Technology

This is the VPN I'd give to my gran to keep her banking safe and her online Scrabble secure — everything's explained, everything's private, and it's cheaper than NordVPN right now

2026-06-03 17:04
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This is the VPN I'd give to my gran to keep her banking safe and her online Scrabble secure — everything's explained, everything's private, and it's cheaper than NordVPN right now

I've tested VPNs for years, and this is the one that's simple enough to give to anyone. Right now it's even cheaper than the best VPN there is.

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This is the VPN I'd give to my gran to keep her banking safe and her online Scrabble secure — everything's explained, everything's private, and it's cheaper than NordVPN right now Deals By Rob Dunne published 3 June 2026

Simple enough for grandma, secure enough for anyone

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MacBook Pro running the Proton VPN app (Image credit: Future)
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Explaining complex tech to your grandparents is not easy – let alone setting them up with something like a Virtual Private Network (VPN) – but silver surfers need scam protection too, particularly if they're using shared networks in supported accommodation.

I've spent over two years using Proton VPN and I'm pretty convinced that this is the one I'd suggest to my gran. I'm not saying she's going to understand the fineries of VPN protocols and kill switches, but I'd bet she'd be happy having the Proton auto-connected in the background without it becoming a problem.

First time VPN users that do want to get into the app and get under the hood will be pleasantly surprised, though. All Proton VPN apps are filled with tooltips explaining what the features do. It's got a solid customer support site, and its apps are clearly laid out to avoid confusion.

Right now, it's also cheaper than the best VPN overall, NordVPN, which starts at $3.09 per month for its most basic plan. Proton includes all of its VPN features in one plan, and, for now, it's only $2.99 per month.

That's a saving of about $10 over a 2-year plan. What's more, NordVPN also adds local tax to its advertised prices which Proton does not.

Proton VPN: 70% off a two-year Proton VPN plan$2.99

Proton VPN: 70% off a two-year Proton VPN planProton VPN is my go-to VPN for beginners right now. Its apps are well laid out and full of helpful pointers, and if you need more detailed support, it's got a great customer support site. Currently, it's offering 70% off on its 2-year subscriptions, cutting the price to $2.99 a month. Pick up one of these plans, and you'll also be covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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If you know what you're doing with VPNs already, there are a couple of other good choices.

Surfshark is the best cheap VPN and starts at around $1.99 per month. It still performs just as well as Proton, offers more features to secure your data outside of the VPN, and has apps simple enough for most people.

For the absolute best performance, NordVPN is the pick. It's the most expensive of the three and carries hefty auto-renewal costs, but its worth it. No VPN is as good with unblocking streaming services, and it has very strong security credentials too.

Today's best Surfshark and NordVPN deals+3 months freeSurfsharkSurfshark 24 Months US$1.99/mthView DealNordVPNNordVPN 2 Year US$3.39/mthView DealWe check over 250 million products every day for the best prices Rob DunneRob DunneSocial Links NavigationVPN Editor

Rob is TechRadar's VPN Editor. Coming from a background in phones and technology, he's no stranger to the risks that come with putting yourself online. Over years of using different platforms, testing the limits of his online persona, and feeling the brunt of several data breaches, Rob has gained a keen understanding of cybersecurity and the benefits of services such as VPNs in providing a secure online experience. He uses this to not only advise on the best ways to stay secure online but also share his own experiences and especially how to avoid trouble. Outside of work, you'll find Rob on the tennis courts, in the gym, or diving into the biggest and best games of the year. To share a story or tip, email [email protected]

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