Affordable, Reliable, and Packed with Features: A Look at Surfshark VPN
Surfshark is a great all-around virtual private network (VPN) that’s often rated as one of the best by CNET. If you’re looking for a top-quality VPN at an affordable price, Surfshark is a solid choice. Its long-term plans are cheaper than many big names like ExpressVPN and NordVPN but offer similar features. Surfshark is easy to use, packed with helpful tools, and works very well for streaming. It has also improved its privacy, speed, and transparency, making it CNET’s Best Value VPN.
In my review, I tested Surfshark on MacOS, Windows, iOS, Android, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV Stick. CNET’s lab team also ran speed tests on servers around the world. I checked its streaming abilities, leak protection, and read through its Privacy Policy. Surfshark’s new transparency report, published in August 2024, shows it’s committed to improvement, making it a strong, affordable choice compared to NordVPN. Click to visit.
Getting the Best Value: Exploring Surfshark VPN’s Affordable Plans
Before diving into the price chart, it’s helpful to understand how Surfshark VPN’s pricing structure offers flexibility and value across various needs. With plans designed for both short-term and long-term users, Surfshark combines affordability with robust features, from basic security to comprehensive tools like antivirus and breach monitoring. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of each plan to help you choose the best option for secure, private browsing.
| Package Length | Plan | Monthly Cost | Total Cost (Initial Term) | Extra Months | Savings | Money-back Guarantee |
| 1 Month | Surfshark Starter | $15.45 / Month | $15.45 | None | None | 30-day |
| Surfshark One | $17.95 / Month | $17.95 | None | None | 30-day | |
| Surfshark One+ | $20.65 / Month | $20.65 | None | None | 30-day | |
| 12 Months | Surfshark Starter | $2.99 / Month | $47.84 (first 16 months) | 4 months | 81% | 30-day |
| Surfshark One | $3.39 / Month | $54.24 (first 16 months) | 4 months | 81% | 30-day | |
| Surfshark One+ | $5.99 / Month | $95.84 (first 16 months) | 4 months | 71% | 30-day | |
| 24 Months | Surfshark Starter | $1.99 / Month | $55.72 (first 28 months) | 4 months | 86% | 30-day |
| Surfshark One | $2.49 / Month | $69.72 (first 28 months) | 4 months | 81% | 30-day | |
| Surfshark One+ | $3.99 / Month | $119.70 (first 30 months) | 6 months | 81% | 30-day |
Does Surfshark Have Any Free Service?
No, Surfshark does not offer a free service. They provides a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try Surfshark risk-free. If you’re not satisfied within the first 30 days, you can cancel your subscription and get your money back.
Although there isn’t a free version, this guarantee allows you to test all of Surfshark’s features, like strong security, unlimited device connections, and access to servers in over 60 countries. Surfshark also often has special deals and discounts, especially during holidays, making it more affordable to use their VPN service.
How Surfshark VPN Became One of the Fastest VPNs Around
Surfshark has made big improvements in speed since our last review. In recent tests from November 2023, Surfshark showed only a 17% average speed loss, a major upgrade from the 40% speed loss seen in early 2023. We tested Surfshark from locations in Ohio and Kentucky to servers in the US, UK, Australia, Germany, France, and Singapore, using both OpenVPN and WireGuard on Mac and Windows. Surfshark’s faster speeds made browsing and streaming smoother across devices, and it now competes closely with NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
Connections to nearby servers, like New York and the UK, were the fastest, with expected slower speeds to Australia and Singapore. WireGuard, the faster protocol, saw speeds down by only 13% on Windows and 9% on Mac. With this 17% average speed loss, Surfshark has become one of the fastest VPNs worldwide.
Available Apps: You can find Surfshark apps for MacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, and Fire TV.
Is Surfshark VPN the Right Choice for You? An In-Depth Analysis
Surfshark is a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable VPN with lots of features. It’s good for streaming and keeping you safe online. Like other top VPNs such as ExpressVPN or Proton or NordVPN, Surfshark keeps improving its services to offer strong online privacy and security. With an easy-to-use interface and powerful features, Surfshark is quickly becoming popular among users.
Features and Add-Ons
Surfshark’s Starter tier includes essential tools that make it a compelling option. This tier not only provides the VPN itself but also comes with an ad blocker, a cookie pop-up blocker, and an innovative alternate ID generator. The prices listed for the Starter tier are very competitive, but users can also opt for bundles that include everything in the Starter tier, plus additional tools such as antivirus, private search, data removal, and breach alerts.
For those who require a dedicated IP address, Surfshark offers this option for an additional $3.75 per month. A dedicated IP gives you a personal IP address instead of sharing one with other users. This is particularly beneficial if you plan to access sensitive accounts, like online banking, from abroad. It can also help you avoid IP blacklists and reduce the frequency of CAPTCHAs. Currently, Surfshark provides dedicated IP addresses in ten countries, including the US, UK, Germany, France, and Australia.
Shared vs. Dedicated IP
While dedicated IP addresses offer unique benefits, it’s essential to understand the privacy implications. Using a shared IP is generally the better choice for maintaining anonymity. Since many users share the same IP address, it becomes challenging to link any individual’s online activity to them. In contrast, a dedicated IP is used exclusively by you, making it easier for someone to trace your online actions back to you.
To address this concern, Surfshark provides an anonymous dedicated IP option, which keeps the IP address separate from your email and prevents it from being traced to a specific individual. In an interview, Justas Pukys, Surfshark’s VPN Product Lead, explained that the non-anonymous dedicated IP is easier to set up and refundable. However, the anonymous option is more challenging to refund since it’s not tied to a user in Surfshark’s database. For those considering a dedicated IP, I recommend opting for the anonymous version, even though the setup might be more complex, as you won’t have the option for a refund.
Device Compatibility and User Experience
Surfshark offers apps for a variety of devices, including Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. My experience with Surfshark’s apps has generally been positive, though there have been some challenges. On MacOS and Windows, I often found that it took several attempts to connect to a server, sometimes requiring more than 30 seconds to establish a successful connection. In contrast, the Android and iOS apps connected quickly, providing a smoother experience. While a 30-second wait may not seem excessive, modern technology is expected to respond more promptly. Other VPNs, such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, do not have this issue, making Surfshark’s delays more noticeable.
Surfshark’s Linux app features a graphical user interface (GUI) that is user-friendly, although it lacks some advanced features available on other platforms, such as the CleanWeb ad and malware blocker, NoBorders mode, and split tunneling. Nevertheless, it does include essential privacy features and Dynamic Multihop. Pukys indicated that plans to make the dedicated IP feature available to Linux users are in the works, but no additional features are currently planned.
Streaming Performance
If you want a VPN primarily for streaming, Surfshark is an excellent choice. During my tests, I could easily access various Netflix libraries from around the world, including those from the US, UK, Germany, Belgium, Japan, Denmark, and Hungary. Streaming content from Disney Plus was also seamless; I enjoyed watching The Simpsons in 4K without any buffering issues. Furthermore, streaming on Amazon Prime Video was smooth across all platforms I tested. Previous tests had revealed some issues with Hulu on iOS and MacOS, but my recent tests in August 2024 showed that those problems have been resolved.
Customer Support and Trial Options
Surfshark provides 24/7 customer support through live chat, ensuring that help is always available if you have questions or run into issues. The Help Center is also packed with useful articles, troubleshooting guides, and tutorials for those who prefer to resolve problems independently.
If you’re unsure about committing to the service, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee across all its subscription plans. Additionally, there is a 7-day free trial available for users who sign up through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Payment options are flexible, allowing you to pay via credit card, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, or various cryptocurrencies.
In shost
In summary, Surfshark delivers substantial value in a package that is often cheaper than many other top-tier VPN options, especially for long-term subscribers opting for one- or two-year plans. While I do find their pricing strategy somewhat misleading, Surfshark remains a budget-friendly option for those looking for a reliable VPN that excels in streaming and comes equipped with a variety of useful features. With its commitment to enhancing user experience and security, Surfshark is undoubtedly a strong contender in the VPN market.
Surfshark VPN: Strong Privacy Features for a Safer Online Experience
Surfshark VPN: Improving Privacy and Security with New Features
Surfshark VPN is dedicated to enhancing user privacy and security. Based in the Netherlands, it has made significant strides in the last few years to improve its privacy features. This article will explore Surfshark’s commitment to online privacy and highlight some of its innovative tools that help keep your online activity safe.
Strong Security Measures
One of the key aspects of Surfshark is its robust security measures. It uses AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, which are industry-standard methods for securing data. Surfshark also operates with a RAM-only server infrastructure. This means that all data on the servers is wiped clean every time they are restarted. This setup ensures that no user data is stored permanently, providing an extra layer of privacy for users.
Surfshark supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. These protocols help improve the speed and reliability of your VPN connection while keeping your data secure.
Innovations in Privacy
Surfshark has developed a proprietary technology called the Nexus network. This network connects all of its servers, allowing for innovative privacy features. For example, the Nexus technology helps route your connection through multiple servers instead of just one. This multi-server routing enhances your privacy by making it harder for anyone to track your online activities.
IP Rotator: A Unique Feature
One of the most impressive features of Surfshark is its IP Rotator. This tool changes your IP address every few minutes while you remain connected to the same server. This is beneficial because it adds an extra layer of privacy by making it difficult for anyone to trace your online actions back to a single IP address. During my tests, the IP Rotator worked smoothly, and I didn’t notice any interruptions in my internet connection as it changed my IP address.
Dynamic Multihop: Enhanced Privacy
Another valuable feature is Surfshark’s Dynamic Multihop. While many VPNs offer multihop connections, which route your connection through two servers for extra privacy, Surfshark’s version allows you to choose any two servers. This flexibility helps optimize your connection speeds while enhancing your privacy. For those with significant privacy needs, Dynamic Multihop is a great option because it maintains higher speeds compared to traditional multihop connections.
Upcoming Features: IP Randomizer
Surfshark is also working on a new feature called the IP Randomizer. This tool will change your IP address each time you visit a different website without disconnecting you from the VPN. While this feature is not yet available, it shows Surfshark’s commitment to constantly improving its privacy tools. For now, the company is focusing on enhancing speeds and content accessibility.
Alternative ID: Your Online Persona
Another helpful privacy feature is Surfshark’s Alternative ID. This tool allows you to create a fake identity complete with a name, birthdate, email address, and physical address. You can either make up your own or let Surfshark generate them for you. This is useful for keeping your real identity private when filling out online forms. The fake email you create can forward messages to your real email, adding another layer of convenience.
For an additional $3 per month, you can also add an alternative phone number to your Alternative ID. This number can be used to receive calls and texts without revealing your real phone number. This feature is particularly useful for situations where you want to maintain your privacy.
Industry-Standard Protections
In addition to its unique features, Surfshark offers standard privacy protections found in top-tier VPNs. This includes a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. The kill switch is an essential feature that disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, ensuring that your real IP address is not exposed. I tested this feature and found it worked perfectly without any leaks detected.
Over All
Surfshark VPN is making significant improvements in user privacy and security. Its innovative tools like the IP Rotator and Dynamic Multihop, along with industry-standard protections, make it a strong choice for anyone looking to enhance their online privacy. With a commitment to ongoing improvement, Surfshark is positioning itself as a leading option in the competitive VPN market. Whether you’re concerned about privacy or simply want to enjoy secure browsing, Surfshark offers a range of features that can meet your needs.
Surfshark’s Audit Status: A Look at 2022 and 2023
Surfshark has become a popular choice among VPN users for its robust features and affordable pricing. However, one important aspect of any VPN service is its transparency and commitment to privacy. Audits play a crucial role in evaluating how well a VPN provider protects user data and adheres to its no-logs policy. Unfortunately, Surfshark has not undergone an independent audit since 2022. This lack of recent audits raises concerns for potential users and existing customers.
Importance of Independent Audits
Independent audits are essential for any VPN service as they verify the company’s claims about privacy and security. These audits involve third-party firms examining the company’s infrastructure, policies, and practices to ensure they align with the promised level of privacy. Regular audits demonstrate that a VPN provider is committed to protecting user data and has nothing to hide. They can also help build trust between the service provider and its customers.
For Surfshark, not having undergone an audit since 2022 means that there is no current confirmation of its claims regarding data protection and privacy. Users might wonder if the company’s practices have changed since the last audit or if it still adheres to its no-logs policy. This gap in auditing could lead to skepticism about the service’s reliability, especially when many competitors are consistently undergoing audits to demonstrate their commitment to user privacy.
User Trust and Confidence
User trust is crucial for any online service, especially for a VPN that promises to protect personal information and browsing habits. When a VPN provider has regular audits, it instills confidence in users that their data is secure and private. The absence of recent audits for Surfshark may affect how potential customers perceive the brand.
Many users rely on VPNs to keep their online activities confidential, especially when using public Wi-Fi or accessing sensitive information. If Surfshark cannot provide recent independent verification of its practices, users may consider alternative VPN services that have undergone more frequent audits. Trust is built on transparency and accountability, and Surfshark’s lack of updated audits could hinder its growth in a competitive market.
What This Means for Users
For existing Surfshark users, the lack of recent audits might be a cause for concern. It is essential for users to know that their chosen VPN provider is consistently held accountable for its privacy claims. The absence of independent reviews may lead to questions about whether Surfshark continues to uphold its no-logs policy and other security measures.
If you are considering using Surfshark, it might be wise to keep an eye on when the next audit occurs. Independent verification of the service’s privacy practices will be crucial in determining whether it remains a trustworthy choice. Users should also explore other VPNs that may offer more transparency and regular audits to ensure their online safety.
In conclusion, while Surfshark provides a range of features and competitive pricing, its lack of recent audits since 2022 raises valid concerns about its commitment to privacy and user trust. Regular audits are vital in maintaining transparency and ensuring that users feel confident in their choice of VPN.
Surfshark Fixes Dangerous Design Flaw: What You Need to Know
Surfshark is a popular VPN known for its affordability and features, but it recently faced scrutiny due to a potential design flaw in its app. This flaw could temporarily expose users’ true IP addresses when switching servers. This article explores the issue, the steps Surfshark took to address it, and how users can protect their privacy.
The Initial Problem
During testing, it was observed that when users switched from one server to another, Surfshark’s app displayed the user’s real IP address before connecting to the new server. This behavior can be risky, even if it doesn’t technically qualify as a DNS leak. For users unaware of the risks, revealing their true IP address—even for a brief moment—can lead to severe privacy concerns.
The flaw stemmed from a dialogue box that popped up after users initiated the switch. It informed them that the VPN was disconnecting but did not give users a chance to stop the action. By the time the warning appeared, the disconnection had already begun, and users could potentially expose their true IP addresses and other sensitive information.
While experienced users may take precautions, such as closing sensitive tabs before switching servers, not all users might be aware of this risk. This could put their online privacy at serious risk, especially if they were engaged in sensitive activities.
How Other VPNs Handle Server Switching
Different VPN providers manage server switching in various ways. For example, NordVPN has a feature that reconfigures the existing tunnel instead of creating a new one, ensuring a seamless experience. ExpressVPN also provides a warning before a server switch, notifying users that their traffic may not be secure during the change.
This kind of proactive communication is crucial for user safety. It emphasizes the importance of having a solid strategy for server switching to minimize risks.
Surfshark’s Response to the Issue
I raised this concern during a conversation with the Surfshark team. They acknowledged the problem and quickly implemented a temporary fix while developing a long-term solution. The latest version of Surfshark’s app now includes a notification pop-up that warns users about the impending disconnect before it happens. Users must confirm that they want to proceed with the server switch, which significantly enhances the app’s ability to protect those who may be unaware of the risks.
This change is a significant improvement over the previous version, as it allows users to make informed decisions. It’s reassuring to see how quickly Surfshark acted to enhance user safety.
The Importance of Regular Updates
Keeping your Surfshark app up to date is crucial. The latest version includes this warning pop-up, helping to prevent unintentional exposure of your true IP address. Regular updates not only improve security features but also introduce new functions and fix bugs. So, always make sure your app is the latest version to benefit from these improvements.
In addition to this change, users should remain vigilant. Before switching servers, it’s best practice to end any sensitive online activities. This precaution helps protect your data even if there are temporary vulnerabilities during server transitions.
Looking Ahead: Future Improvements
Surfshark is not stopping here. The team is actively working on a long-term solution to enhance the app further. This ongoing commitment to user privacy and security is commendable and shows that Surfshark is dedicated to continuously improving its service.
While Surfshark may not yet push boundaries in the same way as competitors like ExpressVPN, it is on a positive trajectory. The recent updates demonstrate a willingness to adapt and evolve in response to user needs and security concerns.
Key Takeaway
Surfshark’s proactive approach to addressing the potential IP exposure issue is a positive step for the company and its users. The new warning feature adds an important layer of security, reminding users of the risks involved when switching servers. As the VPN landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial for users to remain informed about updates and practices to ensure their online safety.
In summary, while Surfshark has faced challenges, its commitment to user privacy is evident in its quick response and ongoing development efforts. By keeping the app updated and practicing safe online behavior, users can enjoy a more secure VPN experience.
Unlimited Device Connections
One of the standout features of Surfshark is its policy of allowing unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can use Surfshark on as many devices as you want at the same time without having to worry about reaching a connection limit. Whether you have multiple computers, smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs, you can secure all of them under a single subscription. This is particularly beneficial for families or individuals with several devices. It also allows for easy sharing among friends and family, ensuring everyone can benefit from enhanced online privacy and security. With this feature, users don’t have to choose which device to protect, making Surfshark an excellent choice for anyone who relies on multiple gadgets daily.
Strong Security Features
Surfshark takes security seriously, employing industry-standard protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, along with strong encryption methods such as AES-256-GCM. This level of encryption is military-grade, providing users with peace of mind that their data is well protected from prying eyes, whether they are browsing, streaming, or torrenting. Additionally, Surfshark includes features like a kill switch that automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, ensuring your true IP address is never exposed. The no-logs policy further assures users that their online activities are not being recorded or tracked. Together, these security features make Surfshark a robust option for anyone looking to enhance their online privacy.
User-Friendly Interface
Surfshark’s user interface is designed with simplicity in mind. Both beginners and advanced users will find the app easy to navigate, regardless of their technical expertise. The clean and intuitive layout allows users to connect to a server quickly and access features without getting lost in complex menus. This user-friendly design is a significant advantage for those new to VPNs, as it removes the intimidation factor often associated with tech products. Additionally, the apps for various platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux, maintain a consistent look and feel, making it easy to switch between devices without having to relearn the interface. Overall, Surfshark provides a smooth and enjoyable user experience.
Bypass Geo-Restrictions
Surfshark excels at bypassing geo-restrictions, which is essential for users looking to access content that may be blocked in their region. With servers in over 100 countries, Surfshark allows users to connect to various locations, enabling access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more from anywhere in the world. This feature is particularly useful for travelers who want to enjoy their favorite shows and movies while abroad or for users who want to access content from other countries. Surfshark’s ability to evade geo-blocks means users can enjoy a broader range of media without limitations, enhancing their overall streaming experience.
Affordable Pricing Plans
Surfshark offers competitive pricing plans that provide great value for users. With a range of subscription options, including monthly and yearly plans, users can choose what best fits their budget. The one- or two-year plans are especially economical, offering significant savings compared to other top-tier VPN providers. Additionally, Surfshark often runs promotions and discounts, making it even more accessible for users who want high-quality VPN services without breaking the bank. The 30-day money-back guarantee further sweetens the deal, allowing potential customers to try the service risk-free. This affordability makes Surfshark an attractive option for individuals and families looking for effective online privacy solutions.
24/7 Customer Support
Surfshark provides round-the-clock customer support through live chat and email, ensuring that users can get help whenever they need it. This is a crucial feature for anyone using a VPN, as technical issues can arise at any time. Having access to knowledgeable support staff means that users can resolve problems quickly, minimizing disruptions to their internet access. In addition to direct support, Surfshark also maintains a comprehensive Help Center filled with articles, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides. This resource is beneficial for users who prefer to resolve issues on their own. Overall, Surfshark’s commitment to customer support enhances the user experience, making it easier to navigate any challenges.
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