Best VPNs for Verizon and Verizon Fios: Stop Throttling

In today’s digital landscape, your online footprint isn’t just yours. Broadband giants like Verizon monitor your every move and monetize your data, selling it to the highest bidder. Ever felt frustrated when your favorite streaming service suddenly takes ages to load or stutters mid-view? Chances are, Verizon’s throttling tactics are to blame. You deserve control, speed, and privacy. We’ve extensively researched and tested solutions, and the answer is clear: a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

When you harness the power of a VPN, you cloak your online activities in a veil of encryption, rendering them invisible to prying eyes—including Verizon’s. No more unsolicited ads targeting your preferences. No more throttled speeds on your beloved sites. By channeling your data through a secure intermediary server, a VPN ensures that you, and only you, dictate your internet experience.

Are you feeling the pressure of time? Jump to our meticulously vetted list of the best VPNs for Verizon and Verizon Fios users.

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for Verizon and Verizon Fios. Roughly 2,000 US servers. Fast speeds and no data throttling. Double VPN servers and 24/7 live chat support.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Verizon.
2. Surfshark: Best value VPN for Verizon routers. Hundreds of US servers across two dozen cities. Unlimited devices per account. Strict no-logs service with Double VPN servers.
3. IPVanish: Offers a reliable VPN service for Verizon and Verizon Fios customers looking to prevent throttling and enhance online privacy.
4. ExpressVPN: Servers in 94 countries, the US included. Fast and unthrottled connections. User-friendly apps and excellent support. Secure with encryption.
5. CyberGhost: 7,000+ servers (roughly 1,200 in the US). Doesn’t engage in bandwidth throttling and works with Netflix US. Secure seven devices at once, including Verizon routers.
6. PrivateVPN: Fast speeds for streaming, strong unblocking. Easy-to-use apps and strong privacy protection with a no-logs policy and option to pay in Bitcoin.
7. Private Internet Access: Good, consistent speeds and servers across dozens of countries. 10 simultaneous connections per account. No-logs policy included.

Criteria for Verizon Fios VPNs

Not all VPNs are made equal. We put together our list of the best VPNs for Verizon and Verizon Fios by searching for those that meet the following criteria:

• Fast speeds without bandwidth caps
• Servers in countries worldwide (including the US)
• Exceptionally strong encryption protocols
• Doesn’t keep any identifying logs of users
• Securely accesses streaming services such as Netflix
• Allows multiple simultaneous connections per account

Best VPNs for Verizon – Our hands-on review

We’ve tested and compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Verizon.

Best VPNs for Verizon and Verizon Fios

Based on our research and our real world experince, here is our list of the best VPNs for Verizon and Verizon Fios:

1. NordVPN

Nov 2024 works with VerizonTested Nov 2024

NordVPN has over 6,200 servers in 111 countries, which means you have a wealth of options to port your location and prevent data throttling by Verizon. With fast server speeds and unlimited bandwidth, it makes it easy to securely stream Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more. You’re allowed to view current server loads and select the one that’s better suited to your needs.

This VPN provider is headquartered in Panama, so it’s not required by law to store any user data. Plus, NordVPN abides by a policy of not logging any personally identifiable information so you’re covered from a privacy perspective. All web traffic is secured by 256-bit AES encryption along with additional security measures such as a kill switch and DNS and IPv6 leak protection. NordVPN also offers Double VPN servers for enhanced privacy.

You can download and use NordVPN on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available while compatible routers can be configured manually.

NordVPN speed test data

BEST VPN FOR VERIZON:NordVPN is our top choice. It’s fast and has more than 6,200 servers globally. No-logs service with Double VPN servers and 24/7 support. Up to ten simultaneous connections allowed. You can even try it risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

works with VerizonTested Nov 2024

Surfshark operates over 3,000 servers in 65 countries. Aside from fast speeds, its unblocking abilities are among the best in the business. Indeed, it can help you securely stream Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more. Surfshark’s most compelling feature is that there’s an unlimited device policy in place, meaning no upper caps on the number of VPN connections with one account.

Surfshark doesn’t compromise on user security or privacy. This is evidenced by its offer of 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. MultiHop (Double VPN) servers are available and encrypt data twice for even greater protection. There’s even an ad blocker feature. While Surfshark’s apps are quick and easy to use even for beginners, it offers live chat and email support 24 hours a day.

You can use Surfshark on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. Alternatively, browser extensions can be downloaded for Chrome and Firefox. Note that manual configuration is required for use with wifi routers.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST VALUE VPN:Surfshark’s unlimited connections makes it a great choice for families. Fast speeds and excellent unblocking abilities. Secure with high-end encryption, MultiHop servers and a strict no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

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3. IPVanish

Works with VerizonTested Nov 2024

IPVanish VPN is a solid choice for Verizon and Verizon Fios users seeking to stop throttling and maintain fast, uninterrupted connections. With a network of over 2,000 servers in 90+ locations, IPVanish provides ample options for bypassing ISP speed restrictions.

The VPN employs robust encryption protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP, and PPTP, ensuring your online activities remain secure and private. A strict no-logs policy further protects your data from prying eyes, including your ISP.

IPVanish delivers respectable connection speeds, allowing you to stream, download, and browse without significant slowdowns. The VPN is compatible with major platforms, such as Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux, and allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an excellent option for households with multiple devices.

While IPVanish may not consistently be the top choice for unblocking streaming services like Netflix or Hulu, it prevents ISP throttling and provides a stable, secure connection for everyday online activities.

The VPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email, ensuring you can get help whenever needed. IPVanish also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free.

IPVanish speed test data

WIREGUARD ON:IPVanish offers fast, reliable connections to prevent Verizon and Verizon Fios from throttling your speeds. Enjoy strong security, a strict no-logs policy, and unlimited simultaneous connections. Try IPVanish risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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4. ExpressVPN

works with VerizonTested Nov 2024

ExpressVPN is an excellent choice as your VPN for Verizon. With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, you can get an IP address from a huge selection of locations. Its speeds are usually very fast and the service carries a near-perfect uptime record. This provider works with lots of geo-restricted streaming sites such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

This VPN provider offers 24-hour live chat and email support. It’s registered in the British Virgin Islands and isn’t required to keep any user data on file. ExpressVPN refrains from doing so anyway, with no personally identifiable information ever stored on its servers. Security parameters include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection.

Connect up to five devices at once with ExpressVPN’s apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV. Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions are included, as is custom firmware for use with wifi routers.

ExpressVPN speed test data

HIGHLY VERSATILE:ExpressVPN offers the full package including speed and security. 3,000+ servers in 94 countries. Unlimited bandwidth and secure with encryption. Beginner-friendly apps and 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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5. CyberGhost

works with VerizonTested Nov 2024

CyberGhost, headquartered in Romania, operates north of 9,000 servers in 90+ countries. This provider offers very fast speeds, some of the fastest we’ve tested in fact. It’s proven to be able to securely access many streaming services including Netflix. With a single CyberGhost account, you can connect up to seven of your devices at the same time.

Note that this VPN operates a strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy. Important security features include 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch. There’s even a password manager which is currently undergoing beta testing. Should you need any assistance, you can always contact CyberGhost’s customer support which is available round the clock via live chat.

You’ll find CyberGhost apps for the following Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. There’s even the option of Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. It also provides manual setup instructions for you to use it with your wireless router (if compatible).

CyberGhost speed test data

7,000+ SERVERS:CyberGhost has the largest server network of any VPN listed with over 7,000 servers in 90 countries. Unlimited bandwidth and up to seven simultaneous connections. Includes a no-logs policy. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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6. PrivateVPN

works with VerizonTested Nov 2024

PrivateVPN operates over 200 servers in 60+ countries. While the network is smaller than those of other providers on this list, PrivateVPN delivers in other areas. In particular, it works reliably with a plethora of streaming sites including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. It’s also very fast, allowing you to stream in high resolution (even 4K) without having to contend with lag or buffering.

With its no-logs policy and anonymous payment method (Bitcoin), PrivateVPN allows you to stay anonymous. It also has impeccable encryption standards (256-bit AES). A kill switch will freeze traffic if the connection drops unexpectedly, and other measures such as DNS leak protection ensure there’s no possibility of data escaping the encrypted tunnel. Aside from live chat support, remote help and installation are available.

Secure up to six devices simultaneously with PrivateVPN’s apps for desktop (Windows and Mac) and mobile (Android and iOS). Manual configuration is needed to use PrivateVPN with Linux or wifi routers.

PrivateVPN speed test data

STREAMING AND UNBLOCKING VPN:PrivateVPN delivers speed, security, and stability at an affordable price. Unlock your favorite streaming sites and keep yourself protected from bandwidth throttling. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. Private Internet Access

works with VerizonTested Nov 2024

Private Internet Access has no shortage of servers for helping you bypass the bandwidth throttling of Verizon. Thousands of servers across more than 80 countries makes it easy to access a wide range of geo-blocked websites and services, Netflix US included. Better still, this VPN has a generous connection allowance — up to 10 devices are allowed per account.

Once you connect to a PIA server, all of your internet traffic is routed through a 256-bit AES encrypted tunnel. Further security features include DNS leak protection and a kill switch. When it comes to privacy, PIA operates a no-logs policy. This means that nobody but you knows what you’re doing online. You’re unlikely to encounter too many issues with this user-friendly VPN but live chat support is available should you need it.

Private Internet Access can be downloaded for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux. If you prefer, you can use a browser extension (available for Chrome and Firefox). You can even manually set up this VPN with your wireless router.

Private Internet Access speed test data

SECURE 10 DEVICES:Private Internet Access is a reliable choice with servers in more than 80 countries. Works with Netflix US. High level of security thanks to encryption and no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

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How to stop Verizon data throttling with a VPN

If you want to keep your online activity private from Verizon to protect your streaming speeds, follow the steps below.

Here’s how to stop Verizon throttling your bandwidth using a VPN:

1. Register with one of the VPN services listed above. As you can see, we particularly recommend NordVPN.
2. Download the VPN software for your operating system. You’ll likely have a choice between apps for desktop and mobile (or perhaps a browser extension).
3. Open the VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server. This may be a server in the US for getting a US IP address.
4. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. This ensures that your previous IP address and location is forgotten.
5. You should now be able to stream without excessive lag and buffering. Still having issues? Try connecting to a different server. The closer the server to your physical location, the faster the connection is likely to be.

Our Methodology: How we found the best VPNs for Verizon

Most major VPNs offer unlimited bandwidth which is great if you’re looking to bypass bandwidth throttling. However, there are various factors to consider when choosing a VPN. By looking for the below, we were able to narrow down the many options and find the best VPNs for Verizon and Verizon Fios:

• Servers in countries worldwide: Chances are that if you’re located in the US (as a Verizon customer), you’ll want to connect to a server in the US. However, it doesn’t hurt to have access to servers worldwide, be it in Canada, the UK, or Australia. All of the VPNs in this post offer exactly this.
• Speed: Bandwidth throttling means slower speeds, particularly when streaming and torrenting. However, the fastest VPNs offer unlimited bandwidth so you can avoid such issues. To find the very best, we carried out speed tests on each VPN’s servers. That way, you’ll be able to stream and torrent without restriction.
• Unblocking: Not only can a VPN help you avoid ISP throttling, it also lets you unblock geo-restricted content. This is particularly useful if you travel abroad on a regular basis. The most reliable unblockers of content work with streaming services, news sites, social media platforms, and more.
• Security: There are all kinds of security threats to be aware of, be they phishing attempts or viruses. In encrypting your internet traffic and protecting you from data leaks, a VPN keeps you safe. If you need extra security, look for a VPN that offers Double VPN servers (such as NordVPN or Surfshark).
• Privacy: A VPN shouldn’t keep any identifying logs of its users. That way, even if it were somehow compromised, there wouldn’t be anything of value to be found. To find the VPNs that offer true no-logs policies so you can stay anonymous online, we studied more than 140 VPN logging policies.
• Ease of use: We’ve managed to identify VPNs that allow you to sign up and get all set up in mere minutes. Their apps are easy for beginners to use while there are still enough advanced features for power users. We’ve also placed an emphasis on finding VPNs that provide live chat and email support.
• Value for money: There are plenty of good VPN deals to be found. Indeed, you can save even more on the price of a subscription when you use the VPN discount coupons in this post. All of the VPNs reviewed above include money-back guarantees of at least 30 days so you can try them risk-free.
• Customer support: Any good VPN has reliable customer support as standard. But we look for more than just that. We want to see flexible opening times (preferably 24/7) and the easiest ways to get in touch, including live chat.

Of course, many VPNs promise much of the above. In order to find out if each VPN really offered sufficient speed, security (and so on), we spent plenty of time with its apps, all as part of our VPN testing methodology.

Can I use a free VPN to bypass Verizon’s bandwidth throttling?

Straight off the bat, free VPNs are a terrible idea for Verizon. Such services aren’t primed for a smooth user experience and offer only a fraction of the same features that paid providers do. When you use a free VPN, it’s highly likely you’ll be subjected to data caps, bandwidth restrictions, and lots of invasive advertising. Moreover, free VPNs don’t have the sophisticated filters and cloaking technology needed to help you securely access certain services.

Many free VPN services make it a point to track user data and sell this information to third-party advertisers. Others have willingly injected malware in an attempt to make cash off you in the future. They will make your internet experience far worse so it’s better if you try to steer clear.

How will I know if I am being throttled?

If your ISP is throttling your bandwidth it should be pretty obvious. A throttled internet connection will feel very sluggish and will cause all sorts of problems such as long page load times, constant buffering when trying to stream, poor quality video playback, ping issues when trying to play games, and other frustrations caused by slow internet.

If you notice any of these issues when you are performing data-intensive tasks, particularly if it mainly happens during peak hours, this is a surefire sign that your ISP is throttling you.

Most ISPs will only throttle you when they are experiencing high network use. This means that someone who is being throttled may notice that they get decent speeds on some occasions and not others. Other ISPs, however, may always throttle you when you access specific online services – making it harder to tell whether your ISP is throttling you.

People suffering from throttling will likely notice that their internet suddenly gets slower when they try to do specific activities such as torrenting or gaming. If any of this sounds familiar it probably means you are experiencing ISP throttling, which means it is a good idea to test whether a VPN can rectify the problem.

Why isn’t bandwidth throttling illegal?

While bandwidth throttling is undoubtedly frustrating, particularly if you’re trying to stream, torrent, or play online games, it’s sometimes necessary. Bandwidth throttling isn’t illegal because there are times when your ISP needs to manage its network so that everyone, yourself included, can have the most stable service.

Besides, you have probably agreed to it (even if it was inadvertently!) when you signed up with your ISP and accepted its terms. Fortunately, you can bypass bandwidth throttling by using a VPN service that offers unlimited bandwidth.

VPNs for Verizon: FAQs