Security & Privacy

1Password is a password manager that securely stores passwords, passkeys, credit cards, and sensitive documents behind a single master password and a locally-stored secret key, adding an extra layer of protection beyond typical password managers. Its zero-knowledge architecture means 1Password itself never has access to unencrypted vault data. Browser extensions and native apps autofill logins across every major platform, while Watchtower proactively flags weak, reused, or breached passwords so users can fix security issues before they become a problem. Passkey support lets users move away from passwords entirely for supported sites. 1Password Business adds team vaults, granular access controls, and integrations with identity providers like Okta and Azure AD, making it a common choice for company-wide credential management alongside individual use.

✦ Best for individuals and families seeking strong password security.

Bitwarden is an open-source password manager offering end-to-end encrypted storage for passwords, passkeys, and secure notes, with a notably generous free tier that includes unlimited passwords across unlimited devices. Its open-source codebase has been independently audited multiple times, appealing to security-conscious users. Browser extensions, desktop apps, and mobile apps cover every major platform, and a built-in password generator and security health reports help users identify weak or reused credentials. For organizations, Bitwarden offers self-hosting options in addition to its cloud service, giving companies full control over where vault data is stored, plus Secrets Manager for securing infrastructure credentials like API keys alongside end-user passwords.

✦ Best for budget-conscious security enthusiasts

ExpressVPN is a premium consumer VPN known for fast speeds, a large global server network, and a very easy setup, with an audited no-logs policy. It is a mainstream, polished choice.

✦ Best for casual users seeking ease and streaming support

Proton VPN is a security-focused VPN from Proton (of Proton Mail fame), featuring a strong no-logs policy, open-source apps, and a genuinely usable free tier. It is Swiss-based with a privacy-first reputation.

✦ Best for privacy enthusiasts on a budget

NordVPN is a virtual private network service that encrypts internet traffic and routes it through one of thousands of servers worldwide, hiding a user's IP address and location for privacy and secure browsing on public networks. It operates under a strict, independently audited no-logs policy. NordLynx, NordVPN's implementation of the WireGuard protocol, delivers fast connection speeds while maintaining strong encryption, and Threat Protection blocks malicious websites, trackers, and ads at the network level even without an active VPN connection. Meshnet lets users create their own private encrypted network between devices for secure remote access and file sharing, extending NordVPN beyond simple location-masking into broader personal network security.

✦ Best for remote workers and serious privacy enthusiasts

Dashlane is a password manager offering autofill, a security dashboard, dark-web monitoring, and a bundled VPN on higher tiers. It emphasizes a polished experience and proactive breach alerts.

✦ Best for individuals seeking comprehensive security tools

Signal is a nonprofit messaging app focused on privacy, with end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls by default and minimal metadata collection. It is the recommended choice for private communication.

✦ Best for privacy-conscious individuals

Surfshark is a value-oriented VPN offering unlimited simultaneous connections, a no-logs policy, and extras like ad blocking, at a lower price than premium rivals. It punches above its weight on features per dollar.

✦ Best for large families on a budget

Blocky is a fast and lightweight DNS proxy that acts as an ad-blocker for local networks. It provides many features to help users manage their DNS traffic and block unwanted ads. Blocky is designed to be easy to use and configure, making it a great solution for users who want to block ads on their local network.

✦ Best for small networks seeking simple ad-blocking

Syft is a CLI tool and library for generating a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) from container images, filesystems, and archives. It provides a comprehensive inventory of software components, including dependencies and licenses, and pairs with a scanner such as Grype for vulnerability detection, enabling users to manage and secure their software supply chain.

✦ Best for devops and security teams needing free, comprehensive sboms for containers

Hiddify-app is a multi-platform auto-proxy client that supports various protocols such as Sing-box, X-ray, TUIC, Hysteria, Reality, Trojan, and SSH. It is an open-source, secure, and ad-free solution for users looking for a reliable proxy client. The app is designed to provide a seamless and efficient proxy experience, allowing users to browse the internet securely and privately.

✦ Best for power users seeking secure browsing

Keycloak provides single sign‑on (SSO) and identity brokering for web, mobile, and API‑based applications. It supports standard protocols like OpenID Connect, OAuth 2.0, and SAML, allowing seamless integration with existing user stores. The platform includes an admin console, user self‑service, and fine‑grained authorization policies, all available under an Apache 2.0 license. It can be deployed on‑premises or used as a managed service, making it suitable for both startups and large enterprises.

✦ Best for enterprises and dev teams needing free, standards‑compliant sso with custom extensions