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IVPN review: This VPN takes privacy to the next level
The IVPN app is fully open-source, which helps build trust with users. The provider also has an open-door policy whereby anyone can report any security exploits they’ve identified for immediate action. The company publishes annual security and transparency audit reports, including government requests it has received. I went through the report, which mostly showed that they haven’t handed over any user data despite getting several orders to do so.
Even if data collection is your primary concern, IVPN operates a clean zero-logs policy. It is GDPR-compliant and self-hosts the servers used in running the service, instead of renting from third parties. This reduces the chances of intruders having access to your personal data — for example, email communications with the support staff. On the downside, IVPN is based in Gibraltar, which is a British overseas territory and subject to the country’s rules.
Best-in-class features for secure online browsing
The IVPN app uses the best encryption standards currently (AES 256-bit with perfect forward secrecy and ChaCha20-Poly 1305), as well as post-quantum cryptography. These advanced systems help protect information moving between your device and the internet, making it unreadable to anyone except the intended recipient with the right keys to decrypt the message.
Also, the VPN is robust against third-party intrusion and tracking, such as websites and internet providers keen to know what you’re doing online. One way they do this is by closely monitoring your IP address and DNS requests, or through web trackers. This is why it’s crucial to ensure the VPN you’re using isn’t leaking sensitive data.
I did my own tests, switching between random servers while also monitoring my IPv4/IPv6 addresses and DNS information. Not once did my sensitive information leave the VPN tunnel. To hide your details even better, you should turn on the internal kill switch/firewall and set custom DNS (to avoid exposing DNS requests to your ISP). The firewall filtered and blocked traffic from selected apps on my desktop, even without the VPN being on.
IVPN has a minimalist and beginner-friendly app, but it’s quite limited in connections
Getting started with IVPN is as effortless as it gets. With just one click, I generated my account on the website, paid for a subscription, and that was it — no need to navigate through many pages and enter personal information.
The setup wizard made it easy to install the client on my Windows and iPhone, and eventually log in with my code (no username or password required). While I didn’t expect many features, the app was almost underwhelming at first glance. Then I went to the settings (the wheel button at the top right) and found more options to configure the app, like Wi-Fi control, port forwarding, obfuscation, and AntiTracker.
is a solid app. It’s a great choice specifically for safeguarding online privacy and security on PC and mobile devices, with near-perfect speeds to deliver seamless server connections online. We also like the intuitive design of the client, but more still needs to be done to justify the high prices. Many VPN users want streaming privileges and multi-user support, all of which are features that IVPN doesn’t adequately provide.
Is IVPN good for gaming?
Yes, IVPN maintains relatively low latency and fast speeds on its servers, which can be ideal for online gaming. However, you should connect to servers closest to your location (or the gaming servers) for the best experience. Also, use the OpenVPN UDP or WireGuard protocols for enhanced speed and performance.
Who owns IVPN, and how does it affect user safety?
IVPN is owned by IVPN Limited, with its CEO and founder Nicholas Pestell the majority stakeholder. The team of developers behind the service say they’re advocates of digital autonomy and freedom from surveillance, which may explain why the app offers so many protection features. IVPN is generally a safe service to use for online privacy and safeguarding your browsing and communications.
Is IVPN good for torrenting?
IVPN supports torrenting, but not on US-based servers. The provider advises against using the US servers as entry or exit nodes on the multihop feature due to the high number of DMCA notices they receive in that location. That being said, IVPN offers P2P-friendly features like port forwarding, kill switch, leak protection, and fast speeds.
Which is better, IVPN or Mullvad?
IVPN and Mullvad are similar in many facets, but the latter offers better value for money. It’s a lot faster and cheaper, allowing you up to five simultaneous connections with a single account, whereas IVPN’s most affordable plan supports only two devices at a time. But if you’re a Linux user, IVPN might be the better option due to the easy setup, app control, and settings management.
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