Introduction to Proton VPN’s Logging Practices
When choosing a VPN, one critical question dominates privacy-conscious users’ minds: does Proton VPN keep logs? As data surveillance escalates globally, understanding VPN providers’ data retention policies becomes non-negotiable. Proton VPN differentiates itself through its much-discussed Proton VPN no-logs policy, but how does this claim hold up under scrutiny?
- Swiss Jurisdiction: Operates under Switzerland’s strict privacy laws
- Transparency Focus: Open-source apps and published audit results
- Core Philosophy: Designed by CERN scientists with privacy-first principles
This deep dive examines Proton VPN’s logging practices through three lenses: technical implementation, legal compliance, and independent verification – all key to answering whether ProtonVPN truly keeps zero logs.
Step-by-Step Analysis: Does Proton VPN Keep Logs?
1. Technical Architecture Verification
Proton VPN’s infrastructure implements these data protection measures:
Memory-Only Session Handling
- Session data exists solely in RAM
- Automatic wipe on server reboot (every 1-3 days)
- Example: No session timestamps written to disk
Their no-logs policy page explicitly lists 14 data types not recorded, including:
- Browsing history
- Original IP addresses
- Connection timestamps
- Session durations
2. Independent Audit Validation
In 2022, security firm Securitum confirmed:
“No evidence was found of Proton VPN retaining connection logs, IP addresses, or timestamps that could identify individual users.”
This independent verification (published on Proton’s official site) addresses critical questions around whether does Proton VPN keep logs of user activity.
Privacy-Enhancing Tips for Proton VPN Users
Maximizing the benefits of Proton VPN’s Proton VPN no-logs policy requires proper configuration:
Essential Configuration Checklist
- Enable Kill Switch (Windows/Mac apps)
- Activate Always-on VPN (Android/iOS – setup guide)
- Use Secure Core servers for critical activities
- Enable NetShield Ad-blocker (DNS filtering)
iPhone-Specific Privacy Measures
After learning what VPN means on iPhone, implement these:
- Configure VPN at OS level (not per-app)
- Disable iCloud Private Relay when using VPN
- Enable Lockdown Mode for high-risk scenarios
Alternative Privacy-First VPN Options
While Proton VPN’s no-logs claims hold strong, alternatives worth considering:
ExpressVPN Comparison
As covered in our ExpressVPN deep dive:
| Feature | Proton VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Switzerland | British Virgin Islands |
| Independent Audit | Yes (2022) | Yes (2023) |
| Free Tier | Yes | No |
NordVPN vs. AirVPN Analysis
Our VPN comparison guide reveals:
- NordVPN: Panama-based with diskless servers
- AirVPN: Five-eyes jurisdiction (Italy) but open-source code
- Key Takeaway: Independent audits crucial regardless of jurisdiction
Critical Evaluation of No-Logs Claims
Proton VPN’s transparency reporting builds credibility for their Proton VPN no-logs policy:
Law Enforcement Request Handling
- 2023 Transparency Report: 3,841 total requests
- 0 instances of user data disclosure
- Swiss legal requirement: Only valid foreign requests honored
Server Seizure Resistance
Technical safeguards demonstrate why does Proton VPN keep logs may be irrelevant:
“Even if servers were physically seized, RAM-only architecture guarantees no retrievable user data remains accessible.” – Proton VPN Engineering Team
Conclusion: Proton VPN’s Logging Verdict
After examining their technical implementation, jurisdiction advantages, and independent verification, the answer to “does Proton VPN keep logs” appears convincingly negative. The publicly validated Proton VPN no-logs policy sets a high standard in the VPN industry through:
- Legally binding commitments under Swiss law
- Memory-only session architecture
- Transparent handling of government requests
For iPhone users concerned about mobile tracking (see VPN setup guide) or Android privacy advocates alike, Proton VPN represents a verified no-logs solution in an industry rife with false claims.
