Vivaldi, the extensible web browser known for having a plethora of features and an approach to keeping users private, has partnered with Proton VPN to integrate the VPN service within its desktop browser. The partnership allows users to enhance their privacy on the web without the need to download add-on extensions or software. The partnership also touts mutual principles of prioritizing the user’s privacy and security, presenting itself as an option to the current U.S.-dominated tech giants.
Free Proton VPN Access: Users can use the free version of Proton VPN by signing in to their Vivaldi account. The free version offers access to servers in five countries randomly selected, with no data limit, ads, or data harvesting. It has a strict no-logs policy, meaning users’ data is not shared.
Paid Upgrades: Subscribers desiring additional feature-rich VPN offerings get paid Proton VPN services starting at $10 a month and upwards. Accelerated speeds in the VPN service, coverage across over 110 countries in over 11,000 servers, and added benefits are availed in the paid subscriptions.
Seamless Integration: The integration here, unlike for most other browsers wherein VPNs can be offered as extensions, is directly developed within the browser. This indicates users can initiate Proton VPN through the settings in the browser itself without additional software installation.
Privacy and Security: The integration is done to protect users from web tracking by encrypting web browsing activity and concealing IP addresses. Keep in mind, however, that this integration only protects browser traffic and not other internet activities outside of Vivaldi.
Both Vivaldi and Proton VPN are European companies that adhere to security and privacy. Vivaldi, based in Norway, is renowned for its feature-rich browser options, while Proton VPN, based in Switzerland, is renowned for its robust privacy protection. This partnership is one of several steps towards breaking the American tech giant monopoly by offering alternatives that respect the privacy of users.
The integration provides the consumer a convenient option to enhance online privacy without having to use extra VPN software. It is also part of the concept of Vivaldi’s vision of offering an integrated browsing experience like email clients and RSS readers. For consumers concerned about big tech companies harvesting their data, the collaboration provides them with an alternate choice than normal browsing experiences.
While the integration is a good step toward protecting privacy, it does not cover network traffic outside of the browser. Users who require round-the-clock VPN protection for every web activity will continue to have to install a full VPN client. The collaboration does, however, allow users to upgrade to a paid Proton VPN plan that provides access to the full desktop application for additional protection.
Generally, the integration of Proton VPN into Vivaldi is a significant advancement in user security and privacy, offering an effortless and seamless method for users to make their online activities secure without compromise on browsing experience.
