Proton: Privacy by default

What it is

Proton is a privacy-focused technology company offering an ecosystem of encrypted online services. It provides secure alternatives to mainstream communication, storage, and productivity tools. The services are designed for individuals and businesses seeking to protect their personal data from surveillance, advertising, and unauthorized access. Proton's mission is to create a more private and free internet by default.

Main Features

Core Communication & Productivity Services

• Proton Mail: End-to-end encrypted email service to secure communications.
• Proton Calendar: Encrypted calendar app for organizing schedules privately.
• Proton Drive: Encrypted cloud storage for safeguarding and sharing files and photos.
• Proton Docs: Encrypted collaborative document editing within Proton Drive.

Security & Identity Management

• Proton Pass: Encrypted password manager for protecting online identities.
• Proton Authenticator: Two-factor authentication (2FA) app that works across devices.
• Proton Wallet: Self-custody, encrypted Bitcoin wallet for private transactions.

Privacy & Anonymity Tools

• Proton VPN: Virtual Private Network for private browsing and accessing content from anywhere.
• Simple Login: Email alias service to shield an inbox from spam and phishing.
• Tor Support: Access to services via the Tor network for enhanced anonymity.

Additional Offerings

• Lumo: Privacy-first AI assistant for asking questions and ideation.
• Standard Notes: Encrypted note-taking application for writing and storing private notes across devices.

How it works

Securing Daily Communications

Users sign up for a single Proton account, which provides access to all services. Encryption is automatic and seamless. For email, users can send and receive messages with end-to-end encryption, ensuring only the intended recipient can read them. The Easy Switch feature allows users to import and encrypt existing data from services like Gmail or Outlook in a few clicks.

Managing Digital Life Privately

Users store files and photos in Proton Drive, create events in Proton Calendar, and manage passwords with Proton Pass. All data is synchronized across devices (Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux) using the same account. The integrated nature of the ecosystem means users can operate from a single, secure platform.

Protecting Online Activity

Users activate Proton VPN to encrypt their internet connection and mask their IP address, preventing ISPs and websites from tracking their online activity. The VPN allows access to geo-restricted content and provides a secure connection on public Wi-Fi networks.

Key Points

• Swiss-Based Privacy: Proton is headquartered in Switzerland, meaning user data is protected by some of the world's strongest privacy laws and is not subject to US or EU cloud acts.
• End-to-End and Zero-Access Encryption: Data is encrypted so that not even Proton can access it, ensuring true privacy by design.
• Open Source and Audited: All apps are open source, allowing public inspection of the code, and have been independently audited by security experts.
• Non-Profit Model: The primary shareholder is the nonprofit Proton Foundation, which aims to fight for an open internet and puts people before profits.
• Free Tier Available: Core services offer free plans, upholding the belief that privacy is a fundamental human right.

Additional Details

• Pricing: Offers free plans with basic features. Paid plans (e.g., Mail Plus, Unlimited, Business) provide more storage, features, and support.
• Availability: Services are accessible via web apps and dedicated applications for Android, iPhone, iPad, Windows, and macOS.
• Business Offerings: Proton for Business provides end-to-end encryption and compliance-ready security for organizations, securing over 10,000 businesses.
• Company Background: Founded in 2014 by scientists from CERN. The company is community-focused, having started from a public crowdfunding campaign.