How do we compare VPNs?
VPN Advisor is not a testing laboratory and does not publish unverified speed, streaming or user scores. We organize provider documentation, independent audits and verifiable third-party sources into a consistent framework to support informed decisions.
Methodology last updated: August 8, 2026
1. What we do
Provider profiles are built from public, verifiable information. Where possible, a feature is checked against official technical documentation, terms, privacy policies or independent audit reports. We do not claim laboratory measurements or first-hand user experience when we do not have them.
2. Source hierarchy
We consider both source quality and recency when evaluating a claim.
Primary sources
Official technical documentation, privacy policies, terms, pricing and app-store listings.
Independent verification
Third-party audits such as Cure53, Deloitte, PwC or SEC Consult, court records and credible security research.
Standards and platform documentation
NIST, IETF, Apple, Google, Microsoft and similar protocol, platform and security documentation.
Secondary sources
Used for context only; critical security or feature claims are not based solely on secondary sources.
3. Comparison criteria
Instead of an editorial score, we keep the same fields visible and comparable across providers.
| Criterion | What we examine | Preferred source |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy | No-logs claims, data collection, jurisdiction | Privacy policy + independent audit |
| Security | Protocols, kill switch, encryption, open-source components | Technical docs + security audit |
| Platform support | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers and device limits | Official app/support pages |
| Pricing | Intro price, renewal, refunds, tax/currency notes | Official pricing and terms |
| Infrastructure | Server/country information and specialty servers | Official network/server pages |
| Transparency | Audit date, security incidents, company information | Audit reports + company disclosures |
4. Freshness policy
- Pricing and plan data is shown with a verification date.
- Audits, protocols and policy changes are periodically rechecked.
- If information cannot be verified, it is not presented as a certain fact; uncertainty is stated.
- Older content is updated when new sources become available, with modification dates shown.
5. Limitations and revenue model
- VPN Advisor is not a real-time speed laboratory; performance varies by location, ISP, server load and protocol.
- Streaming access changes quickly and service compatibility is not guaranteed.
- Provider claims are not treated as independent proof by themselves; third-party verification is preferred where available.
- Google AdSense ads and some affiliate links may appear. Advertising or commission does not change whether a technical claim is classified as verified or unverified.
- This site is not security, legal or financial advice.
Our reference principle is simple: show the source, classify the information, disclose uncertainty, and never present something as tested when it was not tested.