Discover the truth about PureVPN's extensive server network, security features, and how it compares to industry leaders like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark.
"In an era where digital privacy is constantly under threat, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become an indispensable tool for safeguarding our online activities."
Among the plethora of VPN providers vying for your attention, PureVPN stands out as one of the oldest and most recognized names in the industry. Launched in 2007, PureVPN has built a reputation for its extensive server network, feature-rich applications, and competitive pricing. But does it live up to the hype? This comprehensive review will delve into every aspect of PureVPN.
PureVPN was founded in 2007 by brothers Uzair, Umair, and Aqib Gadit under the parent company GZ Systems Ltd. Initially a small-scale project, the service quickly grew into a global VPN provider. The company is currently owned by GZ Systems Limited and operates under the jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands, a location known for its privacy-friendly laws.
Over the years, PureVPN has achieved several milestones, including expanding its server network to over 6,500 servers in more than 78 countries. However, the company has also faced its share of controversies. In 2017, it was revealed that PureVPN had provided user logs to the FBI in a cyberstalking case, despite its claims of being a "no-log" VPN.
In response to the 2017 incident, PureVPN has since undergone multiple independent audits to verify its no-log policy and has taken steps to rebuild trust with its users.
PureVPN boasts a wide array of features designed to cater to a diverse user base, from casual streamers to security-conscious professionals. Here's a breakdown of its core offerings.
Over 6,500 servers across 78+ countries for global access.
Industry-standard encryption with multiple protocol options.
Comprehensive privacy protection with no-log policy.
Available on all major platforms with 10 simultaneous connections.
A VPN's performance, particularly its speed and reliability, is a critical factor for most users. While PureVPN has made significant improvements in this area, its performance can be inconsistent. Speed tests conducted by various independent reviewers have yielded mixed results.
Some tests show PureVPN offering competitive speeds, while others report significant drops in performance, especially on servers that are geographically distant. PureVPN's performance is generally good for browsing, streaming, and light torrenting. However, when connecting to servers in more remote locations, there can be a considerable increase in latency.
It's worth noting that PureVPN has been working to improve its performance by upgrading its server infrastructure and implementing the WireGuard protocol, which is known for its speed and efficiency. However, it still lags behind some of its top competitors in terms of overall speed and reliability.
Security and privacy are the cornerstones of any reputable VPN service, and PureVPN has taken significant steps to bolster its credentials in this area. The service uses AES-256 encryption, the same standard used by governments and security agencies worldwide, to protect user data.
PureVPN has a strict no-log policy that has been independently audited by KPMG, a leading audit firm. This means the company does not collect or store any information that could be used to identify you or your online activities. This is a crucial step in rebuilding trust after the 2017 logging controversy.
Despite these improvements, some users may still have reservations about PureVPN's commitment to privacy due to its past actions. However, the company's willingness to undergo independent audits and its transparent privacy policy are positive signs that it is taking user privacy seriously.
PureVPN offers a variety of pricing plans to suit different budgets and needs. The company frequently offers discounts and promotional deals, so it's worth checking their website for the latest offers.
| Plan Length | Price per Month | Total Cost | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | $15.95 | $15.95 | — |
| 1 Year | $3.99 | $47.88 | 75% off |
| 2 Years | $2.15 | $51.60 | 87% off |
PureVPN also offers optional add-ons for an extra cost, such as a dedicated IP address starting at $2.49/month and port forwarding starting at $1.49/month. Overall, PureVPN's pricing is competitive, especially for its longer-term plans.
To provide a complete picture of PureVPN's standing in the market, it's essential to compare it against some of the industry's top contenders. Here's how PureVPN stacks up against ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark.
| Feature | PureVPN | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Servers | 6,500+ in 78+ countries | 3,000+ in 94 countries | 5,500+ in 60 countries | 3,200+ in 100 countries |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | 8 | 6 | Unlimited |
| Independent Audits | KPMG (no-log) | PwC (no-log, privacy) | PwC (no-log) | Deloitte (no-log) |
| Starting Price (2-year) | $2.15/month | $8.32/month | $3.79/month | $2.49/month |
| Best For | Budget & Features | Speed & Reliability | Security & Privacy | Unlimited Devices |
ExpressVPN is widely regarded as one of the fastest and most reliable VPNs on the market. Its proprietary Lightway protocol offers excellent performance, and its server network is optimized for speed and stability. While PureVPN has a larger server network, ExpressVPN's focus on quality over quantity gives it an edge in performance. ExpressVPN is also more expensive than PureVPN, making it a premium choice for users who prioritize speed and reliability above all else.
NordVPN is another top-tier VPN known for its strong security features and fast speeds. Its NordLynx protocol, built around WireGuard, offers a great balance of speed and security. NordVPN also offers a range of specialty servers, including Double VPN and Onion over VPN, for enhanced privacy. While PureVPN has a larger server network and more simultaneous connections, NordVPN's consistent performance and advanced security features make it a strong competitor.
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an excellent value for families and users with multiple devices. It has a large server network and a solid set of security features, including a no-log policy audited by Deloitte. While PureVPN may have a slight edge in the number of servers, Surfshark's unlimited connections and competitive pricing make it a compelling alternative, especially for those on a budget.
Read our complete analysis including our final verdict on PureVPN.
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