Surfshark VPN Review: Complete Test & Expert Analysis in 2024

Surfshark VPN Review

Anonymistic

Review Criteria

Speed

Bypass Geo-blocks

Security & Encryption

Privacy

Gaming

Torrenting

Server Network

Compatibility

Price

Refund Policy

Support

4.2

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When I noticed Surfshark’s cost-effective prices, I was dubious of the positive feedback it had been receiving. To assess whether these accolades were justified, I evaluated every feature of Surfshark, including its speeds, security, unblocking capabilities, network reliability, and device support.

I scrutinized Surfshark’s privacy policy to check its reliability and tested their customer service team. The results were remarkable – Surfshark is highly secure to utilize, has many solid security components that the typical VPN does not possess, and is very simple to use.

I highly suggest Surfshark as it provides great value for its cost. At an incredibly low amount of $2.30 a month (you can sign up for $2.30/month), you can receive unlimited device connections, top-notch security, and superior performance. Additionally, if you’re not entirely satisfied with the service, you can ask for a full refund within thirty days.

Surfshark For Streaming – Unlock 25+ Platforms, Including Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 4.8/5

A main point of interest in my Surfshark review is streaming. I tried Surfshark out to see if it could get around geo-restrictions, and it worked perfectly. I was able to easily access US/UK Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and other popular services without any difficulty. Remarkably, it even managed to get me into Amazon Prime Video in two of the locations I tried it in, which is impressive given how tough its geo-blocks typically are.

When it came to seeking a compatible server for certain platforms, I had to experiment with a couple before I could find one that worked. The helpful 24/7 live chat support agents provided me with some advice, such as suggesting the Static IP servers, which I found to be successful when I tried them. Additionally, switching protocols sometimes worked to my advantage.

I tried out more than 50 different server locations and I found that these platforms were accessible:

Access to 16 different Netflix libraries, among them the US, the UK, Canada, and Japan, is available without disruption.

Netflix is continuously attempting to stop VPN connections, so it is not uncommon for some servers to no longer work. It is advantageous to have so many servers that function, allowing you to quickly locate another one when one stops working. This is especially appreciated as all 25 US servers, as well as those in the UK and Canada, are usable with Netflix.

The streaming speed and image quality were contingent on which local library I accessed. This was simply a consequence of the distance between my device and Surfshark’s server: the further away the server was, the slower the speeds and the poorer the picture quality.

I had success unlocking 7 additional libraries in nations including the Netherlands, Italy, India, Hong Kong, Sweden, Turkey, and Spain.

During my tests with Surfshark’s servers, I experienced not a single problem; I could always access some Netflix content. On the other hand, when I was connected to servers in Malaysia, Hungary, Belgium, and the Czech Republic, I was only able to access Netflix Originals and not any region-specific films or series.

Unblocking Netflix USA

The streaming industry has grown exponentially in recent years, with Netflix being one of the leading platforms offering a wide range of content to its subscribers. However, not all content is accessible to users outside the United States due to geo-restrictions. This is where VPN services like Surfshark come into play, as they can potentially bypass these restrictions and provide access to the Netflix US library. But can Surfshark achieve this feat and unblock the Netflix US library for users outside the United States?

By connecting to one of their US servers, users can effectively mask their IP address and trick Netflix into thinking they are accessing the platform from within the United States.

Several tests have been conducted to determine whether Surfshark can consistently unblock the Netflix US library, and the results have been largely positive. Users have reported that they have successfully accessed and streamed Netflix US content without encountering any issues or errors.

Surfshark’s extensive network of US servers ensures that users have multiple options to choose from when connecting to a server, which significantly increases the chances of successfully bypassing Netflix’s geo-restrictions.

In conclusion, Surfshark has proven to be a reliable and effective VPN service for unblocking the Netflix US library. Its extensive network of US servers, advanced obfuscation techniques, and responsive customer support make it an excellent choice for users looking to access geo-restricted content on Netflix.

Unblocking Disney+

No problems arose when I tested Surfshark to unblock Disney+. I connected to 8 different servers located in the United States, such as Boston, Detroit, Buffalo, New York, and Seattle. There was a slight lag before the videos kicked in, but they ran smoothly afterwards.

The image clarity on the server in Boston was excellent since it was the closest American server to where I’m actually situated.

I had the opportunity to access Disney+ from various countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Japan.

Unblocking HBO Max

Surfshark makes it simple to access HBO Max. When I connected to the New York server, I was able to unblock it without any trouble. Additionally, it worked on 6 other servers such as those in San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

I noticed that each video I tried to watch was quickly accessible from the HBO Max platform.

When I utilized servers in the western U.S., such as Los Angeles, the loading process took a few seconds. Since those cities are situated far away from me, at a distance of greater than 8,000 km, the delay was expected.

BBC iPlayer Streaming Test

Surfshark’s access to BBC iPlayer required a few trials. Utilizing its regular servers, only one of the four available UK locations was successful.

The BBC iPlayer service identified that a VPN was being used, preventing access to their Edinburgh, Manchester, and London servers.

I was worried about the lack of redundancies if a single server were to go offline. To address this, I contacted Surshark’s 24/7 live chat and was advised to try their Static IP servers. The London locations (which are subject to change) were not all successful, but fortunately, when I tried #2 and #3, I was able to connect right away.

Crunchyroll Test

Crunchyroll, a popular streaming service for anime and manga enthusiasts, has grown exponentially in recent years. Boasting a massive library of content ranging from classic anime series to the latest simulcasts, Crunchyroll has become an indispensable platform for fans all over the world. However, due to licensing agreements and regional restrictions, some of the content available on Crunchyroll is limited to users located in the United States. This presents a challenge for anime fans living outside the US who wish to access the full range of Crunchyroll content.

Enter Surfshark, a powerful VPN (Virtual Private Network) service that is capable of unblocking geo-restricted content, including Crunchyroll. By connecting to a Surfshark server located within the United States, users can effectively bypass these regional restrictions and access their favorite Crunchyroll content. But can Surfshark truly unblock Crunchyroll outside the US? Let’s take a closer look.

Surfshark’s extensive network of servers spans more than 65 countries, with numerous servers located in the United States. These servers are optimized for unblocking geo-restricted content and providing users with fast and stable connections, ensuring an enjoyable streaming experience.

Accessing Apple TV+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, and More

I put Surfshark to the test and was able to access numerous streaming services, such as Hulu, Apple TV, ESPN+, Paramount+, All 4, and many more.

I was able to successfully access Amazon Prime Video through servers based in the UK and Australia. However, when I attempted to utilize US, Canadian, and Japanese servers, I was not able to get past the error message. This was still quite impressive to me, as it is notoriously difficult to bypass the geo-restrictions with a VPN.

I experienced no difficulty in unlocking Apple TV, Hulu, Paramount+, All 4, ITV Hub, and Peacock TV. Additionally, I viewed geo-restricted content on Kodi’s iPlayer add-on with the UK servers I examined (London and Edinburgh).

I had difficulty accessing DAZN with US servers, yet I was able to unblock it with locations from the United Kingdom and Canada.

I was truly astounded by Surfshark’s capacity to unblock sites. Other VPNs, such as ExpressVPN, can access more with less troubleshooting, however, Surfshark’s more affordable pricing makes it a great option for streaming. Moreover, I was also pleased that the customer service team consistently provided me with simple solutions when I experienced difficulty accessing certain platforms.

Surfshark Speed [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 4.5/5

Surfshark’s rates remain quite steady at all server locations, and I was particularly surprised by how well the speed held up over long distances. When evaluating the speeds, I considered three factors:

• Download speed is a measure of how quickly data can be taken from the server you are connected to, and can be felt when loading webpages or streaming. It is measured in Megabits per second (Mbps).
• Upload speed is a measure of how quickly data can be sent to the server, and is essential for operations such as posting to social media, video calls, or sending emails. It is also measured in Megabits per second (Mbps).
• Ping is the time it takes for the data to travel, and is measured in milliseconds (ms). Having a low ping makes your connection more responsive, which is important for online gaming.

Our speed testers have been trying Surfshark servers from the same US location for over a few months. The chart below displays the average speeds achieved from each location based on the assessment results.

To properly assess the performance, I tested more than 25 server locations and saw comparable results. With local servers (no more than 2,150 km away), I never had a speed decrease of more than 10%. Any greater losses only occurred when I used servers more than 5,000 km away. It’s to be expected that there would be a drop in speed with such a long distance for the data to traverse.

On average, when using a server that was 17,000 km away, I experienced a 39% decrease in download speed with the help of Surfshark. This is a very impressive result, as many other VPNs normally have a reduction of 80% or more when connected to distant servers.

To establish a comparison, I ran an initial speed check without a VPN connection.

I was already enjoying swift speeds, so I did not notice any variations when using the Ukraine server for streaming and browsing. Even if your starting speeds were meager, such as 30 Mbps, you would still be able to watch in HD without experiencing major losses.

Speed Over Long Distances

I was anticipating a decrease in speed when I tested Surfshark’s distant servers, yet the decline was significantly less than I anticipated. To begin, I examined a handful of US servers located on the east and west coasts.

Pheonix, United States (West Coast):

Houston, United States (West Coast):

New York, United States (East Coast):

Miami, United States (East Coast):

As for the speed outside the US, below are some of my speed test results from servers around the world.

Sydney, Australia

Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Tokyo, Japan

The decrease in my speed was roughly a third when connecting to the servers in Australia and Japan.

Despite being far away, my internet connection still had the capacity to handle high-bandwidth activities. I was able to stream content with no lags or pauses, no matter which server I was connected to.

In terms of speed, NordVPN is slightly faster than Surfshark, however, if speed is a main concern, Surfshark is an excellent choice.

Surfshark For Gaming – Low Latency on Local Servers [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 3.9/5

When I tried playing on local servers with Surfshark, I could enjoy great speeds as if I had no VPN on. However, I was unable to get satisfactory performance when gaming on distant servers due to long load times and lag. The “Fastest server” feature did not help with far-off servers such as those in Australia.

To have a seamless gaming experience online, download speeds of over 15 Mbps, upload speeds of 1 Mbps or more, and the lowest ping attainable are all ideal. A ping of more than 100 milliseconds will cause significant lag, making it tough to participate in fast-paced gaming.

I conducted my tests by utilizing the “Fastest server” function (it connected me to the UK) and launched Team Fortress 2 on Steam, a classic game of mine. It was a very short time before I found a match, and I was able to play on Surfshark without experiencing any lags or delays. I then connected to a server located in the Netherlands and received nearly the same results.

I was content with the results of the New York server test, with loading taking approximately two minutes and no lag. Unfortunately, when connected to west coast servers in Los Angeles and San Francisco, I experienced significantly more lag, making it difficult to dodge shots from the opposing team.

The following screenshot shows Surfshark’s US server enabling me to play on Steam:

On servers located in other cities along the east coast of the United States, such as Boston and Chicago, I achieved similar outcomes.

After attempting to use Surfshark’s Japanese (Tokyo) and Australian (Perth) servers, it took me more than five minutes to join a game. Once in, the latency was too high and I was unable to dodge my opponents’ shots.

The outcomes weren’t too bad, as they were much better than the ones I had seen with the majority of Virtual Private Networks. In fact, the majority of them only allow you to play games on the nearest server.

Server Network – Substantial-Scale Network Featuring Dependable Connections [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 3.8/5

Although Surfshark does not boast the widest network, its connections are dependable and offer a good range of global coverage. There are 3,200 servers in 100 locations, which is less than the amount of servers offered by other major VPNs such as CyberGhost or Private Internet Access. However, Surfshark has servers in more countries than most alternative VPNs.

Surfshark has a large number of servers situated in the US, located across 25 different places. This makes it a great choice when it comes to accessing US-based streaming services and also bypassing any regional limits for sporting events. Surfshark also has a considerable server presence in Europe, especially in the UK, France, Germany, and Spain, as well as Canada and Australia.

An intriguing feature of Surfshark is that, unlike numerous other VPNs, there exist physical servers located in countries that impose stringent censorship rules, including Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. Therefore, inhabitants of those countries have the special opportunity to improve their speeds by connecting to a server in their country.

Surfshark’s P2P-friendly network allows for easy torrenting. Furthermore, its Dynamic MultiHop feature enables users to establish their own MultiHop connection. Generally, other VPN services only allow you to select a set of MultiHop server pairings. With this extra layer of security, your traffic is passed through two locations rather than one (as discussed in the security section).

Virtual Servers

Virtual servers are environments that are created digitally, resulting in what can be perceived as a real-life place. These digital landscapes have become increasingly popular, with more and more people relying on them for entertainment, education, and work.

Surfshark owns 40% of its entire server network which are allocated to around 40 global locations. Connecting to any of these locations is actually connecting to a physical server that is situated away from the specified country. This provides increased connection options together with enhanced speed if the physical server is closer to your current location. However, the downside is the latency may be higher and the connection may take longer to establish if the physical server is farther away.

Utilizing virtual places gives you the ability to access further global material, however, at times can have less secure links.

Servers with a Fixed IP Address

The advantage of these servers is that they offer the same IP address with each connection, as opposed to being randomly allotted one. This is advantageous in situations where one does not wish to have to pass numerous CAPTCHA tests or continuously verify their identity when getting into protected sites like PayPal or banking apps.

I verified the feature by signing into my banking program 3 times after reconnecting to an identical static server and was only required to verify my identity the first time. The multiple CAPTCHA checks when using my VPN are very bothersome, so I’m very pleased that this feature prevents that.

When I was unable to gain access to specific streaming outlets, the customer service representative of Surfshark suggested I try out their servers. As an example, I wasn’t able to get Sky Go on the regular UK servers, but the London UK Static IP worked like a charm.

Surfshark provides static servers in five countries, including Japan, Singapore, Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Servers Utilizing Random Access Memory Exclusively

Surfshark’s server network is completely diskless, meaning that all data is erased when a VPN is turned off. This is to protect against malicious outsiders. Other popular VPNs rely on hard drives for data storage, and these are manually wiped clean – however, this could potentially leave data vulnerable until the manual process is complete.

I am pleased that Surfshark provides an additional shield of privacy, since no data can be distributed (even if a court order is issued). This is a great feature.

Surfshark Security – Premium-Level Protection Offering Tailored Sophisticated Functions [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 4.7/5

Surfshark guarantees the best security available since it provides the highest grade of encryption, servers that only use RAM, a rigorous no-logs policy, and more than just the typical advanced security features.

Encryption at a Military Level

AES 256-bit encryption, which is a common security measure employed by governments and military, is utilized by this program, making it all but impossible for ISP or others to observe your online activity.

Security Measures and VPN Protocols

It is important to establish security protocols to ensure the safety of all involved. Various procedures must be put in place to protect data and information from unauthorized access. These steps can include the implementation of firewalls, encryption software, and regular maintenance to keep systems updated. Additionally, staff must be trained in how to follow the protocols and be aware of their responsibilities.

If you want to secure your online presence, you can pick from three distinct protocols. IKEv2 and OpenVPN are commonly used by VPNs, but I was pleased to discover that Surfshark is WireGuard compatible on all main operating systems. Unfortunately, Surfshark has discontinued IKEv2 for Windows; however, that’s not a major issue since WireGuard renders better on desktops.

• OpenVPN: This protocol is constantly being refined by security professionals, making it one of the strongest around. Two versions are available; the UDP is faster and better suited to activities like video calls, streaming, and gaming, while TCP is slower but has a more reliable connection. It is compatible with Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, and FireTV.
• WireGuard: This protocol was the fastest I tested and it does not compromise on security. It is suitable for streaming, video calls, and general browsing, regardless of the distance of the server. It is available on Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS.
• IKEv2: This protocol is ideal for those using mobile devices, as it can automatically connect when you switch between mobile data and WiFi. It is best when connected to a nearby server. IKEv2 is available on Surfshark’s iOS, Android, macOS, and FireTV apps.

I ran a speed test to see if there were any discernible variations between the different protocols.

The IKEv2 protocol was the slowest in terms of speed, however, there weren’t any large differences.

I was amazed to find that, on average, I got nearly the same performance from OpenVPN and WireGuard. Though, WireGuard was the one that yielded the fastest speeds for me.

Results of Leak Testing Surfshark

I ran a series of tests on 10 servers located in the UK, US, and Belgium and the results were clear: no IP, WebRTC, or DNS leaks were detected. These types of leaks jeopardize your security and privacy when using a VPN. A DNS leak gives your ISP access to your internet activity, and an IP or WebRTC leak can expose your real IP address and location to prying eyes, such as hackers or other snoopers.

Surfshark provides a private DNS on all of its servers, along with IP leak protection when using IPv4. The type of IP your device uses depends on the capabilities of your network, so if your network is optimized for IPv6, there is the potential for leaks while using Surfshark. This is a relatively rare occurrence as IPv6 is not yet widely adopted, but if you do experience this, Surfshark is actively working on a fix and have provided some solutions to prevent your IP from being exposed.

If you are concerned about IPv6 leaks, it is suggested to use OpenVPN for support.

It is simple to deactivate IPv6 in the network settings of your device to avert these leaks; however, this can cause some applications to malfunction. Assistance also mentioned that OpenVPN is the best protocol to utilize in order to conceal your IPv6 links (although not a guarantee).

Thus, when I examined 10 servers, neither IPv4, IPv6, WebRTC, nor DNS leaks were uncovered with IPv6 enabled and disabled. It would be advisable to review your connection to ensure it is truly secure.

IPleak.net revealed that Surfshark’s servers in Ireland had completely hidden my actual location in the UK.

Testing Surfshark’s Automatic Kill Switch Feature

The kill switch is easily accessible and will provide protection, even if Surfshark unexpectedly disconnects. If this occurs, the feature will temporarily turn off your internet connection, and then switch it back on when reconnected, thus ensuring none of your information is leaked while the VPN is reconnecting.

A lot of VPNs have made this an important feature, so I expected the same from Surfshark. A particular benefit of Surfshark is that the kill switch is easily accessible from the base connection screen, unlike other VPNs. All you have to do is click the arrow above “connected” and it will be activated; however, this is not done automatically, so you need to manually switch it on when you first use Surfshark.

The Windows app of Surfshark gives you the ability to customize the kill switch. Two settings are available – “soft” and “strict”. The “strict” setting functions like other VPNs and will cut off your internet connection once the VPN is disconnected, whereas the “soft” option will only do this if the connection was inadvertently broken.

The image below demonstrates the process of turning on either Surfshark’s soft or strict kill switch.

The kill switch on any other device works like the “strict” option. All of Surfshark’s applications, FireTV included, are equipped with an automatic kill switch feature.

Testing Surfshark’s Multihop Servers

Surfshark allows you to employ Double VPN technology, which involves routing your traffic through two servers in place of one. This is not really a necessity for regular internet activities. Nevertheless, if you are particularly concerned about your privacy or have to send delicate data to a country with online monitoring, then this feature could be beneficial.

What makes Surfshark stand out from other VPNs is its Dynamic MultiHop selection option. This provides the opportunity to manually select the locations to be connected through. It is possible to optimize the speed of the connection by first connecting to a faster server.

My speeds saw an improvement of 2% when I chose the “Fastest server” as my initial connection point. This was quite surprising to me since two servers usually results in a decrease in speed. Nevertheless, when I used a distant server as my entrance, my speeds dropped by about 50%, as anticipated.

The image below depicts the process for setting up a Dynamic MultiHop connection on Surfshark.

It is suggested to link up with the quickest or closest location for optimal output.

I was astounded by the degree of flexibility and customization that MultiHop’s security provides, which surpasses that of other VPNs’ multi-hop features, even if most people don’t require this additional layer of protection.

Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode

This technology masks the fact that you’re leveraging a VPN to secure your data transfer (also known as obfuscation). It does this by making your connection appear to be like regular traffic. If you’re in an area with rigorous censorship laws which outlaw the usage of VPNs, this is an incredibly useful feature. With Camouflage Mode enabled, your ISP or governing body will not only be unable to notice your web activity, but they won’t be aware that you’re using a VPN to preserve that privacy either.

When I wanted to access Netflix through the library’s public WiFi, which usually blocks it, I found that using Camouflage Mode allowed me to watch the content without any issue. This mode is activated automatically when OpenVPN protocol is enabled and is compatible with various devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux.

Surfshark’s No-Borders Mode

NoBorders mode was conceived with the specific intention of avoiding internet regulations in heavily censored zones, such as China, Vietnam, or the UAE. This feature is equipped to identify technologies employed by the network to obstruct VPNs. Subsequently, NoBorders will supply you with a list of the most suitable servers for your current geographically restricted situation.

I had some difficulty finding the NoBorders mode on my Android device, so I asked customer support for assistance. I learned that the feature is hidden and can be accessed by pressing and holding “Protocol” in the advanced settings in the Surfshark app, which is available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

Two-Factor Authentication

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a method of verifying one’s identity by requiring two types of credentials. It is commonly used to protect online accounts from unauthorized access and to ensure that the person accessing the account is who they say they are.

A further level of security can be added to your Surfshark account by utilizing the Two-Factor Authentication feature. As well as your password, you are required to enter a one-time code sent to your email address or authentication application (such as Google Authenticator) when logging in. This is a relatively widespread procedure in several apps and makes it considerably more troublesome for anyone to gain access to your account.

Enabling 2FA with Surfshark can be a bit complex. To activate it, you need to switch it on in the Dashboard on Surfshark’s website. You can then set it up using an authentication app or by using your email. I decided to go with the authenticator method. Despite Surfshark’s website claiming it is the simplest method, I still had to download an application from the Apple App Store on my iPhone and scan a QR code to finish the setup.

I opted to switch off the feature that protects my Surfshark account from being hacked due to me not being overly concerned. Logging in was inconvenient as I had to go through multiple procedures, however, if someone is particularly focused on their privacy, the feature is available.

CleanWeb – An Internet Clean-Up Initiative

I put Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature to the test on Forbes.com and YouTube, and the ads I noticed vanished after I turned it on. I was pleased to find that CleanWeb even blocked ads on my Hulu account, which usually contains them.

The below screenshots demonstrate the efficacy of Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature in preventing ads from appearing on Forbes.

CleanWeb was not only capable of blocking ads on a web page, but it also had the ability to take out video ads seen on YouTube.

CleanWeb, an integrated feature within the Surfshark app, can be activated or deactivated with the simple press of a button. It is designed to keep your device safe from malicious websites, malware, or phishing scams.

What is Surfshark’s Nexus Feature?

Surfshark has recently come up with their latest security feature: Nexus. This technology involves the use of Software Defined Networking (SDN), which links you to a network of virtual private network (VPN) servers before taking you to your chosen server.

In contrast to the traditional VPNs that employ a single tunnel to connect to a server, Surfshark has designed Nexus technology as a response to the potential security and privacy concerns associated with using just a single IP address. Furthermore, Surfshark maintains that its technology can obscure your web traffic, ensure better performance, and quicken your VPN connection speed.

The features that leverage Surfshark’s Nexus technology are as follows:

• IP Rotator: This tool allows you to periodically change your IP address while still being connected to the VPN. It makes it more difficult for ISPs and other third parties to track you.
• Dynamic MultiHop: This is an upgraded version of Surfshark’s MultiHop feature which gives you the capability to select from where your traffic enters and exits. You can manually decide which two servers from Surfshark’s network to connect to in order to increase your anonymity.
• IP Randomizer: This feature provides you with a different IP address each time you access a new website, thus hiding your browsing activity.

Android Devices and GPS Spoofing

GPS spoofing on Android devices is a growing concern. Manipulating the Global Positioning System to provide false data is a security risk, as it can be used to perform malicious activities. Android users should be aware of the potential risks associated with GPS spoofing on their devices.

Surfshark has developed a feature to combat the issue of apps and sites using GPS to track your whereabouts. This GPS spoofing feature will mask both your IP and GPS, so that it appears as if you are at the same location as the VPN server you are connected to. This ensures that your personal data remains private and secure, and that no third parties can use your information for their own interests.

I was really taken aback by Surfshark’s implementation of this feature, so I decided to put it to the test. After connecting to its New York server, I enabled the “Override GPS location” option in the Android app. When I then opened up Google Maps, the blue dot indicating my location was precisely beside New York City Hall – all while I was sitting in my house in the UK writing this Surfshark review.

In order to activate this feature, you will have to go to “Advanced Settings” in the Android application and then press “Override GPS Location.” Note that you may have to adjust your authorization settings (depending on the type of device you own).

Reviewing Surfshark’s Additional Features

The Bypasser Feature

This option makes it possible to pick certain sites or applications where you don’t need to use the VPN connection (also known as split tunneling). This is great when it comes to accessing reliable sites that don’t work properly with VPNs, such as financial institutions. It’s also handy if you want to connect to network devices without the VPN producing any problems.

During trials on my Windows laptop and Android tablet, this feature operated effectively. I was able to make use of the Steam app in order to play on my local connection while simultaneously accessing geo-restricted Netflix content. I was also successful in bypassing the VPN to access BBC iPlayer’s website while connected to a US server. This feature is only available for Windows and Android.

The Invisible Device Feature

For an extra privacy boost, you can render your VPN-enabled device unseen to other gadgets present in the same local network. This is especially helpful when you’re utilizing public WiFi and do not want other people to spot you. Though the majority of operating systems already have this ability, I appreciate how quickly I could turn it on with Surfshark — just a few clicks. I accessed the Settings > Advanced > and activated it. Note that this feature is only supported on Windows and Android.

Surfshark One

Surfshark offers a comprehensive solution that meets the needs of all users. It provides a wealth of features, such as security and anonymity, that are both reliable and easy to use. Additionally, it is incredibly affordable, making it an ideal choice for those who want to keep their online activities safe and private.

This package comes with 3 features and can be obtained by paying a small additional fee with your current subscription. Alert and Search are available across all the major operating systems, however, Antivirus is only available for Windows, macOS, and Android. An additional bonus is that the longer the subscription plan, the bigger the discount.

1. Surfshark Alert enables you to receive instant notifications whenever your personal info appears in leaked databases (email, passwords, or credit card data). Although you can find free applications that do the same, Alert notifies you instantly when a breach has been identified. Remember to activate two-factor authentication when using Alert.
2. Surfshark Search is a private search engine with no ads or trackers, permitting users to explore the web without Google tracking their activities. It has a clean and simple interface, much like DuckDuckGo and StartPage. Even though DuckDuckGo is free, it still has advertisements.
3. Surfshark Antivirus helps to protect all your devices from viruses and malware. It allows you to set it up to scan your devices on a regular basis to detect viruses and remove any malicious files. Additionally, it stops unauthorized apps from accessing your camera, thus preserving your identity. I just hope it will be available soon on iOS devices.

Surfshark’s Trust DNS

TrustDNS is a convenient application that allows users to switch their DNS address with just a single click. There are more than 100 public DNS servers to choose from. This can be helpful when attempting to access sites that are blocked on a DNS level (areas with restricted access such as China) or to conceal activity from the ISP. Nevertheless, it does not provide the same degree of privacy as a VPN, since the traffic is not encrypted and online entities can still detect your IP address.

When I put it to the test, I was unsuccessful in unlocking any streaming platforms. This application simplifies the process of connecting to public DNS servers (although it can be done manually in the network settings as well). Nevertheless, public domains might log your data or make you susceptible to viruses. Therefore, I definitely prefer Surfshark’s VPN servers since it is safer — you will be connected to one of their private DNS servers automatically and have complete protection.

You must get the Trust DNS app for iOS or Android devices. It is a separate download.

Privacy – Reliable and Trustworthy [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 4.1/5

Does Surfshark Keep Track of Your Activity?

I was really taken aback by Surfshark’s approach to its privacy policy. All the vital info is outlined in each document and a summary of the key points is given with plain language to make sure users understand what they are agreeing to. What’s more, it does not store any records of your IP address, browsing history, session details, or any other personal information.

The privacy policy provided by Surfshark is simple to understand, without any perplexing verbiage.

For those who are uncomfortable providing their personal information, it is possible to create an account with Surfshark without revealing any identity. They will collect your email address and password (which is encrypted) as well as basic billing information. Alternatively, you can create a separate email address just for Surfshark and use an anonymous payment method such as cryptocurrency to sign up.

Surfshark gathers diagnostic reports and anonymous analytical data through the app, which you can choose not to participate in via the settings menu. When using the “Auto-Connect” feature, your location data is logged, though never shared with any third parties. Additionally, when visiting the Surfshark website, “traffic data”, cookies and web beacons are also collected. However, there is an option to disable these functions if you don’t want this information saved. I was satisfied to see the policy included instructions on how to deactivate these features.

Has Surfshark been subjected to an audit?

In December 2022, a security audit of Surfshark’s no-logs policy was conducted by Deloitte. The audit included an investigation into Surfshark’s IT systems and interviews with the staff who administer them. Deloitte was examining how Surfshark manages its servers to confirm if it follows its no-logs policy. After the audit, Deloitte concluded that Surfshark adhered to its privacy claims and passed the audit.

It is a bit alarming that it took Surfshark 4 years to audit its logging policy. Despite being one of the top VPN services in many aspects, this was an area where they were far behind their competitors. I never thought that there was anything suspicious going on, but it was peculiar that such a successful firm had not taken the time to validate their privacy policy.

Having gone through the process, I’m reassured. The fact that a major auditing firm has validated Surfshark’s policy gives me a feeling of comfort and confidence.

In 2018, Cure53 conducted an audit of Surfshark’s Chrome and Firefox extensions, and no significant issues were detected with either the privacy or security aspects. This year, Cure53 also examined their server infrastructure and determined that all minor problems were promptly addressed. It is hoped that Surfshark will continue to regularly have audits in the future.

A Warrant Canary

This is a term used to denote a mechanism that publicly announces that an organization or individual has not received a warrant from a court or government body. This is done to alert the public that any subsequent absence of the announcement could mean that a warrant has been received.

Surfshark offers a Warrant Canary page which can be visited to check if they have been ordered to provide user data by any court. This level of transparency encourages trust in the company, and the page is updated daily so that users can always be certain that no warrants or gag orders have been issued for their information. Since Surfshark follows a strict no-logs policy, any such requests would not yield any data.

Surfshark refreshes its Warrant Canary on a daily basis.

Located in the Netherlands – Covered by the 9-Eyes Surveillance Network

A matter of worry for me regarding Surfshark was that its origin is in the Netherlands, belonging to the 9-Eyes data-sharing alliance. Previously, it had its headquarters in the British Virgin Islands until it had a corporate restructuring in 2021. The British Virgin Islands is a great place for a VPN to be situated since it has no data retention regulations and is not a part of any data-sharing networks.

Surfshark stated they had relocated to the Netherlands due to the positive business, financial, and political environment. Subscriptions that were already present were able to continue to be managed under BVI’s jurisdiction, while any new ones were subject to the Netherlands’. Even though the country is a member of the 9 Eyes Alliance, Surfshark asserted that local laws do not require them to save data. They also promised that if the laws were to change, they would move elsewhere.

In other words, Surfshark has taken the responsible step of having its privacy policy and warrant canary audited, which shows that they can be trusted. Even if they were ordered to provide user data, they would be unable to do so since they don’t store anything that could identify you. It is likely that this audit was conducted to assuage any worries about the company’s integrity, and it is a relief that it has been done.

Can Surfshark be used in China? Absolutely.

In China, Surfshark has been designed with the necessary security measures to circumnavigate internet restrictions. Testing VPNs in China can be difficult since the country is continuously introducing new technology that blocks VPNs. Even though some users have trouble setting up Surfshark, customer service has informed me that a manual connection method can be used that will always be successful in the event of any problems.

For those needing aid in making Surfshark function in a heavily censored location, customer service is available via live chat or email. It was also confirmed by customer service that Surfshark is operable in other countries with stringent censorship laws, such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Although you might not be able to get it working immediately, assistance is available to aid you in setting it up manually.

Once linked to Surfshark, make use of NoBorders and Camouflage Modes, which were created to traverse the “Great Firewall” of China. NoBorders identifies the VPN-obstructing technologies used in China and other nations with extreme internet censorship. Then, it provides a list of servers that are the most suitable based on those limitations. Camouflage Mode hides the fact that you are using a VPN and makes your online activities look like regular traffic — so the government can’t stop you from using a VPN to get around prohibitions either. Moreover, Windows and Android users can use the Shadowsocks encrypted proxy, which was formulated to help work around these strong limitations too.

Torrenting – Quick and Secure, Yet Slightly Cumbersome [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 3.5/5

I found Surfshark to be quite effective during my peer-to-peer tests, but locating servers that are specifically configured for such was not straightforward. There are only around 60 servers that are suitable for torrenting. However, if you are not connected to a P2P-optimized server, it will automatically switch to one as soon as you launch a torrenting client (or a P2P-based streaming service like Popcorn Time).

It’s quite convenient that lots of VPNs have made it easier to locate P2P-enhanced servers. When I asked customer service, they mentioned that if “p2p” was typed into the search bar, all torrenting servers would appear. It’s rather peculiar that it’s not straightforward. CyberGhost, however, has a dedicated tab inside its server list for “downloading” servers, which is incredibly useful for finding them.

I was somewhat let down that customer service couldn’t provide me with a straightforward explanation of the process by which the VPN decides which P2P server to designate you. Nevertheless, I did an experiment to see if the “automatic switchover” feature worked.

I initially picked the Czech Republic server (which isn’t P2P-optimized) and linked up. When I visited IPleak.net, my IP and DNS were registered in Prague. When I opened Bittorrent, I checked IPleak again and the IP and DNS were shifted to the Netherlands, a server that is P2P-optimized.

The image below shows Surfshark effortlessly linking to a server that is suitable for P2P usage.

The app allows you to manually associate with a server by searching “p2p” inside the “Locations” section.

I experienced rapid speeds with Surfshark for BitTorrent downloads. It helps to have an available server close to my current location; if not, there could be some speed slowdowns (though even the more distant Surfshark servers were decently speedy). It took me seven minutes to download a 2.5 GB public domain file through the Netherlands server. I also tried a P2P server in the UK, where I am located, and the same file took 6 minutes and 45 seconds to download — only a slight change in speed.

Once you have established your connection to the server of your choice, you can download content through torrents without worrying about your safety or anonymity. Unfortunately, the process of locating torrents can be quite tedious. Thus, I recommend going through them one by one to find the one that is the most convenient for you.

I have confidence in Surfshark’s no-logging policy, military-grade encryption, as well as its automatic kill switch feature, which makes it a dependable choice for torrenting. But, it’s more convenient to use a VPN that allows torrenting on every server or has distinctively marked P2P servers.

Surfshark Applications [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 4.6/5

Ease Of Use – Effortless Installations and Straightforward Apps

Surfshark boasts an incredibly user-friendly interface, making it a breeze to operate even for those who have never utilized a VPN before. The app maintains a consistent design and functionality across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android platforms, ensuring a seamless experience when using multiple devices without the need to learn four distinct applications.

The application supports 13 languages, such as Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese.

What stood out to me was the inclusion of brief explanations for each feature and setting within the advanced options and features menus. Additionally, the ability to save your preferred servers is extremely convenient.

A few minor enhancements I’d like to see with Surfshark include improving the auto-connect function, as I often encountered marginally quicker speeds when choosing a server manually. Additionally, incorporating a P2P server list, similar to MultiHop and Static Servers, would be beneficial.

I also find it inconvenient that server load and ping time aren’t easily visible on Windows and Android devices. This information is automatically displayed on Macs, so I assumed it was absent from the other apps. However, after reaching out to customer support regarding this issue, they clarified that one must be disconnected from the VPN to view this data. On Windows and Android, it’s only accessible by clicking the small circle next to “Locations.”

Installing Surfshark

Setting up Surfshark is a hassle-free process. I installed Surfshark on my Windows and Mac laptops, Android tablets, and iPhones with ease.

On any device, the process involved simply downloading and installing the software (like any other app) from Surfshark’s website and logging in.

App Compatibility

Surfshark exhibits the level of device compatibility one would anticipate from a leading VPN, including native applications for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Additionally, it provides a native app for FireStick and Fire TV, a feature commonly found in VPNs with Android apps.

Manual router setup is available, along with choices for linking devices without native apps, such as Roku or gaming consoles. Fortuitously, Surfshark’s website contains comprehensive, easy-to-follow instructions that can be of significant assistance.

Desktop Applications for Windows, macOS, and Linux

I created my account on my Windows 10 laptop, which involved three simple steps: selecting the plan I preferred, inputting my email address, and establishing a payment method. After obtaining my login information, I proceeded to Surfshark’s website and downloaded the application on all my devices.

Reaching the application download page, it merely required two clicks to have Surfshark functioning. I clicked “Download Now,” followed by the .exe setup file after it finished downloading, and the entire setup and installation process occurred automatically. Within approximately 20 seconds, the Surfshark application appeared, prompting me to sign in. This procedure was nearly identical on macOS. The apps support Windows 7 or later and macOS 10.12 or later.

Surfshark is also compatible with Linux’s Ubuntu and Debian systems. The Linux app is quite basic and lacks many of the advanced settings, features, or specialized servers found on Windows or Mac. Nevertheless, I value the ability to toggle between OpenVPN TCP and UDP. Some features can also be configured manually, such as an automatic kill switch. I am particularly pleased that it provides a full GUI for Linux, enabling mouse control instead of relying solely on the command line.

There are a few features present on Windows that are absent on macOS, including the customizable kill switch, Bypasser, and Device Invisibility.

A significant difference I noticed is the display of ping and load time next to each server on macOS devices. This information is only visible when disconnected on Windows. Additionally, the Windows app permits window resizing, a function not available on Mac.

Android and iPhone (iOS)

Setting up on both my iPhone and Android tablet was straightforward. Although it required a few extra taps compared to the Windows setup, the installation was automatic and completed in about 15 seconds.

Before my Android downloaded the .APK file, a pop-up appeared asking if I was certain about downloading the file. I selected “OK” and proceeded to open the Surfshark.apk file once the download finished. After that, I simply clicked on “Install,” “Open,” and the app started. Surfshark is compatible with iOS 10.3.3 or later, and Android 5.0 or later.

The mobile apps are nearly identical; however, Android offers a couple of unique features. It provides GPS Spoofing, which aligns your GPS location with your VPN’s IP location. Additionally, there is a “native” Kill Switch, which, according to customer service, is more deeply integrated into Android’s software for increased dependability. Android apps also include Bypasser, but both mobile apps allow users to view the ping and load time beside servers.

Browser Add-ons for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge

Surfshark offers browser add-ons for Chrome (Chrome 80 and above), Firefox (91.1 and above), and Edge (all versions). I easily installed the Chrome and Firefox add-ons by searching for “Surfshark” in the Chrome Web Store or the Firefox Browser Add-On Store and clicking “Add.”

Although these are a more basic version of the app, Surfshark’s browser plugins boast a wide range of features compared to other VPN plugins. In addition to concealing your IP address, preventing WebRTC leaks, and circumventing geoblocks, they also include the CleanWeb functionality. This encompasses an ad/pop-up blocker, a data breach warning, and a malware alert. The Bypasser feature is also available. Just be sure to activate these features to maximize their benefits.

I discovered that the browser add-ons operated smoothly and featured a stylish design. However, they were primarily useful for swiftly changing IP locations in my browser to access streaming websites, with limited additional benefits. This is because the add-ons only encrypt the specific browser’s traffic. While this is superior to most add-ons, which merely alter your IP without encrypting your data, I still advise using the full application to safeguard your entire device.

Applications for Amazon Fire TV and Android Smart Televisions

The FireTV and FireStick app closely resembles its Android counterpart, providing nearly all the same sophisticated functions found on major OS platforms. It can be used on 2nd generation Fire gadgets or later models.

Surfshark seamlessly integrates with Android Smart TVs as well. The installation process is as straightforward as it is for any Android device; simply locate it in the Play Store and install.

Smart DNS for Streaming — Compatible with PlayStation, Xbox, and Various Smart TVs

Surfshark’s Smart DNS function allows you to apply a special DNS code to devices that do not inherently support VPNs, such as Xbox Series X/S, PS4/5, Nintendo Switch, Apple TV, LG TVs, Samsung TVs, and other smart TVs.

Configuring Smart DNS on my Xbox Series S was a quick and easy process, taking only 2 minutes. I accessed Surfshark through my internet browser and chose VPN > Manual Setup > TV or console from the left-hand menu. My IP address was automatically recognized, and I received DNS codes to input into my Xbox’s network settings. This straightforward setup enables the unblocking of US-based streaming services and content libraries. Once completed, I could watch Disney+, US Netflix, and Hulu on my console.

It’s essential to note that Smart DNS differs from installing a VPN; it doesn’t encrypt your online activity, alter your IP address, or provide any security features that a complete VPN does.

Additionally, you can link these devices to Surfshark by either configuring it on your router or sharing your VPN-enabled internet connection from your computer to the device. While these setups are more complex than Smart DNS, they do offer device protection. Surfshark’s website features step-by-step guides to help you set up each of these methods.

Router Compatibility Exists But Lacks Native Application

While Surfshark can be configured on your router, using its apps is advised for optimal performance. To do this, manual installation is required on a router that has pre-installed WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2 client firmware. Alternatively, you can install new firmware by following the guides on the website, but be warned that this can be complex and potentially harm your router, so exercise caution!

Unfortunately, most advanced features offered in the apps won’t be available on routers. Some routers allow for split tunneling and selection of different security protocols, but not all do. Additionally, none of the other features can be used on routers. To access each VPN server, you’ll have to manually configure your router, making server location switching less convenient than with the app.

Surfshark falls behind its top competitors in this aspect. For instance, ExpressVPN enables simultaneous connection of all devices to different servers using its native router app and even offers preconfigured routers with ExpressVPN firmware for hassle-free setup.

However, Surfshark’s website does provide helpful router-specific guides. They assist with the setup process and include a list of compatible routers in the knowledge base. These tutorials are comprehensive and easy to follow. Moreover, 24/7 live chat support is available if any issues arise.

Unlimited Device Connections Simultaneously

Under a single Surfshark subscription, you have the freedom to connect an unlimited number of devices. This feature is one of the primary reasons Surfshark is so popular, as it offers exceptional value for your money. The majority of VPNs limit simultaneous device connections to a range of 5-10, which can be restrictive for families using multiple devices.

I conducted an experiment to see if connecting numerous devices at once would negatively impact performance. With my laptop, iPad, Android phone, and desktop computer all connected, I didn’t observe any significant decline in performance – I was still able to stream Netflix in HD without any lag. You really can’t ask for more than that.

Surfshark Pricing [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 4.2/5

Pricing – A Budget-Friendly VPN with a Proven Money-Back Guarantee

Opting for a longer subscription period results in more significant savings, although there are some caveats. A monthly plan is priced at $12.95/month, a 12-month plan at $3.99/month, and a 24-month plan at $2.49/month (with occasional additional free months). However, these rates apply only to the initial term. Upon renewal, prices nearly double, with the 24-month plan costing close to $5/month.

Nonetheless, I believe Surfshark’s pricing is entirely justified, given the advanced features it offers. Moreover, it allows usage on an unlimited number of devices, providing even greater value for your investment.

For a nominal extra monthly fee, you can subscribe to Surfshark One, which includes Antivirus, Search, and Alert features.

All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide the same features. I tried Surfshark’s guarantee and found it effortless to receive a refund. By using the live 24/7 chat, I requested a refund (providing a reason why Surfshark wasn’t the ideal VPN for me). My refund was instantly approved, and the money was returned to me within four days.

A 7-day free trial is available for Android, iOS, and macOS devices, accessible through the Apple Store or Google Play.

Surfshark accepts the following payment methods:

• Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover)
• PayPal
• Debit cards (Europe only)
• Google Pay
• Amazon Pay
• Cryptocurrencies
• Other prevalent regional payment methods like AliPay and Sofort.

To sign up for Surfshark anonymously, it’s recommended to create a separate email account and use cryptocurrency as the payment method.

Customer Support & Reliability [icon name=”star” prefix=”fas”] 4.7/5

Dependability & Assistance – Approachable and Informed Client Support

Surfshark’s digital Help Center is packed with valuable data, such as feature descriptions, how-to’s, configuration and installation instructions, and a comprehensive FAQ area. I was extremely impressed by the variety of guides offered and successfully utilized several tutorials during my review. Each guide was thorough without being excessively complex.

If you’re unable to locate the information you require on the website (which I mostly could), Surfshark provides round-the-clock live chat support, a ticket-based system, and email assistance options. I tried both the ticketing and live chat services and got speedy, amicable, and educational help each time. Responses via live chat were almost instantaneous, while it took only 3-5 hours to receive a reply through the ticketing system in my email.

When I encountered difficulties using Whitelister on my Windows PC, the agent I contacted through live chat offered me comprehensive instructions and multiple solutions. They stayed on the chat until we had identified an appropriate resolution to the issue.

The Bottom Line

Final Conclusion – An Easy-to-Use and Comprehensive Secure, Dependable VPN

I wholeheartedly endorse Surfshark. It delivers excellent value and includes all the essential features of a top-notch VPN: numerous advanced security options, a trustworthy network and fast speeds, consistent unblocking capabilities, and a solid dedication to user privacy and protection.

I was genuinely amazed by Surfshark’s long-distance speed performance and its customer service. Furthermore, one of its most significant advantages is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices at the same time, which makes its relatively lower price even more appealing.

The main drawbacks for me were its cumbersome torrenting functionality and the fact that its headquarters are located within the 9-Eyes Alliance, which raises privacy concerns. However, Surfshark is an outstanding VPN in almost every aspect.

• Consistently unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and additional streaming services
• Impressive speed on both local and remote servers
• 3,200 servers across 100 locations
• Extremely secure with a verified no-logs policy and top-notch encryption
• Unlimited concurrent device connections

Surfshark FAQs

Compare Surfshark With Other Top VPNs

If you decided not to go with Surfshark, here’s what I recommend. If you’re looking for a more powerful and faster VPN then NordVPN is your go-to. Whereas, if you’re looking for a cheaper option that still offers decent quality service, then Atlas VPN is your choice. Finally, CyberGhost is yet another good quality VPN service at a very competitive price.

Below are some of the main features and benefits of these 3 Surfshark alternatives.

NordVPN

NordVPN stands out in the crowded Virtual Private Network (VPN) market due to its robust set of top-tier features. One of these features is the dedicated IP, a unique attribute that differentiates NordVPN from many other VPNs.

A dedicated IP address means that a user will have a unique IP address reserved exclusively for their use, ensuring a consistent and stable internet connection. This feature drastically reduces the chance of being blacklisted by certain websites, as the IP address is not shared with other users who might misuse it. It is highly beneficial for those who need to frequently access their online banking accounts or any other services requiring a secure connection from abroad. This feature ensures that your online activities are not only private but also consistent, as some websites block shared IP addresses due to security reasons.

In addition to the dedicated IP, NordVPN offers double VPN technology, an innovative feature that routes your internet traffic through two separate VPN servers instead of just one. This adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your data twice, making it nearly impossible for hackers to decipher.

Moreover, NordVPN provides a feature known as CyberSec, which automatically blocks suspicious websites and prevents malware from infecting your device. It even filters out annoying ads, providing a smoother browsing experience. The automatic kill switch is another noteworthy feature that prevents your data from being exposed by instantly cutting off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops for any reason.

Furthermore, NordVPN boasts impressive speed and unlimited bandwidth. It has over 5400 servers in 59 countries around the world, ensuring a fast and reliable connection no matter where you are. It also allows for up to six simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect multiple devices with just one subscription.

Lastly, NordVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy. They do not track, collect, or share your private data. This commitment to privacy sets them apart from many other VPN services who often retain some level of user data.

To sum up, NordVPN’s dedicated IP feature coupled with its state-of-the-art security measures, uncompromising commitment to user privacy, and lightning-fast speed make it one of the best VPNs in today’s market. Whether you’re looking to safeguard your online activities or bypass geo-restrictions, NordVPN has got you covered.

CyberGhost

CyberGhost is widely recognized in the digital world for its leading-edge capabilities that offer a robust, secure, and user-friendly virtual private network (VPN) solution. Among its key attributes, there are several features that particularly set CyberGhost apart from other VPNs on the market, making it the best choice for many users.

One of the most prominent features of CyberGhost is its implementation of secure protocols. CyberGhost uses the most advanced security protocols available, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. These secure protocols ensure that your data is encrypted and transmitted securely over the internet, protecting it from prying eyes and malicious entities. Furthermore, these protocols offer an excellent balance between security and speed, ensuring optimal performance without compromising on safety.

Another compelling feature of CyberGhost is its vast global network. With over 7,000 servers spread across 90 countries worldwide, CyberGhost provides its users with a wide range of options for secure browsing. This extensive network allows users to bypass geo-restrictions and access location-specific content with ease.

CyberGhost also offers a strict no-logs policy, meaning the company does not store any data related to your browsing activities. This feature ensures that your online privacy remains intact and you can browse with peace of mind knowing that your activities will not be tracked or recorded.

In addition to this, CyberGhost has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate even for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. It also offers 24/7 customer support, so users can get help whenever they need it.

Another essential feature is the automatic kill switch that CyberGhost provides. In case your VPN connection drops unexpectedly, the automatic kill switch cuts off your internet connection, ensuring that your real IP address and personal information remain hidden.

To sum up, CyberGhost stands out as the best VPN due to its secure protocols, vast global network, strict no-logs policy, user-friendly interface, exceptional customer support, and automatic kill switch feature. These attributes offer a superior level of security and convenience to users, making CyberGhost an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable VPN solution.