Private Internet Access for Windows

A powerful VPN service provider

Private Internet Access, also known as PIA, is a VPN service provider program for Windows users. Once purchased, you can use the tool on up to 10 devices at once. The application features a user-friendly interface and provides a robust list of features and services such as an ad blocker, custom DNS, kill switch, encryption selector, and 24-hour customer support. While the paid program doesn’t offer any free trial, it does come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

What is Private Internet Access used for?

Private Internet Access is a security and privacy tool that hides your online activity from trackers and prying eyes. With its help, you can easily browse the internet anonymously, bypass region-specific restrictions, and block ads and tracking links. The software does a great job of hiding your IP address and not recording user logs. The paid software also offers browser extensions, DNS Leak Protection, and torrent support. 

Is the app easy to install and use?

After you complete the Private Internet Access download, you’re taken through a simple setup process. The software asks you to enter your account details so that it can connect you to the app’s Virtual Private Network. Once connected, you’re able to adjust a range of options, find different connection types, customize local and remote ports, and activate port forwarding functions. 

Is it safe to use PIA?

Private Internet Access VPN is considered to be very safe, thanks to all the additional precautions taken by London Trust Media, the app’s developer. Unlike other VPNs that rely on public DNS, PIA comes with its own DNS. It does this to make sure that there are no DNS leaks when you’re connected. Moreover, the app offers you an option to change the default DNS to another preferred option.  

The security tool also features an encryption configuration tool that lets users select between different algorithms. Users can choose between AES-128 and AES-256 or other available encryption options. This high-grade encryption service ensures that you stay protected even when connected to and using a potentially unsafe network or hotspot. 

Does Private Internet Access have a kill switch?

A kill switch is a feature that protects users, even when they lose connection to a VPN. Private Internet Access does offer this feature, which works by shutting down any active website or software the moment the link drops. In case you’re working on your home network and don’t want interruptions, you can deactivate the feature from the app’s Settings menu. 

Does PIA keep user logs?

Private Internet Access has regularly emphasized that they don’t keep any data log of users. In fact, the company has claimed that it is the only VPN service provider that has proved its no-logs policy in court. As of now, PIA doesn’t log any user data, including the sites that you visit, your personal information, identity, and your IP address. 

Does the app offer browser extensions?

Similar to NordVPN, PIA offers a browser extension that you can add to your internet browser. Once clicked, the extension opens to a simple dashboard with a large connect icon. It also displays a list of the nearest servers, latencies, and location. Clicking on connect activates the VPN server and protects your browser traffic.   

Additionally, the browser extension also comes with a split tunneling option that lets you select the sites that you want to use without the need for a VPN. The Bypass List is easy to create and the sites that are in it continue to use the regular connection. The sites protected by PIA block trackers from accessing your location, camera, and microphone, and also blocks trackers, cookies, and link auditors. 

Does Private Internet Access block ads?

Private Internet Access VPN comes with a tool called MACE. The function of this tool is to block ads, as well as trackers. Once launched, the program instantly blocks ads from appearing on the screen and prevents trackers from gathering your personal information. Unfortunately, you can only use this feature on your Windows and not on your Android phone. 

Does the app support torrents?

One of the best parts about using Private Internet Access is that it supports peer-to-peer file sharing and can bypass region-specific restrictions. The app also offers a port forwarding function that redirects connections, thereby increasing P2P downloading speed. With bypass functionality, you can use PIA to open websites that have been blocked by the government or have a specific location requirement. 

Is Private Internet Access free?

Private Internet Access is a paid application that offers a monthly and yearly subscription model. Irrespective of the plan that you choose, PIA provides you with a one-year subscription of BoxCryptor, an encryption tool for cloud storage. While the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, it doesn’t offer a free trial. 

Does Private Internet Access offer customer support?

Considering the popularity of Private Internet Access, many online forums can help you with your VPN-related questions. The app’s support center is quite robust and offers blogs on account issues, technical difficulties, troubleshooting issues, and more. In case the issue isn’t resolved, you can connect with the company’s 24-hour customer support team. 

Are there any free alternatives?

If you’re looking for a free VPN provider, some of the programs that you can take a look at are FreeVPN and Hotspot Shield. Both these applications offer various features that can protect your online privacy. However, if you wish to explore another paid alternative, you should check out CyberGhost. 

A feature-rich VPN service provider

Private Internet Access is a user-friendly security tool that can help you protect your online privacy and data. The paid app offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, along with a range of features like encryption configuration, browser extension, kill switch, DNS Leak Protection, and torrent support. It also blocks ads and trackers and helps users bypass restrictions placed by countries. Moreover, PIA doesn’t record any logs and hides your internet activity, including the sites that you visit and IP addresses.