⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Private Internet Access starts at $2.03/mo vs Norton VPN at $3.33/mo
- Best for: PIA for privacy-focused power users, Norton VPN for users who want antivirus bundled with a VPN
- Key difference: PIA has 35,000 servers in 91 countries with open-source apps; Norton VPN has ~1,500 servers in 28 countries but includes antivirus features
- Our pick: Private Internet Access for most VPN users — it offers more servers, unlimited connections, and a verified no-logs policy
Private Internet Access and Norton VPN target very different users.
PIA is a privacy-first VPN with open-source code and a huge server network.
Norton VPN bundles a VPN with antivirus and identity protection tools.
This comparison breaks down which VPN service fits your needs best.
Overview
This Private Internet Access vs Norton VPN comparison covers pricing, privacy features, and server coverage.
We also break down who each VPN provider works best for.
Our sources include published specs, documentation, and user reviews.
By the end, you’ll know which VPN connection fits your needs.
What is Private Internet Access?
Private Internet Access is a VPN service built for privacy-focused users.
PIA VPN runs 35,000 servers across 91 countries worldwide.
It supports unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account.
All PIA apps are open-source, so anyone can inspect the code.
Private Internet Access
A privacy-first VPN with 35,000 servers and open-source apps. PIA offers unlimited connections and a verified no-logs policy at one of the lowest prices in the market.
Private Internet Access Pricing
Here’s what Private Internet Access costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Years + 4 Months | $2.03/month | Long-term savings |
| 6 Months | $7.50/month | Medium-term users |
| 1 Month | $11.99/month | Short-term or testing |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: No free trial available. PIA does not offer a free plan.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
📌 Note: PIA does not increase prices on renewal. The price you sign up at stays the same, which is unusual among VPN providers.
⚠️ Warning: The monthly plan at $11.99 is expensive compared to the 2-year deal. If you plan to use PIA long-term, the multi-year plan saves over 80%.
Key Benefits of Private Internet Access
Here’s what makes Private Internet Access worth considering:
- Verified No-Logs Policy: Deloitte has independently audited PIA’s no-logs claims. PIA publishes quarterly transparency reports showing how it handles legal requests.
- Massive Server Network: With 35,000 VPN servers in 91 countries, PIA covers more locations than most VPN providers. Every US state has at least one server.
- Unlimited Connections: Connect all your devices with one account. Most other VPN services cap connections at 5 to 10.
- Open-Source Transparency: All PIA VPN apps are open-source. Anyone can review the source code for security flaws.
- MACE Ad Blocker: PIA’s built-in DNS-level blocker stops ads and trackers before they load. It works across all your devices without extra software.
- Advanced Split Tunneling: Choose which apps and IP addresses go through the VPN tunnel. Route only your browser traffic through PIA while keeping other apps on your regular internet connection.
- Multi-Hop Connections: Route your internet traffic through two VPN servers for extra anonymity. This adds another layer of encryption to your data.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Private Internet Access and spent several days exploring the platform. Here’s what stood out:
Private Internet Access Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 35,000 servers in 91 countries give you plenty of server locations
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on one account
- Open-source apps let anyone audit the code
- No price increases on renewal
- Deloitte-verified strict no-logs policy
❌ Cons
- Average download speed loss of 49% is higher than some competitors
- Inconsistent streaming unblocking on some services
- No free plan or free trial available
What is Norton VPN?
Norton Secure VPN is a virtual private network from the Norton security company.
It bundles VPN protection with antivirus software and identity tools.
Norton VPN has about 1,500 servers across 28 countries.
The VPN app works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
Norton VPN
A VPN bundled with Norton’s antivirus and identity protection suite. Norton VPN includes ad tracker blocking, Wi-Fi security alerts, and dark web monitoring.
Norton VPN Pricing
Here’s what Norton Secure VPN costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $3.33/month | Single device users |
| Deluxe | $4.17/month | Families with multiple devices |
| Select Plus | $8.33/month | Full security suite users |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: No free standalone trial. Norton VPN can be bundled with Norton 360 plans.
Money-back guarantee: 60-day money-back guarantee for annual subscribers. Monthly subscribers get 14 days.
📌 Note: Norton VPN is often bundled with Norton 360. If you already pay for Norton antivirus, adding VPN may cost less than buying it separately.
⚠️ Warning: Norton VPN’s introductory prices increase on renewal. The Standard plan can jump from $3.33/mo to $6.66/mo after the first year.
Key Benefits of Norton VPN
Here’s what makes Norton VPN worth considering:
- Antivirus Bundling: Norton VPN pairs with Norton 360 for virus scanning, malware blocking, and parental controls. You get VPN and antivirus software in one package.
- Ad Tracker Blocking: The built-in ad tracker blocker works across all platforms. It blocks trackers and helps keep your browsing activities private.
- Wi-Fi Security Tools: Norton’s VPN app has Wi-Fi security alerts when connecting to an unsecured network. It can automatically connect to the VPN on untrusted Wi-Fi.
- Dark Web Monitoring: Norton scans the dark web for your personal information. You get alerts if your email or data appears in a breach.
- Multiple VPN Protocols: Norton supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and its own Mimic protocol. The Mimic protocol can help bypass VPN blocks in some regions.
- 60-Day Guarantee: Annual subscribers get twice the refund window compared to most VPN providers. That gives you two months to decide if it fits your needs.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Norton Secure VPN and explored the Windows app for several days. Here’s what stood out:
Norton VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Bundles VPN with antivirus and identity protection in one package
- 60-day money-back guarantee for annual subscribers
- Wi-Fi security alerts on unsecured networks
- Ad tracker blocking across all platforms
❌ Cons
- Only 1,500 servers in 28 countries — far fewer than most VPN providers
- Prices increase significantly on renewal
- No IPv6 leak protection, which creates potential privacy gaps
- Cannot choose specific city-level server locations
Feature Comparison
Let’s compare Private Internet Access vs Norton VPN across 10 key areas. This breakdown covers everything from server coverage to pricing and privacy.
| Feature | Private Internet Access | Norton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.03/month | $3.33/month |
| Servers | 35,000 in 91 countries | ~1,500 in 28 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | 1, 5, or 10 (plan-dependent) |
| No-Logs Policy | ✅ Independently audited | ⚠️ Logs some usage data |
| Open-Source Apps | ✅ | ❌ |
| Kill Switch | ✅ Regular + Advanced | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ All platforms | ✅ Windows & Android only |
| Ad Blocker | ✅ MACE | ✅ Ad tracker blocker |
| Antivirus Bundle | ❌ | ✅ Norton 360 |
| Best For | Privacy-focused power users | Users wanting VPN + antivirus |
1. Server Network
Private Internet Access: PIA runs 35,000 VPN servers across 91 countries. It covers all 50 US states, which is rare among VPN providers. More server locations mean less crowding and faster connection speeds in most regions.
Norton VPN: Norton Secure VPN has roughly 1,500 servers in 28 countries. You cannot pick a specific city — only a country. This limits options if you need a VPN server in a particular region for better download speeds.
2. Privacy and No-Logs Policy
Private Internet Access: PIA has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte through independent audits. The privacy policy clearly states PIA does not collect browsing history, IP addresses, connection timestamps, DNS queries, or DNS requests. PIA also runs its own DNS servers and publishes quarterly transparency reports. Independent testing confirms no DNS leaks when connected.
Norton VPN: Norton claims a no-logs policy but collects some usage data for debugging. The NortonLifeLock Global Privacy Statement outlines what data is gathered. Norton is also headquartered in the US, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance — a concern for some VPN users.
⚠️ Warning: Norton VPN does not mask IPv6 addresses, which can expose your real IP address even when the VPN connection is active.
3. Speed and Performance
Private Internet Access: PIA’s average download speed loss sits around 49%. Performance varies by server location and VPN protocol used. According to PIA’s documentation, the OpenVPN protocol performs better than WireGuard on Windows for some users.
Norton VPN: Norton’s speeds decreased by about 40% on average during speed tests. The VPN can reach high speeds on local servers. However, distant server locations like Japan showed drops of up to 73%, which affects connection speed for users far from their chosen server.
4. Kill Switch
Private Internet Access: PIA provides two types of kill switches on Windows and macOS. The regular kill switch blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. The advanced kill switch blocks all traffic unless the VPN is connected — even before you turn it on.
Norton VPN: Norton Secure VPN includes a kill switch on most platforms. It prevents data leaks if the VPN connection fails. However, the iOS app does not include a kill switch, which is a gap for iPhone users.
5. Split Tunneling
Private Internet Access: PIA supports split tunneling across all platforms. You can exclude specific apps and IP addresses from the VPN tunnel. This lets you route browser traffic through the VPN while keeping other apps on your regular internet connection.
Norton VPN: Norton offers split tunneling only on the Windows app and Android smartphones. The iOS app and macOS app do not support this feature. If you use Apple devices, you won’t have this option.
6. Streaming and Unblocking
Private Internet Access: PIA has streaming optimized servers that can unblock services like Netflix and Disney Plus. The VPN also helps prevent ISP throttling on streaming services. However, unblocking streaming content can be inconsistent depending on the server location. PIA also works with Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer.
Norton VPN: Norton can unblock US and Australian Netflix plus Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer. It does not work with Netflix UK, Canada, Japan, or Disney Plus. For streaming services, Norton is more limited than PIA.
7. Encryption and Protocols
Private Internet Access: PIA offers AES-256 encryption over the OpenVPN protocol and ChaCha20 using WireGuard. Users can customize their encryption level and choose between VPN protocols directly in the PIA app. This flexibility is useful for power users.
Norton VPN: Norton uses AES-256 encryption. It supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and a proprietary Mimic protocol. The Mimic protocol aims to disguise VPN traffic as normal browsing, which may help in regions that block VPN connections.
8. Device Connections
Private Internet Access: PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections on one account. You can protect all your devices — phones, laptops, tablets, and more — without worrying about a device limit.
Norton VPN: Norton limits connections based on your plan. The Standard plan covers 1 device. The Deluxe plan covers 5 mobile devices and desktops. The Select Plus plan covers 10. You’ll pay more as you add devices.
9. Bonus Security Features
Private Internet Access: PIA offers multi-hop connections, port forwarding, a dedicated IP address option, and a command line app. It also includes Identity Guard for data breach monitoring. These features make PIA a strong pick for power users who want detailed control over their VPN connection.
Norton VPN: Norton VPN adds antivirus software, malware blocking, dark web monitoring, parental controls, and an AI-powered scam detector. Norton’s bonus features focus on security beyond the VPN — identity theft protection and online privacy are baked into the package.
10. Pricing and Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan Type | Private Internet Access | Norton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest Plan | $2.03/month (2yr+4mo) | $3.33/month (Standard) |
| Mid-Tier | $7.50/month (6 months) | $4.17/month (Deluxe) |
| Most Expensive | $11.99/month (monthly) | $8.33/month (Select Plus) |
| Renewal Price Increase | None | Yes — up to double |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 60 days (annual) / 14 days (monthly) |
Private Internet Access: PIA’s long-term plan at $2.03/month makes it an affordable VPN compared to most VPNs in the market. The price stays the same on renewal. No hidden costs or paywalled features — every plan, including monthly plans, gets the same VPN features.
Norton VPN: Norton’s Standard plan starts at $3.33/month but renews at $6.66/month on annual subscriptions. The 10-device plan is $5/month initially. If you already use Norton 360, the VPN can be bundled for less. Norton accepts credit card and PayPal but does not support Google Pay or cryptocurrency.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest long-term price | Private Internet Access | $2.03/mo with no renewal hikes |
| VPN + antivirus bundle | Norton VPN | Includes Norton 360 security |
| Most server locations | Private Internet Access | 35,000 servers in 91 countries |
| Unlimited device connections | Private Internet Access | No device cap on any plan |
| Identity theft protection | Norton VPN | Dark web monitoring included |
| Open-source transparency | Private Internet Access | All apps are open-source |
💰 Your Budget
PIA’s 2-year plan costs $2.03/month with no price increases on renewal. Norton VPN starts at $3.33/month but can double after year one.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
PIA supports split tunneling on all platforms and offers browser extensions and mobile apps. Norton only has split tunneling on the Windows app and Android devices. Norton’s settings tab gives fewer options compared to PIA’s detailed controls.
🛡️ Your Privacy Needs
If user privacy and online privacy are your top priorities, PIA’s audited no-logs policy and open-source apps are hard to beat. Norton logs some usage data and connection data from online activities. The VPN works well for basic privacy, but PIA offers more advanced features for protecting your browsing activities.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Norton VPN has a simpler interface with fewer settings to adjust. Its wi fi security tools and automatic connect feature make it easy for beginners. PIA gives you more control but requires some VPN knowledge to customize the encryption level and VPN protocols.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Neither VPN offers a free plan. PIA has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Norton gives annual subscribers 60 days to decide — the longest refund window between the two.
🛟 Support Options
Both VPN services offer online support libraries. PIA provides 24/7 live chat. Norton provides phone support through its broader product suite for paying customers.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Private Internet Access to Norton VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Antivirus, malware blocking, and identity theft protection in one app
- 60-day money-back guarantee instead of 30
- Dark web monitoring and Wi-Fi security alerts
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections (Norton caps at 1, 5, or 10)
- 35,000 servers across 91 countries (Norton has ~1,500 in 28)
- Open-source code transparency and audited no-logs policy
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your PIA subscription and request a refund if within 30 days
- Create a Norton account and choose a Norton VPN or Norton 360 plan
- Download the Norton VPN app on your devices and sign in
🔄 Switching from Norton VPN to Private Internet Access?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited connections on all your devices with one account
- 35,000 servers in 91 countries with city-level server selection
- Audited no-logs policy and open-source apps you can inspect
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Built-in antivirus software and malware blocking
- Dark web monitoring and identity theft alerts
- 60-day money-back guarantee (PIA offers 30 days)
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Norton VPN subscription through your Norton account
- Sign up for a PIA plan at privateinternetaccess.com
- Download the PIA app on all your devices and connect
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users and small households. We didn’t test enterprise VPN router setups or business-grade deployments. Our observations are based on the May 2026 versions of both VPN apps — features may have changed since then. If you need a VPN for online gaming or torrenting at scale, your priorities may differ from what we’ve covered here.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Private Internet Access |
| 🛡️ Privacy | Private Internet Access |
| 🌐 Server Network | Private Internet Access |
| ⚡ Speed | Norton VPN |
| 🔌 Device Connections | Private Internet Access |
| 🛟 Bonus Features | Norton VPN |
| 📺 Streaming | Private Internet Access |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Private Internet Access |
🏆 WINNER: Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Privacy-focused users, families with many devices, budget-conscious VPN shoppers
Private Internet Access and Norton VPN serve two different types of VPN users. PIA is a pure VPN built for privacy, with a massive server network and unlimited connections. Norton VPN wraps a basic VPN inside a broader security suite with antivirus features.
Norton VPN is a solid pick if you already use Norton 360 and want everything in one place. The dark web monitoring and identity theft protection are genuine extras.
However, if you need a dedicated VPN with more server locations, better privacy controls, and lower long-term costs, Private Internet Access is the better choice.
More of Private Internet Access Compared
Here’s how Private Internet Access stacks up against other VPN providers:
Private Internet Access vs NordVPN
PIA wins on: Lower long-term pricing, unlimited connections, open-source apps
NordVPN wins on: Faster speeds on most servers, better streaming unblocking, Threat Protection malware scanner
Private Internet Access vs ExpressVPN
PIA wins on: Much cheaper pricing at $2.03/mo vs ExpressVPN’s higher cost, unlimited device connections, more total servers
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster connection speeds overall, works in China, TrustedServer RAM-only infrastructure
Private Internet Access vs Proton VPN
PIA wins on: Larger server network at 35,000 vs Proton’s smaller fleet, lower entry price, port forwarding included
Proton VPN wins on: Free plan with unlimited bandwidth, Swiss-based jurisdiction outside Five Eyes, Secure Core multi-hop routing
Private Internet Access vs Surfshark
PIA wins on: More server locations across 91 countries, open-source codebase, independently audited no-logs policy
Surfshark wins on: CleanWeb ad blocker with cookie pop-up blocking, Rotating IP feature, newer infrastructure with faster average speeds
More of Norton VPN Compared
Here’s how Norton VPN stacks up against other VPN providers:
Norton VPN vs NordVPN
Norton VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus and identity protection, dark web monitoring, 60-day refund window
NordVPN wins on: 6,400+ servers in 111 countries, much faster speeds, dedicated streaming and P2P servers
Norton VPN vs McAfee VPN
Norton VPN wins on: More VPN protocol options including Mimic, better streaming support for Netflix
McAfee VPN wins on: Included free with McAfee Total Protection, simpler setup with fewer settings to manage
Norton VPN vs CyberGhost
Norton VPN wins on: Antivirus software bundled in, identity theft monitoring, AI-powered scam detection
CyberGhost wins on: Over 9,000 servers in 100 countries, dedicated streaming servers, longer 45-day refund policy on long plans
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Private Internet Access safe?
Yes. Private Internet Access VPN uses AES-256 encryption and has a strict no logs policy verified by Deloitte. All apps are open-source, so the code is publicly auditable. Read our full Private Internet Access review for a deeper look.
Is Norton Secure VPN worth it?
Norton VPN is worth it if you already use Norton 360 and want a VPN bundled in. As a standalone VPN, it falls short on server count and privacy compared to dedicated VPN services. Check our Norton Secure VPN review for a full VPN review of its features.
Can PIA VPN be tracked?
PIA does not log your browsing history, IP addresses, or DNS queries. Its no-logs policy has been confirmed through independent audits by Deloitte.
Does Norton VPN hide your IP address?
Norton VPN masks your IPv4 address. However, it does not protect against IPv6 leaks, which could expose your actual IP address on some networks.
How much does PIA VPN cost per month?
PIA costs $11.99 on a monthly plan. The 2-year plan drops the price to $2.03/month. The 6-month plan costs $7.50/month.
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