Multi-Platform Support

The Impact of Multi-Platform Support on VPN Performance and Cost Savings

With the growing number of devices and operating systems an average person owns, it is important for consumers to choose a VPN provider that supports all the platforms they connect to the internet.

Why multi-platform matters

Multi-platform support is an essential feature of a good VPN provider because it allows users to protect their internet traffic across a variety of computers, smartphones, tablets, and routers.

Checking a VPN provider's supported device and operating system list becomes increasingly critical with the higher number of devices a consumer owns. This consideration also extends to families selecting a VPN for multiple people. Make sure you check the devices used by all family members.

The internet, and thus the VPN market is truly global, potential users have a wide range of operating system preferences, including Windows and Mac computers, as well as iOS and Android smartphones.

Multiple brand combinations are also rapidly becoming more common in households, making it critical for quality providers to support multiple platforms in order to satisfy their customers overall needs.

Unsupported devices

When choosing a VPN provider, it is important to be aware that support can vary across providers, and different devices and operating systems. Some VPN providers may support common platforms like smartphones or Windows computers but may not offer compatibility with others, such as macOS.

Additionally, there are many internet-connected devices that may not support VPN software at all.

For example, smart TVs, children's smartwatches, and various other smart devices often lack the capability to run VPN applications. Carefully check the list of supported devices and operating systems to ensure that the VPN provider meets all your needs, especially if you are covering a household.

Lack of router support

A very large amount of VPN providers fall short in offering proper thorough support for internet routers, which is a crucial aspect for users looking to protect all devices connected to their home network.

A significant number of VPN services primarily focus on supporting individual devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets, often neglecting router compatibility. This limitation can render their service unusable for consumers who want to protect their entire home network and all connected devices.

This lack of router support means that users cannot easily secure their entire home network with a single VPN connection. As a result, devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other internet-connected appliances remain unprotected and heavily targeted for data-brokering activities.

Furthermore, without proper router support, setting up a VPN becomes less user-friendly and more complex, often requiring workarounds or paying IT professions to establish a basic connection.

Cost savings

Consumers should be aware that both router support and VPN provider accounts that allow multiple device connections can lead to significant cost savings, especially for families.

Not only do these options enhance the security and functionality of a VPN service by extending protection to more than just a single device, but they also significantly bolster home security and contribute to cost savings by eliminating the need for multiple device licenses.

DEVPN strongly advises consumers to carefully examine VPN provider packages, as they may find that more expensive providers can actually offer a package that lowers overall costs for families.

Comparing VPN providers

Multi-platform support can vary significantly from one VPN provider to another. Some VPN providers offer broad compatibility, supporting a wide range of operating systems and devices, some do not.

On the other hand, some VPN providers may have more limited support, catering only to specific operating systems or types of devices. For example, a VPN might offer robust support for smartphones and tablets but exclude compatibility with certain desktop operating systems or smart devices.

In this regard, even decentralized networks can offer intriguing niche solutions. While they might not appeal to everyone, they can be worth exploring, especially if you have very specific needs or interests.

Additionally, we do warn consumers that the quality of multi-platform support can also differ highly:

While some VPNs might offer support for a specific device or platform, there is a significant difference between those that offer general support and those offering optimized performance for each platform.

For example, by offering VPN support on an Android phone technically, but without providing the same security features in the PC client can be one of the methods VPN providers mislead their customers.

DEVPN's solution

For a detailed overview on how DEVPN provides a solution for the above challenges, see this chapter.