Private Internet Access (PIA) is a veteran VPN service owned by Kape Technologies, known for its transparency, open-source apps, and court-proven no-logs policy. It provides a robust solution for users seeking online anonymity, secure browsing, and unrestricted internet access. PIA supports major protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, has one of the largest server networks in the industry, and offers advanced features like port forwarding and ad-blocking through its MACE tool. Ideal for power users, streamers, and those who value customizable privacy tools.
Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the longest-standing VPN services on the market — known for its transparency, open-source philosophy, and proven no-logs policy. But in a world crowded with modern VPN contenders like NordVPN and Surfshark, how does PIA hold up in 2025?
In this Private Internet Access (PIA) review, we dive deep into performance, privacy, speed, streaming support, and more — to help you decide if this VPN is still a top-tier choice.
What Makes Private Internet Access (PIA) Different from Other VPNs?
PIA stands out for its dedication to privacy, open-source apps, and extreme server variety. Unlike many competitors, PIA has proven its no-logs claims in court and offers full transparency with regular audits and open-source repositories.
Here’s what makes it unique:
- Court-verified no-logs policy, further backed by independent audits
- Over 10,000 servers across 91 countries (including every U.S. state)
- MACE ad/tracker blocker built into apps
- Open-source apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
- Customizable settings with port forwarding, SOCKS5, and split tunneling
Compared to services like NordVPN and Surfshark, PIA leans more into advanced configuration and transparency than flashy features or simplified interfaces.
How Fast Is Private Internet Access in 2025?
Speed has always been a balancing act for VPN providers — especially those prioritizing privacy. With the introduction of WireGuard, PIA saw a notable speed boost in 2024 that continues into 2025.
🔬 Real-World Speed Tests (Using WireGuard)
- Local (EU > EU): 410–460 Mbps
- US > US: 430–450 Mbps
- US > Asia: 220–300 Mbps
- Torrenting (via qBittorrent): 30–50 Mbps sustained on top-tier peers
📌 If you’re a torrent user, check out our guide on how to bind qBittorrent to VPN for secure torrenting.
Conclusion:
PIA is impressively fast for most tasks, especially streaming and browsing. Long-distance performance lags slightly behind NordVPN but remains consistent and usable.
Is Private Internet Access Good for Streaming?
One of the most common questions users ask: Can PIA unblock major streaming platforms?
🎥 Supported Streaming Services:
- ✅ Netflix US, UK, CA
- ✅ Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer
- ✅ HBO Max, Peacock
- ⚠️ Amazon Prime Video (works intermittently)
🔄 Streaming Performance Notes:
- Servers marked for streaming work reliably for most regions.
- Speeds are fast enough for 4K playback with minimal buffering.
- Some streaming platforms (e.g., Prime Video) are hit or miss depending on the server.
Looking for an alternative with stronger global unblocking power? See our ExpressVPN review to compare.
Is Private Internet Access Safe to Use?
Yes — PIA is one of the most transparent and secure VPNs available today. It has gone above and beyond in recent years to validate its claims.
🔐 Security Highlights:
- Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
- Encryption: AES-256-bit (military-grade)
- Kill Switch: Yes — on all platforms
- Ad Blocker: MACE (blocks ads, trackers, and malware domains)
- No-Logs Policy: Proven in court, and audited independently
- Jurisdiction: USA — but with zero data retention
Bonus: All apps are open-source, meaning anyone can audit the code for backdoors or flaws.
🧠 Want to dive deeper? Read our guide on VPN Logging Policies Explained.
What Features Does PIA Offer Beyond the Basics?
PIA is packed with powerful features that appeal to tech-savvy users:
🔧 Advanced Tools:
- Split tunneling: Route specific apps outside the VPN tunnel
- Port forwarding: Essential for torrenting and P2P apps
- SOCKS5 proxy: Adds flexibility for custom setups
- Dedicated IP (paid add-on): Useful for secure remote access or business apps
- Unlimited device connections: Great for families or shared accounts
PIA’s settings panel might be overwhelming at first, but power users will love the control.
Need to know if VPN alternatives like DNSCrypt offer similar features? See our post: Is DNSCrypt an Alternative to VPN?
Is Private Internet Access a Good Value?
Pricing is one of PIA’s strongest competitive advantages.
💰 Pricing (as of July 2025):
- Monthly: $11.99
- 1-Year Plan: $3.33/month
- 2-Year Plan + 2 Free Months: $2.03/month
All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and unlimited device usage.
Compared to other premium VPNs, PIA is one of the most affordable, especially for long-term use.
How Does PIA Compare to Other VPNs?
If you’re choosing between VPNs, here’s how PIA stacks up:
| Feature | PIA | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Streaming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Privacy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Price | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Open Source | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Device Limit | Unlimited | 6 devices | Unlimited |
You can also read our AirVPN vs NordVPN comparison for an in-depth look at privacy-oriented competitors.
Who Should Use Private Internet Access in 2025?
PIA is best suited for:
✅ Privacy-focused users who want transparency, control, and open-source apps
✅ Advanced users needing port forwarding, split tunneling, or proxy integration
✅ Budget-conscious customers looking for long-term value
✅ Streamers and torrenters who want performance without tracking
Not ideal for:
❌ Absolute beginners who want a plug-and-play interface
❌ Users needing consistent unblocking for all streaming platforms
❌ Users wanting to pay via crypto (no longer supported)
Pros and Cons Summary
✅ Pros:
- Transparent and independently audited no-logs policy
- Very affordable long-term pricing
- Customizable, open-source VPN apps
- Fast speeds with WireGuard
- Works well for torrenting and general streaming
❌ Cons:
- Based in the U.S. (Five Eyes country)
- Interface may be complex for beginners
- Occasional hiccups on some streaming services
Common Questions About PIA
🟠 Does PIA work for gaming or reducing ping?
Yes, though results vary by server distance. You can learn more in our article: Does Using a VPN Help with Ping?
🔵 Is it legal to use PIA everywhere?
PIA is legal in most countries, but if you’re traveling to regions with VPN restrictions, check our post: Is VPN Legal in China?
🟣 Can I use PIA to access restricted content like FanDuel or ChatGPT?
Check out:
Final Verdict: Is Private Internet Access (PIA) Still Worth It in 2025?
Yes — PIA remains one of the most trustworthy and customizable VPNs in 2025, with excellent speeds, affordable pricing, and unmatched transparency. While it may not offer the slickest user interface or 100% streaming reliability, its core strengths in privacy and open-source development make it a top contender.
Whether you’re a privacy enthusiast, a developer, or just want a budget-friendly VPN that does its job without logging your data — PIA is still a smart pick.
👉 Also see our CyberGhost VPN review for an alternative with a more beginner-friendly interface.
