VPN deal of the week: Protect your WhatsApp messages beyond the username with this $40 lifetime VPN deal

WhatsApp has finally begun rolling out usernames — a superb boost for privacy-focused users who want to hide their phone numbers. But while the new function will help protect your number, it doesn't protect your data from your ISP.

A VPN encrypts your traffic beyond the app's native encryption, providing a layer of security that follows you across global servers. While most premium providers require a monthly subscription, a lifetime VPN deal allows you to pay once and avoid the "loyalty tax" of renewing at inflated prices.

FastestVPN offers our favorite lifetime option. For only $40, you can access a lifetime of VPN protection across up to 15 devices. You also get malware protection, P2P-optimized servers, 24/7 support, and two years of password management thrown in.

FastestVPN: $40 lifetime VPN access + 2 years premium password management
FastestVPN offers the best lifetime VPN deal we've seen in a while. $40 for a reliable VPN connection, with P2P optimisation, malware protection, and more. Most importantly you get:

📱 Up to 15 device connections
👥 P2P optimized servers
🦠 Virus protection
⛓️‍💥 Kill switch protection
🆘 24/7 support

It's not quite as high performing as the very best VPNs. That said, you won't find a better value deal if you're after a simple, reliable, secure connection.

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When putting together our FastestVPN review, a few things became clear. First, you're not actually getting the fastest VPN out there. Secondly, you're not necessarily getting the most feature-laden VPN either.

However, not even Surfshark — the best cheap VPN overall — can match FastestVPN for value when you split the cost over a lifetime. What's more, if you're just using it for everyday browsing online you're unlikely to notice much of a performance difference.

So, if you're looking for a starter VPN, or a cheap solution to secure your entire family, this is an option I'd recommend. No need to worry about renewing in the future and no need to be concerned about your privacy. You can just set it up and forget about it for only $40.

If you are considering a more premium option, however, there are some great alternatives below.