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
the program is great
the split tunnel is somewhat difficult to understand - what, when, where, how to set up, in laymen terms. it does get old having to always snooze pia for some places so i can spend my money there.
this is an ongoing experience so any date will cover this experience
WireGuard does not work in Russia. Only OpenVPN. ShadowSOCKS optional
I have been using PIA since 2018. Subscriptions are for 3 years. No auto-renewal (sad).
My devices:
PC (Windows 11),
Notebook (Windows 11),
cell phone (Android 14, Android 11),
Router ASUS AC68,
SmartTV (Module with Yandex TV).
My Internet channel is 1GBit. Speedtest by Okla - local servers - 950/950Mbps.
Phones constantly work via PIA (messengers, social networks, youtube, twitch, AI clients, games - thanks for port forwarding!).
PIA MACE is enabled all the time - it reduces parasitic traffic, especially important on slow mobile internet.
I see the development of the client application, stable high connection and download speeds. A many servers in different countries, and ALL as a rule with high uptime (stable).
I recommend this app to my friends, and I have already brought real referrals (they each got a month of service! Nice!)
Problems: WireGuard is banned in Russia, so I use OpenVPN protocols (Shadowsocks optional).
Analytics services see that I use VPN:
Tunnel detection (two-way ping);
VPN fingerprint (OpenVPN, AES, MAC is SHA512) or IPsec/VPN (MTU 1400).
Speeds (up/down):
OpenVPN UDP AES256 - 450/450Mbps.
OpenVPN + Shadowsocks TCP AES256 - 120/80Mbps.
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.
They are CRIMINALS. They lie and cheat and steal. My account has not been working for 12 days, and they obstinantly and ILLEGALLY, in violation of federal and state laws and regulations, don't even TRY to f$cking fix it. NO RESPONSE FOR TWELVE DAYS. A year or two ago they did a good job, with some kind of third party software that worked in my restricted location. Now? TWO WEEKS AND NO RESPONSE TO MULTIPLE REQUESTS for an account I've paid for for THREE YEARS. Ticket # 27025144
They don't even deserve one star. This is the slowest VPN connection I have ever experienced. The iOS app doesn't work (can't even login), and the "7/24 support team" is just not responding. I requested a refund and can't even get a response for that. Truly disappointing after being used to professional companies like NordVPN. The worst purchase I made this year.
PIA is really great. I've been using it since many years for protection during my surfing and it's amazing. very trustful, well protected, easy to use and so fast to connect. User friendly and so easy to use on both PC and mobile phone. Never had any type of issues. The fact of choosing the right city in any country is a huge plus as well.
Be cautious with this company. I've been a loyal customer for years, but they recently lost my trust due to some dubious practices. After I authorized a payment for a renewal, I noticed an unexpected 10% tax added to the charge. This additional fee wasn't shown on any payment confirmation screens and only appeared after my payment was processed. The tax rate doesn't match either my billing address or the company's address, making it an illegitimate charge even if it had been disclosed upfront, which it wasn't. Essentially, this company is engaging in deceptive practices, quoting one price and then adding an extra 10% after the fact. Furthermore, their support team seems aware of this issue, as evidenced by their evasive responses. They even asked for my tax-exempt status, which is irrelevant because the tax wasn't disclosed or agreed upon during the transaction. In summary, this company is acting fraudulently by adding undisclosed charges post-authorization.
It works great, I've never had any issues with it. I've used it for about two years now. While traveling, out of country, over seas, and while at sea on ships.
worst app, their 30 days money back is just a scam, vpn always disconnect and never worked from their paid service, other vpn are best even in their free trail, when i asked for refund they are lying.
The software is great, and the company operates with a specific transparency I appreciate, showing how they're acting in the customer's best interests.
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.