Launched in 2018, Surfshark is hardly a pioneering VPN. That said, the provider has managed to carve a name for itself in the relatively short period it’s been around. Originally established in the British Virgin Islands, it now operates out of the Netherlands. We’ll discuss more on that jurisdiction later on.
Surfshark is on our best VPNs list — no small feat, considering the other services you’ll find there. The VPN impresses on several levels, including being safe to use, its wide array of features, and its ability to unblock streaming platforms. And when you consider its long-term pricing, Surfshark’s affordability tag is justified.
On the other hand, it’s not the perfect VPN, and we found quite a few places we’d like to see some improvement.
Features: what makes Surfshark a good VPN?
Surfshark is committed to providing a comprehensive service, evident in its array of features. Ranging from fundamental to advanced, along with additional extras, it presents a compelling selection of functionalities to attract prospective VPN users.
In line with the standards of a reliable VPN, Surfshark establishes a secure tunnel connecting your browser to a distant server, ensuring the safety and privacy of your online traffic.
The utilization of military-grade AES-256 encryption, an industry benchmark, ensures an almost impervious shield against any potential breaches. Upon connecting to a server, all your internet activity seamlessly channels through this private tunnel—unless, of course, you opt for the convenience of split tunneling.
Furthermore, the VPN assigns you a new IP address linked to the chosen server location, adeptly concealing your actual geographical whereabouts.
An automatic kill switch severs your device’s internet connection upon any disruption to the VPN connection. Interruptions can stem from unreliable internet connections, server problems, or network congestion. Impressively, it restores connectivity once the connection stabilizes.
While Surfshark’s kill switch functions efficiently, adjusting to its strict nature might require some acclimatization. It imposes a stringent block on internet access unless connected to a server. Fortunately, users have the option to switch to more lenient settings.
Nexus is an innovation the provider says will “revolutionize VPNs”. Based on Software Defining Networking (SDN), it lets you connect to multiple servers simultaneously.
In a transformative fashion, Nexus seamlessly amalgamates all servers into a unified network. Upon connection, your data transcends the confines of a solitary tunnel, intricately navigating through an extensive network of servers.
This innovative technology isn’t merely about bolstering privacy; it’s a paradigm shift that propels speed, performance, and secures the steadfastness of your connection. By interweaving your traffic across a myriad of servers, Nexus not only fortifies your privacy but also establishes a complex web of pathways, contributing significantly to an optimized and resilient online experience. As your data flows effortlessly through this interlinked network, the outcome is a symphony of heightened security, accelerated performance, and a robust foundation for an unwaveringly stable connection.
This is Surfshark’s proprietary obfuscating feature, and something that makes it a good VPN. Obfuscation disguises your VPN use, making it appear you’re connected directly via your ISP.
Camouflage Mode proves invaluable in diverse scenarios, particularly when circumventing content filtering. For those navigating restrictive countries that block VPN ports, this feature adeptly utilizes your standard network ports.
When utilizing Surfshark, the activation of Camouflage Mode seamlessly integrates with the OpenVPN protocol, ensuring a seamless and automatic safeguard against content restrictions and port blocking in restrictive regions.
Enhancing your device’s security involves more than a single server — it involves two. MultiHop, a distinctive feature, directs your internet traffic through a dual-layer of VPN servers, adding an extra tier of protection. This method of chaining effectively encrypts your data twice, earning it the moniker ‘Double VPN.’
While some other VPNs incorporate a similar feature, Surfshark distinguishes itself by providing users the freedom to select both entry and exit servers. It’s essential to note that while MultiHop has its merits, it’s not recommended for constant use, as it can potentially slow down your internet speed.
Surfshark secured its spot on our list of providers offering dedicated IPs with the recent introduction of this feature. Opting for this paid add-on ensures you receive a fixed, exclusive IP address, providing a level of uniqueness and privacy not shared with other users.
The advantages of having a dedicated IP address extend to activities such as banking, where consistent IP stability is encouraged, and it eliminates the inconvenience of dealing with repetitive CAPTCHAs. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in overcoming VPN server-blocking measures employed by streaming services like Netflix.
Is the inclusion of dedicated IPs by Surfshark a positive addition? Undoubtedly. While it may not be suitable for every user, the availability of this feature is a noteworthy advantage, providing an extra layer of flexibility and functionality for those who can benefit from its unique attributes.
Some countries block VPN use. And if you’re at school or work, there’s likely a firewall installed to limit internet use. Surfshark designed NoBorders Mode to let you evade those restrictions.
Surfshark introduces Bypasser, its rendition of split tunneling, enabling a specific application to have direct internet access. Simultaneously, the VPN channels the remainder of your traffic through its secure tunnel for enhanced privacy and security.
Surfshark also offers a handy app to get rid of those trackers, malware, and those pesky ads. CleanWeb extends beyond the browser level to remove ads, banners, and pop-ups everywhere. What’s more, it blocks infested sites to protect your device from malware and you from phishing scams.
This feature delivers what it promises pretty well.
Surfshark Pros
While boasting an array of features, the critical question remains: Can Surfshark truly deliver? Explore the reasons why this VPN might capture your interest.
Surfshark explicitly assures users that it refrains from retaining identifiable user logs, a commitment clearly articulated in its privacy policy. The VPN emphasizes that it abstains from gathering and storing various data elements, including IP addresses, connection logs, time stamps, browsing history, DNS requests, geolocation, and more
What does “no-log VPN” mean?
A vpn that doesn’t keep usage logs wil not store details like your:
- Ip address
- Browsing history
- used bandwidth
- Session information
- Network trafic
- Connection timestamps
Dose Surfshark Keep Logs?
Summarily, Surfshark VPN ensures that it doesn’t monitor your online activities or whereabouts in any manner. The VPN server retains only the necessary data to sustain your VPN connection, with none of it stored after your session concludes.
The utilization of RAM servers by the provider ensures the automatic deletion of any collected information. What sets Surfshark apart is its commitment to transparency – the VPN doesn’t merely ask users to trust its claims. It has gone a step further by commissioning independent audits of its server infrastructure and no-logs policy, conducted by Cure53 and Deloitte, respectively
On average, you can simultaneously use a single VPN subscription on 5 devices. Some generous providers even allow seven to ten device connections on one account.
Surfshark stands among the exclusive VPN services that impose no restrictions on the number of devices. This is particularly advantageous for users with numerous gadgets or large families, allowing them to safeguard every device without the need for multiple subscriptions.
Surfshark has a network of 3,200+ servers. More servers to choose from usually means better speeds, smaller chances of network congestion, and better “geo-unblocking.”
The spread is just as important as sheer numbers, which is why we’re impressed by Surfshark’s global reach. With servers in 100 countries, you’re likely to find options near you wherever you are. In many locations, you can select servers in specific cities.
When it comes to VPNs tailored for streaming, few can rival Surfshark’s performance. Remarkably proficient, it successfully overcame every geo-block we subjected it to, granting unhindered access to a myriad of content libraries.
Despite Netflix’s attempts to thwart VPNs, we effortlessly circumvented several Netflix catalogs on the initial attempt. This success extended to various other streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and Hotstar.
Furthermore, the streaming experience is seamless, characterized by minimal lags or buffering, ensuring an uninterrupted viewing pleasure
Installing this VPN on your device is a breeze, with no hassles whatsoever. Simply download it from the official website or mobile app stores and follow the standard installation procedures. Native apps for all major platforms are available, eliminating the need for any additional steps before selecting and connecting to a server.
The user-friendly and well-designed clients further enhance the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned VPN user or a novice, the interface is intuitive, making navigation and usage remarkably straightforward.
If you decide to change your mind after paying for the service, you’re entitled to a complete refund, provided you apply for it within thirty days. Similar to several other leading VPNs, Surfshark provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test it out risk-free.
Even though Surfshark is a premium service, you have the option to utilize it for free by making use of its 7-day trial. This trial period allows you to thoroughly experience the VPN before making a commitment.
The week-long trial is only available for Windows, macOS, and iOS devices.
The provider has a nice array of customer support options. Its resource base comes loaded with tutorials, guides, and other necessary information. If you prefer your questions answered directly, you may reach a representative through email, ticketing, and live chat.
The latter is available around the clock, and you can expect prompt, helpful responses. As you can see, the support offered also plays its part in why we consider Surfshark to be a good VPN.
Surfshark Cons
While there are numerous compelling reasons to opt for Surfshark, that doesn’t cover the entire narrative. Here are some minor concerns that might give you a moment of pause.
Surfshark operates from the Netherlands, which may raise initial concerns given the country’s membership in the intelligence-sharing 9 Eyes alliance. This is highlighted as a drawback.
Nevertheless, there’s a nuanced perspective to consider. The Netherlands stands out as one of the globe’s most data privacy-friendly nations, boasting minimal internet censorship and robust pro-privacy legislation.
Furthermore, Surfshark’s stringent logging policy and utilization of RAM servers reinforce its commitment to non-disclosure of personal data, mitigating potential apprehensions.
Surfshark’s reputation is one of an affordable VPN service. That’s the case when you buy its long-term plans. Conversely, a monthly package will set you back almost $13, more than you’d pay for NordVPN’s similar plan.
It’s Not the Fastest
A VPN will negatively impact the performance of your internet traffic due to the extra steps it adds on the way. The top providers mitigate that effect so effectively that any speed drops are barely noticeable. How good is Surfshark in terms of speed? It doesn’t impress
Conclusion: How Good is Surfshark VPN?
Surfshark secures its spot on our list of top providers for significant reasons. Laden with an array of security and privacy features, it adeptly unlocks virtually every desired streaming platform.
While its impressive attributes are evident, there are areas for improvement. Swift, blazing speeds could elevate it even higher in rankings, and a potential reduction in monthly prices might enhance its appeal.
In conclusion, is Surfshark a commendable VPN that we recommend? Absolutely, with a resounding yes to both queries.