Cloudflare WARP vs Proton VPN

Cloudflare WARP is a client that sits between a device and the Internet, with modes intended to provide a faster, more secure and more private connection. Its 1.1.1.1 with WARP mode replaces the device's Internet connection with an optimized protocol, and WARP encrypts more traffic leaving the device to limit snooping. It runs on the same network as Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1 DNS resolver. WARP+ subscribers can access a larger network with more cities, which may reduce latency to a Cloudflare data center and improve browsing speed. Organizations can integrate WARP with Gateway to enroll devices and protect remote workers. The client supports Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web and Windows, with up to five simultaneous devices. Cloudflare says it collects limited DNS query and traffic data, excluding payload, while the app is enabled. Some app and site traffic using microphone or camera access can bypass WARP and expose the original IP. Encryption may reduce throughput, particularly for desktop users on high-speed broadband, and location-dependent licensed content may not work properly.

Proton VPN is a virtual private network service from Proton, founded in 2014 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It encrypts traffic with AES-256 or ChaCha20 over WireGuard or OpenVPN, and lists a kill switch, streaming support and torrent support. Proton describes the service as no-logs, open-source and independently audited. Its free plan has unlimited data, no artificial speed limits and no ads; it supports one device at a time and connects to randomly selected servers in 10 countries. Paid plan listings show VPN Plus and Proton Unlimited at $0.00 per month, with the first month and renewal also listed at $0.00; both support 10 devices. Apps are listed for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS, as well as browsers, Chromebook, Android TV, Apple TV and Fire TV. NetShield uses DNS filtering to block ads, trackers, phishing scams, malicious sites and malware. The service advertises 20,000+ servers in 140+ countries. Payments can be refunded within 30 days, and subscriptions can be canceled at any time.