IPVanish, owned by Ziff Davis, was founded in 2012 and has since grown to become a significant player in the VPN industry. Targeted at a broad audience, IPVanish offers a range of features designed to meet the needs of both novice and advanced users. From its user-friendly interface to advanced settings like split tunneling and obfuscation, IPVanish delivers a seamless and secure online experience.
Here's a quick overview of IPVanish's key features:
| Website | IPVanish.com |
| Location | United States |
| Price | $2.19/mo. |
| Logs | No logs (audited) |
| Servers | 2,400+ servers in 55 countries |
| Support | 24/7 chat; Email; phone |
| Deal | 83% Off Coupon > |
In this review, I put these claims to the test to see how IPVanish performs in real-world scenarios. This comprehensive analysis covers various aspects, including speed tests, security features, user experience, and customer support. Additionally, I delve into how IPVanish compares to other top VPN providers in the market, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. By the end of this review, you will have a clear understanding of whether IPVanish is the right VPN service for your needs.
+ IPVanish Pros
- Fast servers ensure quick connections for streaming and downloads
- Strong encryption keeps your online activities secure
- No-logs policy means your data isn’t stored
- Unlimited connections protect all your devices
- Easy-to-use apps work across multiple platforms
- Split tunneling and a kill switch
- 24/7 customer support is available via live chat and email
- Works with many streaming services to bypass geo-restrictions
– IPVanish Cons
- No free trial available for testing the service
- Based in the U.S., which may concern privacy-focused users
- Limited payment options don’t include cryptocurrencies
Key features of IPVanish
One of the standout features of IPVanish is its unlimited simultaneous connections. This allows users to connect multiple devices to the VPN without any restrictions, making it a convenient option for large households or users with numerous devices they want to protect.
IPVanish also boasts a robust no-logs policy, meaning it does not retain any information about users’ internet activities. This commitment to privacy is further reinforced by the use of AES-256 encryption, which is one of the most secure encryption standards available. These features work together to ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.
Additional features that enhance IPVanish’s usability include split tunneling and obfuscation. Split tunneling allows users to select which apps use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet, providing flexibility and improved performance. The WireGuard protocol supported by IPVanish offers faster and more secure VPN connections than conventional protocols, making it ideal for high-speed internet activities like gaming and streaming.
IPVanish’s server network features over 2,400 servers located in more than 55 countries. This extensive network ensures global access to various online content. The Optimal Location feature further enhances user experience by automatically connecting to the best available server.
See all IPVanish features here >
Speed test results
Speed is a critical factor when choosing a VPN, and IPVanish claims to offer solid upload and download speeds that minimize the impact on overall device performance. However, our tests revealed a more nuanced picture. With a 900 Mbps base speed, we noticed significant speed loss on certain servers (up to 71% in our tests), which can be a considerable drop for those with already limited internet speeds.
| IPVanish server location | Download speed (Mbps) | Download speed drop | Upload speed (Mbps) |
| Seattle | 829 | 8% | 58 |
| Los Angeles | 262 | 71% | 58 |
| New York | 606 | 33% | 57 |
| London, UK | 431 | 52% | 53 |
On the brighter side, IPVanish’s speeds with the WireGuard protocol are noteworthy. This protocol is engineered to be significantly faster, allowing IPVanish to achieve some of the highest speeds we have seen with a VPN. For instance, the Seattle server gave us speeds of 829 Mbps, which is even better than NordVPN, which measured 755 Mbps.
However, speed performance testing demonstrated that IPVanish’s download speeds are inconsistent across various server locations. For example, the Los Angeles server only gave us speeds of 262 Mbps.
The New York server performed better, scoring 606 Mbps, which amounts to a 33% speed loss.
IPVanish's performance over long distances is solid, although not great — we measured 431 Mbps on its London server (52% speed loss).
This can be a drawback for users who need to connect to servers far from their geographical location. Despite these fluctuations, IPVanish generally maintains sufficiently high speeds for most internet activities.
IPVanish security and privacy
When it comes to security and privacy, IPVanish takes several measures to protect its users. The VPN employs AES-256 encryption, a standard known for its robustness and widely used in the industry to safeguard user data against potential threats. In addition, IPVanish supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, each offering different advantages in terms of speed and security.
IPVanish's kill switch ensures that if the VPN connection drops, the internet connection is automatically cut off, providing a reliable DNS leak protection. This feature is essential for maintaining user privacy, especially during activities that require a high level of security, such as online banking or accessing sensitive information.
IPVanish also successfully passed my DNS leak tests, meaning it maintains user privacy by preventing any IP leaks.
The VPN includes measures for DNS leak protection to prevent WebRTC leaks, which can expose real IP addresses. These security features collectively ensure that your online activities remain private and secure, providing peace of mind for users concerned about their digital footprint.
IPVanish's Threat Protection feature is designed to enhance your online security by actively blocking malicious websites, ads, and trackers that can compromise your privacy. This feature works in real-time, scanning and filtering out harmful content before it reaches your device, thereby preventing potential threats such as malware, phishing attacks, and intrusive advertisements.
Logging policies
IPVanish’s commitment to privacy is further demonstrated by its strict no-logs policy. This policy has been independently audited by Leviathan Security Group, confirming that IPVanish does not retain any information about users’ internet activities. This independent audit adds a layer of credibility to IPVanish’s privacy claims.
Additionally, IPVanish operates under the jurisdiction of the United States, which has its own set of data protection laws. While this might raise concerns for some users due to the country’s data retention policies, the independent audit and clear no-logs policy help mitigate these concerns. Overall, IPVanish’s logging policies are designed to protect user privacy and maintain a high level of online security.
User interface and experience
IPVanish provides a largely uniform experience across its various apps, although the availability of certain features may differ depending on the platform. The design aesthetic is consistent, offering a clean and intuitive interface that is easy to navigate, even for beginners. This user-friendly design makes it straightforward to connect to a VPN server and access the various features offered by IPVanish.
Windows users, in particular, benefit from features like proximity filtering and customizable kill switch settings, which enhance the overall experience. The ‘Optimal Location’ function, which automatically connects users to the best available server, further improves usability by ensuring a reliable and fast connection. These features make IPVanish a practical choice for those looking for a balance between simplicity and advanced functionality.
Installation process
Setting up IPVanish is a straightforward process, provided you have a stable internet connection, a compatible device, and an active subscription. IPVanish’s Windows app is compatible with Windows 7 and higher, but the latest version requires Windows 10 or later. The installation involves downloading the Windows app from the IPVanish website, following the on-screen instructions, and logging in with your account credentials.
IPVanish’s macOS app works on version 10.13 and above, with legacy clients available for older versions. The process is similar to Windows, involving a download from the IPVanish website and a straightforward installation procedure.
IPVanish’s mobile apps can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Store, respectively. The process is similar for both the iOS app and Android app. IPVanish is also available for Amazon Fire TV, where users can download the app directly from the Fire TV home screen.
For Linux users, IPVanish supports manual configuration, providing VPN setup guides for various Linux distributions. Overall, the installation process is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that users can get started with minimal hassle.
Configuration and initial tests
After installation, it is simple to configure IPVanish. You can initiate connections to your preferred servers by selecting locations from a map or a server list. To ensure optimal privacy protection, it’s important to manually activate the kill switch in the app. This feature disconnects the internet if the VPN connection fails, preventing any data leaks.
For the kill switch to function properly, the OpenVPN protocol must be enabled. On Android devices, users need to enable the kill switch at the system level for it to work effectively. Initial tests show that IPVanish may briefly disconnect users when switching servers, which poses a potential privacy risk. However, the app provides desktop notifications when the connection breaks while using the kill switch, ensuring users are aware of any interruptions.
Device compatibility and features
IPVanish works with various operating systems. This includes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. This broad compatibility ensures that IPVanish users can protect a wide range of devices with a single VPN subscription. One of the standout features is the allowance of unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for families or groups sharing an account.
IPVanish offers browser extensions for both Chrome and Firefox, providing an easy way to secure your browsing activities directly from your web browser. These extensions allow you to quickly connect to VPN servers, block WebRTC leaks, and manage your VPN settings without leaving your browser.
The VPN also offers split tunneling, which allows you to select which apps use the VPN connection and which connect directly to the internet. This feature provides flexibility and can help improve performance by routing only sensitive traffic through the VPN.
Additionally, IPVanish is compatible with high-end RT series ASUS routers, enhancing its usability for users who prefer to protect their entire network. These features and compatibility options make IPVanish a versatile choice for users with multiple devices and varied security needs.
IPVanish's server network
IPVanish boasts a server network of over 2,400 servers located in more than 55 countries. While this is substantial, it’s worth noting that other top providers like NordVPN and Proton VPN offer even larger networks (over 6,000 servers in 110+ countries), giving you more options for server locations and potential access to region-specific content. This larger network can be particularly advantageous for users who require frequent access to geographically diverse servers, as it minimizes latency and maximizes speed.
IPVanish's apps allow you to browse servers by country or city, with the city view showing the exact number of servers available in each location. Clicking on this number reveals a detailed list of servers, along with their current load and ping times. For added convenience, you can easily add preferred servers to your favorites for quick access in the future.
Moreover, IPVanish uses advanced technologies like traffic obfuscation which helps bypass network restrictions and censorship in regions with strict internet regulations. However, IPVanish does not offer RAM-only servers, a feature found in services like ExpressVPN and NordVPN that enhances privacy by ensuring no data is stored long-term. Additionally, IPVanish lacks specialized servers for activities like streaming, torrenting, or extra security layers, which are available with providers like NordVPN and Surfshark. This may be a consideration if you're seeking more advanced or targeted server options.
Overall, IPVanish's server network is a critical component of its service, providing users with a reliable and versatile VPN experience. While it may not have the sheer number and variety of servers that some competitors offer, its strategic placement and robust infrastructure make it a strong contender in the VPN market.
Streaming and torrenting
IPVanish is generally capable of unblocking a variety of streaming platforms, making it a useful tool for accessing region-restricted content. However, speed issues can sometimes lead to longer loading times, which may impact the overall streaming experience. Despite this, IPVanish remains a viable option for users looking to access global content.
When it comes to torrenting and P2P support, IPVanish allows P2P sharing on all of its servers without imposing any limits on bandwidth or content. However, the lack of specialized torrenting servers could impact performance, particularly during peak times.
Overall, while IPVanish offers solid capabilities for streaming and torrenting, there are some challenges and limitations that users may encounter. Nevertheless, IPVanish’s strong security features and no-logs policy make it a reliable choice for users concerned about privacy while streaming and torrenting.
Streaming capabilities
IPVanish effectively unblocks popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube TV, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more, allowing you to access a wide range of content. During our tests, IPVanish successfully unblocked multiple Netflix libraries, including those from the US and UK. This makes it a suitable option for users who want to enjoy content from different regions.
However, IPVanish does not have dedicated servers for streaming, using the same servers for all functions. This can affect performance, especially during peak times when server load is high.
For those seeking better access to certain streaming services, alternatives like NordVPN may be more suitable. NordVPN offers dedicated streaming servers and consistently unblocks a wider range of content, providing a more reliable streaming experience. You can also check out our complete list of the best VPNs for Netflix. Despite its challenges, IPVanish remains a competitive option for streaming, particularly for users who prioritize security and privacy.
Torrenting and P2P support
IPVanish allows unrestricted P2P sharing on its server network, so you can download and share files without any interruptions or restrictions. However, its lack of specialized torrenting servers could affect its performance.
The VPN provides high encryption, ensuring secure connections for torrenting activities. A reliable kill switch feature is included to enhance security during torrenting, disconnecting the internet if the VPN connection fails and preventing any data leaks. This feature is crucial for maintaining user privacy and security while engaging in P2P activities.
Every IPVanish subscription includes a free SOCKS5 proxy, which can help with anonymity during torrenting. The SOCKS5 proxy can hide your IP address for enhanced anonymity, although it does not encrypt data. Despite the absence of specialized servers, IPVanish’s strong security features and no-logs policy make it a reliable choice for torrenting and P2P support.
Customer support
Users can contact customer support through multiple channels, ensuring they can get help when needed. The support team is available 24/7, providing timely responses to user inquiries. This round-the-clock availability is crucial for resolving issues quickly, especially for users in different time zones.
Supported channels for customer support include live chat, email, and a ticketing system. Live chat is particularly useful for immediate assistance, while email and ticketing systems are suitable for more detailed inquiries. The ease of contacting support through these various channels enhances the overall user experience.
The support staff at IPVanish are knowledgeable and experienced, capable of addressing a wide range of issues. Additionally, customer support is available in multiple languages, making it accessible to a global user base. Overall, IPVanish’s customer support is reliable and effective, ensuring users can resolve their issues promptly.
Pricing and subscription plans
IPVanish’s pricing structure is considered relatively high compared to its performance and features.
The monthly plan is priced at $12.99, which may seem steep for some users. However, the yearly plan offers better value at $3.33 per month, making it a more cost-effective option for long-term use.
For those seeking the most affordable plan, IPVanish offers a 2-year plan that costs $2.19 per month. This plan provides significant savings compared to the monthly option and includes all the features offered by IPVanish. Additionally, the service offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you a chance to test the VPN service risk-free.
IPVanish's unlimited simultaneous connections and robust security measures make it a valuable investment for those seeking a reliable VPN service.
IPVanish vs. other top VPNs
While IPVanish offers a robust set of features, several top alternatives might better suit your needs.
| IPVanish | ExpressVPN | Surfshark | NordVPN | |
| Nr. of servers | 2,400+ | 3,000+ | 3,200+ | 6,400+ |
| Nr. of server countries | 55+ | 105 | 100 | 111 |
| Diskless servers (RAM-only) | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Simultaneous connections | Unlimited | 8 | Unlimited | 10 |
| Router support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| No-logs policy | Independently Audited | Independently Audited | Independently Audited | Independently Audited |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat, email | 24/7 live chat, email | 24/7 live chat, email | 24/7 live chat, email |
| Starting price (per month) | $2.19 | $6.67 | $2.19 | $3.09 |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
NordVPN is a top competitor, praised for its high speeds and strong security. NordVPN maintains a no-logs policy and offers additional features like Double VPN and Threat Protection, enhancing user privacy and security. Its ability to unblock a wide range of streaming services, combined with its robust performance, makes it a formidable alternative to IPVanish.
Surfshark is an economical option that offers a variety of features, including multi-hop servers and CleanWeb, which blocks ads and trackers. Although its speeds can vary, Surfshark’s effective streaming capabilities and affordable pricing make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users. Its ability to unblock all major streaming services adds to its appeal.
ExpressVPN is also regarded as a strong alternative, offering superior privacy and security features. It is known for its strong encryption, reliable performance, and ability to access major streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. ExpressVPN’s consistent performance makes it a preferred choice for many users.
ProtonVPN is another noteworthy alternative. It is recognized for its strong privacy, unlimited bandwidth, and user-friendly interface.
Despite these alternatives, IPVanish remains a competitive option in the VPN space. Its unlimited simultaneous device connections and strong security features make it a reliable choice for users seeking a balance between performance and cost. While it may not excel in every area, IPVanish offers a solid VPN service that meets the needs of many users.
Final thoughts on IPVanish
IPVanish has several strong points that make it a worthwhile consideration for many users. Its unlimited simultaneous connections are a major advantage, allowing families or groups to share a single account without any restrictions. This feature, combined with its robust security measures and no-logs policy, ensures a secure and private internet experience.
However, there are some weaknesses and limitations to be aware of. IPVanish’s performance can be inconsistent, particularly with distant servers, and its speed may not always match that of top competitors like NordVPN and ExpressVPN. Additionally, its jurisdiction in the United States may raise privacy concerns for some users. Despite these drawbacks, IPVanish has made significant improvements in its app performance, security, and speed since previous reviews.
The type of user who would benefit most from IPVanish is one who values unlimited device connections and robust security features. Whether you’re a privacy enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or someone with multiple devices, IPVanish offers a versatile and reliable VPN service that can meet your needs. Its ability to unblock popular streaming platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer adds to its appeal.
Overall, I do recommend IPVanish. What's best, its 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try it risk-free, making it easier to decide if it is the right VPN for you.
FAQs about IPVanish
How do I set up IPVanish on my device?
Setting up IPVanish is easy, but the exact steps depend on what device you're using. On a Windows or Mac computer, you download the IPVanish app, install it, and sign in. You can use IPVanish on Windows 7 and newer versions, but you'll need Windows 10 for the latest version. Mac users need macOS 10.13 or newer.
For phones and tablets, get the IPVanish app from the App Store (for iPhone) or Google Play Store (for Android). You can also use IPVanish on Amazon Fire TV by downloading the app from the home screen. If you use Linux, you can set up IPVanish manually by following the instructions for your specific Linux version.
Is IPVanish’s no-logs policy reliable?
Yes. IPVanish has proven it doesn’t keep track of what its users do online. An independent company called Leviathan Security Group has checked IPVanish’s systems and confirmed this. This means users can trust that their data is safe and private.
Additionally, IPVanish operates under U.S. jurisdiction, which comes with specific data protection laws. This may be a concern for some users due to the country's data retention policies. However, the independent audit and transparent no-logs policy help alleviate these worries. Overall, IPVanish’s logging policies are crafted to safeguard user privacy and maintain a high level of security.
Can I use IPVanish to unblock streaming services like Netflix?
IPVanish is generally effective at bypassing streaming platform restrictions like Netflix and YouTube TV, allowing users to watch a wide range of content. In my tests, it successfully accessed Netflix libraries in the US and UK.
Unlike some other VPNs that have specialized streaming servers, IPVanish uses the same servers for all activities. This can lead to slower speeds, especially during busy times. If you’re looking for a VPN with more reliable streaming performance, particularly for Netflix Canada and Disney+, NordVPN might be a better choice. However, IPVanish still offers solid streaming capabilities, especially for those who value security and privacy.
Is IPVanish a good option for torrenting?
IPVanish is a good choice for torrenting and peer-to-peer file sharing. It allows P2P traffic on all its servers and doesn't limit your bandwidth or the types of files you can download or share. This means you can torrent without restrictions. IPVanish also uses strong encryption to keep your torrenting activities secure.
It has a kill switch that protects you in case your VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP address from being exposed. Plus, it comes with a free SOCKS5 proxy, which can add another layer of anonymity, although it doesn't encrypt your data. Even though it doesn't have specific servers for torrenting, IPVanish's security features and its policy of not keeping logs make it a reliable option for torrenting and P2P activities.
What customer support options does IPVanish offer?
IPVanish has different ways for users to get help. You can chat with an agent live, send an email, or create a support ticket. IPVanish’s customer support is helpful and reliable, so you can get your problems fixed quickly. You can also get help in different languages.
Does IPVanish impact my internet speed?
Yes, IPVanish can impact your internet speed, but the effect is generally minimal. Like all VPNs, it routes your traffic through an encrypted tunnel, which can cause a slight reduction in speed.
However, IPVanish is known for its high-speed servers, so most users experience only a small drop in speed, especially when connected to nearby servers. If you choose a server close to your location, the speed impact is less felt, allowing for smooth streaming, browsing, and downloading.
Can I use IPVanish with multiple devices simultaneously?
Yes, you can use IPVanish with multiple devices simultaneously. IPVanish offers unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect all your devices at the same time under one account. Whether you're using a smartphone, tablet, computer, or even a smart TV, you can connect them all without any restrictions. This makes it a great option for families or individuals with multiple devices needing protection.
Top alternatives to Proton VPN
Here are some other VPNs you could consider (click the name to read our in-depth review):
Explore more top-rated VPN choices on our best VPNs list.
This IPVanish review was last updated on August 29, 2024.
IP Vanish is a horrible company. I had a two year subscription and after renewing in February I decided I wanted to cancel my service. They said I was paid until February of 2024 I would not refund any of my money. I have to pay over a year of service I will not be using. On their website they have a How To Section and it says you can cancel your subscription and they will refund your money. It’s an absolute scam and an awful customer service.