Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls convert analog signals (sound) into digital signals that are sent over the internet. These signals can be encrypted at both ends, making it much harder for a third party to hear, track, or record what is said. So if VoIP calls can be encrypted to give you security and privacy, why do you need a VPN? Read on to learn about government and private industry efforts to suppress VoIP use, how a VPN protects your VoIP calls, and which VPNs are the best ones to use.
Why You Need a VPN for VoIP
VoIP allows you to communicate with anyone who has a VoIP or phone connection, anywhere in the world – as long as you can access the service. Unfortunately, VoIP services are either restricted or blocked in several countries. And when you lose access to VoIP, you lose a lot. For one thing, VoIP calls are generally cheaper than other forms of communication, including landline and mobile phone services. VoIP is also more reliable and often offers better call quality than cell service networks, giving you the ability to communicate in areas where cell phone signals are weak. Furthermore, most VoIP providers use end-to-end encryption on their services, which means that if anyone spied on the call, they couldn’t hear what you said. This protection is ideal if you are discussing financial matters or sensitive issues. Unfortunately, the two aspects that make VoIP so popular – affordability and privacy – have also led to the restrictions and blocks on VoIP services. In some countries, telecom companies pressure governments to restrict VoIP use to protect their profits. In other countries, governments block VoIP services because they can be used to get around censorship policies, exchange politically sensitive information, or discuss illegal or terror-related activities without the possibility of surveillance.
How a VPN Gets You Access and Secures Your VoIP Calls
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you bypass VoIP restrictions and blocks, while providing anonymity and security for all your activity on the web. A good VPN stops anyone from seeing what you are doing online or hijacking your connection by hiding your IP address and encrypting all incoming and outgoing data. VPN encryption complements VoIP encryption, making your calls that much safer. By assigning you a new IP based on the server location you choose, a VPN also disguises your physical location, so spying agencies can’t track where you are or where you’re calling. You’ll appear to be using the service in a country where it isn’t restricted (e.g. the US or UK). Furthermore, VPNs can help you get around ISP speed throttling, improving call quality. However, all of this can only happen if you choose a VPN that is suitable for use with VoIP services. There are several excellent choices that performed beautifully in our VoIP tests.
What to Look For in a VPN for VoIP
The perfect VPN for use with VoIP services can bypass any blocks or restrictions on the service. It also needs to provide a secure, anonymous connection and excellent call quality. To achieve all this, your VPN needs to have at least the following features:
Servers in countries where VoIP services are not restricted. Excellent encryption with additional security features like a kill switch. The ability to go undetected. If surveillance agencies determine that your traffic is being tunneled through a VPN, they could block it. Obfuscated servers, a range of port choices, and a variety of protocol options can help your call stay invisible. Strong data protection and anti-logging policies to prevent attempts to access your information or activity history. Excellent speeds. Fast and stable connections reduce the risk of latency, and therefore of poor call quality or dropped calls. Anonymous payment options. While not essential, paying anonymously can help if you are setting up your VPN in a country where VPN use is restricted. A free trial or money-back guarantee so you can test the service to see if it works for you.
Here Are the Top Four VPNs for VoIP
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, putting it outside the jurisdiction of the Five-Eyes countries. Founded in 2009, the company is recognized as an advocate for privacy and internet freedom. ExpressVPN’s excellent customer services, superb features, and fast speeds are just some of the positives that are highlighted by its ever-growing fan base. Key Features View ExpressVPN Deals
2. IPVanish
IPVanish offers a configuration menu that allows you to easily change connection protocols. Happy users emphasize its easy-to-use apps and dedicated approach to privacy and security. Key Features View IPVanish Deals
3. CyberGhost
CyberGhost combines a dedication to privacy with German engineering. The company was founded in privacy-friendly Romania in 2011 and offers a reliable, secure, and anonymous service. CyberGhost’s quick connections, intuitive interface, and range of servers are just some of the key points highlighted in its many excellent reviews. Key Features View CyberGhost Deals
4. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN provides stable connections and uninterrupted service. Reviews by users highlight these benefits, along with the provider’s commitment to privacy and security, as key reasons why PrivateVPN is a top choice for use with VoIP services. Key Features View Private VPN Deals
Summary
A suitable VPN is a must if you want to access VoIP services in a country where they are blocked or restricted, and strongly recommended if you are calling to or from a country with heavy internet surveillance. Even in countries where VoIP use is less problematic, using a reliable VPN enhances the security and privacy of your call. A VPN and can even lower your costs by improving call quality so you don’t have to repeat yourself or constantly restart calls. To learn more about how a VPN can improve your security and privacy online, check out our complete Guide to VPNs. To explore other great VPN options for streaming, torrenting, and all your online activity, check out our Top 10 VPN reviews. Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free Today! The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.
VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 49% off.
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