Surfshark benefits include support for all major operating systems, desktops and laptops, smartphones and tablets, and home routers. It also works on Netflix, a big plus for anyone looking to watch TV and movies in HD.
The service also provides extra features, such as MultiHop (routing through two VPN servers for added privacy), location spoofing, a private search tool and additional password tech to alert you of data leaks.
Privacy
Using a VPN can help protect your privacy, but Surfshark goes a step further with RAM-only servers that purge data after each use. This ensures that even if the VPN connection drops, no information is lost or exposed to the internet.
Surfshark abides by a strict no-log policy, which has been verified by independent third parties. This combined with extra features like CleanWeb (adblocker), NoBorders mode and Camouflage mode make it a great option for privacy-minded users.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Surfshark headquarters is located in the Netherlands, which has some of the best privacy laws in the world. This allows Surfshark to uphold its no-log policy without the risk of being required to comply with data retention laws, like many other VPN providers.
Speed
Surfshark has a good network of servers and can deliver high-speed connections. Its VPN services are available on a number of platforms, including Windows and iOS devices. In addition, you can use its router software to connect multiple devices in your home.
It offers a variety of protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec. The service also has a no-logs policy that is verified by third parties. Additional security features include a dedicated IP and an automatic kill switch.
The service also has a slick Windows client. The interface is intuitive, and even novice users shouldn’t have trouble finding their way around. Its MacOS app is a little less extensive, but it still has plenty of features. Its dynamic multi-hop selection feature lets you choose the locations that best match your needs.
MultiHop
Surfshark also offers multiplatform support, which allows you to use the VPN on multiple devices like PCs, tablets and smartphones. It can even work with routers, if you want to install it there (although that will slow your internet speeds since encryption takes processing power).
The company’s server network is big, and its US presence is excellent for unblocking streaming platforms and getting around regional blackouts for sports events. Its dynamic MultiHop feature lets you choose 2 servers from a specified list to add an extra layer of security to your connection.
The VPN is based in the Netherlands, which means it’s part of the 9 Eyes Alliance. However, it’s been audited twice by Cure53, and its no-logs policy is verified by Deloitte, which is good news for privacy enthusiasts.
Dedicated IP
A dedicated IP is a permanent internet address that is assigned to you. It’s not shared with anyone and remains the same across all devices you use Surfshark on. It is a privacy-boosting feature that will help you bypass restrictions imposed by your employer or country.
Surfshark’s Dedicated IP add-on is available for Windows, macOS and Android. It starts at $3.75/month and is compatible with all of Surfshark’s protocols. The service currently offers 4 locations: US (New York, San Jose and Los Angeles), UK (London) and Netherlands (Amsterdam). Surfshark promises to expand the selection of dedicated IP addresses in the future.
The dedicated IP also makes it easier to access websites that require additional verification. For example, some sites require a unique IP to verify you’re not a robot.
Location Spoofing
Surfshark’s mobile apps include a useful location-spoofing feature. This allows you to spoof your physical GPS location for privacy reasons when using popular digital platforms, such as playing Pokemon Go or swiping on Tinder.
The app is also a good choice for bypassing regional content restrictions, including Netflix, Hulu, YouTube TV, and Max. Its CleanWeb feature serves as an adblocker and monitors websites for data breaches, which ensures a safe browsing experience.
Surfshark’s security measures have been verified through numerous audits, the most recent of which was conducted in 2023 by Deloitte. The audit confirmed that the VPN service’s no-logs policy is valid and that it doesn’t keep any user information. The app also includes a Camouflage Mode that obfuscates VPN traffic to hide it from monitoring systems.