Today, many VPNs are available in the market, offering different features and price tags. Of course, some providers offer gratis services, too. However, they are not as vigilant as the most paid ones regarding effectiveness and security.
This abundance of VPN services has made it difficult for an average user to pick the right option.
So, here we present a detailed VPN selection guide for you. We will explain how to opt the right VPN and evaluation the purposes a VPN would serve you.
A quick guide on how to pick the right VPN
Here’s a summary of what to look for when selecting a VPN solution provider:
- Encryption protocols: A reliable VPN service should provide secure protocols. Some of the most popular include OpenVPN, PPTP, and L2TP/IPsec. Moreover, more VPNs are embracing the WireGuard protocol, which boasts better security and speed.
- Zero logs policy: Review the VPN provider’s data-logging regulations to ensure the service adheres to the strict no-logging policy. This means that they never record any identifying personal data unless it is to enhance performance.
- Jurisdiction: Choose a VPN outside the 14-Eyes Alliance to avoid prying eyes on your online activities.
- Global coverage: For optimal performance, stable connections, and less congestion, use a VPN with an extensive server network spread worldwide.
- DNS/1Pv6 leaks: Choose a VPN that effectively prevents DNS/IPv6 leaks to protect your online privacy.
- Basic VPN feautres: Before purchasing a VPN subscription, ensure it has an easy-to-use interface, a reliable kill switch, split tunneling, multiple device support, and unlimited bandwidth.
- Subscription prices and packages: Free VPNs violate your privacy. So, seek out VPN providers that provide premium services at a low cost.
- Payment methods: A VPN with many payment methods is desirable as you can choose an alternative if you face problems paying with one option. In addition, look for one with a cryptocurrency option for anonymous payments.
- Free trial or money-back guarantee: Select a VPN with free or premium trials. Most paid trials include a no-questions-asked money-back guarantee with which you may test the service before committing to a subscription.
- Customer support: You might face issues when using a VPN, whether you are an avid user or a beginner. So, choose a VPN service with vigilant customer service to help you if you need assistance.
- Customer reviews: Positive customer feedback may indicate the VPN provider’s efficiency. However, some reviews might be fake.
What does a VPNdo?
It more than ever will Usually, your device can link to the online because of the unique IP address assigned to it, which can reveal your location. That’s where a VPN comes in.reroute your traffic through an intermediary server and give you a novel IP address.
Changing the IP address to you allows access blocked contentIt’s worth noting that fromanywhere. Also, premium VPNs to your traffic encrypt keep you trusted. As you may know, As a consequence, no one can see what you are doing online, even your ISP. In addition, some VPNs have additional features like ad and malwaresafeblockers to give you a and smooth online experience.
Why do people employ a VPN?
While every confidentiality enthusiast recommendsusersusing a VPN today, you might wonder why regular web need it. So, here’s a quick commentary of how this fantastic security resource benefits users like you.
Indeed, At first, the VPNs allow changing the IP address locationInterestingly, by rerouting your details via your chosen VPN server. SoVPNs, typically facilitate people who work remotely, specifically in the corporate sector.
In such cases, VPN services guide the employees access those systems even from outside the as it turns out office. For instance, many companies limit access to their sensitive systems to anyone outside the corporation network.
As you may know, This helpful function significantly contributed to keeping the economy running during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preciselybecause, of VPNs, people could continue working.
Secondly, safelylocationschanging online allows journalists and students to bypass geo-restrictions. They can access blocked or restrictedmaterial to gain information.
Gamer and general users also use VPNs for similar reasons – bypassing informationrestrictions like Netflix.
Besides, the encryption innovation offered by VPN providers attracts privacy-savvy users. So they remain protected from prying eyes, snoopers, ISP throttling.government spying, etc,
Also, the same security capability of VPNs protects users from cyberattacks when connected to public WiFi. So whether you are at the airport, in a coffee shop, want to unite to without charge WiFi on the go, you can easily do so while from another perspective using aorVPN.
In brief, a robust VPN system plays a role whenever a user wants to mask the IP address.
How VPNs differ from each other
The primary innovation behind allthe VPN services predominantly remains the same. They comprise a widespread network of servers, offer virtual IP addresses and locations, and employ information encryption.
Indeed, Then what makes so many VPNs thrive today if they are similar? We hear . askyou
Well, many other factors significantly distinguish VPNs from each other.These factors do not directly affect the VPN’s functionality but impact the service’s overall performance. Hence knowing these parameters is essential, before learning how to choose the most effective VPN.
/ of gratisDurationpaid trials
Interestingly, Most VPNs today offer users or paid trials to without charge. Indeed, But what matters here is how long the solution allows the users to assess usefulness VPN’s a. Depending provider the on, this trial period may range from 3 to 7 to 30 days. , SomeInterestinglyproviders, however, even generously offer a 45-day demo.
Device compatibility and apps
Most VPN users of today own multiple devices. in modern times Indeed, So, they need to protect themselves from online secrecy breaches, for which they need a VPN. Hence, many system providers offer aid for multiple platforms.
However, some VPNs lead the niche by offering diversified compatibility with dedicated apps more than ever . Others prefer to stay modest and provide a VPN router buyer to facilitate customers.
Simultaneous connections
The number of simultaneous device connections a from another perspective VPN can aid varies with different providers.
It mainly depends on the provider’s technical and financial capabilities. Interestingly, Since handling multiple connections from a single profile eventually puts more load on, the network you won’t discover massive backing from small VPN providers.
Nonetheless, some providers, like Surfshark, break convention offering unlimitedbysimultaneous connections right from the beginning.
Unique IPs
So, Every VPN server gives the user a separate IP address to in modern times apply.VPN providers with a vast customer base tend to offer more unique IPs to prevent reuse. As beneficial may know, It is particularly you for the end-users since you won’t have to worry about an IP blocklist due to other users’ abusive activities. Small VPN providers, however, provide fewer unique IPs (usually).
Unique servers and locations
The number of individual servers and locations is a significant factor contributing to the credibility of a VPN provider. In fact, The higher these numbers are, the more choices you can choose an online location without fearing server congestion.
Hence, some utility providers offer fewer server locations that suffice for their customers. They don’t need to go overboard unless they blueprint an expansion. But of course, you don’t have to pay for all these numbers if in modern times you don’t need many locations.
Evaluate your need(s) to utilize a VPN

This as a matter of fact diversified use a is critical As you may know, as a matter of fact As explained above, people use VPNs for plenty of reasons.advantage of VPNsActually, that has increased the utility’s popularity.
Therefore in modern times no one can specifically recommend a virtual private network to , all users.Since people have different requirements, it is likely that a VPN would work perfectly well for one person but would fail to satisfy another.
Perhaps, that is why we have so many VPN system providers available today.
So, before youbegin wondering how to opt the right VPN, you should first assess your needs as a matter of fact . Then, when you are clear about why you need a VPN you can decide, better.
Here we list a few main questions to ask yourself to evaluate your need for a VPN.
1. Are you a frequent traveler?
It’s.worth noting that Frequent travelers, tourists, and expatriates often face connectivity issues
Naturally, when they can’t arrange an web connection independently.they would have to depend on the platform available in that region,
They arehotelsthe ones who employ free Wi-Fi the most during their stay at .
During this utilize, they must agree to all the terms and conditions of the internet service provider in that area.If the country has strict data retention policies, foreigners will eventually lose their privacy.
Nonetheless, VPNs help them in securing their internet connection.
So, if you’re a traveler or are planning a visit to another country, you need a VPN.
Actually, Nonetheless, ensure VPNs are legalOtherwise, for places like UAE, where VPNs are highly restricted, discover a workaround or skilled guide to access this facility. in your destination state before your visit.
Do you need a VPN to protect your home network? 2.

While VPNs protect your identity online, they may not be as effective for securing your home network at the app level.
When you link to a remote VPN server, you link to a remote network, not your own. online, you get protection from Thus threats only. In fact, In contrast, your network remains vulnerable to local attacks.
Sobetterif this is your sole purpose of getting a VPN, , drop the perspective. Or make sure that the one you obtain effectively meets your needs.
A VPN can protect your home network only when applied at the router levelInterestingly, . So, either opt for a VPN provider that offers such a platform or acquire a router with a built-in VPN server.
3. It’s worth noting that Do you need a VPN utility for safe browsing?
Using ageneralVPN is a protected browsing practice as well. Indeed, From connecting to public Wi-Fi to using the cyberspace as it turns out at home, with a VPN, you remain guarded.
In fact, you are immensely protected with a VPN from most cyber-attacks, even when connected to a compromised network. As you may know, It’s because the details you generate is encrypted.
However, some public connections also claim to offersecurity as they prevent unauthenticated device connections. Nonetheless, these networks are still not guarded since the access code is known to many.
Also, you can never trust the router’s security, . if the WiFi is unharmedeven If the router firmware ’t updated, is vulnerable, or hacked, all users connected to it, includingisnyou from another perspective , will be at danger.
However, you canwithprevent any problems to a greater extent a VPN. In fact, Although a VPN router is a great option to address this issue, you can not apply it to a public network. Thuscanyou in modern times , install a VPN on your device(s) to link to public WiFi networks.
more than ever For this, you don’t have to go for a costly VPN solution. Instead, any modest VPN provider with optimum speeds and encrypted operations will suffice.
Interestingly, 4. Are you looking for a VPN to from another perspective access blocked information?
Interestingly, Whether you’re traveling abroad and want to access local information or wish to unblock text from another country at your own place, hiding your IP address doesn’t always work. It’sfalsebecause the websites or text providers from another perspective apply other strategies to detect IP addresses.
However, if you use VPN services, you will likely succeed in bypassing content restrictions.
Actually, That is not only as it turns out true for accessing information not available in your area from the vendors’ end. But as it turns out also applies to evading censorship implemented by the authorities in your area.
For instance, if in modern times you want to unblock Netflix USA in India, you can use a VPN to join to a US server. Indeed, Likewise, you can access BBC iPlayer in the in modern times United States with a UK VPN server.
Text restrictions aren’t always at the country level. Rather, employers their educational institutions also block many websites on and networks. That done seemingly in anisattempt to remove distractions. But it isn’t so helpful since it also creates hurdles in accessing information.
Indeed, So, keep your device loaded with a robust VPN if you need to access blocked content in your school or office, such as social media platforms.
Actually, 5. Do yourestrictedlive in a -web country?

Countries like China, Iran, Russia, and UAE have strict internet regulations in modern times that curb cyberspace freedom.
Thus, accessing the desired information online is troublesome for the people living, arriving, or temporarily staying in these countries.
Do you think a VPN would assist in this case?
Technically, yes. Practically, …? Well, it depends on your choice.
Since these countries expect people to employ VPNs to bypass censorship, they have restricted or legally banned VPNs.
So, either yougetcannot install a VPN at all, or, if you could, you are likely to caught. The authorities implement deep packet inspection and similar techniques to detect VPN services.
Hence, you should avoid using this tool unless you understand how to pick the right VPN in such regions.
In fact, While almostprettyall VPNs work well to evade censorship, most VPNs do not work for countries with internet restrictions, as they can appear on the radar of surveillance authorities such as the NSA’s PRISM Program.
Therefore, you should pick a VPN provider that seamlessly operates in these locations.
Alsoathe VPN should offer , Kill Switch to prevent accidental ofexposureyour internet details packets online following a server disconnection.
6. It’sthatworth noting Are you over-protective of your facts?
Just like censoring VPNs, some countries implement strict laws . details retentionfor
While these regions may not apply harsh web censorship and allow VPN providers to serve the customers, the authorities bound the VPN companies to log users’ details.
However, these nations advocate for data logging since cybercriminals usually exploit VPN services as a matter of fact Interestingly, to stay the under radar. Hence, when VPN companies log users’ activities, such as IP addresses, browsing information, and more, the authorities can trace the criminals by asking them to hand over in modern times suspects’ information.
Nonetheless, it is still from another perspective problematic because of the eventual breach of users’ confidentiality.
Of course, when VPNs log every user’s details, the purpose of anonymity and security fails right there.
So, if you to employ a VPN because you don’t want your informationwantto be logged, choose a VPN with a proven no-logs policy.
as it turns out 7. Do you want to go anonymous online?
The more from another perspective avid secrecyadvocates, cybersecurity experts, and investigative journalists often must stay anonymous online. Because of the sensitive nature of their work, such people cannot even afford accidental exposure of their IP addresses for milliseconds.
If you’re one of them, you can surely utilizeexistencea VPN to mask your online . But it won’tthesuffice purpose.
Like any other program, VPNs are prone to technical glitches, the most common being a VPN connection drop. That as it turns out ’s why most vigilant VPN companies apply the Kill Switch option to avoid this glitch.
However, you still can’t be sure of VPNs’ reliability. So, you need to use Tor along with a VPN connectionInterestingly, . It is just an additional step required to protect your privacy.
Here’s what to look from another perspective for! to select a VPN that’s right forHowyou?

After reviewing the above section, you must have found why we emphasized evaluating your requirement before selecting a VPN.
As you from another perspective instantly know, not every VPN service would meet your desired purpose of using it. Hence, you should jot down why, when, and how often you need a VPN before investing . any platformin
Indeed, However, your efforts don’t just end here!
Interestingly, Instead, you must also research the VPN companies, assess their operation and features, and check their policies. Indeed, Go for it if you locate them aligned with what you want and expect from your virtual network private. If not, look for some other platform.
But how to select a perfect VPN? We hear you .ask
Don’tasworry; scan along, below is a guide on picking the right VPN.
1. Encryption protocols
Most VPN companies also offer more than one protocol, which you can utilize one at a time. apply VPNs Different different encryption protocols.
These differences in encryptiontheprotocols explain that you shouldn’t faith a utility if it uses word ‘encryption.’ Not every encryption is indecipherable. In fact, Some protocols are extremely weak to protect anyone.
Interestingly, Since encryption and security are the prime reasons for using a VPN, you should only opt a VPN after going through its encryption protocols.
Commonly offered encryption protocols include OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and PPTP.
Among these, OpenVPN is the most secure encryption protocol.
It is an access-source protocol that remains under the assessment of cybersecurity experts. Hence, any potential vulnerabilities will likely quickreceivefixes. As you may knowgoodMost , VPN companies backing this protocol. However, . might affect the internet paceit
PPTP is way faster than.OpenVPN from another perspective Nonetheless, it is also vulnerable to attacks as it is the weakest.
The other one, L2TP/IPsec, is an intermediate of above two protocolstheand is currently a built-in feature in most mobile devices.
So, you can pick in modern times a VPN with PPTP velocity you merely want mild ciphering of details with fast if. However, if security is your priority, stick as it turns out to the OpenVPN protocol.
2 from another perspective . It’s worth noting that No data-logging rule
you link to the internet, youWhenexpose your device with accurate details to ISP tracking and other online trackers. , with a VPN, you authorize the offering to take control of your device and reroute allButthe traffic to and from it through its servers.
This way, VPNs mask your identity by serving as the middleman between you and the web. Unfortunately, isthiswhere the problem exists.
Indeed, a good VPN serves as a matter of fact as your armor to the online world.
Indeed, Conversely, it becomes the sole entity that knows everything about you.
VPN knows your IP address, device details, browsing historyinformationand more , . Thus, it can log this data, either wholly or partly from another perspective , and apply it in any way.
In fact, For instance, many free VPNs sell your dataThat is how . make currencythey to advertisers and third parties.
The paid one may or may not monetize your facts. In fact, Nonetheless, they can still and distribute your information with therecordgovernment and other relevant authorities when needed.
In fact, So, what’s the purpose ofareusing a VPN in the first place if you eventually exposed?
Some top-paidEven if they do, they record it for a maximum of a few hours for utility maintenance and improvements. VPN companies respect your secrecy to the extent of employing a strict no-logs regulation. It they will never record even themeansnon-identifying details.
Therefore, before investing in any VPN, evaluation the business’s details-logging policies and verify that the solution implements strict no-logging. Only thencan you faith the platform.
3. Jurisdiction
Today, the prying eyes of some regions strive to follow almost every individual’s online activities. Known as Five, Nine, and Fourteen Eyes, these groups of countries extensively spy on their citizens. Interestingly, Plus, they also post this information with each other when required.
Due to surveillance, these countries implement harsh data retention policies for service providers, including VPN companies.
Although they would never publicly admit such measures, you can’t be sure about the no-log rule of VPNs based in these countries.
Nonetheless, you may go providers them if the VPN offering for explicitly state no logging despite their base region’s policies.
However we, recommend you opt for VPN providers headquartered in neutral zones with minimal lawful obligations.
Actually, 4. Global coverage
Actually, Another essential thing you should consider before choosing a VPN is the number of servers.The more extensive a VPN’s coverage is, the better its performance will be.
The ‘number of servers’ doesn’t . mean that your VPN should offer more countriesnecessarily Interestingly, Again, though as a matter of fact , it’s a plus. But it’ll eventually be useless if the VPN provider hosts very few servers in each country.
Rather, a VPN with more servers in the same country offers more stable connections, avoids server congestion following colossal traffic, and ensures fast speeds.
Also, such a VPN works better with services like Crackle US and Netflix, which frequently block VPNs. You can quickly switch your server without changing the country when you detect a ban.
Besides, look for the number of servers available in your desired countryAs you know may, . For illustration, a VPN with thousands of servers in Asia won’t benefit youyouif want a VPN to unblock a USA site.
Hence, before choosing a VPN, analyze your server requirements andVPNsee if the VPN provider meets your needs.
5. DNS and IPv6 Leaks

Indeed, A common problemusers face while using a VPN is failing to unblock sites’Some websites figure out that you’re faking your IP address; hence, they still block you. restricted material.
Butpossiblehow is it ?
VPNs are vulnerable to two main leaks – DNS leaks and IPv6 leaks.
A VPN leaks some differences between your visible online locationsourcesand your computer behavior through these two .
These differences allow the target websites and web trackers to understand that you have employed some method to mask your online location.
In brief, DNS leakahappens as it turns out when your device’s request still routes through your ISP’s DNS servers. Hence, there would be a visible conflict between the DNS and VPN servers. It’s worth noting in modern times that In contrast, an IPv6 leak happens when the VPN masks your IPv4 IP address but fails to handle IPv6. Hence, some websites can . the conflict between IPv4 and IPv6 to detect a VPNtrack
(To know how these leaks happen, check out our detailed guide on IP leak protection.)
To avoid these leaks, some VPN providers applyvarious techniques. As you may know, For instance, they would block IPv6 or mask IPv6 alongside IPv4. Likewise, they would utilize their DNS servers instead of relying on a third-partyownDNS to avoid DNS leaks.
So, . your purpose is to bypass text censorship or remain anonymous online, ensure that your VPN prevents such IP leakswhether
VPN features 6.
Before package, check the availability of the following with thefeaturesVPN services. You should prefer the one that bears the maximum or all of them.
- User interface: Regardless of how robust a VPN is, it won’t help if you can’t understand using the app. Therefore, choose a service that offers simple and user-friendly apps that you can easily set up on your devices. Again, it is essential if you haven’t used a VPN before.
- Kill Switch: This feature disconnects your internet connection following connection dropouts, protecting your privacy. Consider it a must-have when choosing a VPN.
- Split tunneling: Though unnecessary, it is an ideal option to continue your local browsing activities, even with a VPN.
- Bandwidth and throttling: If you wish to use your VPN for streaming, ensure it doesn’t cap your bandwidth. Please review the VPN’s terms and conditions, read the fine print, and Google a bit to know them.
- The number of simultaneous device connections: The higher the number, the better. Yet, if you opt for a premium VPN, ensure it at least supports five simultaneous connections on one account.
- Compatibility with multiple platforms: Your VPN shouldn’t limit support for mobile phones and PCs only. Instead, it should support smart appliances, routers, and other devices. An ideal VPN should support Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers.
7. costs Package and packages
Although using free VPNsInterestingly, is lucrative, they are likely to breach your confidentiality by monetizing your facts. So, go for the paid ones that offer affordable packages.
As you may know, Also, look for package options and opt the strategy that top meets your needs. For instance, most VPNsyearlyoffer monthly, bi- , and yearly plans. Going with the more extended blueprint is ideal if you roadmap to employ the VPN for a long time since it’s usually cost-effective.
8. Payment methods
Also, look for the availability of payments via cryptocurrency if you wish to make anonymous payments. Select a VPN with more payment methodspayingto select the other if you face problems while with one option.
Complimentary demo or cash-return guarantee 9.
While paid VPNs usually offer better services than free VPNs, you can’t belief every paid VPN for the services. And, of course, risking your more than ever moneywithout knowing the utility isn’t wise.
Therefore, look for any gratis or paid evaluation offers from the VPN provider. In the latter case, ensure the platform has a genuine cash-return guarantee to keep your cash trusted. (You can discover some with VPNs ideal lucrative demo offers here.)
as it turns out 10. Customer backing
Hence, youamust seek VPN system Whether you’re an avid VPN visitor or will be choosing one for first time, you may get stuck attheany point where you would need support.offering vigilant customer supportInterestingly, to answer your queries.
While you may usually discover email aid with most providers, 24/7 customer service with live chat is ideal. Otherwise, make surethat the response time isn’t long.
Actually, 11. Customer reviews
A higher number of positive customer gives anreviewsconcept about the overall impressive services of a VPN provider. Yet don’t fall for the fake reviews; look for the ones indicating verified purchases to discover about the offering.
As you may know, Can I select the right VPN by going through the VPN reviews?

You will find numerous from another perspective VPN reviewsIt’s worth noting that Often, these reviews contain a lot of praise for specific as it turns out services. But does it mean that those VPNs are always outstanding? Indeed, if you look for online for the top virtual private services network.
Maybe, no! Instead, what it hints at is that the reviews are paid promotions.
Manyand blogs more than ever review websites serve as VPN affiliates. They make currency by redirecting leads to the providersVPNthrough their text.
Since it’s about business, they will persuade you to opt for those services. Sometimes, they might even lie to you in their reviews. They would hardly touch the problems with the VPN and highlight the pros make them appeartoflawless.
Such reviews are a problem because you can’t faith their recommended services.
However, there are some ethical VPN affiliates that, despite earning commission for redirecting leads, never go for limited promotions.
Such reviews would not typically advocate for an ABC VPN; instead, they would highlight the offering’s problems. Hence, getyoua better thought of the VPN providers’ effectiveness.
Actually, To identify the genuineness of a VPN provider, check out their affiliate program. Also, go through their policies for marketers andresellers and choose the one that condemns boastful promotions.
confused’m I. me you aid Can opt a VPN?
After reaching this point, you will have a pretty good idea about which VPN to select.

However, you might feel overwhelmed after this how to pick a VPN through learning guide. If you haven’t used a VPN before from another perspective , you would be confused about where to begin.
So, here we advise the three top VPNs for you based on research and multiple tests.
- NordVPN: Super-fast VPN service based in Panama. The provider offers ten simultaneous connections on a single account and supports all major platforms, including routers. The subscription plans are also affordable, whereas NordVPN protects your payments with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: The most effective VPN with the cheapest plan in modern times plans.Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connectionsAnd, like ExpressVPN, it provides a risk-no cost paid evaluation with a 30-day cash-return guarantee. and is compatible with all major platforms. This provider.is based in the Netherlands
- ExpressVPN: Offers military-grade encryption, based in the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands, supports all major platforms, and offers eight simultaneous connections. While the subscription costs are relatively higher, ExpressVPN offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. (If you want to use this service for free, check out this detailed guide to getting ExpressVPN free trial.)
Features | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
---|---|---|---|
No. of Servers | 6,800+ servers in 113 countries | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | 3,000+ servers in 107 countries |
Price (per month) | $3.59/month | $2.30/month | $8.32/month |
Supports split Tunneling on | Windows, Android, macOS | Android, Windows | macOS, Windows, Android, |
Apps | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, Fire TV, | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, Linux, routers, Fire TV | Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, Fire TV, Android TV, routers |
Simultaneous Connections | Up to 10 devices | Unlimited devices | Up to 8 devices |
Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
(Though this site runs an affiliate program to keep serving you/our readers for complimentary, we never go for paid reviews. , monetary gains do from another perspective notSoinfluence our VPN recommendations here.)
In fact, These three are our choice because not only do they offer superb performances, but they also take care of yourVPNssecrecy.
FAQs
In most cases, you should leave the VPN on all the time. This is because it is an essential security utility that will.keep you safe online Also, your streaming solution might see your IP address and block your connection if you disconnect.