Short answer: a VPN is a strong privacy and security layer, not an invisibility cloak. Pick a reputable provider, use the Kill Switch, choose nearby servers, and tune your app settings to get the benefits without nasty surprises.
Myth 1: “A VPN always kills your speed”
You’ll see speed loss if you connect from Los Angeles to a packed server in London with an old protocol — but that’s a routing issue, not “VPN magic”. With a nearby, low-load US server and a modern protocol, the hit is often small and sometimes barely noticeable.
To check it properly, run a baseline test without VPN, then repeat on the same server and protocol. Our step-by-step VPN speed test guide walks you through that. If you mostly care about Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ or YouTube TV, see VPN for streaming for more media-focused tips.
Myth 2: “VPNs are illegal or suspicious in the US”
In the United States, VPN apps are legal. Corporations, universities and remote workers rely on them every day. What still matters is how you use the connection: copyright law, platform terms and other rules still apply.
If you’re unsure where the line is between “okay” and “not okay”, read Is a VPN legal? — we break down the US context and edge cases like streaming, torrents and workplace policies.
Myth 3: “Free VPNs are just as good as paid ones”
Most free VPNs limit data, throttle speed, cram in ads or simply don’t have the server coverage you need for US–based streaming libraries. Some of them log aggressively to monetize your traffic.
We cover the trade-offs in free vs paid VPNs and list safer free tiers in best free VPN. If you want specific US-optimized picks, check best free VPN for the US — good for occasional airport Wi-Fi, not for full-time use.
Myth 4: “A VPN makes you 100% anonymous online”
A VPN hides your IP from sites and your ISP, but it doesn’t reset your entire digital footprint. Trackers, browser fingerprints, log-ins and malware still exist. Think of it as a strong curtain, not a secret tunnel nobody can ever discover.
To tighten things up, enable the Kill Switch, block trackers, and run leak checks. Start with our DNS and IPv6 leak guide, then tune the app using optimal VPN settings and Kill Switch explainer.
Myth 5: “Any server works for streaming or P2P”
For US streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Max, Peacock or ESPN+, you want a stable server in the right country (often the US itself) with consistent speeds and no congestion. For torrents you care about throughput and the provider’s P2P policy, not random country flags.
Use nearby low-load US servers for everyday browsing and P2P, and country-specific nodes when you need a particular library. For concrete setups, see Which VPN server should I choose? and our safety checklist in safe P2P with a VPN. For consoles and smart-TVs, a VPN-enabled router can help — see VPN on a router.
Myth 6: “A VPN alone fixes bad Wi-Fi security”
A VPN encrypts traffic between your device and the VPN server, but it does not patch a weak router password, outdated firmware or open remote admin on your gateway. On hostile public Wi-Fi (cafés, hotels, airports) it’s essential — at home it’s just part of a bigger picture.
Harden your network first with Wi-Fi security basics and the Wi-Fi security checklist, then layer in a VPN when you work remotely or join public networks. For day-to-day travel and coworking spaces, see VPN on public Wi-Fi and remote-work tips in VPN for remote work.
Bonus myth: “All VPN protocols are basically the same”
They’re not. Newer protocols like WireGuard (and provider variants such as NordLynx) are built for modern networks and give you a better speed-to-security ratio than legacy options. OpenVPN is still great, but you usually want UDP for speed and TCP only when networks are restrictive.
If your app lets you choose, start with WireGuard-style protocols, then fall back to OpenVPN if some networks block traffic. Our full comparison is in VPN protocols explained and complements the basics from What is a VPN?.
Video: The most common VPN misconceptions (US context)
If the video doesn’t load: watch on YouTube.
FAQ
Does a VPN always slow the internet?
No. With a nearby, low-load server and a modern protocol, the impact is often small. You can verify it with a proper VPN speed test.
Are VPNs legal in the United States?
Yes. VPN apps are legal in the US and widely used by businesses and remote workers. Your activity still has to comply with US law and platform rules — more in our legality guide.
Are free VPNs as safe as paid ones?
Usually not. Expect stricter limits, fewer locations and more logging. Start with free vs paid VPNs and our curated list in best free VPN if you only need occasional protection.
Activate NordVPN Surfshark alternative
Editor, VPN World — tests consumer VPN apps and writes practical US-focused privacy guides.