Top 7 Norton Secure VPN Alternatives for Better Speed, Security, and Value in 2025

When it comes to protecting my online privacy I know a reliable VPN makes all the difference. Norton Secure VPN is a popular choice but it’s not the only option out there. Sometimes I want more features better speeds or just a service that fits my needs a little better.

Exploring alternatives has shown me just how many great VPNs exist. Whether I’m looking for stronger security more server locations or better streaming support it’s smart to see what else is available. Let’s dive into some top Norton Secure VPN alternatives that could give you the online freedom and protection you’re after.

Why Consider Norton Secure VPN Alternatives

Pricing varies among VPNs, and some alternatives offer lower monthly rates or more value per dollar compared to Norton Secure VPN. Performance differences exist, with several competitors delivering faster connection speeds, as verified by independent speed tests from AV-TEST and Ookla. Feature sets often differ; for example, split tunneling, Double VPN, and ad-blocking appear in alternatives like NordVPN or Surfshark but not in Norton Secure VPN.

Device compatibility also sets providers apart, since some options support more simultaneous connections or broader device platforms, including Linux routers and smart TVs. Privacy policies vary, and reputable alternatives may offer stricter no-logs protocols or undergo third-party audits, such as ExpressVPN’s PwC audit in 2022. Server coverage expands with some alternatives; leading VPNs like CyberGhost and Private Internet Access provide thousands more global servers, increasing access to content and reducing latency.

Key Features to Look for in a VPN

Selecting a VPN involves evaluating features that impact privacy, device use, speed, and usability. I focus on the most essential attributes below.

• Encryption Strength

AES-256 encryption secures my online traffic. This standard meets widely accepted security benchmarks in the VPN industry.

• No-Logs Policy

Verified no-logs claims assure my activity and connection logs stay private. Third-party audits offer additional confidence. Mullvad and ExpressVPN are two examples that have undergone audits.

• Connection Speeds

Fast VPN connections help me stream, game, and browse without noticeable lag. According to speed benchmarks by Ookla, NordVPN and Surfshark often lead in performance.

• Device Compatibility

Apps available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers let me secure all my devices. Some VPNs, like CyberGhost, extend coverage to smart TVs and gaming consoles.

• Simultaneous Connections

More allowed connections protect all my devices or family with one subscription. Surfshark allows unlimited, while NordVPN covers up to 6 devices per account.

• Server Locations

Extensive server networks, ranked by countries or cities, improve content access and reduce latency. ExpressVPN offers servers in 105 countries; CyberGhost operates in 100.

• Streaming and P2P Support

Unlocked streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer) enable me to bypass geo-blocks. VPN support for torrenting sites ensures reliable and fast downloads.

• Kill Switch and Leak Protection

Built-in kill switches and DNS/IP leak shielding keep my real IP hidden if the connection drops. Private Internet Access and NordVPN include these safeguards.

• Split Tunneling

Split tunneling routes select traffic through the VPN, letting me access local services while encrypting sensitive apps. ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN both provide this option.

• Ad-Blocking and Malware Protection

Integrated blockers stop unwanted ads and known malicious sites. ProtonVPN supports NetShield, while Surfshark includes CleanWeb.

Feature	Leading VPN Examples	Supporting Data or Specs
Encryption	NordVPN, ExpressVPN	AES-256 encryption, verified in technical documentation
No-Logs Policy	Mullvad, ExpressVPN	Third-party audit reports (Cure53, PwC)
Speed	NordVPN, Surfshark	Ookla Speedtest data, multiple independent speed tests
Device Compatibility	CyberGhost, Surfshark	Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, others
Simultaneous Connections	Surfshark, NordVPN	Unlimited (Surfshark), up to 6 (NordVPN)
Server Locations	ExpressVPN, CyberGhost	105 countries (ExpressVPN), 100 countries (CyberGhost)
Streaming Support	ExpressVPN, NordVPN	Unlocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, etc.
Kill Switch/Leak Prot.	Private Internet Access	Kill switch, DNS/IP leak protection in app settings
Split Tunneling	ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN	Configurable per-app website or protocol
Ad/Malware Protection	ProtonVPN, Surfshark	NetShield (ProtonVPN), CleanWeb (Surfshark) enable ad and malware blocking

Top Norton Secure VPN Alternatives

I see several Norton Secure VPN alternatives that outperform it in speed, privacy, and features. Most support more device types, offer broader global coverage, and include advanced options for online security.

ExpressVPN

I get advanced encryption, audited no-logs policy, and 3,000+ servers in 105 countries with ExpressVPN. Fast connection speeds improve streaming and browsing, confirmed by 2024 AV-TEST data. ExpressVPN supports split tunneling, kill switch, and MediaStreamer for smart TVs. Apps run on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers, and one subscription covers 8 devices.

NordVPN

I access high-speed servers in 111 countries and consistent privacy through double VPN technology with NordVPN. Threat Protection blocks ads and malware. NordVPN’s no-logs claims earned verification from PricewaterhouseCoopers. Apps enable split tunneling and Onion Over VPN. Six simultaneous connections run under one account.

Surfshark

I secure all devices with unlimited simultaneous connections using Surfshark. SmartDNS allows geo-unblocking on smart TVs and consoles. CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and phishing attempts. Camouflage Mode masks VPN traffic from ISPs. Over 3,200 servers cover 100 countries, with WireGuard protocol boosting performance.

CyberGhost

I use CyberGhost for its 7,500+ servers in 100 countries, user-friendly interface, and specialized streaming servers. The provider publishes regular transparency reports and operates under a strict no-logs policy. WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols ensure versatile, fast connections. I connect up to 7 devices at once.

Proton VPN

I rely on Proton VPN for its open-source apps, Secure Core servers, and independently audited no-logs policy. Proton VPN offers multi-hop routes and Tor over VPN integration for advanced privacy. The provider supports 3,000+ servers in 70+ countries and uses strong AES-256 encryption. Free and paid plans enable access on up to 10 devices.

Comparing Norton Secure VPN Alternatives

I compare Norton Secure VPN alternatives by examining costs, privacy tools, speed, and usability. Each service offers unique benefits for privacy-focused users like me.

Pricing and Plans

I find that alternatives like Surfshark and CyberGhost deliver lower monthly rates and frequent multi-year discounts compared to Norton Secure VPN. Some VPNs (e.g., Proton VPN) include a limited free plan, while ExpressVPN often charges a premium for advanced features. Most top alternatives support at least three simultaneous connections, with Surfshark allowing unlimited devices.

VPN Service	Monthly Price (USD)	Yearly Plan (USD/mo)	Simultaneous Connections
ExpressVPN	12.95	8.32	8
NordVPN	12.99	4.49	6
Surfshark	12.95	3.99	Unlimited
CyberGhost	12.99	2.19	7
Proton VPN	9.99	4.99	10
Norton Secure VPN	4.99-9.99	3.33	1-5

Security and Privacy Features

I notice leading alternatives incorporate stronger, independently audited no-logs policies and often deploy RAM-only servers. ExpressVPN and NordVPN provide AES-256 encryption and proprietary protocols (e.g., Lightway, NordLynx). Proton VPN makes its apps open-source and adds Secure Core servers. Some, like Surfshark, offer built-in ad-blockers and malware protection, absent in Norton Secure VPN.

Speed and Performance

I experience faster speeds with ExpressVPN and NordVPN, as both maintain large server networks and implement advanced tunneling technologies. Independent tests (e.g., AV-TEST 2023) show lower latency and higher throughput on these platforms. CyberGhost and Proton VPN deliver stable streaming and torrenting performance across global locations.

Ease of Use and Compatibility

I observe that CyberGhost and Surfshark maintain highly intuitive apps with one-click connect across platforms. Top alternatives support a wider range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, and some smart TVs. Unlike Norton Secure VPN, Surfshark and others allow unlimited or higher simultaneous connections, making device management simpler for me.

How to Choose the Right VPN for You

Selecting the right VPN involves assessing specific criteria that impact my privacy, online security, and user experience. I analyze these key factors before committing to a Norton Secure VPN alternative.

• Privacy Standards

I verify the VPN’s privacy policy and no-logs promise. Services like NordVPN and Mullvad maintain independently audited no-logs policies, ensuring my online activity isn’t stored or shared.

• Encryption Protocols

I focus on VPNs offering AES-256 encryption and modern protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec). ExpressVPN and Proton VPN both implement these for secure data transmission.

• Connection Speeds

I compare results from annual speed tests (e.g., AV-TEST, Ookla) since streaming and downloads demand fast, stable connections. NordVPN and ExpressVPN consistently lead these benchmarks.

• Device Compatibility

I review which operating systems and platforms a VPN supports, confirming that it works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, routers, and smart TVs. Surfshark and CyberGhost cover the widest device range.

• Simultaneous Connections

I prioritize VPNs allowing multiple devices, like Surfshark with unlimited connections, letting me protect my laptop, phone, and tablet together without limits.

• Server Network and Locations

I choose services with extensive server coverage, such as CyberGhost’s 11,000+ servers across 100+ countries, to reduce latency and unlock more streaming libraries.

• Streaming and P2P Support

I check support for streaming (Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer) and P2P file sharing. CyberGhost and ExpressVPN offer optimized servers, ensuring reliable access.

• Advanced Security Tools

I want a kill switch, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, and ad-blocking. NordVPN and Proton VPN provide these, minimizing risks if the VPN connection drops.

• Usability and Support

I select user-friendly apps with clear interfaces. I test customer support response times via live chat or email, with Surfshark and CyberGhost receiving top feedback.

• Pricing and Money-Back Guarantee

I assess subscription costs and opt for monthly or annual discounts. Most leading alternatives, including NordVPN and CyberGhost, feature 30-45 day money-back guarantees, lowering trial risk.

Matching these criteria to my online activities lets me identify a VPN that provides robust protection, high-speed performance, and usability for all my devices.

Conclusion

Choosing the right VPN goes beyond just picking a familiar name. As I’ve explored the top alternatives to Norton Secure VPN it’s clear that there are options out there that deliver better privacy features faster speeds and broader device support.

By taking the time to compare your choices and focusing on the features that matter most to you you’ll find a VPN that fits your needs perfectly. With so many strong contenders on the market it’s never been easier to upgrade your online privacy and security.