Private Internet Access is a virtual private network (VPN) service that lets users route their internet traffic through encrypted connections to servers in various locations. It offers software for platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, as well as browser extensions. The service is designed to help users manage their online privacy and security when connecting to the internet.
Private Internet Access has a positive customer experience.
Reviewers consistently praise Private Internet Access for its reliable service and ease of use, highlighting its excellent OS support and the effectiveness of its VPN in providing secure internet access. Many customers appreciate the straightforward setup process and the responsive customer service, with specific mentions of quick resolutions to issues and refund requests.
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However, some users express concerns regarding the quality of customer support, noting that it can be complicated to navigate at times. Additionally, there are mentions of wanting better performance for torrenting and occasional connection speed issues. Overall, while there are some criticisms, the majority of feedback reflects a high level of satisfaction with the service.
1,000 customer reviewsLatest review over a year ago
Where the score comes from
Each source counts by its number of reviews. Only reviews written by people are scored.
Rating, volume, share of the score, six-month trend and fake-review risk for each source
Source
Rating
Reviews
Weight
6-mo
Fake risk
★
Trustpilot
Imported Trustpilot reviews
4.3
1,000
100%
+0.2
● Low
4.3 / 5 overall
=
1,000 reviews across 1 scored source
How fake risk works ⓘ
Reputation trend
Monthly average rating from reviews written by people · latest review Jul 2025.
Last 3 months
4.5▲ 0.2
12-month avg
4.3
All-time
4.3
Category avg
4.2
Monthly averageCategory average
Monthly average rating and review count
Month
Average
Reviews
Aug 24
4.0
49
Sep 24
4.1
52
Oct 24
4.0
44
Nov 24
4.6
39
Dec 24
4.4
34
Jan 25
4.3
43
Feb 25
4.4
40
Mar 25
4.5
39
Apr 25
3.9
32
May 25
4.4
39
Jun 25
4.3
36
Jul 25
4.7
35
What people praise & complain about
Share of positive (4–5★) and negative (1–2★) reviews mentioning each topic · based on the 500 most recent reviews.
Top praiseof 411 positive reviews
Easy to use25%
101 mentions
Customer service24%
98 mentions
Prices & value17%
70 mentions
Fast & efficient15%
61 mentions
“PIA has been consistently great, enabling me to select different proxies to get the best connection and very easy to use”
On “Easy to use” · Jul 16, 2025
Top complaintsof 82 negative reviews
Customer service49%
40 mentions
Refund28%
23 mentions
Subscription21%
17 mentions
Payment issues18%
15 mentions
“the customer support doesn't work, I haven't slept since the scam, they make out to be legit”
On “Customer service” · Jul 8, 2025
How it compares
Same method for every company: overall rating, legitimacy checks, the average rating of reviews mentioning each area and the 6-month trend · Computer & Software.
Overall rating and review count for this company and similar companies
I was motivated to get a VPN on account of the extra security that I felt that I had. Installation was really easy. I had a minor issue when first launching and technical support was there to support me through the entire process.
PIA is the best.
Easy to install and use with a lot of configurable options to make the VPN more robust. Love the data retention policy too, best there is I believe
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a virtual private network (VPN) service that encrypts your internet connection and routes it through remote servers. This can help protect your online activity on networks such as public Wi-Fi. It is owned by Kape Technologies.
How does a VPN like Private Internet Access work?
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a server operated by the VPN provider. Your internet traffic passes through this server, so websites see the server's IP address instead of your own. This can help improve privacy but does not make you completely anonymous.
Which devices and platforms are supported?
PIA offers apps for common platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Browser extensions and manual setup options for some routers are also available. Check the official website for the current list of supported devices and versions.
Does Private Internet Access keep logs of my activity?
PIA states that it follows a no-logs policy. For the exact details of what data is and is not collected, refer to the company's current Privacy Policy on its website. Policies can change, so reviewing the latest version is recommended.
All 12 questions →Show fewer questions
How many devices can I use at the same time?
PIA sets a limit on the number of simultaneous device connections per account. The exact number may change over time, so confirm the current limit on the official website or in your account details.
How do I install and set up the app?
Sign up for an account on the PIA website, then download the app for your device from the official site or your device's app store. Log in with your account credentials and choose a server location to connect. Step-by-step guides are available in the PIA support center.
How can I contact Private Internet Access customer support?
PIA provides customer support through its official website, including a help center with guides and a way to submit support requests. Live chat or other contact options may also be offered. Visit the support section of the website for current options and availability.
Anyone can write a CrowdTrust review. People who write reviews have ownership to edit or delete them at any time, and they'll be displayed as long as an account is active.
Coming from Surfshark, admittedly there appears to be little difference between the two companies thus far but my speeds and connection has been good. The UI is a little underwhelming but it is small enough to not be distracting. Install was easy and it doesn't seem to be bogging down my system at all, regardless if the VPN is being used or not. 5 stars until I have an issue!
The experience was great because the product works great. Best VPN out, among the top 3 of all times. Maybe even taking the position as the number 1 Spot!
after purchasing Pia i wanted to use it for Streaming content as this was the selling point for me but after many days of trying to access different content on a few sites and being blocked many times i thought enough was enough and i would get a refund and switch to someone else... After searching Pia on how to claim a refund (within 30 days as advertised )i came across the Bot A.i Assistant so i thought i would give it ago but this was unable to help but it offered to transfer me to an Adviser Marius who within mins had me up and running and also advised me on using another browser to stop tracking which was a bonus..
All in all this problem was fastly resolved and i didn't have to cancel which i didn't want to do anyway after being pointed to this company via YouTube content creators
I was having difficulty with a few things that I could not understand but when I began a chat with someone, he explained things to me in a way that I could understand and when things weren't working, he told me what to do to make them work and then they did! Later, I saw something else that I didn't understand so I sent a request for help and the answer came so quickly and now everything is just great!
Easy set up and lots of options to keep your devices safe when traversing the internet. Fast speeds, I never notice a problem with data transmissions, even streaming and gaming have great performance.
PIA has a refund policy for eligible purchases within a specified period after purchase. Terms, eligibility, and time limits can vary by plan and payment method. Review the current refund terms on the official website or contact support before purchasing.
What payment methods are accepted?
PIA accepts several payment methods, which may include credit cards, PayPal, and other options depending on region. Available methods can change, so check the checkout page for what is currently offered.
Can I use Private Internet Access for streaming or torrenting?
Many users use VPNs for streaming and peer-to-peer file sharing, but results vary by service and server. Streaming platforms may restrict VPN access, and you should only download content you have the legal right to access. Consult PIA's support resources and acceptable use terms for guidance.
Is using a VPN legal?
VPNs are legal in most countries, but laws differ by location and some regions restrict or ban their use. Using a VPN does not make illegal activities lawful. Check the regulations in your country before using one.
Will a VPN slow down my internet connection?
Using a VPN can affect speeds because traffic is encrypted and routed through another server. The impact depends on factors such as your base connection, server distance, server load, and the protocol used. Connecting to a nearby server may help reduce slowdowns.
About Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access is a virtual private network (VPN) service that lets users route their internet traffic through encrypted connections to servers in various locations. It offers software for platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, as well as browser extensions. The service is designed to help users manage their online privacy and security when connecting to the internet.