Best VPNs for Usenet in 2024: Stay Safe and Anonymous
Usenet is one of the world’s most popular file-sharing services available. Before torrenting became a thing, sites like Usenet held the charge. While Usenet is a leader in its field, you should know that there are some caveats. The fact that you’re accessing it and using the platform’s features means that you will be sharing a lot of personal information about yourself, whether you like it or not.
Usenet is notorious for logging a lot of information about users. This information includes IP addresses, search and browser activity, and more. Many believe that Usenet’s custom SSL encryption will protect them from spies, but they’re wrong. For years now, websites have found user logs on Usenet across the internet.
This is why you need a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect you and your vital information.
Top Recommended VPNs for Usenet
In this guide, we’ll go through a few VPNs and how they can guarantee your safety on Usenet.
ExpressVPN
Features
- Number of servers: More than 3,000
- Speeds: Unlimited
- Server locations: 160 in 105 countries
- Maximum devices supported: 5
- 24 live chat: Yes
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Yes
Pros/Cons
- Fastest VPN out there
- Strict no logs policy
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Few discounts
ExpressVPN takes the top spot for the best VPNs for Usenet. The service has proven itself time and again as a formidable force in the VPN industry, and it remains the best all-around option for anyone.
With ExpressVPN, you get access to about 3,000 servers in over 90 countries. Most of its serves are concentrated in the United States and Europe, but you can also access other parts of the world. This VPN has a wide variety of servers available for you everywhere.
Security is another area where ExpressVPN shines. The service gives you military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, which will protect your data and connection. If you lose your connection to the network, a kill switch immediately cuts data flow to prevent snooping from the outside world.
ExpressVPN also employs Perfect Forward Secrecy, which changes your security keys at intervals to improve your safety. Other critical security features include protection from DNS, IPv6, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. This service doesn’t collect any data on you, so their no-logs policy protects you from accidental data leaks.
Moving on, you get optimal connection speed on ExpressVPN. So, you can access Usenet to download and share files as you please. The service doesn’t include any data caps, so browse all the way!
ExpressVPN is available on Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, Apple TV, and Android TV. You can get browser extensions for Firefox and Chrome too. A single paid account allows access to five devices simultaneously.
- Pros: Fastest VPN out there; Strict no logs policy; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest price: $6.67
NordVPN
Features
- Cryptocurrency accepted? Yes
- Simultaneous connections: 6
- Dedicated IP-addresses? Yes
- Servers: 5342 in 58 countries
Pros/Cons
- Lots of pricing options
- Netflix support kept up to date
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Slow app
Coming in second place is NordVPN, another VPN service that has shown its worth over the years. Many debate the differences between this service and ExpressVPN as both services offer features that are almost similar in performance and capacity. Regardless of which you choose, you’re getting a good deal.
On NordVPN, you get over 5,400 servers, which cover over 60 countries themselves. All high-traffic countries are part of this coverage, so you know you can easily access Usenet. Tests have shown that NordVPN is adept at evading restrictions, with access to streaming services like Netflix and Hulu easily unlocked. So, accessing Usenet isn’t a problem. It will grant you access in minutes so that you can torrent without hassle.
Security features on NordVPN are also top-notch. You get military-grade encryption, as well as protection from DNS and IPv6 leaks. Like ExpressVPN, this service is also known for its strict no-logs policy. In the event of an attack, hackers won’t even see any of your information to steal.
NordVPN struggles a bit when it comes to an internet connection. However, the connection is still strong enough for you to download and share files on Usenet seamlessly. The service has optimal peer-to-peer file sharing features while improving restriction evasion techniques.
NordVPN has apps for macOS, iOS, Windows, Linux, and Android platforms. There are extensions available for users on Chrome and Firefox browsers. A single account on this service accommodates up to six devices — another area where NordVPN beats many other providers.
- Pros: Lots of pricing options; Netflix support kept up to date; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest price: $3.71
Surfshark
Features
- Free trial? Yes
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Ad blocking? Yes
- Servers: 1000+ in 61 countries
Pros/Cons
- No footprints
- Allows torrenting
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Not the fastest
In a world where VPNs cost a lot of money, Surfshark has distinguished itself for providing services at little cost. This affordability makes it the ideal choice for people looking to save on their investment.
Despite its affordability, however, Surfshark is still very useful. Its coverage isn’t as extensive as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, as it has about 1,700 servers across 63 countries. Note that Surfshark covers the high-traffic areas of the world so that you can access premium content easily.
You’ll be glad to know that Surfshark allows easy access to streaming services and high-restriction platforms for Usenet enthusiasts. So, if you can’t access Usenet where you are, this is a reliable VPN to have.
Security features available on Surfshark include AES-256-GCM encryption, as well as support for OpenVPN and IKEv2. While these features ensure your protection while on the network, Surfshark provides a kill switch that protects your data if you accidentally disconnect from the network.
Surfshark users will also enjoy the URL blocking feature. With the Adblock feature, the VPN ensures a browsing experience that is free of ads and malware.
You can access Surfshark on iOS, Windows, Linux, and Android. The service even has free trials available for iOS, macOS, and Android users. Chrome and Firefox users get browser extensions to support their platforms.
- Pros: No footprints; Allows torrenting; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest Price: $2.49
Private Internet Access
Features
- IP cloaking? Yes
- Access to US domains? Yes
- Devices supported: Over 30 (including iOS and Android)
- Firewalls? Yes
- Servers: 3000+ in over 25 countries
Pros/Cons
- Military grade encryption
- Firewall
- Completely private browsing
- Lesser known provider
Private Access Internet is another solid VPN choice for people who would like to access Usenet and take advantage of optimal file sharing. This VPN has over 2,500 servers in 47 countries. The sizable number of locations include high-traffic areas like Europe and the United States.
In terms of security, PIA doesn’t lag at all. You can select between AES-128 and AES-256 encryption, as well as data encryption and handshake methods. Another impressive feature with this VPN is the MACE feature, which allows you to access websites with heavy ad content or malware seamlessly. The VPNs security features are more than enough to keep you safe.
DNS and IPv6 protection are available to protect your on-network traffic, while a kill switch protects you when you disconnect.
Note, however, that PIA takes some of your information. The service accesses your data usage levels and location, although it deletes it all once you disconnect from the network. PIA doesn’t have the best connection speeds. However, it supports peer-to-peer file sharing, and you can access restrictive services.
PIA is available on iOS, Android, and Windows. The service does one better when it comes to browser connections; asides having extensions for Google Chrome and Firefox, there is an extension for Opera browser users too.
- Pros: Military grade encryption; Firewall; Completely private browsing;
- Lowest price: €2.50
CyberGhost
Features
- Connected devices at once: 7
- Automatic kill switch? Yes
- One click connect: Yes
- Servers: 5900 worldwide
Pros/Cons
- No logs policy
- 24/7 live chat
- Apps for mobile devices and routers
- No free option
CyberGhost is the crème de la crème for Windows users. The service offers incredible support and an easy-to-use interface for the Windows platform, which allows secure and seamless connections.
To be fair, the service also has support for other platforms. Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux platforms have access to CyberGhost, too, although the Linux systems and wireless routers will require manual installation.
CyberGhost provides over 6,400+ servers in about 90 countries. That’s pretty extensive coverage for sure. Low-latency connection and optimal security also mean that you get the right service on all fronts.
In terms of privacy features, CyberGhost is the right stuff. Military-grade encryption is available, as is a kill switch that cuts data flow when you disconnect from the network. Note, however, that the kill switch is only available for desktop users.
Some notable extras include automated HTTPS redirection service, which allows you to connect to the most secure sites. You also get the ability to block ads and malicious websites. The service doesn’t keep any logs, and the addition of optimal data compression will reduce connection bandwidth and save money for mobile users.
With CyberGhost, you get access to secure file sharing and connections; therefore, you can rest assured that you will have a smooth experience on Usenet. The service supports peer-to-peer networks, so with a reliable internet service provider, you’re ready to go.
- Pros: No logs policy; 24/7 live chat; Apps for mobile devices and routers;
- Lowest price: €2
UltraVPN
Features
- One click connect? Yes
- Servers: 100+ superfast servers
- Bandwidth cap? No
- Platforms: Mac, Windows, iOS, Android
Pros/Cons
- Firewall
- Apps for all devices
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Not as many servers as others
You may not know UltraVPN. That’s ok; it’s not so popular. However, this service packs quite a punch when you consider its features and how well it works.
As expected, UltraVPN is a powerhouse with strong security features. You get the standard AES 256-bit encryption to protect you, while an automatic kill switch kicks in once your network gets cut off. DNS protection is also available.
The service is also an excellent solution for beginners. Setup is easy and straightforward, so you don’t need technical knowledge or skills to access it. You’ll also be glad to know that the internet connection is excellent with UltraVPN. You don’t need to stress over the connection, as peer-to-peer file sharing is available too.
However, the VPN has some challenges. The most significant is coverage, with UltraVPN only offering 1000 servers across 50 countries. Note that the high-traffic areas are covered, and the VPN allows you to access restrictive services — including Usenet.
UltraVPN also keeps some logs on user activity. The service records your address, IP location, and other valuable information. However, it doesn’t collect logs on the activities you perform online.
This VPN works for the majors alone — macOS, Android, iOS, and Windows. There is no support for minor platforms like Linux, Apple TV, and Android TV. A single account overs up to three devices.
- Pros: Firewall; Apps for all devices; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest price: €2.99
Trust.Zone
Features
- Complete anonymity? Yes
- Unblocking of all websites? Yes
- Pricing options: 4
- Servers: 164 in 80+ zones
- Free trial: Yes
Pros/Cons
- Military grade encryption
- Bitcoin accepted
- App for mobile devices
- Lesser known provider
Rounding out our list of the best VPNs for Usenet is Trust.Zone — another impressive service that manages to get the job done.
Trust.Zone has sufficient security. A kill switch takes care of unplanned network cuts, and military-grade encryption keeps you secure while on the network. Trust.Zone also doesn’t collect any logs on user activity or data.
The service struggles a bit on coverage, with only 180 servers across 40 countries. However, it has sufficient connection and access to restricted services. So, you should be more than fine. With a single account on Trust.Zone, you can connect up to three devices at the same time.
Primarily, you get Trust.Zone clients on Windows and Android alone. Users on the Linux, Mac, and iOS platforms will need to do some work to install software patches. However, you can always contact their support team to help you out. Trust.Zone particularly shines when it comes to support.
You can contact the company via three channels – social media, email, and a contact form. They make a habit of answering calls and complaints pretty quickly, and they can even walk you through the installation process. Their pricing plans are affordable, especially for the range of features that they have to offer.
- Pros: Military grade encryption; Bitcoin accepted; App for mobile devices;
- Lowest price: €3
How to Set Up a VPN for Usenet
- Select a VPN from any of the ones on our list.
- Go to the VPN’s website and select the version that runs with your device.
- Download the required VPN client and install it.
- Select any of the locations available and connect to it.
- The VPN will notify you when you connect.
- Once you’re connected, run a test on any website to ascertain that your location has changed.
- Try to access Usenet from the new location.
- If you can’t access Usenet, try another location and see if it works then.
Note that it might take a few tries before you connect to Usenet. That’s fine.
Is Using a VPN Legal?
The legality of VPNs is country-specific. This means that although they are generally regarded as legal in many countries of the world, a few countries frown on the use of VPNs. This is brought about because of the need for such countries to monitor and control internet use of their citizens or family within the region. Since a VPN would obstruct them from doing so, using it in such countries may be considered illegal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Usenet without a VPN?
Yes, you mustn’t connect to a VPN to access Usenet since Usenet secures uses SSL encryption which is quite strong. However, if you combine this with the end-to-end encryption system VPNs offer, you’ll have a more secure Usenet online presence. Furthermore, Usenet logs your IP address when you use their platform. Suppose you use a VPN while on Usenet; they can’t access your connection data. Therefore, accessing Usenet on a VPN connection is a better choice.
Can a VPN protect my simultaneous Usenet connections?
Yes, a VPN service can encrypt all your Usenet connections. Usenet allows simultaneous connections so that users can download content quicker. Similarly, the best VPN providers often allow simultaneous connections on one subscription plan. You can connect from five to an unlimited number of devices with one VPN payment. So, you can protect multiple devices and set up multiple Usenet connections on those devices.
What if Usenet is unavailable in my location?
Like many other websites and services, Usenet is unavailable in some places. However, this wouldn’t be an issue if you use a VPN. A VPN can allow you to spoof your IP address and access Usenet as if you’re browsing from a location that’s Usenet-compatible. Furthermore, with a VPN, you can unblock many other websites blocked in your location. For instance, a good VPN should unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, etc.
Can I use my VPN subscription for only Usenet?
Yes, you can choose to route only your Usenet connection through a VPN. Many VPNs have a special feature for this that they call split tunneling. A VPN that allows split-tunneling can help you designate specific apps to connect to the internet through the VPN. On the other hand, the remaining apps can access the internet directly. This feature is great for people who want to maintain their original IP address for other connections on their devices.
Conclusion
Usenet is a reliable hub for information that you might not be able to find anywhere else. However, access to such information might come with some legal troubles. When your location becomes exposed, you’re vulnerable on several fronts. A VPN protects you from all of these. You can check out any of the options we have reviewed above to get started.