The Internet is a powerful tool where a wide range of content is available, and many digital incidents occur. Just as there are many good things about it, there are also bad things. Many hackers and scammers lurk on websites, designing various sorts of harmful programs that are disguised as links and pop-up advertisements. Once you press on that link, your privacy and personal data are at risk. Hence, digital users find VPNs very useful. And Planet VPN is one of them. But what is a VPN, and how helpful can it be?
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a software that protects your device from digital threats. It acts like a virtual shield and hides your IP Address. If one is afraid to use public wifi, they can use a VPN and protect their data from breaches. There are premium ones and free apps that help people in various ways. One can also use a VPN to watch movies and shows that are banned in their country.
What is Planet VPN?
Planet VPN has both free and premium features, which are called freemium. It means that the most basic features are available for all, and if they like the service, they can pay to obtain more features. Planet VPN is a service that was launched in 2017 and was created in Romania.
Key Features:
There is no need to register for an account to use the basic features, which are:
- Access to five country servers (US, UK, Germany, France, and the Netherlands)
- Unlimited bandwidth, which people can use to stream movies, browse, or download content.
- Secure, as it uses the industry standard AES-256-bit encryption.
- Kill Switch, which can be used to hide your identity when the VPN is severed or turns off due to an unstable connection.
- Browser extensions are also available.
And here are some premium features of Plant VPN:
- Gain access to over 1200 servers across the world. Users can game and stream with higher quality. One can use platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and some other major services. Torrenting and P2P support are also available for premium users.
- One can use Planet VPN on 10 devices at the same time, which can aid people in multitasking.
- The free version also has no advertisements, which can create a smooth flow.
- One can also email for customer support in case of doubts or irregularities.
- And if one isn’t satisfied with the premium version, they can request a refund within 30 days.
Advantages:
Free:
Since the basic features are free, it helps users to see what Planet VPN is. If they like it, they can opt for long-term use with the premium version. And if not, they can continue to use the free version. One doesn’t need any trials or make payments to use this VPN.
- Unlimited Bandwidth:
Most VPNs have caps on how much one can use, like 500 MB/day. But Planet VPN allows its usersto have unlimited data, and it’s helpful for long periods of gaming and binge-watching shows.
- Easy to use:
The software has a simple user interface, which allows users to navigate through the various options, like the ‘kill switch’ and others.
- Strong encryption:
Since it uses the AES-256-bit encryption, users can visit websites and platforms without the fear of being hacked or facing any other digital attacks.
- Multiple servers:
Five server locations can be accessed, even with the free version, which is a great advantage.
- Affordable premium:
The lowest price is 1.99$ per month for three years, which is more affordable than offers from other services.
- Disadvantages:
- Slow service:
Since the free version has five servers, and they are mostly overcrowded, the internet speed can lag. And as they say, no internet is far better than slow internet. But even premium users sometimes face unstable connections and other issues.
- No streaming in free version:
One cannot access streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu unless they have a premium account. But this isn’t a big issue as the premium is quite affordable.
- Torrenting and P2P issues:
These two activities cannot be accessed with a free account, which is quite a strategy for the creators of this software.
- Kill switch inavailability:
The helpful Kill switch, though free, is only accessible on a few devices. And one has to turn it manually every time they face an unstable connection.
- Customer support:
Users can only submit their problems via email, and the responses are usually slow. This limited availability of support can cause problems for the users who need it.
FAQs:
Here are some commonly asked questions about Planet VPN:
- Is it really for free?
Yes, the basic features are free. And with the free version, you can access five servers and even use the kill switch option in case of an unstable connection. And one doesn’t even need to make an account in order to use it, which maintains anonymity.
- Can I stream on Netflix?
Yes, you can use Planet VPN to stream Netflix and other platforms, but not without a premium version.
- How many servers are available?:
In the free version, one can use five servers located in the US, UK, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. But with the premium upgrade, one can choose from over 1,200 servers across 60 countries, as it is stated.
- How many devices can I use Planet VPN on at the same time?
One can only use Planet VPN on 1-2 devices with the free version, but with the premium version, they can use it on up to ten devices.
- Does it have a kill switch?
Ye, it does. In the free version, you have to manually switch it on in times of need. But for premium users, it is enabled automatically when the connection is lost.
Future Development:
Recently, Planet VPN introduced the Windows desktop app forits service. It accomplishes the basic tasks like protection in public Wi-fi, having a kill switch, and other features. And they also have beta testers for a new application, which might help improve the issues revolving around the software. And like many companies, they are going to utilise AI to detect digital threats in a much efficient way. And soon, this software might be available on all devices it is currently unavailable on.
To conclude, Planet VPN is functional for every person as the main features of it are free. Though it cannot tackle VPN bans in countries like China, it still has uses. People can test the basic features, and upgrading to premium is also an easy step and affordable for most. The most basic use of a VPN is accessible without having to pay anything. And despite having disadvantages, it also has advantages that can facilitate basic actions.
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