Surfshark VPN Review 2024: Best for Privacy, Speed & Security

Surfshark VPN

Pricing and Plans

Surfshark offers flexible pricing options to suit different budgets and needs, making it an affordable choice for users who want to protect their online privacy. With three main subscription plans, Surfshark ensures that everyone can access its high-quality service without breaking the bank.

Surfshark VPN Pricing Plans

1. Monthly Plan:
   The monthly plan offers flexibility with a straightforward pricing model. It is ideal for users who need a VPN on a short-term basis or are unsure about committing to a longer plan. However, at this rate, it is the most expensive option.
2. 24-Month Plan (Best Value):
   Surfshark’s most popular option is the 24-month plan. It provides the best value for money by offering a significantly lower monthly cost when you commit for two years. This plan includes all of Surfshark’s premium features, making it the most cost-effective long-term choice.
3. 12-Month Plan:
   The 12-month plan is a balanced option, offering a middle ground between the monthly plan and the two-year plan. It comes at a reduced rate compared to the month-to-month option but doesn’t provide as much savings as the 24-month plan.

Surfshark Discounts and Promotions

• Free Trial:
  Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial for mobile users (iOS and Android), allowing you to try the service risk-free before deciding to subscribe.
• Money-Back Guarantee:
  All Surfshark plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try the service without worry, and if you’re not satisfied, you can request a full refund within the first 30 days.
• Seasonal Discounts:
  Surfshark frequently offers special deals, including Black Friday or holiday discounts, so be on the lookout for promotions that offer even deeper savings on their plans.

Device Compatibility

Surfshark offers broad compatibility across a wide range of devices, ensuring that users can secure their online activities on virtually any platform. Whether you’re using a desktop computer, smartphone, or even a smart TV, Surfshark has you covered. This flexibility allows you to protect all your devices with a single subscription, making it ideal for households or small businesses that need to secure multiple devices simultaneously.

Supported Devices

1. Windows – Surfshark provides a dedicated app for Windows PCs, offering a seamless setup process and an easy-to-navigate interface.
2. macOS – Whether you’re using a MacBook or a Mac desktop, the Surfshark app is designed for smooth operation on macOS devices.
3. Android – Surfshark has a mobile app available for Android smartphones and tablets, ensuring you can protect your online activity while on the go.
4. iOS – iPhone and iPad users can download the Surfshark app from the App Store and enjoy secure browsing without any hassle.
5. Linux – For those who prefer open-source software, Surfshark supports Linux with a simple installation process, making it accessible for more technical users.
6. Smart TVs & Streaming Devices – Surfshark is compatible with popular smart TVs, including Samsung, LG, and Android TV. It also works with streaming devices like Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, and Roku, making it easy to access geo-blocked content from your TV.
7. Gaming Consoles – You can use Surfshark on PlayStation and Xbox consoles via router configurations, ensuring your gaming experience is private and secure.
8. Browsers – Surfshark offers extensions for the most popular web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, providing easy VPN access right from your browser.

Speed and Performance

When it comes to choosing a VPN, speed and performance are two of the most important factors. Surfshark stands out in this area, providing users with fast, reliable connections that won’t interrupt their online activities. Whether you’re streaming high-definition content, gaming online, or simply browsing the web, Surfshark ensures a smooth and seamless experience without noticeable slowdowns.

Fast Connection Speeds

Surfshark operates a large network of servers spread across more than 100 countries, which means users can connect to servers that are geographically close to them for better speed. Typically, the closer the server, the faster the connection. Surfshark’s servers are optimized for performance, helping to maintain high speeds even when connecting to servers far away.

Although a VPN will always introduce some level of latency due to the encryption and routing of your data through remote servers, Surfshark minimizes this effect by using next-gen technologies and high-performance hardware. This ensures that your connection speed stays relatively unaffected, even when using servers in distant locations.

Streaming and Gaming Performance

If you’re someone who enjoys streaming content or playing online games, Surfshark has you covered. When it comes to streaming, Surfshark performs exceptionally well, allowing users to access region-locked content on platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more, without buffering or lag. The VPN’s high-speed servers ensure that you can enjoy uninterrupted streaming in HD or even 4K quality.

For online gaming, Surfshark also delivers excellent performance. It’s designed to reduce ping times and lag, which is especially important for gamers who need fast and responsive connections. Surfshark’s dedicated P2P servers are optimized for peer-to-peer file sharing, ensuring that your gaming experience is as smooth as possible.

Unlimited Bandwidth

One of the standout features of Surfshark is its unlimited bandwidth. Many VPNs impose limits on how much data you can use or restrict speeds after a certain threshold, but with Surfshark, there are no such restrictions. You can download, stream, and browse as much as you want without worrying about hitting data caps or throttling.

MultiHop and No-Logs Policy

For users who require extra security, Surfshark offers the MultiHop feature, which routes your connection through two different servers in different countries. While this does slightly reduce speed due to the extra encryption layer, it significantly boosts your privacy. Even with MultiHop enabled, the speed remains competitive, making it a solid option for those who prioritize security without sacrificing too much performance.

Additionally, Surfshark’s no-logs policy ensures that your data is not stored or monitored, giving you peace of mind while maintaining excellent performance. Because no personal data is retained, there’s no risk of slowdowns related to tracking or logging your activities.

Security Features

Surfshark is built with security at its core, ensuring that your online activities remain private, safe, and protected from prying eyes. Whether you’re browsing, streaming, or engaging in more sensitive tasks, Surfshark provides a wide array of security features that help keep your data safe. Here’s an overview of the key security features that make Surfshark one of the best VPN options for protecting your online presence.

1. AES-256 Encryption

At the heart of Surfshark’s security is AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard and widely regarded as unbreakable. This encryption ensures that all your internet traffic is scrambled and unreadable to anyone who might try to intercept it, whether it’s hackers, government agencies, or third-party trackers. This level of encryption is the same used by governments and financial institutions worldwide to safeguard sensitive data.

2. Kill Switch

One of the most crucial features for maintaining privacy while using a VPN is the kill switch. If your connection to the Surfshark VPN server unexpectedly drops, the kill switch automatically disconnects you from the internet, preventing your data from being exposed to the public network. This ensures that even in the event of an unstable connection, your personal information remains protected at all times.

3. No-Logs Policy

Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, which means it does not collect, store, or track any of your online activity. This ensures that there is no data for third parties to access, even if they were to request it. Surfshark operates out of the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no data retention laws, further ensuring your data is never logged or shared.

4. DNS and IP Leak Protection

Surfshark also includes DNS and IP leak protection, ensuring that your real IP address and DNS queries are never exposed while using the VPN. Sometimes, due to technical issues, VPNs can leak your true location or IP address, but Surfshark ensures that these leaks do not occur, maintaining your anonymity online.

5. MultiHop

For users seeking additional layers of privacy, Surfshark offers MultiHop, a feature that routes your internet connection through two separate servers located in different countries. This feature masks your true location more effectively by adding an extra layer of encryption. Even though MultiHop may slightly impact your speed, it greatly increases your privacy by making it more difficult for anyone to trace your activities back to you.

6. Camouflage Mode

Camouflage Mode is a unique feature offered by Surfshark that hides the fact that you’re using a VPN. This is especially useful in countries with strict censorship or where VPN usage is monitored or restricted. With Camouflage Mode enabled, your internet traffic appears as normal, and it becomes harder for anyone to detect that you’re using a VPN to access content or protect your data.

7. CleanWeb

To further enhance security, Surfshark includes CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts while you’re online. This not only improves your browsing experience by removing unwanted distractions but also keeps you safe from malicious websites and harmful content. It ensures that you only visit legitimate, trusted sites while blocking potentially harmful content.

8. Whitelister (Split Tunneling)

Whitelister is a split tunneling feature that allows you to bypass the VPN on specific apps or websites. For example, if you want your banking app to use your local IP address while routing everything else through Surfshark, you can do so with this feature. This provides added flexibility, ensuring you have the security benefits of the VPN when needed while allowing certain applications to function without the VPN interference.

Dedicated IP address

This feature was not included in our subscription, but it is available as an optional add-on for an extra $3.75 per month. While it may seem a bit expensive, it could be something you find useful.

Additionally, VPN IP addresses are shared among users. If you and another person connect to the same server, you may end up sharing the same IP address. For most users, this isn’t an issue, but it can lead to minor inconveniences. For example, if Google detects multiple users accessing its services from the same IP, it may prompt them to solve a CAPTCHA before proceeding. In some cases, websites, including Google, could even blacklist a shared IP address.

A dedicated IP address resolves this problem. By subscribing to this add-on, Surfshark will assign you a unique IP address that only you will use. You can choose an IP address from the U.S., U.K., or Netherlands, and with your own dedicated IP, you no longer need to worry about the risk of IP blacklisting.As mentioned earlier, using a VPN typically changes your IP address to that of the VPN server, and you won’t have control over which specific IP address is assigned to you. Each time you connect, the IP address will change, and this is known as a dynamic IP address.

9. Secure Protocols

Surfshark supports a variety of secure VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec. These protocols determine how your data is encrypted and sent to the server. WireGuard, in particular, is known for being both secure and fast, making it a great option for users who prioritize speed without compromising security.

Streaming Capabilities

One of the main reasons people use a VPN like Surfshark is to access geo-restricted content from streaming services. With Surfshark, you can easily unlock a wide range of global streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. Whether you want to watch a show that’s available in another country or bypass censorship, Surfshark provides excellent streaming capabilities that enhance your viewing experience.

Access to Popular Streaming Services

Surfshark is highly effective at unblocking content from popular streaming platforms. Some of the most widely-used services that Surfshark can access include:

• Netflix – Surfshark allows you to bypass region locks on Netflix and access content libraries from other countries, such as the U.S., the UK, Canada, and many others. Whether you want to watch the latest U.S. releases or explore the selection in other countries, Surfshark helps you access them seamlessly.
• Hulu – Hulu is typically restricted to users in the U.S., but with Surfshark, you can connect to a U.S. server and enjoy Hulu’s content, including exclusive shows and movies.
• BBC iPlayer – Surfshark also excels at unblocking BBC iPlayer. If you’re located outside the UK, Surfshark allows you to virtually enter the UK and access the full library of British television and movies available on iPlayer.
• Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and more – Surfshark can unblock a variety of other streaming services, including Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, Peacock, and others, ensuring you can enjoy all your favorite shows and movies, no matter where you are.

No Buffering and High-Quality Streaming

When it comes to streaming, Surfshark delivers excellent performance. The VPN maintains high-speed connections, even when accessing servers in different countries, ensuring smooth, buffer-free streaming. With Surfshark, you can watch content in HD, 4K, or even higher resolutions without experiencing significant lag or interruptions. This makes it an ideal choice for people who value high-quality video streaming without compromising speed.

Streaming on Multiple Devices

Surfshark works on a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming boxes (such as Roku and Amazon Fire TV), gaming consoles, and mobile devices. This flexibility allows you to enjoy streaming on your preferred device while maintaining your privacy. Whether you’re watching on your smart TV, tablet, or laptop, Surfshark ensures your connection stays secure, and you can access your favorite content from any location.

No Bandwidth or Data Caps

Unlike some VPN providers that throttle your speed after a certain amount of data usage, Surfshark offers unlimited bandwidth, meaning you can stream as much as you want without worrying about hitting data limits. This makes Surfshark a great option for heavy streamers who enjoy watching movies, TV shows, and live sports regularly.

Streaming Speed with MultiHop

For users who prioritize privacy and want to access geo-restricted content securely, Surfshark offers MultiHop. Although this feature routes your connection through two servers, adding an extra layer of encryption, Surfshark ensures that streaming quality remains high. This makes it a viable option for those who want maximum security while watching content from different countries.

Customer Support

Surfshark offers robust customer support to ensure that users have a seamless experience and can quickly resolve any issues they may encounter. Whether you need assistance with setting up the VPN, troubleshooting connection problems, or understanding how to use advanced features, Surfshark has multiple support channels available to help you out.

24/7 Live Chat

One of the standout features of Surfshark‘s customer support is its 24/7 live chat service. No matter what time of day or night it is, you can get in touch with a Surfshark representative instantly through the live chat feature on their website or app. This service is especially valuable for users who need immediate assistance, as you don’t have to wait long for a response. The support team is generally quick, professional, and equipped to resolve a wide range of issues, from basic setup questions to more complex troubleshooting.

Email Support

If you prefer not to use live chat or need a more detailed response, Surfshark also offers email support. The email support team is responsive and can handle more intricate inquiries that require written explanations or follow-up. Typically, Surfshark responds to email queries within a few hours, but it may take slightly longer during high-demand periods.

Knowledge Base & FAQs

For users who prefer to find solutions on their own, Surfshark provides an extensive knowledge base and FAQs section. This resource covers a wide variety of topics, including setup guides, troubleshooting steps, and tips for using specific features of the VPN. The knowledge base is well-organized, making it easy to search for solutions to common issues. It’s an excellent first stop for users who want to resolve issues without needing to contact support directly.

Step-by-Step Setup Guides

Surfshark offers step-by-step guides for setting up the VPN on different devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, smart TVs, and routers. These guides are clear, concise, and easy to follow, making it simple for even tech beginners to get started with Surfshark.

Social Media & Community Support

If you prefer to reach out via social media, Surfshark is active on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Reddit, where users can ask questions or get updates on the latest features. Social media support is generally fast, and you may also find helpful tips and discussions from the Surfshark community that can help resolve issues.

Customer Support Performance

When it comes to customer support quality, Surfshark has received positive reviews from its users. The support team is knowledgeable and responsive, and they are available around the clock to assist with any queries. Whether you’re new to VPNs or an experienced user, Surfshark’s customer support is designed to meet your needs and help you make the most of your VPN service.

Simultaneous Connections

One of the standout features of Surfshark is its ability to support unlimited simultaneous connections. This means that with a single Surfshark subscription, you can protect all your devices—whether it’s your smartphone, laptop, desktop, tablet, or smart TV—at the same time. This flexibility makes Surfshark an excellent choice for families, small businesses, or individuals with multiple devices.

Unlimited Device Connections

Unlike many other VPN providers that limit the number of devices you can connect simultaneously, Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections. This is a huge advantage because it means you don’t need to worry about managing or restricting which devices you can use. Whether you have a desktop at home, a smartphone for on-the-go use, a laptop for work, or a smart TV for streaming, Surfshark ensures that all your devices are protected simultaneously with no extra cost.

Ideal for Families and Households

If you’re a family or share a household with multiple people, Surfshark‘s unlimited connections are particularly beneficial. Everyone in your home can use their own devices with full protection at the same time without having to worry about hitting a connection limit. This feature is especially important for parents who want to ensure their children’s devices are also secure while they use the internet.

Ideal for Small Businesses

For small business owners, Surfshark’s unlimited connections make it easy to protect multiple devices within the organization. Whether it’s laptops, tablets, or phones used by your employees, you can ensure a secure connection for all team members, whether they’re working remotely or in the office. This makes Surfshark a solid choice for business owners looking to maintain strong security across multiple devices.

Easy to Manage

Even though Surfshark allows for unlimited connections, it’s simple to manage all your devices from a single account. The Surfshark app interface is user-friendly, allowing you to easily track which devices are connected and make adjustments as needed. Plus, the VPN service doesn’t require any special configurations or add-ons to set up multiple devices at once. Once installed, you can start connecting them with just a few clicks.

Server Network

The server network of a VPN plays a crucial role in determining its overall performance, speed, and ability to unblock content from around the world. Surfshark boasts an impressive and constantly expanding server network, providing users with a vast selection of servers in different countries. This allows Surfshark to offer optimal speeds, reliable connections, and the ability to access content from various regions with ease.

Global Reach

Surfshark currently operates over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, making it one of the most expansive VPN networks available today. Whether you’re looking to access content in the U.S., the UK, Australia, or Japan, Surfshark has a server in the right location to ensure you can easily connect to the service you need. This global presence allows users to bypass geographic restrictions and access region-specific content, no matter where they are located.

Server Locations and Speed

Having a broad range of server locations doesn’t just help you access geo-blocked content—it also impacts your connection speed. Surfshark strategically places its servers in key locations across the globe to ensure fast and reliable connections for users. By connecting to a nearby server, you can reduce latency and achieve higher speeds, ensuring a smooth online experience whether you’re streaming, browsing, or gaming.

Additionally, Surfshark uses premium hardware for its servers, ensuring that there is minimal congestion, which further improves performance. This means that no matter which server you connect to, you’ll benefit from fast speeds and reliable performance.

Specialized Servers

In addition to its regular server network, Surfshark offers several specialized servers designed for specific use cases. Some of these include:

• P2P Servers: Optimized for peer-to-peer file sharing, these servers ensure a stable and fast connection when downloading or uploading files through torrenting.
• Static IP Servers: If you need a fixed IP address for certain online services, Surfshark provides servers that offer a static IP address, ensuring you always connect from the same virtual location.
• NoBorders Mode Servers: Designed for users in countries with heavy internet censorship, NoBorders Mode allows you to bypass firewalls and connect to Surfshark servers even in regions where VPN use is restricted.
• MultiHop Servers: For those looking for extra security, Surfshark offers MultiHop servers, which route your connection through two different countries, adding an extra layer of privacy by masking your online activities even further.

VPN server list

Choose the perfect server location to meet all your needs, from lightning-fast connection speeds to solid privacy protection.

Country	Static	P2P	Obfuscated	Daynamic Multhop	Dedicated IP
Albania
Algeria
Andorra
Argentina
Armenia
Australia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bangladesh
Belgium
Belize
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Cambodia
Canada
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Ecuador
Egypt
Estonia
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Greenland
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Ireland
Isle of Man
Israel
Italy
Japan
Kazakhstan
Laos
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macau SAR China
Malaysia
Malta
Morocco
Mexico
Moldova
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Myanmar (Burma)
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Nigeria
North Macedonia
Norway
Pakistan
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Romania
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Thailand
Turkey
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States
Uruguay
Uzbekistan
Venezuela
Vietnam

User Interface and Ease of Use

A VPN’s user interface (UI) plays a significant role in determining how easy it is to use and navigate, especially for beginners. Surfshark offers a clean, intuitive, and easy-to-navigate interface across all devices. Whether you’re using it on your desktop, smartphone, or tablet, Surfshark provides a seamless experience with minimal setup required.

Simple and Clean Design

One of the highlights of Surfshark is its minimalistic design. The app is designed to be as user-friendly as possible, making it accessible for both VPN beginners and seasoned users. Upon opening the app, you’re greeted with a simple dashboard where you can instantly connect to the best available server, select a location, or access other features.

Everything you need is neatly arranged, and the key features are easily accessible with just a few clicks or taps. Surfshark ensures that users don’t have to spend time learning how to use the service—making it ideal for anyone looking for a straightforward VPN experience.

Easy Setup Process

Setting up Surfshark on your devices is quick and hassle-free. The setup process guides you through each step, and you can get started with just a few clicks. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, Surfshark provides detailed installation guides and automatic configuration, ensuring that you’re protected in no time.

For users who prefer a more customized experience, Surfshark also allows for manual configuration on certain devices, such as Linux or routers. Even in these more advanced scenarios, the process is straightforward and well-documented.

Quick Access to Key Features

Surfshark makes it easy to access its core features. From the main dashboard, you can quickly switch between servers, enable the Kill Switch, adjust settings for MultiHop, and toggle other privacy features like CleanWeb or Whitelister. Advanced users can dive deeper into settings and customize features according to their preferences, but for everyday use, the essentials are easy to find and use.

The simple yet effective layout ensures that new users won’t be overwhelmed, while more experienced users can quickly access advanced features.

Cross-Platform Consistency

Whether you’re using Surfshark on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or even your smart TV, the user interface remains consistent across all platforms. This cross-platform consistency means you don’t have to relearn how to use the app when switching between devices. You’ll have the same smooth and familiar experience, no matter where you are.

Surfshark‘s apps are also well-optimized for different screen sizes and devices, providing a responsive layout that adapts to the device you’re using. On mobile, the interface is designed to be touch-friendly, while on desktop, it offers easy navigation through a mouse or keyboard.

Fast Connections and Quick Switch

Once you’re connected to a server, switching between different locations is just a matter of a few clicks. The app responds quickly, making it easy to change servers when you need access to content from a different region. This speed and ease of use make Surfshark an excellent choice for people who don’t want to waste time navigating complex settings or waiting for slow connections.

Additional Features

Surfshark offers a range of additional features that enhance its core functionality, giving users more control over their online privacy and security. These extras set Surfshark apart from many other VPN providers, offering additional tools and customization options to improve your overall experience. Below, we’ll explore some of the standout features that come with your Surfshark subscription.

CleanWeb: Ad and Malware Blocker

One of the most useful features of Surfshark is CleanWeb, an integrated ad and malware blocker. This tool helps improve your browsing experience by blocking intrusive ads, trackers, and malicious websites. CleanWeb not only reduces the number of unwanted pop-ups and advertisements but also helps protect your privacy by preventing third-party tracking.

This feature is especially useful for improving the speed and performance of your internet connection by blocking resource-heavy ads. Additionally, it enhances your online security by preventing harmful content from infecting your devices.

Whitelister: Split Tunneling

Whitelister is Surfshark‘s version of split tunneling, allowing users to route specific traffic outside the VPN tunnel. This feature is particularly useful if you want to access local services or websites without disconnecting your VPN. For example, you can use Whitelister to exclude your banking app or other trusted services from being routed through the VPN while the rest of your traffic is secured.

By allowing specific apps or websites to bypass the VPN, Whitelister provides greater flexibility, enabling a personalized browsing experience. It ensures that critical apps remain unaffected by the VPN while keeping the rest of your online activity secure.

MultiHop: Double VPN for Extra Security

For users who prioritize privacy and security, Surfshark offers MultiHop, a feature that routes your internet traffic through two VPN servers located in different countries. This double VPN encryption adds an extra layer of protection by making it even harder for anyone to trace your activity.

MultiHop is perfect for those who want to maximize their anonymity online. With Surfshark, you can select the countries through which you want your connection to pass, enhancing both security and privacy.

Camouflage Mode: Bypass VPN Detection

Camouflage Mode is a unique feature that allows Surfshark to hide the fact that you are using a VPN. This is particularly useful in countries or networks where VPN usage is heavily monitored or restricted. When Camouflage Mode is enabled, your internet traffic appears to be coming from a regular, unencrypted connection, making it more difficult for third parties to detect the presence of a VPN.

This feature is ideal for users in countries with strict internet censorship, ensuring that you can use the VPN without drawing attention to your online activity.

Private DNS and Leak Protection

Surfshark offers Private DNS and Leak Protection to ensure that your browsing activity remains secure and private. Private DNS helps prevent third parties from monitoring or tracking your browsing data, while Leak Protection ensures that your IP address remains hidden at all times. This feature prevents accidental exposure of your real IP address, even if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

Together, these features add an extra layer of security, ensuring that your identity is never compromised.

NoBorders Mode: Access the Internet Anywhere

For users in restrictive regions where VPNs are often blocked, Surfshark‘s NoBorders Mode allows you to access the internet freely. This feature detects network conditions and automatically switches to a server that works best for bypassing censorship. Whether you’re traveling to a country with strict internet laws or using a network with heavy filtering, NoBorders Mode helps you get past these barriers and access the open internet without hassle.

Bypassing Geo-Restrictions

In addition to unblocking streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, Surfshark allows users to bypass various types of geo-restrictions for websites, apps, and media content. Whether you’re traveling or living abroad, you can use Surfshark to access content that may be restricted to certain countries.

Privacy and Legal Jurisdiction

When it comes to choosing a VPN, privacy and legal jurisdiction are two critical factors that can influence your decision. Surfshark takes these concerns seriously and has built its service with privacy-focused features and a strong legal foundation to protect your online activity. Let’s take a closer look at how Surfshark addresses these important issues.

Strict No-Logs Policy

One of the key aspects of Surfshark’s commitment to privacy is its no-logs policy. This means that Surfshark does not track or store any data about your online activity, including your browsing history, IP address, or the websites you visit. Unlike some VPN services that may collect user data for marketing or legal reasons, Surfshark ensures that none of your personal information is recorded or shared.

This policy is backed by independent audits from trusted third-party firms, which verify that Surfshark is adhering to its commitment of not keeping logs. This offers users peace of mind, knowing that even if law enforcement were to request user data, there is nothing available for them to obtain.

Located in the British Virgin Islands

Surfshark is based in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), a jurisdiction that is known for its strong privacy laws and lack of data retention regulations. The BVI is not a part of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or Fourteen Eyes alliances, which are international groups of countries that share intelligence data. This means that Surfshark is not subject to any legal obligations to store user data or hand it over to authorities.

The BVI’s legal framework is particularly favorable for privacy-focused companies because it does not require VPN providers to maintain user logs. This helps ensure that Surfshark can provide strong privacy protection for its users, without the risk of being forced to share personal data with government agencies or law enforcement.

Transparency and Independent Audits

In addition to its strict no-logs policy, Surfshark also emphasizes transparency. The company regularly undergoes independent audits by reputable third-party firms to verify that its practices align with its privacy claims. These audits provide an additional layer of trust and ensure that Surfshark is continuously adhering to its no-logs policy.

This level of transparency is important for users who are concerned about the integrity of the VPN provider. By undergoing audits, Surfshark demonstrates that it is committed to maintaining its privacy standards and that the service is free from data collection practices.

Features Enhancing Privacy

Beyond its legal jurisdiction and logging practices, Surfshark offers several features designed to enhance user privacy:

• MultiHop: Routes your connection through multiple servers for extra privacy, making it harder for anyone to track your activity.
• Camouflage Mode: Hides the fact that you are using a VPN, which is helpful in countries with strict internet censorship.
• Private DNS and Leak Protection: Ensures your browsing data remains secure and prevents any accidental exposure of your real IP address.

These features work together to ensure that your identity and online activity remain anonymous, even in regions where privacy is under constant threat.

Privacy Concerns in Other Jurisdictions

While Surfshark offers excellent privacy protection due to its BVI jurisdiction, it’s important to note that users should still be cautious when using VPNs in regions with strict privacy laws or government surveillance. Surfshark is an excellent choice for users who value privacy, but it’s always recommended to understand the legal framework of the country you are operating in, especially if you are in a region with heavy online surveillance or censorship.

Refund and Trial Policies

When considering a VPN service like Surfshark, it’s essential to understand the refund and trial policies to ensure that you’re making a risk-free decision. Surfshark offers flexible options for users who want to try the service before fully committing. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from Surfshark‘s refund and trial policies.

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Surfshark provides a 30-day money-back guarantee for all new users, which means you can try the service risk-free for a month. If you are not satisfied with the service for any reason, you can request a full refund within the first 30 days of your subscription.

This policy gives you the freedom to test Surfshark‘s performance, security, and features without worrying about being locked into a long-term commitment. If you don’t feel that Surfshark meets your needs or expectations, simply contact customer support to process your refund.

This 30-day refund window applies to all subscription plans, whether you opt for the 1-month, 12-month, or 24-month plan. It’s a great way to ensure that the VPN works well with your devices and meets your browsing, streaming, and security requirements before making a long-term commitment.

Free Trial for Mobile Devices

In addition to the money-back guarantee, Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial for users who want to test the service on mobile devices. Available for both iOS and Android users, the trial gives you access to all the features of Surfshark without having to provide any payment information upfront.

This free trial is ideal if you’re unsure about the service and want to test it on your smartphone or tablet. Once the 7 days are up, you can either cancel the trial or subscribe to one of the paid plans.

To start the free trial, simply download the Surfshark app from the App Store or Google Play, sign up, and you’ll be able to access the full VPN service for a week without any charge.

How to Request a Refund

If you decide that Surfshark isn’t the right fit for you within the 30-day window, requesting a refund is simple. All you need to do is reach out to Surfshark’s customer support team through live chat or email. They are available 24/7 and will guide you through the refund process, ensuring that it’s quick and straightforward.

Refunds are typically processed within a few days, and the money will be returned to the original payment method used for the purchase. Keep in mind that if you used a third-party payment method like PayPal or Bitcoin, the refund process may vary slightly based on the payment platform’s policies.

No-Risk Trial for Long-Term Subscribers

For those who opt for longer-term plans, such as the 12-month or 24-month subscription, the 30-day money-back guarantee still applies. This means that even if you commit to a longer subscription period, you still have a full 30 days to evaluate the service and receive a full refund if you decide to cancel.

This gives users additional peace of mind, knowing that they won’t be locked into a contract if Surfshark doesn’t meet their expectations after using it for a few weeks.

Pros and Cons of Surfshark

Like any VPN service, Surfshark comes with its advantages and some minor drawbacks. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve broken down the pros and cons of Surfshark based on its features, performance, and usability.