Proton VPN / Proton Mail

Proton is a globally recognized provider of privacy-focused online services, including Proton Mail, Proton VPN, Proton Drive, and Proton Pass. The brand was established in 2014 by a group of scientists who met at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) in Geneva, Switzerland. Their mission was to build an internet that protects civil liberties through advanced encryption technology.

The products are developed and maintained primarily in Switzerland, which is a strategic choice due to the country's strict privacy laws. Because Switzerland is outside the jurisdiction of the US and EU, and is not a member of the 'Five Eyes' intelligence-sharing agreements, it provides a robust legal framework for user data protection. The infrastructure is decentralized, with many physical servers hosted in underground Swiss bunkers to ensure maximum security and sovereignty.

Ownership of the brand remains independent. Proton AG is the ultimate owner, governed by its founders and supported by a non-profit foundation to ensure that the mission of privacy always precedes profit motives. Unlike many tech companies, Proton is primarily funded by its user community rather than advertising or venture capital, which reinforces its commitment to encryption and user anonymity.