Mozilla has now integrated a free VPN service directly into its Firefox web browser. It’s available now and all you need to do is download Firefox to get started.
Previously only available as a standalone paid subscription, Firefox VPN officially debuted with the release of Firefox version 149. The service launched on Tuesday with plans for a wider global rollout in the future. Those who sign up will receive 50GB of free monthly data to hide their IP address and location while browsing.
Free VPNs can be dangerous. If they do not come from a trusted supplier, they can put your data at risk Or include vulnerabilities you won’t find it in some of the most popular paid VPN services.
In its article on Firefox 149 updates, Mozilla notes: “Free VPNs can sometimes involve sketchy arrangements that end up compromising your privacy, but ours is built on our data principles and our commitment to being the world’s most trusted browser. »
In CNET’s tests, among VPN services that offer a free tierthe best free plan on the market is Proton VPN’s free service. (It’s the only free VPN that CNET currently recommends.) But the free Proton VPN service lacks some features found in the company’s premium plan, like the ability to choose a server manually or connect multiple devices at the same time.
For limited or occasional use
Mozilla’s overall VPN technology has been independently audited by Cure53, has addressed security issues throughout its history, and uses WireGuard, giving it a good security foundation.
The free browser-based version may feel like it offers the same level of overall protection as a standalone VPN. However, it only protects web traffic viewed through the Firefox browser.
“The fundamental limitation is scope,” said Jacob Kalvo, a cybersecurity expert and CEO of Live Proxies, which provides technical services to businesses and individuals. “[The free Firefox VPN] only protects browser traffic, not applications, system processes, or other network activity. This creates a false sense of “total protection” for less expert users. »
This could make it a useful feature for occasional use while browsing the web for those who don’t already have a VPN service. And Kalvo says the 50GB data limit is generous for a browser-based VPN.
But, he says, for anything involving “sensitive data, competitive intelligence or large-scale operations,” he doesn’t recommend it.
“This is a limited-use controlled product rather than a comprehensive privacy solution,” Kalvo said.
