Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN Review 2026

Updated: February 22, 2026 · 5 min read

Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the longest-running VPN services, known for its strong privacy credentials and open-source apps. With over 35,000 servers worldwide, PIA boasts the largest server network of any VPN. But does quantity translate to quality? We tested everything in 2026.

PIA VPN at a Glance

Speed Performance

PIA’s WireGuard implementation delivers solid speeds:

• Local connections: 800-880 Mbps
• US to Europe: 600-700 Mbps
• US to Asia: 350-450 Mbps
• US to Australia: 300-400 Mbps

While not the absolute fastest, PIA holds its own against most competitors. NordVPN still edges ahead with NordLynx, but PIA’s speeds are more than sufficient for streaming, gaming, and large downloads.

Security & Privacy — PIA’s Strongest Suit

PIA’s privacy credentials are industry-leading:

Court-Proven No-Logs Policy

PIA has been subpoenaed multiple times by law enforcement and proven in court that they keep no logs. This is stronger evidence than any third-party audit.

Open-Source Everything

All PIA apps are fully open-source, meaning anyone can inspect the code for vulnerabilities or backdoors. This level of transparency is rare — most VPNs keep their apps closed-source.

Advanced Security Features

• AES-256-GCM or AES-128-GCM (user choice)
• WireGuard & OpenVPN protocols
• Advanced Kill Switch: Blocks all traffic even when VPN is off
• MACE: Built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocker
• Multi-hop: Route through two VPN servers
• Port Forwarding: Essential for P2P and self-hosting
• Split Tunneling: Per-app VPN routing

Torrenting — Best in Class

PIA is arguably the best VPN for torrenting in 2026:

• ✅ Port forwarding on all servers (huge for seeding)
• ✅ All 35,000+ servers allow P2P
• ✅ No bandwidth or data limits
• ✅ SOCKS5 proxy included
• ✅ Advanced kill switch prevents any leaks
• ✅ Court-proven no-logs policy

The port forwarding feature is a game-changer for torrenters. It improves download speeds and allows you to seed effectively, which most VPNs don’t support.

Streaming

PIA has improved significantly for streaming but still lags behind dedicated streaming VPNs:

• ✅ Netflix US (works most of the time)
• ✅ Amazon Prime Video
• ✅ Disney+
• ✅ YouTube Premium
• ⚠️ BBC iPlayer (inconsistent)
• ⚠️ Hulu (hit or miss)

For reliable streaming across all platforms, NordVPN or ExpressVPN are better choices. But PIA handles the basics well enough for most users.

Apps & Customization

PIA’s apps offer unmatched customization for power users:

What You Can Configure:

• Encryption strength (AES-128 vs AES-256)
• Protocol selection with detailed options
• DNS settings (PIA DNS, custom DNS, or system DNS)
• Kill switch behavior (standard or advanced)
• Split tunneling per-app and per-IP
• Port forwarding toggle
• MACE ad blocker
• Connection automation rules
• Interface theme and layout

This level of control makes PIA a favorite among tech-savvy users. However, beginners might find the options overwhelming — if simplicity is your priority, Surfshark offers a cleaner experience.

Pricing

PIA’s 3-year plan is one of the cheapest premium VPN options available. Combined with unlimited simultaneous connections, the per-device cost is essentially zero.

PIA vs. Competitors

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros

• Court-proven no-logs policy
• Fully open-source apps
• Port forwarding on all servers
• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• 35,000+ servers (largest network)
• Highly customizable
• MACE ad/tracker blocker
• Excellent for torrenting

❌ Cons

• Streaming can be inconsistent
• Interface can overwhelm beginners
• Owned by Kape Technologies
• Speeds slightly below NordVPN
• Customer support could be faster

Who Should Use PIA?

PIA is perfect for:

• Privacy purists who want court-proven no-logs and open-source code
• Torrenters who need port forwarding
• Tech enthusiasts who love customization
• Large households with unlimited connections
• Budget users on the 3-year plan

For streaming-focused users, NordVPN is a better fit. For simplicity, try Surfshark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PIA VPN trustworthy?

Yes. PIA has proven its no-logs policy in court multiple times, and all its apps are open-source for public inspection. These are stronger privacy guarantees than most competitors offer.

Does PIA work with Netflix?

PIA works with Netflix US most of the time, but it’s not as reliable as NordVPN or ExpressVPN for streaming. If streaming is your primary use case, consider alternatives.

Is PIA good for torrenting?

PIA is one of the best VPNs for torrenting, thanks to port forwarding support, unlimited bandwidth, SOCKS5 proxy, and a court-proven no-logs policy.

Does PIA slow down internet speed?

With WireGuard, PIA typically reduces speeds by only 10-15% on local connections. For most users, the speed difference is barely noticeable.

How many devices can I connect to PIA?

PIA now offers unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect every device in your household with a single subscription.

Final Verdict: 8.0/10

PIA VPN is a privacy powerhouse with unmatched transparency (open-source, court-proven no-logs) and the best torrenting features available. Its unlimited connections and massive server network offer incredible value. While streaming performance could improve, PIA remains a top choice for privacy-focused users and torrenters.

Best for: Privacy, torrenting, power users, large households

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