I wanted to find out how good VPNArea is, so I tested it for a few weeks.
VPNArea is great for watching shows and downloading stuff. It has special servers that let me access Netflix and Amazon Prime (but not Disney+ and Hulu).
It also lets me torrent on any server and works with popular torrenting apps. I also like how VPNArea keeps my data safe with basic security features, blocks ads, and has apps that are easy to install and use.
But it doesn’t have some of the advanced security features that I look for in a VPN, like split tunneling. And it slows down my connection when I use servers that are far away.
Plus, its kill switch feature only works on Windows, and I wish VPNArea would prove its no-logs policy with an external audit.
So, VPNArea is a pretty good VPN, but it’s not as good as the best VPNs like ExpressVPN or Private Internet Access — they have more security features, faster speeds on all servers, and work with all the streaming apps.
Anyway, the results from my research and testing are not bad, and I will walk you through everything you need to know about this VPN network. Read on to learn more.
About VPNArea
VPNArea is an experienced VPN company established in Bulgaria in 2012. The company, headquartered in Europe, specializes in offering you quality protection of your digital life and making sure that you remain incognito when online.
VPNArea has a vast server network spread across more than 65 countries, including more than 100 servers that offer an all-rounded experience to its users. The company sticks to a strict no-logs policy that guarantees that your online actions remain your concern only, consequently boosting its reputation for reliability and performance.
Living in an era that values online privacy, VPNArea comes through as a reliable brand for diverse consumers ranging from those who need secure connections in their work-from-home settings to others who require access to geo-restricted content.
Pros and Cons
During my findings, I discovered some good and not-so-good things about this VPN service. I would share with you some of their weaknesses and strengths to enable you to decide if they are the right service for your unique needs.
Here are the pros and cons of VPNArea.
Pros
- Strict No-Logs Policy: VPNArea operates under a strict no-logs policy, which means they don’t record or store your online activities. Your browsing history remains your private affair, offering peace of mind for privacy-conscious users.
- Robust Security: VPNArea prioritizes your online safety with high-level encryption protocols, shielding your data from potential threats and eavesdroppers. You can always rely on their advanced security system to keep your personal data safe and protected.
- Dedicated IP Addresses: For specific servers, VPNArea offers the option of having a dedicated IP address. This can be particularly advantageous for users who need a consistent and recognizable IP for various online activities.
- Server Variety: With a network of 100+ servers across 65 countries, you can easily bypass geo-restrictions and access content from anywhere in the world. This variety ensures that you’ll always find a server suitable for your needs.
- Ad-Block: I so much love VPNArea’s ad-blocking feature. This feature will ensure you are not harassed by unwanted ads when surfing the web. This ensures a smooth browsing experience without frequent interruptions.
- Supports P2P and BitTorrent: Another thing I like about this VPN service is that it supports various torrenting platforms, including BitTorrent. In addition, it allows P2P, meaning you can send files to others securely.
- Strong Speed: VPNArea is not the fastest VPN service I’ve used, but its speed is impeccable. You can use it to stream your favorite TV shows and movies without buffering. The speed is comparatively strong, and you can rely on it for most of your online activities.
Cons
- Expensive Long-Term Plans: While VPNArea provides an excellent service, its long-term subscription plans can be relatively expensive compared to some competitors. However, the quality of service often justifies the cost for many users.
- Confusing Interface: Another downside of this VPN company is its user interface. The interface is a bit confusing, especially for newbies.
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What Are the Features that Make VPNArea Stand Out?
VPNArea stands out in the VPN market by offering an impressive array of features designed to enhance your online experience and security. Here’s a closer look at what sets VPNArea apart:
1. 256-Bit AES Encryption
VPNArea takes data security to the utmost level by employing 256-bit AES encryption, a cryptographic standard renowned for its impenetrable strength.
This level of encryption is akin to the gold standard used by financial institutions and government agencies worldwide, ensuring that user information remains shielded from prying eyes, hackers, and cyber threats.
In essence, when you connect to VPNArea’s network, your data undergoes a rigorous transformation process, rendering it virtually unreadable to anyone without the proper decryption key.
This high-level security measure acts as a robust safeguard against potential breaches, offering users peace of mind and confidence in the protection of their sensitive data.
2. No-Logs Policy
VPNArea prioritizes your privacy above all else, which is why the service abstains from any data collection regarding the websites you visit or the files you download.
In essence, when you utilize VPNArea’s secure network, your online activities are shielded from prying eyes, including the VPN provider itself. This commitment to non-intrusive privacy practices ensures that your digital footprint remains exclusively your own.
This means that your web browsing habits, the content you access, and the files you choose to download are kept in the strictest confidence, eliminating any concerns about surveillance or data tracking.
This unwavering dedication to data privacy underscores VPNArea’s mission to provide users with a trustworthy and private online experience.
3. Kill Switch
In the event that your connection to a VPN server unexpectedly drops, VPNArea has you covered with a remarkable feature known as a kill switch.
Specifically available for Windows users, this feature operates as a fail-safe mechanism, ensuring that your internet connection is promptly terminated to prevent any potential data leaks or exposure.
Imagine you’re in the middle of a critical online activity, and your VPN connection encounters a hiccup, momentarily disconnecting. This is where VPNArea’s kill switch comes into play, swiftly stepping in to safeguard your data.
It acts as a digital sentry, immediately cutting off your internet access to thwart any unauthorized access or surveillance during the brief disconnection, guaranteeing your online privacy and security even in the face of unexpected interruptions.
4. Ad and Malware Blocker
VPNArea goes the extra mile to enhance your online experience by incorporating a feature that not only obstructs intrusive advertisements but also acts as a shield against malicious websites. I recently conducted some tests to evaluate its performance, and the results were impressive.
During my testing, I intentionally visited ad-heavy news websites to see how VPNArea’s ad blocker performed.
To my satisfaction, it successfully blocked the majority of the ads, resulting in quicker page loading times. This not only minimizes distractions but also conserves bandwidth, delivering a smoother and more efficient browsing experience.
What’s more, VPNArea proved to be a reliable guardian against potentially harmful websites. In my experiments, it managed to block a remarkable 80% of the fake malware sites I ventured onto, ensuring that I remained safe from potential cybersecurity threats.
It’s worth noting that while VPNArea’s ad blocker is highly effective, some competitors like Private Internet Access and ProtonVPN have achieved a perfect 100% block rate against malware sites in my tests. This information helps you make an informed choice when considering your VPN service options.
5. Stealth VPN/Stunnel
VPNArea takes an innovative approach to circumventing internet censorship in countries where online content is restricted.
They employ specialized servers running the Stunnel proxy, a sophisticated program designed to obfuscate your internet traffic and maintain the secrecy of your VPN usage, effectively bypassing stringent firewalls.
This feature is particularly valuable for individuals facing internet censorship and restrictions in their region.
VPNArea’s Stunnel servers are strategically placed in various locations, including Australia, Canada, Denmark, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, and the United States.
These strategically distributed servers enable users to select the location that best suits their needs for bypassing censorship and accessing the open internet.
It’s interesting to note that the Stunnel proxy bears a strong resemblance to the Shadowsocks proxy offered by Private Internet Access. Both these technologies are engineered to provide users with the means to access unrestricted online content and services, even in the face of the most formidable online barriers.
This diversity in proxy options demonstrates VPNArea’s dedication to offering versatile solutions for its users, ensuring a seamless and secure internet experience.
6. Double VPN
VPNArea’s double VPN feature enhances your online security and privacy by routing your connection through not just one but two servers in tandem. This double VPN, or multi-hop, functionality adds an extra layer of protection to your data, ensuring that it undergoes a more complex routing process.
However, it’s important to note that as of now, VPNArea provides only one double VPN server in its network, which routes your traffic through Germany and ultimately exits through the Netherlands.
The double VPN server is undoubtedly a valuable asset, offering an extra level of security and anonymity for users concerned about their online privacy.
By passing through two different countries, it becomes more challenging for any entity to trace back your online activities to your real location. This feature aligns well with VPNArea’s commitment to bolstering data protection.
While the existing double VPN server is a commendable addition, it’s understandable that you may wish for more options in terms of the countries you can route through.
Having a broader selection of countries could provide even greater flexibility and tailoring of your VPN connection to your specific needs. VPNArea might consider expanding this feature to cater to the diverse requirements of its user base in the future.
7. Money-Back Guarantee
VPNArea places great emphasis on customer satisfaction and confidence, which is why they proudly offer a 30-day money-back guarantee across all their subscription plans. This essentially means that you can explore the benefits of VPNArea with absolutely no risk involved.
Should you decide that the service doesn’t align with your expectations or requirements within the initial 30 days of your subscription, VPNArea ensures a hassle-free refund process, thereby providing peace of mind and a risk-free trial period for potential customers. So, there’s nothing to lose and everything to gain when you choose to try VPNArea.
How Much Does VPNArea Cost?
VPNArea offers users the flexibility of choosing between monthly and yearly subscription plans, accommodating various preferences and requirements. A standout feature of VPNArea’s plans is that they all allow for an impressive 8 simultaneous connections, surpassing the industry standard of 5-7 connections. Furthermore, VPNArea breaks the mold by permitting account sharing, a rarity in the VPN realm where most providers typically prohibit this practice.
In terms of pricing, VPNArea remains competitive in the VPN market, with plans commencing at a budget-friendly rate of $3.21 per month for a two-year contract. This affordability, combined with the advantageous allowance for multiple simultaneous connections, enhances the overall value proposition for potential users.
- One Month Plan: Priced at $9.90 per month, this option provides flexibility for short-term VPN usage without a long-term commitment.
- Yearly Plan: Offering substantial savings at $4.13 per month, the yearly plan allows users to secure VPN services for an entire year at a reduced monthly cost.
- 24-Month Plan: The most budget-friendly choice, the 24-month plan comes in at just $3.21 per month, giving users extended access to VPNArea’s feature-rich VPN services.
However, it’s important to note that while VPNArea delivers reasonable pricing, it may not provide the same level of value as certain top-tier VPNs like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost VPN. These competitors excel in areas such as enhanced security, robust streaming support, faster connection speeds, and a more extensive server network.
When it comes to payment options, VPNArea offers a variety of choices, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, WebMoney, Alipay, and even cryptocurrency, catering to diverse preferences and ensuring a convenient subscription process. Additionally, all VPNArea plans have the added assurance of a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing customers to explore the service with peace of mind and a risk-free trial.
VPNArea’s Logging and Privacy
VPNArea takes a robust stance on user privacy, as prominently highlighted on their website and elaborated upon in their comprehensive privacy policy. They proudly proclaim their commitment to not monitoring, recording, or storing logs related to any individual customer’s VPN activity.
This extends to refraining from tracking login dates, timestamps, incoming and outgoing IP addresses, bandwidth statistics, or any other identifiable data of their VPN users utilizing their servers. Additionally, VPNArea emphasizes that they do not log or track any DNS requests sent to their DNS servers.
This privacy policy appears highly reassuring, and it reflects the right steps toward protecting user data and online anonymity. However, it’s important to note that, as of now, VPNArea has not undergone a public privacy or security audit, which would provide independent verification of these claims.
VPNArea’s stance on the disclosure of personal information is also noteworthy. While many other VPN providers state that they would hand over user data if they believe it to be legally required, VPNArea has a stringent policy in place.
They pledge to cooperate only upon receiving a court order and express their intent to “fight every legal request for compliance with the law.” It’s noteworthy that, as of the current status, VPNArea has not reported any such requests, which indicates a strong commitment to user privacy.
Furthermore, VPNArea stands out in the VPN industry by permitting account sharing with friends, family, or colleagues, a practice explicitly forbidden by most other providers.
They do recommend that no more than two users connect simultaneously, and while this doesn’t imply unrestricted torrenting or continuous heavy usage for both, it still provides a level of flexibility not commonly found in the industry.
While VPNArea’s privacy policy and practices are promising, the absence of an independent audit does leave some room for uncertainty.
Nonetheless, their user-friendly approach to sharing accounts and the stringent criteria for complying with legal requests underline their commitment to maintaining user privacy and security.
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VPNArea’s Performance
During the performance tests I conducted on VPNArea, the results were predominantly positive. Connections originating and terminating within the UK exhibited consistency, albeit with some variations, delivering speeds ranging from 45 to 65 Mbps on a 75 Mbps test line.
When extending the test to include UK-to-US connections, there was a slight drop in speed to 35-40 Mbps, which remains acceptable for most online activities.
Impressively, even when intentionally selecting a server with the highest latency and maximum load, such as Sydney, Australia, VPNArea continued to maintain a respectable 4-5 Mbps connection.
However, it’s worth noting that the connection times to VPNArea servers occasionally proved to be on the longer side, ranging from 15 to 20 seconds.
Moreover, there were instances where certain servers failed to establish a connection, which can be understandably frustrating, especially when the objective is prompt internet access. Regrettably, this issue appears to persist, as it was observed during the most recent review.
Despite these minor performance setbacks, the evaluation moved on to privacy tests, where VPNArea performed notably well.
The VPN service consistently protected the user’s identity by successfully blocking DNS and WebRTC leaks without necessitating any additional user intervention. This robust privacy protection underlines VPNArea’s commitment to safeguarding user data and online anonymity.
Does VPNArea Have Leak Protection?
Even the most robust encryption can’t offer complete protection if there’s a possibility of data leakage. The good news is that VPNArea takes this potential risk seriously and offers effective measures to prevent IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leaks.
In the desktop application, these protective features are enabled by default, reinforcing your online security.
Moreover, VPNArea goes the extra mile by providing an additional layer of security controls for its domain name system (DNS) servers. This ensures that your DNS requests are handled with the utmost confidentiality, adding to the overall privacy and security of your VPN experience.
One particularly noteworthy feature is the automatic internet access cutoff in the event of a VPN connection drop. While this feature can be enabled or disabled in the desktop client, it’s essential to be aware that it’s turned off by default.
Nonetheless, it acts as a fail-safe mechanism, swiftly disconnecting your internet access if your VPN connection falters, thus preventing any data from escaping the secure tunnel.
This precautionary measure is another example of VPNArea’s dedication to safeguarding user data and maintaining the integrity of its VPN service.
Is VPNArea Easy to Use?
Using the VPNArea desktop application is generally a straightforward and user-friendly experience, although there are a few minor issues to be aware of.
The program neatly organizes its various server types, including VPN servers, streaming servers, and torrenting servers, all conveniently located under their respective tabs within the VPNArea configuration file.
What’s particularly helpful is the extensive set of criteria you can employ to search for and filter servers, making it easier to find the perfect match for your needs.
You can consider factors like the proximity of the server to your location, channel speed, P2P sharing capabilities, streaming efficiency, and server load.
These filters allow for a highly customized and efficient server selection process, ensuring you get the most out of your VPN experience.
VPNArea takes pride in making it effortless to activate or deactivate various VPN features. Even if you’re confident in your abilities, there are small contextual sections available as quick walkthroughs, serving as handy guides in case you need any clarification.
However, it’s worth noting that VPNArea does not currently support any browser add-ons, which may be an area they should consider addressing in the future.
Nonetheless, the user experience across all platforms, including desktop and mobile applications, remains excellent, reinforcing VPNArea’s commitment to providing a user-friendly interface and seamless navigation.
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How Reliable Is VPNArea’s Security?
VPNArea places a paramount focus on ensuring top-tier security for its users, recognizing the critical importance of safeguarding sensitive data. To accomplish this, they employ a robust combination of technologies and features to fortify their security framework.
The primary protocol utilized by VPNArea is OpenVPN, which is renowned for its many advantages.
To bolster data protection, they implement SSL encryption, known for its exceptional resilience and superior algorithm compared to standard encryption methods. This feature acts as a formidable shield against DNS leaks and various forms of network exposure, ensuring the utmost confidentiality of user data.
In the event of VPN connection issues, VPNArea incorporates a kill switch into its service, effectively halting any data transmission to prevent inadvertent exposure. Furthermore, an option for a permanent connection ensures that users remain connected to the internet at all times, adding an extra layer of convenience and continuity to their online experience.
VPNArea’s security arsenal includes military-grade 256-bit encryption, the same caliber of encryption trusted by major nations to protect their most sensitive data. This level of encryption serves as the bedrock of VPNArea’s security measures.
Stealth mode servers within VPNArea employ Stunnel technology to encrypt HTTPS communication, a feature particularly beneficial for users in regions with internet censorship, such as China. This enables access to censored content and school networks while maintaining privacy.
For an added layer of defense, VPNArea introduces DoubleVPN, a unique feature that routes user data through not one but two servers, effectively doubling their protection. Users have the flexibility to activate ad and antivirus protection via a simple toggle within the settings menu.
Moreover, VPNArea empowers desktop users with an auto IP switcher feature, offering control over the frequency at which their IP address changes. This level of customization enhances user privacy and security by making it more challenging for online entities to trace their online activities.
How Reliable Is VPNArea’s Customer Support
VPNArea provides a decent level of customer support, offering several avenues for assistance and information to cater to user needs. These support channels include email support, 24/7 live chat, a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, and a knowledgebase for addressing general troubleshooting queries.
In testing VPNArea’s email support, inquiries sent at various times of the day consistently garnered informative responses within a reasonable timeframe, typically ranging from 3 to 5 hours. This level of responsiveness is commendable and contributes to a positive user experience.
While VPNArea does offer 24/7 live chat support, it’s worth noting that their chat representatives may not possess in-depth knowledge of more technical aspects. In situations requiring more specialized information, such as inquiries about double VPN servers, users may find that their queries are escalated to a support ticket.
However, this approach ensures that users ultimately receive comprehensive and accurate responses, albeit with a slightly longer response time.
The FAQ page primarily addresses fundamental questions about VPNArea, including device compatibility, serving as a helpful resource for users seeking basic information.
On the other hand, the knowledgebase is a more extensive repository of information, covering topics like dedicated IPs, VPNArea’s native apps, and troubleshooting guides, among others. It’s important to note that some of the support articles in the knowledgebase are accessible only to paid subscribers.
One aspect worth highlighting is that some VPN providers, such as ExpressVPN and CyberGhost VPN, make all support and information pages readily available to users even before they make a purchase decision, offering a more accessible support experience.
Torrenting – Safe and Fast
VPNArea goes the extra mile to cater to the needs of torrenting enthusiasts by offering a substantial number of dedicated P2P servers. These servers are specifically optimized for torrenting, boasting high bandwidth and ensuring fast and hassle-free downloading experiences.
VPNArea emphasizes that for the best performance when torrenting, users should connect to the servers marked ‘P2P’ within their application. These P2P servers are a testament to the network’s commitment to delivering top-tier torrenting capabilities.
One particularly attractive aspect of VPNArea’s torrenting support is the absence of restrictions on torrent traffic, a common limitation imposed by many VPN providers. This means that users can enjoy unrestricted and secure torrenting experiences bolstered by VPNArea’s no-log policy and its jurisdiction in Bulgaria.
These factors collectively make VPNArea an excellent choice for individuals seeking a VPN service tailored for torrenting, ensuring privacy, speed, and reliability while engaging in file-sharing activities.
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Server Locations
VPNArea’s server network is truly extensive, spanning 55 countries worldwide. This broad geographical coverage offers users a remarkable variety of server options, ensuring they can find a server that perfectly suits their needs.
VPNArea’s commitment to delivering an all-encompassing VPN experience is evident in its provision of dedicated servers for streaming and bypassing censorship. These specialized servers cater to users seeking seamless access to streaming content and the ability to navigate internet restrictions with ease.
The coverage in major regions, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia, is notably comprehensive, reaffirming VPNArea’s commitment to providing reliable and diverse server options in key global locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What devices are VPNArea compatible with?
VPNArea is compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even routers. You can secure your online activities on most of your favorite devices.
Can I use VPNArea with streaming services like Netflix?
Absolutely! VPNArea has specialized servers optimized for streaming. It works seamlessly with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, allowing you to access geo-restricted content from around the world without any hassle.
How strong is the encryption used by VPNArea?
VPNArea employs top-of-the-line AES-256 encryption, the same level of security used by military and government agencies. Your data and online activities are protected with the strongest encryption available, ensuring your privacy and security.
Can I use VPNArea for P2P file sharing and torrenting?
Yes, VPNArea supports P2P file sharing and torrenting on specific servers. You can enjoy high-speed and secure downloading while maintaining your anonymity. Check the list of servers optimized for this purpose.
Final Thoughts
VPNArea is your trusty companion for secure, private, and unrestricted internet access. With impressive features, solid security, and a global server network, it’s a top-tier choice for those who value their online privacy. While it may not be the cheapest option, the level of service and support you receive make it worth every penny. So, if you’re ready to take control of your online world, give VPNArea a spin; you won’t be disappointed.
