Freedom of speech is highly valued in France, but that doesn’t mean that there are not limits that could prevent French citizens from expressing their opinion openly. EU Data Retention Directive (DRD) puts pressure on local providers to collect and keep data, meaning that privacy is under threat. Furthermore, up until 2013, many internet users in France were subject to HADOPI, a controversial three-strike online copyright infringement law that called for high penalties for those involved in illegal downloading. In order to protect your information from this kind of monitoring and logging, it is important to choose a VPN provider that has a strong no logging policy and preferably, one that is not required to comply with these data collection policies.
A good VPN will not only help users in France to protect their privacy by encrypting their data. It will also allow them to unlock websites and applications that are not available there. For instance, you will be able to access BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Pandora, US Netflix and other streaming services. A VPN would also be handy for expats and those who want to watch content from Canal +, TF1 and other French Television stations, from anywhere in the world. Here are some of the best VPN options for France.
Best VPN Services for France
NordVPN
Since NordVPN is based in Panama, they are not subject to EU data collection regulations and the list of locations supported includes France, where they have multiple servers. While the network is not as extensive as what other providers support, they have a good selection that will ensure that customers in France can enjoy content from the US, the UK and many other countries across the world. They have a solid no logs policy that will help you to keep your privacy protected and P2P is allowed in different servers. Features like Double VPN and Tor over VPN, which guarantee top level encryption.
IPVanish
Affordability and speed are some of the advantages of choosing IPVanish as your VPN provider.They have over 400 servers in 60 countries including France, as well as neighboring locations such as Switzerland and Belgium. The simple sign up and installation process, along with the easy to use software make IPVanish ideal for those who are only getting started in the world of VPN. With this provider you can also enjoy fast service, protection for your online data and efficient customer service. The company also has a no logs policy that will give peace of mind to those who want to ensure that your right to privacy is respected.
PureVPN
Based in Hong Kong, PureVPN is another great option for customers in France who want to protect their privacy and unlock international services, as well as those who are looking to access French content from another countries. They have nearly 20 servers located in Paris and Roubaix and their global coverage extends to over 140 countries, making it one of the of the most complete solutions available. When you choose PureVPN, you get consistent speed, good performance, solid no logging policy, P2P support and competitive prices.
Private Internet Access
PIA has over 50 servers in France and their simple, yet effective functionality makes it a great solution to enjoy flexibility and security when you browse, play or stream content online. Although their global coverage is limited when compared to other options, the large number of servers available ensures that you can find a fast solution for your needs. When connecting to the servers in France, tests have shown that you can expect minimal speed loss. Additionally, PIA has a strong privacy policy that promises to help you to protect your data without logging it.
AirVPN
From the beginning, AirVPN has been committed to help users to defend your right to privacy and freedom of speech. Their user-friendly interface and advanced technology ensures that your information is kept safe. They apply high level encryption and can offer impressive speeds across their network. They have servers in France and provide detailed stats to show the status of their servers, availability and speeds. While AirVPN is an Italian VPN provider, their strong privacy policy and their background as a solution created by activists and online freedom advocates, makes them a reliable solution to keep your data secure
