Opting for a NAS (Network Attached Storage) system in today’s era is a tough choice, especially when plenty of options are available in the market. When it comes to network-attached storage, there are a ton of options. Some are decent. Some are really bad. So if you are looking for a NAS system, you should take a serious look at what Synology has to offer in its NAS product lineup. An entry-level NAS like Synology DS220j or DS420j is perfect for small businesses starting from scratch and home usage.
Let’s Review What Network Attached Storage Is
A Network Attached Storage is a storage system that you access via a network instead of connecting directly to the computer. It contains a processor and an operating system to run applications and enable authorized users to share and backup important data, files, and other information. So if you are confused about making a decision, here is a quick review of entry-level Synology DiskStation DS220j and DS420j.
Synology DiskStation DS220j Review
With Synology DiskStation DS220j, you can effortlessly set up and manage your cloud server. It is a two-bay Network Attached Storage device that offers an easy-to-use and user-friendly operating system with fast speed for data transfer enabling you to run multiple apps and store your data, including files, documents, music, and many more. It also possesses numerous RAID configuration options that help protect your sensitive data.
Synology’s DS220j is perfect for small businesses and homeowners to create their cloud storage. The reasonable pricing, speedy performance, and a wide range of apps make it more appealing to the customers. It provides you with a user-friendly operating system to effortlessly configure drives. You can also easily create and share folders making it a multimedia server. Definitely a solid entry-level NAS device. Would highly recommend pulling the trigger on getting one of these as your first NAS.
Synology DiskStation DS420j Review
The Synology DiskStation DS420j is another perfect fit for small businesses, especially those just stepping into the corporate world. You can also use it for casual home usage to store and backup data, including files, documents, images, and many more.
The DS420j is powered by Synology’s excellent DiskStation manager and possesses multiple valuable tools. DS420j is a four-bay Network Attached Storage device with RAID configurations to protect your sensitive data.
Pros and Cons Of The Synology DiskStation DS420j
Just like DS220j, DS420j also possesses its pros and cons that are listed below:
Pros
DS220j comes with twice as much storage as DS220j.
Easy to set up and user-friendly Operating System.
Synology’s NAS contains RAID configurations to secure your essential data.
It supports a wide range of applications and the latest HDDs.
Cons
The internal hard drive is not included.
Drives are not swappable without shutting or rebooting the device.
Design and Features Synology DiskStation DS420j
DS420j is a four-bay storage device that is small enough to fit on a desktop easily.
Its front side consists of a power switch and four LED indicators for drive and LAN status.
The back panel possesses two USB 3.0 ports, a single LAN port, a reset button, and a power jack.
It also possesses Synology’s extraordinary DiskStation manager, just like DS220j, which makes the device’s configuration easier.
The performance of DS420j was fast during testing and performed exceptionally well for the given use cases.
The Synology DiskStation DS420j is perfect for small businesses and home users to create private cloud storage. The four-bay DS420j possesses a capacity of about 64TB with four 16TB HDDs. You might be thinking that’s too much storage capacity, but when you consider the trajectory technology is going with increased file sizes (images, video, etc)…you can burn through a lot of terabytes. With a robust DiskStation manager, you can effortlessly set up other facilities like establishing surveillance solutions that support up to 16 IP cameras. You can also backup and sync your files and documents across all connected devices. This is my pick for the best NAS device for homes and small businesses.
Some Concluding Thoughts About Synology NAS Devices
Synology DiskStations DS220j and DS420j are suitable for small businesses and home usage since they are reasonably priced with great features. A Synology NAS is perfect for you if you want to share your media files with your family, keep your office documents in a single accessible storage, or backup your media files from PCs, Laptops, tablets, and phones. Personally, I use a Synology DS1019+ NAS because it supports up to 10 drives which allows me to have up to 2 drives fail simultaneously without any data loss. I also run my Plex multimedia server, and a cloud backup application. Listen I trust the hardware, trust the software, and truly believe they are the best network-attached storage devices on the market.
Do you ever find yourself with a dead phone and no way to charge it? Then you might need a power bank! A power bank is a device that can charge your phone (and other devices) when you’re on the go. If your smartphone is running out of charge and it’s a problem you seem to have regularly, plug in with one of these effective power banks and keep your phone running for a long time. Now if you are far from home or an outlet, you can rest easy knowing you have an extra smartphone battery boost readily available.
Smartphone power banks have become an important accessory for a lot of people (not just for the constant traveler). They are growing in popularity and efficiency. It seems like there’s a new brand popping up every day. But even though there are plenty of brands and models in the market, how do you choose the best power bank for your smartphone? We wanted to look at four different power banks and review their performance and give our honest opinion about which one of these is the best. These are some of the top smartphone power banks on the market which can make your journey outside the home comfortable and convenient (and less stressful).
Best Power Banks For Smartphones
Running out of battery on your phone sucks. A lot of models have “Low Power Mode”, but you sacrifice performance and have a lot of cool features disabled when you opt-in for it. When the battery goes, you can’t call or text anyone, you can’t look up directions, and worst of all, you can’t take any pictures! If only there was some way to keep your phone charged up no matter where you are? Power banks are a great way to keep your phone powered up while on the go. But not all power banks are created equal! Let’s take a dive into which power banks we love and would recommend.
Anker PowerCore Essential 20,000 PD is the best capacity charger at 20,000mAh. It is a fast charger model, charging within 6-7 hours. It weighs 280g with dimensions of 6x3x1 inches. More interestingly, it supplies 18W output with a USB-C port while above 18W output with a USB-A connection. If two devices are plugged in to charge, it will give 18W to both devices. One thing I’ve noticed recently is Anker’s commitment to high-quality materials. When it comes to this power bank, they’re right on target with that standard. In my opinion, Anker is the category king when it comes to these portable chargers for your devices. Here are a handful of standout features worth mentioning:
Vast Compatibility: it’s not just smartphones. This portable power bank will charge tablets, handheld gaming systems, and just about any portable device.
Super fast charging: out of the power banks we reviewed, this one charged our smartphone the fastest.
Trickle Charging Mode: simply put, this allows for safe and optimized charging to all kinds of devices. It will recognize if the device is a low-power gadget and adjust output.
Long Power Bank life: Seriously…after charging this for 7 hours I was able to charge my smartphone for multiple power cycles. It was impressive.
If I had to choose only one power bank (and I’d highly recommend every family has at least one or two of these), Anker would be my first pick.
QTshine is a good all-rounder as it supports USB and Smart Charge with a charging capacity of over 20,000mAh. It may take a little more time to charge fully to your device, about 8 to 16 hours. It comes with a lighter weight of 355g (about 12 ounces) and a size of .5 x 3 x 6 inches. Some of my favorite features include: high-performance cells (this is truly a premium battery), surge protection IC technology (automatically detects devices for efficient and safe charging), and double the ports (you can charge two devices at once).
Further, it has a USB-A-to-micro-USB cable, so you can charge well via a USB -a connector. Don’t worry about charging. Play and stream favorite videos constantly while having QTshine. If I wasn’t a huge fan of the Anker model reviewed above, this would definitely be my next choice (if I was forced to only choose one).
This is the best mini portable power bank and comes with lipstick dimensions of 11×2.7×2.7 cm! It’s small. And yes…it only charges your smartphones and other low-power devices with a capacity of 5,000mAh, but it is probably the lightest and most compact power bank on the market. This latest version is longer but lightweight than the older ones. Moreover, this adorable power bank has the same micro-USB connections for charging and an additional pressing button on the top of the top. This button will activate the LED indicator informing you of the current charging level. It’s a nice little feature that if it wasn’t there, we’d notice. I was able to snag one of these and recently used it on a hiking trip and just loved it. EnergyCell also has a 10000mAH version (twice the output) that is just a smidgeon bigger that I’ve just bought to compare it with (I’ll report on it as an update to this so stay tuned!)
Out of the ones we reviewed, the Moshi Porto Q 5K is the most stylish and beautiful hybrid wireless power bank. It doesn’t look like any of the others we reviewed. You connect it to a power adapter, keep your smartphone on its fabric pad, and it will charge it up with the same speed as other models, but wirelessly. It also has a silicone surface ring to stop your device from dropping.
It charges your phone with the capacity of 5,000mAh charging wireless or with the USB-A connection. Essentially, it’s a 2-in-1 model, which is why I think it’s worth adding this smartphone power bank to your arsenal of portable charging. Moreover, if it detects any unwanted metal object on the pad, eventually, it will stop charging. Some other notable features of the Moshi Porto Q: 10-year global warranty, a breathable LED light indicating charging, 15-watt max charging (but 7.5W on the power bank cycle), has enhanced passive cooling technology for safe charging efficiency and is compact and stylish.
Final Verdict
These power banks nowadays are a dime a dozen. Many brands are selling every range from cheap to expensive power banks for smartphones. Most power banks on the market are so-so (they’re really not that great of a product), so be wary of what you buy. There are also a lot of cheaply made smartphone power banks you need to be aware of as well. You should keep your budget in mind while buying the best one. I’ve said this before when it comes to technology: you get what you pay for. If you skimp on the budget and go for something cheap, you’re going to get cheap performance 90% of the time. Yeah…you might get lucky every now and again, but most of the time you’re wasting your money. For smartphone power banks, take some time to analyze the USB connections and charging-speed ability. Do some research and get detailed information about the charging capacity, duration, weight, and output port before buying any high-quality power bank. As I mentioned previously, depending on your use and purpose any of the ones reviewed here are solid. Personally, I think everyone should have the Anker PowerCore model because it checks the box on every feature you want out of a premium power bank for a smartphone.
Are you looking for a way to keep an eye on your home while you’re away? Do you want a security camera that is easy to use and doesn’t require any installation? If so, a home security light bulb camera may be the perfect solution for you.
I’ve been seeing these smart bulb cameras pop up on ads and in social feeds and really wanted to know what they were all about. Did some digging and reviewed a handful of these clever home security gadgets to really see if they are truly something anyone could utilize or add to their smart home setup. A smart bulb camera is an innovative approach to maintaining your security. Security cameras are common nowadays to maintain security at homes and offices. However, one of the easiest and most affordable security cameras you can find is one of these light bulb cameras. These cameras allow you to effortlessly put in a security camera fixed in a light bulb socket.
If you are also thinking about purchasing one, then here is a light bulb camera review for you to make your choice easier. All of the smart bulb cameras we looked at require a Wi-Fi connection and you can use your smartphone to activate it. Depending on where you place these smart bulbs outside, you could also use them for outdoor security and put them in your office as well.
Features Of A Light Bulb Camera
Before moving forward to the light bulb camera reviews, let’s take a look at a few things to keep in mind before purchasing a smart bulb camera:
Resolution
It is probably the most significant factor to consider when purchasing a smart bulb camera. Imagine you see someone sneaking into the backyard of your home. If your light bulb camera’s resolution is not high enough, you might not be able to recognize who was trying to sneak into your home. A higher resolution also means your camera is able to pick up detections more accurately. So it is wise to choose a light bulb camera with 1080P resolution. If the smart light bulb doesn’t have it, I wouldn’t get it. With camera technology (especially for home security use) evolving like it has, I’m still shocked at products that don’t have 1080P resolution.
Motion Detection
When buying a smart bulb camera, you should keep in mind its range and angular coverage. As bulb cameras are round, they provide 360-degree angular movement, which is the standard angular coverage. Besides, you should choose a bulb camera with a motion detector that can sense movement up to at least 30 to 35 feet.
Memory defines the storage capacity of your smart bulb camera. They come with their own memory and can support memory cards up to 128 GB. However, they do not come with their own memory cards, and you have to buy them separately. Is it annoying to have to buy additional memory? Yes. But this is unfortunately the standard we have to live with.
Night Vision
Keeping an eye on your place at night is somewhat hard. You hear a noise and peak out the windows…and if you’re like me can’t see anything. So a security camera with a night vision feature is crucial. Many smart bulb cameras in the market support the night vision feature. The ones we looked at below have some of the best night vision in this niche. If you can’t easily monitor your home or property at night with your device, you shouldn’t get it.
Easy To Use
Some smart bulb cameras come with remote control and you can control some with an app on your smartphone. Being able to easily control the device is paramount. Ideally (and this goes with most home security devices), if it doesn’t have an app OR it doesn’t work with Google Assistant or Alexa…it’s a hard pass.
Light Bulb Camera Reviews
For this light bulb camera review, we looked at three Wi-Fi smart bulb cameras we’ve been hearing a lot about.
This little gadget is perfect for keeping an eye on your home or office when you’re not around. Just screw it into a light socket and it’s good to go. You can even view footage from your phone or tablet! Out of the smart light bulb cameras we reviewed, this one was the easiest to install and get up and running. Some other features of note include:
Its top feature is the advanced night vision feature.
You can easily switch between infrared and white light night vision.
You can easily replace it without extra wiring.
It comes with 360-degree angular coverage and humanoid movement detection. So there is no risk of blind spots.
It contains its own cloud storage and supports up to 128 GB of memory cards.
You can playback videos any time and save your memories as well.
If you find any issue with your smart bulb camera, connect with their customer support. It is available 24/7.
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t know what a PTZ bulb camera is. But trust me, once you learn about this intuitive device, you might find yourself wanting one. Aside from being a security camera that looks like a regular light bulb, it easily screws into a standard light socket and can rotate 360 degrees to give you a complete view of the room or area. Plus, this one comes with an app that allows you to watch live footage or recordings from anywhere as long as you have a stable connection to the Internet. Some other notable features of the Wyzlink PTZ camera bulb:
1080P resolution with advanced night vision. You can easily switch between normal and light night vision (this is a fantastic feature).
It is easy to install since it is wireless. Once you install the E27 light bulb, you can install the app on the smartphone and connect the smart bulb camera with Wi-Fi using the app.
Its two-way audio feature sets it apart from other smart bulb cameras. This is probably the biggest edge over the rest of the market. It has a built-in microphone and records audio as well.
It contains 360-degree angular coverage and robust motion detection. When it notices any moving object, you get notifications through your smartphone. Out of the smart camera light bulbs we looked at, the Wyzlink probably has the best motion detection.
I don’t think the XVIM is as good of a smart camera bulb as the previous products reviewed, BUT…there are several features of this bulb where I think XVIM can really grow and make a name for itself in this new emerging market. There are some features where the XVIM performs well which is why I wanted to include it with these other smart bulb camera reviews.
Like the others reviewed, it is wireless and simple to install.
It comes with a 1080P resolution and an advanced night vision feature.
It provides you with synchronized video and a 360-degree far-reaching aerial view.
You can easily install it in an E27 bulb without extra wiring.
It can only be connected to the 2.4G router and does not support 5G Wi-Fi.
You receive a notification when the camera notices any moving objects on your smartphone.
It has a built-in microphone to provide two-way audio, allowing you to communicate with your family via a smartphone app. It’s not as clear and crisp as the Wyzlink’s two-way audio feature, but it is something we expect XVIM to improve on in the next iteration of this product.
One that I’ve recently seen make waves in the light bulb security camera market is the Keillini light bulb camera. Despite what the company says when it comes to a low price (low compared to home security options), this unit still runs slightly more than traditional light bulb security cameras. However, this compact security device does come loaded with features, which pack on the value to help justify a slightly higher price tag. And we’re not talking hundreds of dollars here either. Depending on which light bulb camera price you’re comparing it to, the Keillini is about $5-$10 more per unit.
For the most part, the Keillini light bulb camera functions and operates just like any other light bulb camera. The app is super smooth with a seamless setup. A couple of things that separate Keillini from the rest of the market. One distinct feature that I think is super clever of this and puts Keillini in a different class is the blaring alarm. Literally, with a push of a button in the app, you can send a blaring alarm noise to scare animals or intruders. It’s a clever hack and a little addition worth mentioning. And…this is a light bulb security camera that actually lights! Most of these on the market don’t have lights. Major eye-roll, I know. It was one of the first things when I started looking at these that I was shocked that they didn’t have lights that actually worked. Other notable features include:
Smart Light Bulb Cameras: Simple + Easy Home Security
The smart bulb cameras mentioned above can be a fun gadget to add to your home security. It’s not a bad decision if you purchase one. The 360-degree coverage combined with 1080P resolution in each of these is excellent for security purposes. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to improve your home security, you might consider investing in a light bulb camera. Here are a few reasons why light bulb cameras are a great option for home security. First, light bulb cameras are relatively inexpensive (some of these are under $50) making them a great option for budget-conscious homeowners. Additionally, light bulb cameras are easy to install and can be used with most standard light sockets. Another hidden benefit of light bulb cameras is that they offer a wide field of view (360 degrees!), allowing you to monitor a large area with just one camera. Plus, light bulb cameras (at least the ones we reviewed) are often equipped with night vision capabilities, so you can keep an eye on your property even in low-light conditions. And light bulb cameras (well…any camera for that matter) can deter criminals and help you gather evidence if your home is broken into or your personal property is damaged. The sight of a camera may be enough to discourage would-be burglars and the recorded footage can be helpful in identifying suspects and catching them before they strike again.
Any office with many devices should invest in the best network switches on the market. All of the PCs, printers, and networking equipment in the workplace may put a lot of strain on the network, so keeping a reliable and fast network switch is essential. You want to keep your business smooth and operational right?
For the most part, many network switches will meet your requirements regardless of your budget or network size. Trust me, there are cheap network switches that will get the job done, but when it comes to business, you do want something nice and of high-quality. There are modest alternatives for just a few network-connected devices and bigger versions with a high number of ports to handle a large number of network-connected devices.
We know that it can be an overwhelming decision to choose the best network switch for your small business, so we have prepared a list where you can easily select the type of switch which best fits your small business needs. Let’s cover some basics first…
What Is A Network Switch?
Today, networks are critical for supporting companies and facilitating connections across the company. A network switch, which connects multiple devices to convey resources, is essential for all networks whether business or home.
A network switch joins devices on a network (commonly known as a LAN) and sends datagrams to and from them. A switch, unlike a modem, only distributes data to the one object for which it was designed (which might be another swap, a modem, or a person’s laptop), not to systems of numerous devices.
A managed switch performs the same purpose for considerably bigger networks and gives network managers even greater control over traffic prioritization. They also allow developers to design Virtual LANs (VLANs) to partition a regional system into smaller sections.
How Does The Network Switch Work?
I’ll try and keep this as simple as possible. When a device is attached to a switch, it records its Media Access Control (MAC) address, a code included in the device’s Network Interface Card (NIC) that connects to the switch through an ethernet wire. The switch uses the MAC address to determine which associated device is sending outbound connections and where inbound data frames should be delivered. In contrast to the protocol stack (Layer 3) Internet address, which can be issued periodically to a computer and varies considerably, the MAC address specifies the hardware device.
Whenever a device transmits a signal to some other unit, the switch examines the packet’s payload to identify what to do next. It validates the location or ranges and sends the packet to the target machines through the proper ports. While switches function at Layer 2, they may also function at Layer 3, which is required to enable virtual LANs (VLANs), which are network component segments that cross subnets. Traffic must flow across switches to move from one domain to another, which is helped by routing systems installed into the switches.
Top 5 Network Switches For Small Business
When it comes to choosing the best network switch for your small business consider first the number of devices that will be connected to the switch. You’ll need a switch with enough ports to accommodate all of your devices. Secondly, think about the speed of your network. If you have a lot of devices or large files being transferred, you’ll need a fast switch. Next, consider the features your business needs. Some switches come with features like Power over Ethernet or VLAN support. And finally, don’t forget to factor in the cost. You have to think about cost in the vacuum of “value” as well. Small business network switches can range in price from around $100 to $1000, so you’ll want to make sure you choose one that fits your budget BUT still checks the boxes of what you need for your small business. There’s nothing worse than spending a little under your budget for a small business device that just doesn’t cut it.
By keeping these things in mind, you can narrow down your choices and find the best network switch for your small business. The following switches below are considered to be some of the best network switches for small businesses in the world.
1. Netgear GS105NA Prosafe 5
The Netgear GS105 is an uncontrolled 5 port Gigabit Ethernet switch that definitely will help you in connecting devices for your smaller businesses without any hassles. This product comes with a lifespan warranty coverage and a repair within one business day, so you won’t have to fear using a malfunctioning item.
Installation is simple and requires no settings.
Fanless design means no extra noise.
Low Electricity Consumption + Energy Efficient Design Compliant
2. Netgear GS108
The Netgear GS108 is a phenomenal network switch with 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports that don’t require any configuration. It provides excellent internet connections without making a sound because it is constructed without fans.
Any small firm needs a good variety of Ethernet adapters.
The design is simple and does not draw notice
Simple plug and play setup with no software install or configurations
1G, Mega, and 10G speeds are available
Supports Cat5, Cat5e, and Cat6
Layer 2 supervision
Energy Efficient Design Compliant
3. Linksys Business LGS108P
This small business network switch offers eight Gigabit Ethernet connections to provide your small company with the speed it needs to run smoothly. Furthermore, you can hit up to 10 Gbps, considerably improving your capacity to broadcast elevated files to linked devices without latency or interruption. This is one of those devices where employees won’t be able to periodically blame technology for not being able to get things done.
It also comes with no fans to keep the noise minimum
Up to 24 Gigabit Ethernet auto-sensing ports
High internet speed up to 1000 Mbps
High-quality services in the form of QoS for intelligent prioritization of traffic
Easy plug and play connection
Power over Ethernet (PoE+) support
Connectable to multiple ports
Meets EEE (Energy Efficient Ethernet) standards
4. TP-Link 24 Port Gigabit
If you have a residence or private office and prefer the security of a cable network, you understand the necessity for a switch port with a large number of ports. The TP-Link contains 24 of them and they will all work at full speed even when they are all connected. This is one of my favorite network switches for small businesses. Some of the incredible features include:
Less Power Consumption + Super Quiet
Enhance Network Connectivity
Plug and Play with no software installation and no confusing configurations to setup.
Limited Lifetime Warranty + Free 24/7 Technical Support
No Hardware Licensing
Full Remote Management
Energy-Efficient Technology
Multiple Power Ports
Increased Reliability WITH Reliable Speeds
24x Non-Blocking Gigabit Ports
QoS For Traffic Prioritization
5. Cisco Systems 24-Port Gigabit Switch
The Cisco Systems 24-Port Gigabit Switch is an unregulated switch great for small office settings. It does not need installation, comes in a small portable, and is easy to manage configurations. There are some small business-related features that I just love about this network switch:
It comes ready to roll right out of the box
No software to install + no configurations
Energy-efficient design that doesn’t impact performance
Do I Really Need A Network Switch For My Small Business?
To reiterate, a network switch is a crucial tool that helps in connecting multiple devices to your computer network. It works by receiving data packets from the sender devices through its physical ports. Let’s remember: the main purpose of using a network switch is to develop a connection for sharing resources.
If you’re running a small business, you might be wondering if you need a network switch. The answer to that depends on your specific needs. If you have a lot of devices that need to be connected to the internet or if you need to connect multiple devices to a single network, then a network switch can be an incredibly helpful addition. In my opinion, I think a network switch is a good idea for most home networks where someone is using their home as an office for remote work. However, if you only have a few devices that need to be connected, or let’s say you’re only using one network…then you probably don’t need a network switch. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not a network switch is right for your small business.
We get it…as a small business owner, you know every penny counts. You need to be careful about how you spend your money and you need to make sure that you’re getting the most bang for your buck when you do decide to invest in technology. When it comes to network switches for a small business, it’s important to invest in quality (we’ve provided some solid examples in our reviews previously mentioned). Network switches are great small business additions because it helps to connect all of the devices on your network PLUS it provides a central point for managing traffic. From my perspective and as a business owner, I believe it’s an essential piece of equipment for any small business. A network switch is a worthwhile investment for any small business owner who wants to keep their operation running smoothly.
Want to secure your online presence from malicious activities but don’t know what tool you should use to achieve your security on your Android device? Then you have come to the right place 😉 We’re going to break down all the essential information about the best VPNs that can be used to secure your Android device.
Virtual Private Network is an effective security tool that safeguards your online activities on your devices like your Android phone or tablet. VPN helps you get peace of mind and free web browsing securely and privately. You can also hide your identity and location from advertisers and online trackers through a VPN. I’m a big fan of having a VPN for your desktop and laptop, but equally as big of a fan when it comes to mobile devices as well.
Many VPNs are available on the market today. When I started diving in to do more research, I was amazed at how far VPNs for smartphones have really evolved just in the last year alone. Because of that, it is crucial to make a proper and informed decision based on this list that contains the best VPNs for Android in 2022. Luckily, I was able to come to a conclusion on some of the best VPNs for your Android.
What Is A Virtual Private Network (VPN)?
A virtual private network or VPN is a network encryption tool that provides security and privacy to your web browsing. Without VPN, any observer can easily monitor and check your web traffic. VPN helps to hide your identity and location from all online observers.
VPN encrypts all web traffic by sending it to a secure server operated by the company. The crucial thing is that VPN hides the IP address of your Android phone, which keeps away the active snoopers. All these encryption functions are to protect your online activities.
Additionally, some VPNs also provide antivirus support to your android. This feature is not available in all types of VPNs, but those who offer it, ensure you enjoy robust protection from malware attacks.
Why does Your Android Need a VPN?
A VPN has a vital role in Android smartphones because they access and use the internet and cellular internet which can be compromised if not used properly. VPNs help secure your phone’s identity and location to prevent harmful threats.
Best Android VPNs in 2022
The list of the best android VPNs updates every day based on features, services, and ranking. As previously notes, VPNs for smartphones is a growing market, so we wanted to key in on those VPNs that have stood out most recently. The following are the top five Android VPNs today:
NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the best and most reliable brands in the VPN market. The main thing that makes it a unique and trusted brand is its design. The App has a user-friendliness interface and is easy to use, just like their desktop VPN. It offers the following features to its users:
It offers a 30-days free trial to new users
You can connect six devices with this application. If you have a family of Android users, that’s a nice bonus.
It has 5300 plus servers. This is an important feature of VPNs.
NordVPN has about 94 countries included in its server list.
The VPN I personally use is ExpressVPN. It is also considered one of the top and best virtual private networks for your Android. ExpressVPN is super reliable, very fast, and easy to use the VPN tool in the market. And just like its NordVPN competitor, it has a great user interface for desktop and mobile. ExpressVPN offers the following services:
It also offers a 30-day free trial period
ExpressVPN has 60 plus server locations and 3000 plus servers. Not as robust as NordVPN, but still impressive.
SurfsharkVPN is one of the cheapest and most comfortable VPNs today and quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Surfshark VPN does not leave behind when it comes to features. Surfshark is the only VPN that does not put a barricade on the connected devices.
It offers a free trial for 30 days
It has 65 plus server locations and 3200 plus servers
It does not limit connected devices
Includes a kill switch, CleanWeb, end-to-end encryption, Bypasser (so you can still do online banking), and a strict no-logs policy.
ProtonVPN is also considered one of the best VPNs that provide widespread online privacy and is the only option on the list of the free tier. ProtonVPN may not be the best choice if you are looking for a low price and unlimited access to devices.
It has only 1669 servers and 63 locations. Not nearly the number we see with its competitors.
It does not offer a free trial BUT has a Free Tier.
You can use it on ten devices at a time. You don’t get unlimited device use, but this feature is definitely a nice bonus.
This is the Android VPN that is for beginners due to its understandable interface and unique design. If you are looking for precision-tuning, then IPVanish is your Android VPN. It can generate visual graphs of internet activity.
It is a customizable VPN
It has over 75 server locations and 1600 plus servers
How Do I Know If I Need A VPN For My Android Device?
If you’re like most people, you probably use your Android device for a variety of tasks every day. Most people are spending close to 3 hours a day on their smartphones. From checking email and browsing the web to streaming video and sharing photos, your phone is always with you, always providing a constant connection to the outside world. But think about that for a moment, this means ALL of your Android activities are being tracked by your carrier, websites, apps, and even the government. If you’re concerned about your privacy, then you may be wondering if you need a VPN for your Android device.
Remember what a VPN does: it’s a tool that encrypts all of your internet traffic, making it impossible for anyone to snoop on your activities. I love that. It’s like the invisibility cloak Harry Potter wears, but for your Android phone. When you use a VPN, all of your data is routed through an overseas server, making it appear as though you’re located in another country or city. As mentioned above, this has a number of benefits, including bypassing censorship and accessing geo-restricted content. But perhaps the most important benefit is that it keeps your information safe and secure from prying eyes (be it government, hackers, or businesses).
But do you really need a VPN for your Android device? If you’re concerned about privacy or security, then the answer is probably yes. A VPN will encrypt all of your internet traffic and keep your information safe from hackers, government surveillance, and a list of other places keen on collecting your information. But if you’re really not that concerned about your data being hacked or used for marketing or business material, then you probably don’t need one.
When it comes to choosing the best VPN for your Apple iOS devices, there are a few important factors you need to take into account. For example, what features are important to you? What features should be important to you? And how much do you want to spend? We’re going to dive into all the basic ins and outs of VPNs for iOS, break down some of the best VPNs for Apple iOS devices, and discuss why they might be a good fit for you. Whether you’re looking for a VPN that can unblock content or one that’s packed with security features, chances are we’ve covered it here for you.
Let’s Talk About The Best VPN for Apple iOS Devices
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the essential tools for safeguarding your online privacy and security while using your devices. If you’ve checked out our website just a little bit, you’d know we’re a big fan of VPNs. By establishing a secure, encrypted connection between your device and a server, VPNs protect your data from hackers and ISPs. Also, in some cases they allow you to access content that is not available in your country.
Apple has taken many steps to protect your personal data. In fact, some of their latest security measures in their recent operating system updates have caused a massive disruption in systems and platforms that have been leveraging your personal data for their own benefit (Here’s looking at you Facebook). But even with those security updates, your IP address can still identify you. That is where using a VPN on your iPhone (or your iPad) comes in handy. We wanted to take a deep dive and really analyze some of the best VPNs for iOS, explaining what to look for in a good VPN and highlighting some of the best options available.
What To Look For In A VPN?
If you are searching for a VPN for your iPhone or iPad, make sure it has the following features:
First, compatibility with iOS devices is essential (I know, that’s a given). Make sure the VPN you choose offers an app for iOS devices (iPhone or iPad) or at least has detailed instructions on how to set it up manually.
Second, a robust encryption protocol is a must. This will help ensure your data remains safe and secure. ExpressVPN and NordVPN are both excellent choices.
A kill switch is also a valuable feature, as it will prevent data leaks if your connection to the VPN server is ever lost.
Check the number of servers included in the VPN network.
Make sure your VPN has fast connection speeds. Some VPNs are notorious for slowing down connection speeds and giving peeps slow speeds.
Ensure your VPN has a user-friendly interface.
Check how many connections (devices) your VPN can support simultaneously under a single account.
Also, your VPN must be a no-log VPN that does not keep any records of the user’s online activity.
Taking into account some of the criteria outlined above, here are some of the best VPNs for your iOS devices. There are a LOT of VPNs out there, but not a lot are designed specifically with Apple iOS in mind. In fact, there are a lot of VPN providers that provide ZERO support for Apple iOS. We saw the same thing when breaking down the best VPNs for Android devices. But we were able to find a handful of VPNs for iOS that we believe check the boxes on an optimal VPN solution for mobile.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is the second most popular VPN on the App store. It’s what DDID uses on our devices. It is easy to use and offers excellent security and privacy protection for iOS users. The app is well-designed and user-friendly, and it provides a great selection of server locations to choose from. In terms of speed and reliability, ExpressVPN performs very well.
Our Favorite ExpressVPN Features
Best-in-class encryption protects your data and online activity
Powerful speed and unlimited bandwidth
3000 plus servers in 94 countries
ExpressVPN supports up to 5 simultaneous connections
24/7 live chat support
Kill switch and a zero-log policy
A 7-day free trial period
Helps unblock various geo-restricted streaming sites, including YouTube, Hulu, iPlayer, Amazon, Netflix
NordVPN is a secure, reliable, and fast VPN service that encrypts your traffic and protects your privacy. It is one of the most popular VPNs available on the App store. The installation process is simple and easy to follow, and the app provides a consistent experience no matter which region you are in. It is an excellent choice for privacy-conscious users who want to stay safe and secure online. Out of all the VPNs we analyzed for iOS Apple devices, NordVPN is the best.
Our Favorite NordVPN Features
Top-tier encryption provides excellent security and privacy with high-speed connection speeds
24/7 customer support and a strict zero-log policy
5000 plus servers in 60 countries
NordVPN supports up to 6 simultaneous connections
Two kill switches
DNS leak detection and auto-connect features
A 7-day free trial period
A 30-day money-back guarantee
It helps unblock various geo-restricted streaming sites, including Hulu, Amazon, iPlayer, Netflix, or YouTube
Another incredible option for a VPN that you can use on your iOS devices is Surfshark. For users who need a cheap VPN with top-notch security and privacy, Surfshark is your app. It is a powerful and easy-to-use VPN that offers a variety of features to customize your experience. As mentioned in our review of the best VPNs for Android, Surfshare is quickly becoming a favorite of mine.
IPVanish for iOS is another excellent choice for a reliable and secure VPN service. It makes sure that your data is safe and protected from prying eyes, and it offers incredible speed, especially in the US.
Our Favorite IPVanish VPN Features
1400 plus servers in 75 locations
Encrypted VPN connections for every device
Choice of protocols
IPVanish supports unlimited connections at the same time
Kill switch and a zero-log policy
Helps unblock only limited streaming sites: YouTube and iPlayer
How Do I Know If I Need A VPN For My Apple iOS Device?
Are you worried about your privacy while using your Apple device? If so, a VPN might be the perfect solution for you. VPNs are great tools that help to encrypt and protect your data while you browse the web or use other online services. Not only does this keep your information safe from hackers and other malicious actors, but it also allows you more freedom and control over what content you access online.
So how do you know if you really need a VPN for your Apple device? Here are a few things to consider. One good indicator is if you frequently travel or use public Wi-Fi networks (or use networks other than your own personal home network). These unencrypted networks are a common target for cybercriminals, who can easily intercept and monitor your activity on these networks. Likewise, if you frequently send sensitive personal information online, such as account passwords or credit card numbers, then a VPN can help ensure the safety of this data. And finally, if you just want to keep your browsing habits hidden from advertisers or other third parties, a VPN can give you the privacy and anonymity that you need to feel comfortable and secure online. Whether you’re protecting yourself from cybercrime or pesky advertisers, a VPN could be just what you need to stay safe and confident on all of your Apple devices!
Isn’t Apple’s latest iOS update enough security though? I love the latest security patches and measures Apple has integrated into their iOS but is it enough of a security measure where I don’t need a VPN? Let me rephrase that question: Are you concerned about personal privacy or personal security? If you answer yes, then yes…you need a VPN for your iOS Apple device. Remember, a Virtual Private Network is a secure, encrypted connection between two networks or between an individual user and a network. If you are searching for a good, reliable VPN service to use with your iPhone or iPad, any of these four providers we reviewed would be a great choice. Not all VPNs are created equal, so it is essential to do your research before signing up for one and make sure you get one that fits your internet habits and behavior.
