendly and ideal for those prioritizing privacy, it may not bypass as many streaming service restrictions as some competitors.

A 7-day money-back guarantee is also offered, allowing users to test the service risk-free.

For a comprehensive evaluation, check out our detailed IPVanish review. PrivateVPN may be the newest player in the VPN market, but it stands strong against its more established competitors.

Offering both 256-bit and 128-bit encryption, this service ensures your data is secure with perfect forward secrecy.

Their strict no-logs policy guarantees that none of your online activities are recorded.

Recently, PrivateVPN introduced its own private DNS servers, enhancing protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks.

With a standard plan, users can connect up to six devices simultaneously.

When it comes to accessing geo-restricted content, PrivateVPN excels, allowing users to get around firewalls on popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.

The VPN's apps are compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Key features include:

• A firm commitment to not storing user logs
• Utilization of private DNS servers for enhanced leak protection
• Provision of a secure, encrypted connection

However, there are some downsides:

• No 24/7 live chat support
• A smaller server network compared to higher-ranked providers
• Linux users may find it requires manual setup

In terms of performance, PrivateVPN delivers impressive speeds for general usage and maintains solid privacy and security measures.

While it lacks a broader server selection and round-the-clock support, it does offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For more detailed insights, check out our comprehensive review of PrivateVPN.

On a cautionary note, it's wise to steer clear of “free” VPN services.

These often operate under the guise of providing free access but typically profit by harvesting user data for marketing purposes.

Some free VPNs may insert ads directly into your browser, while others might track your online behavior or even contain malware.

In a notable incident, a privacy advocacy group lodged a complaint with the FTC against the popular free VPN, Hotspot Shield, for allegedly redirecting users to affiliate sites for profit, undermining the principle of net neutrality.

This serves as a clear warning that free VPNs often come with hidden costs and risks.

Free VPNs and Their Limitations

A limited number of trustworthy free VPN services exist, but they often come with substantial drawbacks. These services typically offer fewer server options, leading to overcrowded connections that can only support basic web browsing. Users often face data caps and restricted bandwidth, and may even encounter waiting times before establishing a connection.

For those who are hesitant about subscribing to a VPN, exploring free trial periods or money-back guarantees from recommended providers is a smart move.

Instead of speculating on potential issues, let's examine real instances where net neutrality was compromised and highlight how a VPN can serve as a protective measure.

In 2014, both Verizon and Comcast deliberately throttled their customers' access to Netflix, coercing the streaming service into paying for increased bandwidth usage. This tactic primarily harmed end users, but a VPN could have circumvented this throttling, as it obscures the nature of the traffic, making it indistinguishable from other data.

In a similar vein, in 2010, Windstream, a DSL provider, manipulated its customers' search queries, rerouting them to its own search engine. By 2011, other small ISPs engaged in comparable practices, bypassing search results entirely to direct users to affiliate sites for financial gain. With a VPN, these companies would lack the visibility to monitor search activities, effectively preventing such intrusions.

Another notable case occurred in 2008 when the FCC found Comcast guilty of unfairly discriminating against peer-to-peer traffic, misleading users with false error notifications. By utilizing a VPN, users’ online activities become “protocol agnostic,” which means ISPs cannot differentiate between data types, preventing them from blocking or throttling specific traffic.

In the U.S. and many other nations, the use of VPNs is completely legal, and there are currently no known ISPs that impose restrictions or penalties on VPN usage.

When connected through a VPN, your ISP cannot decipher the data being sent or received from your device, nor can they track the origin or destination of that data. All that the ISP is able to see is encrypted data directed to a server in the location you’ve chosen.

While an ISP might be aware that you are using a VPN, that’s the extent of their knowledge. Everything else about your online activities remains confidential.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a virtual private network that enables users to access region-restricted content on Netflix by connecting to servers in different countries. By using a Netflix VPN, users can bypass geographical restrictions and enjoy a wider variety of shows and movies available in different regions. To use a Netflix VPN, one must choose a reliable provider that supports streaming, set up an account, install the VPN application, and connect to a server in the desired region before logging in to Netflix.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you're looking to access region-restricted content using a Netflix VPN, consider the SafeShell VPN for a seamless experience. SafeShell VPN boasts high-speed servers optimized specifically for Netflix, ensuring you enjoy uninterrupted streaming with no buffering thanks to their lightning-fast connection speeds. You can connect multiple devices at once, supporting up to five simultaneous connections across a vast range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more. The exclusive App Mode allows you to unlock content from various regions simultaneously, offering a truly unrestricted viewing experience. Additionally, SafeShell VPN provides top-level security with its proprietary ShellGuard protocol, safeguarding your privacy with advanced encryption. With SafeShell VPN, enjoy netflix unblocked and explore a world of entertainment with peace of mind.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

To use SafeShell Netflix VPN and enjoy content from different Netflix regions, begin by subscribing to SafeShell VPN. Visit their website and select a plan that aligns with your needs and budget, then click "Subscribe Now" to complete the process. Next, download and install SafeShell VPN on your device by choosing the appropriate app for your operating system, whether it be Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android. Once installed, launch the SafeShell VPN app and log into your account. To optimize your streaming experience, select the APP mode which is specifically recommended for watching Netflix.

After setting up the SafeShell Netflix VPN, navigate through the list of available VPN servers. Select a server located in the region whose Netflix library you wish to access, such as the US, UK, or Canada, and click "Connect" to establish a secure connection. With the VPN connection established, open the Netflix app or visit the Netflix website and log in with your Netflix account. You are now ready to enjoy streaming content available in the region you have chosen, providing an expanded library of Netflix entertainment options.