It’s 2025 – you’d think by now you would be safe while online, right? Quite the contrary – data breaches, online tracking, and all sorts of cybercrime continue to rise. To protect your digital life and comply with regulations like the Online safety act, you must take bigger and bolder steps. For instance, whether you’re working from coffee shops, binge-watching geo-restricted shows, or just tired of ads following you around, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is worth having, and here’s why:

• Swipe sensitive data under encryption- your browsing stays private, even on public Wi‑Fi.
• Access global content – watch shows from other countries without sneaky region blocks.
• Boost security – advanced VPNs now include malware and ad-blocking tools.

VPN usage is booming: over 1.75 billion people use one as of 2025, about one‑third of all internet users. Experts expect continued growth thanks to rising privacy concerns. In short: if you care about your online privacy (and let’s face it – you should), a VPN is no longer optional, so protect yourself an turn your click into a pick.

Understanding the implications of the Online safety act can further enhance your online protection, making VPNs an essential tool for navigating the digital landscape.

Beat The UK’s Online Safety Act!

VPN Services 101: What You Get

If you’re not very familiar with VPN, here’s a quick rundown. Think of it as a cloak for your internet traffic. Everything you do online, a VPN would encrypt and route it through secure remote servers. That means no more figuring out what the ads are tracking or worrying about hackers on public networks.

Future-proof features popping up in 2025 include:

• AI-powered security – fending off emerging threats, like AI-driven malware
• Quantum-safe encryption – harder to crack as quantum computing advances
• Router-integrated VPNs – secures every device in your home network

Modern VPNs are easy to use, powerful, and essential for privacy-conscious users.

My Top VPN Picks: Three Ways to Stay Safe

Here are three of the best VPN options for different browsing needs, based on my experience. All of these products and services are available on Amazon UK.

Surfshark

Key Features

• Unlimited devices & 3 200+ servers worldwide
• CleanWeb (ad & malware blocker), antivirus, identity monitoring
• Easy setup across platforms

Details

Surfshark scores big on value. For under $2/month, you get strong speeds, unlimited device connections, and streaming support.  Independent reviews confirm its privacy focus and security pedigree. Just a heads-up – some users report occasional hiccups accessing sites like Amazon. Still, for most people, Surfshark is a high-value, low-cost win.

Pros

• Cheap and supports as many devices as you need
• Solid security features and strong speeds
• Great for unblocking streaming content

Cons

• Occasional site compatibility issues
• Lacks some deep-security options found in premium VPNs

Get it here: www.surfshark.com

NordVPN Basic

Key Features

• Over 5,500 servers, including specialty and streaming servers
• Threat Protection & NordLynx protocol for speed
• Clean, intuitive apps for PC & mobile

Details

TechRadar and Tom’s Guide say NordVPN is the gold standard of VPNs – fast, secure, and easy to use. Prices start around £2.90/month for two-year plans, with extras like threat protection and a password manager included. A long-time VPN staple, it balances advanced features with straightforward usability.

Pros

• Fast and reliable for streaming or browsing
• Excellent security tools and server variety
• Trusted by both experts and users

Cons

• Pricier than budget alternatives
• Slightly overwhelming for absolute beginners

Get it here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/NordVPN-Devices-Premium-Software-Digital/dp/B0D7DML88L/

ExpressVPN Aircove Go

Key Features

• Portable Wi‑Fi 6 VPN router (ExpressVPN built-in)
• Group devices & automatic protection
• Easy USB‑C power, ideal for travel

Details

The Aircove Go is a nifty travel-friendly VPN that secures your hotspot and devices with zero fuss. Reviews praise its portability – USB‑C powered, a 30-day ExpressVPN plan included, and setup in minutes. Its router-first design means entire networks stay secure. Downsides: top speeds cap at ~120 Mbps, and price tags can sting.

Pros

• Protects every device on the go
• Simple setup, zero technical headaches
• Great for travel or shared internet

Cons

• Speed caps make it less ideal for heavy streaming
• Higher upfront cost than software-only VPNs

Get it here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/ExpressVPN-Aircove-Portable-Unlimited-International-Sand/dp/B0CM6W83M9/

How to Choose the Right VPN (Without Getting Nerdy)

I’ve given you three excellent VPN options but picking the right one is not so much about brand names. Rather, it’s more about finding a good fit for how you use the internet. Start by thinking about your habits. Do you do a lot of streaming? Traveling? Just want peace of mind? The right service will blend security, speed, and ease of use.

Here are some important things to look out for:

• Why are you using it?

For private show streaming or browsing, go for something fast and easy to use. If you’re traveling a lot or using it for business, security and server coverage should be top on the list.

• How many devices?

Some VPNs let you protect unlimited devices, while others set a limit. Make sure your phone, laptop, and maybe even your smart TV are all covered.

• Privacy promises

Look for a no-logs policy and strong encryption to prove they are serious about protecting your privacy. Independent audits would be nice too.

• Speed and stability

No one wants buffering or dropped connections. Good VPNs keep things smooth even when they’re encrypting your data.

• User experience

If tech isn’t your thing, then you might appreciate a product with easy setup, clean interface, and helpful support – these go a long way.

In short: pick a VPN that fits your lifestyle, not just your laptop.

Bottom Line: VPNs Are Worth the Click – and Surfshark Makes It Easy

A good VPN gives you more than privacy – it gives you control. Whether you’re working remotely, streaming globally, or just tired of being tracked online, a virtual private network is one of the smartest tools you can have in 2025.

And if you want a VPN that balances performance, price, and ease of use? Surfshark is tough to beat. It’s affordable, user-friendly, and lets you protect every device in your household – no limits, no fuss. For most people, that’s exactly what a VPN should be: strong security without the stress.

But whatever product you choose, you’re upping your online privacy game, and that’s a win in 2025, so stay safe, protect your data, turn your click into a pick.