Kaidaira Miyahira Updated on Mar 31, 2025
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Try NowIf you're in the market for a safe, reliable VPN that doesn’t break the bank, IPVanish deserves a closer look. Known for its high-speed connections and advanced security features, IPVanish stands out as an accessible option for multiple use cases—from streaming to securing your personal data online. But does it live up to the hype?
Over the years, my experience with IPVanish has been overwhelmingly positive. It combines fast speeds, ease of use, and a robust server network, making it a versatile tool for enhancing online privacy. However, like any service, it has a few imperfections. Let's break it down to see where IPVanish shines and where it could improve.
Every VPN has its high points and areas for improvement. Here's where IPVanish impresses and where it stumbles:
What We Liked:
Where IPVanish Needs Improvement:
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When it comes to streaming, IPVanish exceeds expectations. Its optimized servers offer smooth streaming and short load times, ensuring uninterrupted access to your favorite platforms.
Works Perfectly With:
With platforms like Disney+, we streamed episodes of Grey’s Anatomy in HD without a single instance of buffering. On Hulu, load times rarely hit the 10-second mark, even when tested on various servers across the US.
Unfortunately, Amazon Prime Video is not compatible, as it detects the VPN. However, IPVanish still ranks as one of the best VPNs overall for streaming, thanks to its consistent quality across other services.
IPVanish is recognized for its fast speeds, particularly on nearby servers. Here’s what you can expect in terms of performance:
Ping is crucial for gaming as it reflects the latency between your actions and on-screen response. A ping under 100 ms is ideal for smooth gameplay. With IPVanish, we achieved excellent ping across Europe, with the UK server delivering a quick 31 ms for seamless interactions. Even with a New York server 3,200 miles away, we experienced a solid 96 ms ping, allowing us to enjoy fast-paced action in Brawlhalla on a macOS desktop without issues.
IPVanish’s network of 2,400+ servers spans the globe, covering regions often neglected by competitors, such as Africa and South America.
1.Military-Grade Encryption
IPVanish leverages AES 256-bit encryption, the gold standard in cybersecurity. This method ensures your data is shielded with a code so complex it would take even the most powerful supercomputers several lifetimes to crack. Additionally, IPVanish employs the SHA512 algorithm for authentication and a DHE-RSA 2048 key exchange to secure data further. This enforces perfect forward secrecy, meaning even if a hacker somehow got hold of a key, your data would still be useless to them.
2.Advanced Security Protocols
IPVanish offers an impressive variety of security protocols to suit your specific needs. Here's a breakdown:
If you're unsure which protocol to choose, the Automatic Protocol Setting comes in handy, selecting the best option for optimal performance automatically.
3.The Kill Switch
IPVanish’s kill switch is an essential safeguard, especially when using public WiFi. It halts all internet traffic if the VPN disconnects temporarily, preventing accidental exposure of your data. Available on most devices, including macOS, Windows, Android, and even Amazon Fire TVs, this feature is a standout for smart TV security. The kill switch’s accessibility is user-friendly, easily toggled on desktop or mobile settings.
4.Threat Protection Against Ads & Malware
Browsing safely is easier with IPVanish’s Threat Protection feature. This built-in blocker eliminates pop-up ads, trackers, and harmful content, ensuring you can enjoy a faster, cleaner web experience. Tests reveal it effectively blocks ads even on ad-heavy sites like Forbes and Daily Mail.
5.Leak Prevention
DNS and IP leaks aren't an issue with IPVanish. Whether you’re binge-streaming or working remotely, tests with tools like ipleak.net show that IPVanish reliably conceals your DNS requests and IP address, keeping your identity and browsing activity secure.
6.Double Hop VPN
For even greater security, IPVanish offers a double-hop feature, routing your traffic through two servers instead of one for twice the encryption. While this does slow down speeds significantly, it’s a helpful tool for those who prioritize privacy above all else.
IPVanish has made significant efforts to rebuild trust after a privacy scandal in 2016, during which user logs were handed over to authorities under previous ownership. Now independently audited by Leviathan Security Group, IPVanish’s no-logs policy ensures that it does not store data like DNS queries, browsing history, or timestamps. However, minimal, anonymized data is collected to improve service performance, but it’s not tied back to users.
One downside is IPVanish being based in the US, a member of the 14 Eyes Alliance. While this raises concerns about potential data requests, IPVanish’s updated transparency and privacy measures attempt to mitigate these worries.
Limitations
Despite its strengths, IPVanish has a couple of drawbacks worth noting:
IPVanish Cost and Customer Support
IPVanish provides competitive pricing, particularly with its yearly packages, making it a cost-effective choice compared to other premium VPNs. If you’re unsure whether it’s the right fit, IPVanish also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for annual plans. For support, IPVanish offers round-the-clock assistance, though its contact phone services are currently limited and may not work in all regions.
IPVanish is a standout VPN when it comes to P2P file-sharing because all its servers support torrenting. Here’s what makes it ideal for torrenting enthusiasts:
For safe torrenting, always activate the kill switch when it’s available. This ensures that your actual IP address doesn't get leaked if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly.
During tests conducted on IPVanish’s servers in the US, UK, and New Zealand, download speeds impressed us. For example, while downloading Night of the Living Dead (a public-domain film) on its London server, the 700MB file was ready in under a minute. This impressive speed underscores how IPVanish caters to performance-focused users.
However, there’s a small downside. IPVanish does not offer port forwarding, which might limit your ability to find additional seeders while torrenting. If this feature is a must for you, consider alternative tools.
Still, IPVanish comes with SOCKS5 Proxy, available in over 20 locations. This proxy, also configurable in BitTorrent clients, offers faster speeds since it bypasses encryption. Testing on a London server showed speeds boosted by 5% compared to the regular VPN connection. However, note that the SOCKS5 proxy lacks encryption, which slightly reduces security.
Efficiency Meets Ease of Use
Installing IPVanish is effortless, requiring no technical expertise. From account creation to connecting to a server, it’s intuitive. After signing up for a plan (check the latest IPVanish cost details on their website), simply download the app and start browsing safely in under 2 minutes. Here’s a quick setup guide:
If convenience tops your checklist, the app interface is modern and user-friendly, perfect for beginners and advanced users alike. Interactive maps and categorized server lists make it easy to find the best connections.
Compatibility Across Devices
IPVanish boasts compatibility with nearly any device you use. Native app support includes devices like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even streaming gadgets (like Fire TVs and Apple TVs). Standout features for different platforms include the following:
You can also get IPVanish running on gaming consoles or smart TVs by installing it on a compatible router. However, keep in mind IPVanish supports fewer router models compared to rivals on the market.
Unlimited Devices, Zero Restrictions
The ability for IPVanish to handle unlimited simultaneous device connections is a game-changer for larger households with varied tech. During testing, connecting multiple devices (like a Windows laptop, iPhone, and a smart TV) did not slow down streaming or downloads. This generous feature emphasizes its value for money compared to VPNs that limit connections to 5 or fewer devices.
IPVanish offers both Essential and Advanced plans, available on monthly, yearly, or 2-year terms. While all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, the best value comes from the longer subscription options, which include significant discounts.
The Advanced plans offer extra features like a cloud-based browser, cloud storage (1TB via Livedrive), file synchronization, and phone support. The Secure Browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge prevents viruses and tracking by running your browser on a secure server, with a video feed for interaction.
However, note that upon renewal, you'll pay a higher rate, so be aware of the terms. As of now, there’s nothing stopping you from resubscribing at the promotional price if you cancel and rejoin.
Payment options include credit/debit cards, PayPal, and Google Pay. Unfortunately, cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin) isn’t supported, so anonymous payments aren't possible.
The 30-day money-back guarantee is genuinely hassle-free. You don’t need to talk to customer service—just cancel through your account, and you’ll receive a refund, usually within 4 days.
IPVanish has a surprisingly efficient AI chatbot that can instantly answer a wide range of questions, including technical queries about features like perfect forward secrecy and RAM-only servers. Human agents are also available, though they can be harder to find. Support options include live chat, email, and phone.
Phone Support is particularly unique—available in six countries (the US, UK, Australia, Spain, Mexico, and Brazil) during business hours (9 AM - 5 PM local time, Monday to Friday).
The Bottom Line
IPVanish provides robust security, fast speeds, and unlimited device connections. It’s an excellent option for streaming and torrenting, offering a large private server network and solid protection for your online privacy. Customer support is reliable and accessible in multiple languages, including phone support in six countries.
While concerns about its US base and past compliance with the FBI have been raised, IPVanish has updated its privacy policies and undergone third-party audits to verify its trustworthiness.
In summary, IPVanish is an easy-to-use VPN with great performance and customer service. Plus, with its money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free for 30 days.
Pros:
Yes, IPVanish is a safe and reliable VPN service that focuses on protecting your privacy and security. With top-notch features like AES-256 encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch, you can trust that your online activity is well-guarded. IPVanish also enforces a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t store or monitor your browsing history, connection timestamps, or other sensitive information.
That said, some concerns stem from IPVanish being headquartered in the US, part of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. Additionally, a controversy in 2016 involved the company handing over user data to law enforcement. However, its privacy policy has since been revised multiple times, and its no-logs policy was independently audited in 2022. This audit confirmed that IPVanish does not collect or retain personally identifiable information, solidifying its reputation for reliability.
If you're wondering about the IPVanish review on Reddit, the feedback from long-term users is overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciate its fast speeds, reliability, and competitive pricing compared to other premium VPN services. Redditors also praise IPVanish’s customer service for being responsive and effective, while the money-back guarantee is commended for hassle-free refunds. These factors make IPVanish a favorite among budget-conscious users who value efficiency and transparency.
Both IPVanish and NordVPN offer excellent performance, secure encryption, and reliable connection speeds. However, NordVPN has the upper hand in a few areas. For instance, NordVPN boasts more servers, accepts cryptocurrency for enhanced privacy, and is based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance, giving it a slight edge in terms of anonymity.
That said, IPVanish shines with consistent connection reliability and affordability. It also delivers core features like a kill switch, no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection. Depending on your priorities, IPVanish may be the ideal choice for those seeking stable connections and good value. Curious for more details? Check out our full comparison for an in-depth analysis.
While IPVanish doesn’t offer a permanent free version, it does provide a 7-day free trial for iOS and Android users on annual plans. Additionally, you can try the service risk-free using their 30-day money-back guarantee, available on annual or 2-year plans. This lets you explore all the features and claim a full refund if you’re not satisfied, no questions asked.
To get your money back, you simply:
Keep in mind, this guarantee is limited to annual or multi-year subscriptions, so there’s an upfront cost required to activate the offer.
If you need help, IPVanish contact phone options and support are readily available. Their customer service team is known for being efficient and friendly. For assistance, check out their official support page via TrustedVPN or reach out to their team directly.
IPVanish is budget-friendly, offering plans tailored to meet various needs. Pricing varies based on subscription length, with better deals available for longer commitments. Make sure to visit their website for the latest offers and promotions.
As a senior editor, Kaidaira Miyahira conducts in-depth research and data analysis on VPNs, working closely with writers to produce comprehensive reviews and guides on the best VPNs for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing. With a strong background in online security, Kaidaira provides readers with expert insights into protecting their digital privacy and avoiding cyber threats. Passionate about internet freedom, Kaidaira has authored numerous articles offering practical strategies for enhancing security and maintaining anonymity online.