PrivateVPN Review

Using a VPN to access streaming platforms can be a popular use case for many users. PrivateVPN can help bypass geographical restrictions and access content that may be blocked in your country or region.

Let’s  explore some of the popular streaming platforms that are compatible with PrivateVPN.

Compatibility with streaming platforms can vary depending on factors such as location, the version of the streaming platform, and updates to the VPN service. It’s always a good idea to check with your VPN provider to confirm compatibility before subscribing to their service.

Can PrivateVPN Access US Netflix And Other Regions?

PrivateVPN is known for its ability to unblock content on Netflix from different regions, including the US. This means that if you’re located in a country where Netflix’s library is limited, you can use PrivateVPN to connect to a US server and access the full range of content available in the US.

However, it’s important to note that not all VPN servers may work with Netflix, and Netflix is known to be constantly updating its anti-VPN measures. As a result, some servers may be blocked and no longer work with Netflix.

In addition to US Netflix, PrivateVPN also works with other regions such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. This means that users can access content from these regions by connecting to a VPN server located in the relevant country.

We have been regularly testing it with Netflix in the server locations.  Here is the result that we recorded while running the test of PrivateVPN:

For some people, it might come as a disappointment that PrivateVPN does not work for all the international Netflix libraries.

Unblocks US Streaming Platforms

PrivateVPN boasts comprehensive accessibility to a multitude of esteemed US-based streaming platforms. Remarkably, we successfully navigated past geo-restrictions on renowned services such as HBO Max, Hulu, YouTube TV, and Prime Video.

Diverging from the experience with Netflix, the entirety of PrivateVPN’s US servers demonstrated seamless compatibility with these esteemed content platforms. Users were delighted to witness videos loading almost instantaneously and being showcased in stunning high-definition quality.

Seamless Compatibility with BBC iPlayer

In light of having only two server locations within the United Kingdom, PrivateVPN has consistently demonstrated remarkable compatibility with BBC iPlayer throughout extensive and prolonged testing periods. Without exception, both live and on-demand content were expeditiously loaded and seamlessly streamed in the highest attainable resolution.

In contrast, several other renowned VPN services that tout their capability to unblock BBC iPlayer, such as ExpressVPN and HMA, occasionally encounter difficulties in circumventing the service’s restrictions. This highlights PrivateVPN’s exceptional performance in this domain, an impressive feat considering its comparatively affordable pricing structure.

Ensuring Privacy: Concealing Kodi Activity from Your (ISP)

PrivateVPN stands out with its exceptional streaming performance, rendering it a highly commendable option for utilizing Kodi, Stremio, and various other free streaming platforms.

Through the seamless integration of its app on Fire TV, we were able to effortlessly stream content from renowned services like Crackle and Pluto TV. Throughout our streaming sessions, not once did we experience any connection disruptions, and more notably, all our online activities remained discreet and shielded from the prying eyes of our Internet Service Provider (ISP).

PrivateVPN is known for its fast speeds, making it a popular choice for streaming and other online activities that require a stable and fast internet connection. PrivateVPN offers unlimited bandwidth and data, and utilizes high-quality servers to ensure fast and reliable connections.

However, it’s important to note that VPN speeds can vary depending on various factors such as location, server load, and your own internet connection. It’s always a good idea to test your VPN connection before using it for bandwidth-intensive activities to ensure that the speeds are suitable for your needs.

But we have faith in our testing process. Here is the repot of our test that can give you a better insight:

PrivateVPN uses excellent industry-standard encryption protocols that helps users to protect their online activities. Moreover the no-logs policy helps ensure that user data is not so much stored on their servers. 

With the automated kill switch of the PrivateVPN, ensures that the users would get disconnected from the internet, if by chance their connection would be interrupted. It simply helps in ensuring that the user’s online activities remain private.

It is essential to note the key features of the premium version, including a strict no-logs policy, strong encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and unlimited bandwidth and data. Overall, the premium version offers robust privacy and security features that prioritize user privacy and ensure a safe and secure online experience.

Privacy Friendly: PrivateVPN’s Jurisdiction 

PrivateVPN is headquartered in Sweden, which is generally considered to have strong privacy laws and a favorable jurisdiction for privacy-focused companies. Sweden has a long history of protecting free speech and privacy rights, and has strict data protection laws. Additionally, Sweden is not a member of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or Fourteen Eyes intelligence alliances, which means that it’s not subject to the extensive surveillance and data-sharing agreements that countries in these alliances have in place.

Real-World Testing Validates Logging Policy

PrivateVPN distinguishes itself among VPN services through its noteworthy no-logs privacy policy, which has undergone real-world validation. In various instances, law enforcement authorities have requested user data from PrivateVPN, yet the VPN has consistently proven its commitment to user privacy by steadfastly withholding such information.

While this aspect might not be widely known, we have come across confidential documentation affirming that PrivateVPN’s no-logs policy has consistently prevented compliance with law enforcement data requests.

It is crucial to emphasize that we firmly disapprove of any unlawful activities conducted while utilizing a VPN. Nonetheless, these actual cases serve as a reliable and pragmatic litmus test for assessing a VPN’s logging practices.

Data Gathering on Free Trial Users Not Disclosed

Based on our investigation, it was discovered that PrivateVPN had been retaining the IP addresses of individuals who registered for their free trial service. According to PrivateVPN, these IP addresses were stored securely within a designated “dummy database” and were not associated with any other identifiable information.

It should be noted that PrivateVPN had implemented this logging practice discreetly, solely with the intention of curbing potential misuse of their free trial offering. However, the concern arises from the fact that this logging activity was not openly disclosed to users.

On a positive note, we promptly addressed this matter with PrivateVPN, and they demonstrated commendable responsiveness by swiftly rectifying their approach. As a result of our communication, PrivateVPN no longer retains IP addresses of users who sign up for their free trial service.

PrivateVPN is a great choice for torrenting. The service allows P2P file sharing and has dedicated servers for torrenting, which provide fast and secure connections.

PrivateVPN uses advanced encryption methods and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and IKEv2. These protocols help to protect user data and keep their online activities private and secure.

Additionally, PrivateVPN has a strict no-logs policy, which means that they do not monitor or store any user activity logs. This is important for torrenting, as it provides users with added privacy and protection.

Fast P2P File Transfer

Yes, PrivateVPN offers fast P2P file transfer for its users. The service allows P2P file sharing and has dedicated servers for torrenting, which provide fast and secure connections. Here is the details about P2P file transfer with PrivateVPN:

• Dedicated P2P Servers

PrivateVPN has dedicated servers optimized for P2P file sharing, which provides users with fast and secure connections. These servers are specifically designed for P2P file transfer, so users can transfer large files quickly and easily without any interruptions or slowdowns.

• Fast Speeds

PrivateVPN offers fast download and upload speeds, which is crucial for P2P file sharing. The service provides unlimited bandwidth and server switching, allowing users to transfer large files quickly and without any restrictions.

• Advanced Encryption Methods

PrivateVPN uses advanced encryption methods, including AES-256 encryption, which helps to protect user data and keep their online activities private and secure. This is important for P2P file sharing, as it provides users with added privacy and protection.

• Multiple Vpn Protocols

PrivateVPN supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and IKEv2. These protocols help to protect user data and ensure that their online activities remain private and secure.

• Strict No-Logs Policy

PrivateVPN has a strict no-logs policy, which means that they do not monitor or store any user activity logs. This is important for P2P file sharing, as it provides users with added privacy and protection.

PrivateVPN’s dedicated P2P servers are optimized for file sharing, and users can transfer large files quickly and easily without any interruptions or slowdowns. PrivateVPN also uses advanced encryption methods and supports multiple VPN protocols, which help to protect user data and keep their online activities private and secure.

In addition to its fast P2P file transfer capabilities, PrivateVPN also offers unlimited bandwidth and server switching, making it an excellent choice for users who frequently transfer large files or engage in other high-bandwidth activities.

Overall, PrivateVPN’s P2P file transfer services are fast, secure, and reliable. The dedicated P2P servers, fast speeds, advanced encryption methods, and strict no-logs policy make PrivateVPN an excellent choice for users who want to transfer files quickly and securely.

PrivateVPN is a popular VPN service that provides users with a high level of privacy and security when browsing the internet. The service offers several pricing plans, each with varying features and subscription lengths. PrivateVPN’s pricing plans are as follows:

• Monthly Plan 

It costs 9.90 USD per month. 

• Quarterly Plan 

It costs 6.00 USD per month. 

• 36 Months Plan 

It costs 2.00 USD per month. 

All plans come with the same features, including unlimited bandwidth, access to servers in over 60 countries, and support for multiple VPN protocols. PrivateVPN also allows for up to ten simultaneous connections, which is more than enough for most users. Every plan offers a 30-day money back guarantee for complete assurance of the new users. 

PrivateVPN Free Trial:

PrivateVPN offers a 7-day free trial for new users. This trial period allows users to test out the service and all of its features before committing to a subscription.

To access the free trial, users need to sign up on the PrivateVPN website and provide their payment information. However, users are not charged during the trial period and can cancel their subscription at any time before the trial ends.

During the trial period, users can access all the features of PrivateVPN, including unlimited bandwidth, access to servers in over 60 countries, and support for multiple VPN protocols. This is a great way for users to try out the service and determine whether it is the right fit for their needs.

It is important to note that if users do not cancel their subscription before the trial period ends, they will be automatically charged for the next billing cycle. Therefore, it is important to keep track of the trial period and cancel the subscription if the service is no longer required.

Payment Methods:

Here is a complete list of the payment methods that PrivateVPN accepts:

PayPal, GooglePay, Apple Pay, Master Card, Amex, Diners Club, Visa, JCB, Union Pay, Discover and Bitcoin.

PrivateVPN is a great choice for torrenting. The service allows P2P file sharing and has dedicated servers for torrenting, which provide fast and secure connections.

PrivateVPN uses advanced encryption methods and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and IKEv2. These protocols help to protect user data and keep their online activities private and secure.

Additionally, PrivateVPN has a strict no-logs policy, which means that they do not monitor or store any user activity logs. This is important for torrenting, as it provides users with added privacy and protection.

Fast P2P File Transfer

Yes, PrivateVPN offers fast P2P file transfer for its users. The service allows P2P file sharing and has dedicated servers for torrenting, which provide fast and secure connections. Here is the details about P2P file transfer with PrivateVPN:

• Dedicated P2P Servers

PrivateVPN has dedicated servers optimized for P2P file sharing, which provides users with fast and secure connections. These servers are specifically designed for P2P file transfer, so users can transfer large files quickly and easily without any interruptions or slowdowns.

• Fast Speeds

PrivateVPN offers fast download and upload speeds, which is crucial for P2P file sharing. The service provides unlimited bandwidth and server switching, allowing users to transfer large files quickly and without any restrictions.

• Advanced Encryption Methods

PrivateVPN uses advanced encryption methods, including AES-256 encryption, which helps to protect user data and keep their online activities private and secure. This is important for P2P file sharing, as it provides users with added privacy and protection.

• Multiple Vpn Protocols

PrivateVPN supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and IKEv2. These protocols help to protect user data and ensure that their online activities remain private and secure.

• Strict No-Logs Policy

PrivateVPN has a strict no-logs policy, which means that they do not monitor or store any user activity logs. This is important for P2P file sharing, as it provides users with added privacy and protection.

PrivateVPN’s dedicated P2P servers are optimized for file sharing, and users can transfer large files quickly and easily without any interruptions or slowdowns. PrivateVPN also uses advanced encryption methods and supports multiple VPN protocols, which help to protect user data and keep their online activities private and secure.

In addition to its fast P2P file transfer capabilities, PrivateVPN also offers unlimited bandwidth and server switching, making it an excellent choice for users who frequently transfer large files or engage in other high-bandwidth activities.

Overall, PrivateVPN’s P2P file transfer services are fast, secure, and reliable. The dedicated P2P servers, fast speeds, advanced encryption methods, and strict no-logs policy make PrivateVPN an excellent choice for users who want to transfer files quickly and securely.

PrivateVPN has servers in over 200 server locations in 63 countries, it allows the users to bypass geographical restrictions and access content that may otherwise not be available in their region. 

Countries – 63 Countries

Cities – 69+ Cities

IP Address – 7000+

Servers – 200+ Servers 

It’s great to know that PrivateVPN has a vast network of servers located across the globe. With servers in approximately 63 locations worldwide, users can easily bypass geographical restrictions and access content that might be blocked in their region. This extensive server network enables PrivateVPN to provide fast and reliable connections to users, ensuring a seamless browsing experience. Whether you want to stream your favorite TV shows or movies or access restricted websites, PrivateVPN’s server locations allow you to do so without any hassle. With new server locations regularly added to its network, PrivateVPN continues to expand its reach and provide users with even more options to choose from.

Some Servers Exist in Virtual Locations

PrivateVPN distinguishes itself by offering an extensive array of server locations, surpassing the majority of other VPN providers. This is made possible through the utilization of virtual server locations, which constitute approximately 13% of PrivateVPN’s server network. These virtual locations are physically situated in different countries than the IP addresses they assign.

While this approach enables access to a broader range of server options, it is important to consider potential implications. Connecting to a virtually located server may inadvertently impact internet speed, particularly when users assume they are connecting to a nearby server but, in reality, it resides on the opposite side of the globe.

In light of this, we advocate for greater transparency from the PrivateVPN app, wherein the distinction between virtual and physically located server locations is clearly highlighted. Other VPN services, even top-tier providers like CyberGhost, have been notably forthright in this regard, providing their users with such pertinent information upfront.

PrivateVPN is a popular VPN service that has gained a reputation for its ability to bypass web censorship and provide access to restricted content. However, when it comes to China, the situation is a bit complicated. The Chinese government is known for its strict online censorship policies, which make it difficult for VPN services to function within the country.

PrivateVPN, like other VPN services, has faced challenges when trying to provide its services in China. Despite this, PrivateVPN has implemented measures to ensure that its service remains accessible in China. One of the ways it does this is by offering obfuscation techniques that can bypass the Great Firewall of China. These techniques allow PrivateVPN to disguise its traffic and make it difficult for the Chinese government to detect and block it.

Another way that PrivateVPN bypasses web censorship in China is by using its server network strategically. The company has strategically placed servers in nearby locations, such as Hong Kong and Japan, which allows users in China to connect to these servers and access the internet freely. By doing so, PrivateVPN enables its users to bypass China’s online restrictions and access the internet as they normally would.

However, it’s important to note that while PrivateVPN works to bypass web censorship in China, it’s not a guaranteed solution. The Chinese government’s online censorship policies are constantly evolving, and VPN services like PrivateVPN may face intermittent disruptions. Nonetheless, PrivateVPN’s ability to bypass web censorship in China is a testament to its commitment to providing users with unrestricted access to the internet.

Ensures Traffic Obfuscation with the Shadowsocks Proxy

To overcome web censorship using PrivateVPN, it is essential to activate the Stealth VPN feature within the VPN application’s settings.

Stealth VPN, though branded as an exclusive PrivateVPN protocol, operates by directing network traffic through the open-source Shadowsocks proxy. It is important to note that Shadowsocks is not unique to PrivateVPN and can be found in use by various other VPN services as well. However, it is worth mentioning that this particular method may not provide the same level of security as custom VPN obfuscation tools.

In comparison to PrivateVPN’s approach, certain VPN services like Astrill have developed their own proprietary technologies to circumvent censorship measures. Unlike relying on proxies, these exclusive technologies offer a potentially safer alternative, especially for frequent connections from regions like China.

PrivateVPN is highly compatible with multiple operating systems, making it easily accessible to users on various devices. While it allows ten simultaneous connections, it offers standard desktop and mobile apps, as well as manual setup guides for routers. The following is a list of operating systems that PrivateVPN is compatible with:

Apps:

PrivateVPN has application for the following devices: 

• Windows (Version 3.0.1)
• Mac
• iOS
• Android
• Linux

PrivateVPN works well across every platform, but some of the features aren’t available for every platform. Here is a quick summary for your assistance: 

Game Consoles & Streaming Devices:

PrivateVPN is compatible with the following game consoles and streaming devices with some assistance through router or Smart DNS feature:

• Amazon Fire TV
• Android TV
• Chromebook

Browser Extensions:

Unfortunately, PrivateVPN does not offer browser extensions at this time. However, users can still protect their online activity on browsers by using the desktop application and connecting to a server through it.

PrivateVPN is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy to use. The installation process is straightforward, and the app is easy to navigate, even for those who are not tech-savvy. Once installed, users can quickly connect to their desired server location and start browsing the web securely and privately. The desktop and mobile applications have a similar design, ensuring a consistent user experience across all devices. Additionally, PrivateVPN provides extensive documentation and customer support to help users troubleshoot any issues they may encounter. 

Overall, PrivateVPN is an easy-to-use VPN service that can be used by anyone, regardless of their technical expertise. Also the desktop and laptop applications are user-friendly and accessible, even for those who are not tech-savvy.

Desktop & Laptop (Windows & Mac)

Exclusively available on desktop apps, PrivateVPN offers users the choice between two distinct views: the ‘simple view’ and the ‘advanced view.’

In the app’s advanced view, users have the freedom to manually configure a wide range of settings, providing them with the flexibility to adjust the level of encryption and enable advanced features. This aspect proves particularly beneficial for those seeking to customize the service according to their individual preferences.

Alternatively, the simple view is ideally suited for VPN novices, offering a quick and straightforward way to connect to the VPN and change server locations. However, it is worth noting that some of the simpler settings, such as altering the VPN protocol, are not accessible from this view, which may be a minor limitation.

Regrettably, unlike most other VPN apps, PrivateVPN does not possess an automatic server selection feature based on user location. Consequently, users must manually select their preferred server.

Selecting a server is more straightforward on Windows, as the app conveniently displays and color-codes the server ping, enabling users to connect to the server with the lowest ping for optimal speeds. On the other hand, Mac users face a less favorable experience, as the server list is blank and lacks any indication of distance from their location.

One aspect that could be improved is how the server list opens in a separate window, obstructing the home screen of the app. As a result, it took some time for us to realize that closing the window was necessary to return to the main app. Most other VPNs allow users to change servers directly from the home screen, making this discrepancy slightly disappointing.

Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that PrivateVPN lacks the functionality to be accessed directly from the menu bar on Mac and the taskbar on Windows, a feature commonly offered by other VPN providers. This convenient access allows users to quickly change server locations, making its absence in PrivateVPN somewhat of a drawback.

In summary, PrivateVPN’s desktop app offers a choice between a simple and an advanced view, catering to both novice and experienced users. While the advanced view provides greater customization options, the simple view offers ease of use. However, the app lacks an automatic server selection feature and the ability to access it directly from the menu bar or taskbar. Improvements in these areas would enhance the overall user experience.

Mobile (iPhone & Android)

PrivateVPN’s applications for iOS and Android exhibit a simplistic design, emphasizing user-friendliness. Upon launching the app, users are greeted by an intuitive home screen, where a prominent on/off button allows seamless connection and disconnection to the VPN.

Regrettably, PrivateVPN has yet to introduce exclusive features tailored for mobile devices, leaving some room for improvement in enhancing the overall app experience. Among the missing functionalities are a dark mode interface, as well as integration with the Shortcuts app on iOS, which can enhance convenience and accessibility. Additionally, widgets, a popular feature on both iOS and Android platforms, have not been incorporated into the app.

In contrast to their desktop counterparts, the mobile apps lack a distinct ‘simple’ or ‘advanced’ view, but users can easily access the VPN settings by tapping on the designated option labeled VPN Settings. Notably, we advise enabling the kill switch immediately after downloading the app, as it does not come activated by default, thereby ensuring added security and protection.

Linux App

Connecting to a PrivateVPN server on Linux presents considerable challenges, as the VPN service currently lacks both a Command Line Interface (CLI) and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) app tailored for Linux operating systems.

To establish a connection with PrivateVPN on Linux, users must resort to utilizing OpenVPN certificate and key files, which entails a lengthy and intricate process. Unfortunately, the provided 12-step walkthrough by PrivateVPN is outdated and does not simplify matters. Specifically, when running Ubuntu 22.04, we encountered numerous instructions referring to labels and options that have either been renamed or no longer exist. Furthermore, if one desires the option to connect to multiple servers beyond just one, these 12 steps must be repeated for each server, compounding the complexity.

Ideally, it would be greatly beneficial if PrivateVPN dedicated the effort to include comprehensive Linux support. Even a CLI application akin to what ExpressVPN offers would be significantly more user-friendly. Notably, comparably priced VPN services, such as Surfshark, stand out for providing fully-featured Linux apps that mirror the ease of use of their Windows and Mac counterparts.

Amazon Firestick & Fire TV

PrivateVPN boasts an uncomplicated and user-friendly application specially tailored for Amazon Fire TV Stick, allowing seamless connectivity to 14 unblocked channels on our television. The process of switching server locations is also straightforward, albeit it would be more convenient to have a search feature for specific locations rather than manually scrolling through the extensive list of countries.

One notable aspect of the app’s interface is that it lacks optimization for Fire TV. Its current version is essentially an upscaled adaptation of the Android app, initially designed for touch-enabled devices, which leads to challenges in identifying the controlled settings at any given moment. The sole indicator of the selected setting is a subtle green-colored border surrounding the focused button.

To address this limitation, it is highly desirable for PrivateVPN to develop a custom app specifically catered to Fire TV. Some competitor VPNs, such as CyberGhost and Atlas VPN, have already implemented dedicated applications for Firesticks, thoughtfully designed to accommodate larger screens and significantly enhance user-friendliness. Emulating such an approach could greatly improve the overall experience for PrivateVPN users on Amazon Fire TV Stick.

PrivateVPN provides around-the-clock customer support via live chat and email to ensure users can receive assistance with any problems they face, including configuration, setup, or troubleshooting, regardless of the time of day or night.

Overall, there are several options available to you for getting help with basic queries about PrivateVPN, so you should be able to find the support you need regardless of your preferred method of communication.

Based on our review, we believe that PrivateVPN is worth the investment for users who value their online privacy and security. With its strong encryption, reliable performance, and ability to bypass geo-restrictions, PrivateVPN offers a comprehensive VPN solution for users looking to protect their online activity. Additionally, its user-friendly apps, wide range of device compatibility, and 24/7 customer support make it accessible and convenient for all users. While there are some areas where PrivateVPN could improve, such as its limited server network and lack of transparency regarding its ownership and audit, overall, we believe that PrivateVPN offers a high-quality VPN service that is worth considering for those in need of a VPN.