Surfshark

Surfshark is a European VPN (Virtual Private Network) service and digital privacy tool that was founded in Lithuania in 2018. It has quickly become a prominent player in the cybersecurity industry, known for its strong features, competitive pricing, and user-friendly applications. In 2021, Surfshark merged with Nord Security (the parent company of NordVPN), though both brands continue to operate independently.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects of Surfshark:

Core Service: VPN

At its heart, Surfshark provides a VPN service that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. This helps to:

• Protect your privacy: By masking your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic, Surfshark helps prevent your Internet Service Provider (ISP), advertisers, and other third parties from tracking your online activities.
• Enhance security: It protects your data, especially on unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi, from hackers and prying eyes.
• Bypass geo-restrictions: It allows you to access content and services that might be restricted in your geographical location.

Key Features:

Surfshark offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance online privacy and security:

• Strong Encryption: Uses industry-leading AES-256-GCM encryption
• No-Logs Policy: Adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn't collect or store your Browse history, bandwidth, connection time stamps, or other similar data. This policy has been independently audited.
• Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: One of its standout features is allowing an unlimited number of simultaneous connections on a single subscription, meaning you can protect all your devices
• Wide Server Network: Boasts over 3200 servers in 100 countries, with many locations having multiple cities. All servers are RAM-only, meaning data is wiped with every reboot.
• VPN Protocols: Supports secure protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec, allowing users to choose the best option for their needs.
• Kill Switch: Automatically cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing data exposure.
• CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites.
• Dynamic MultiHop (Double VPN): Routes your internet traffic through two different VPN servers for an added layer of encryption and anonymity.
• Bypasser (Split Tunneling): Allows you to choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection and which bypass it.
• IP Rotator: Changes your IP address periodically without disconnecting the VPN, making tracking even harder.
• GPS Spoofing (Android): Allows you to hide your device's physical location by matching it to the connected VPN server location.
• Camouflage Mode: Disguises VPN traffic to appear as regular internet traffic, useful in countries with internet restrictions.
• NoBorders Mode: Helps to use the VPN even under network restrictions like geo-blocking or government censorship.
• Smart DNS: For devices that don't natively support VPN apps.
• Dedicated IP: Offers unique IP addresses (for an extra fee) that only you can use, helpful for accessing IP-sensitive services or hosting.

Additional Services (Surfshark One & One+):

Beyond the core VPN, Surfshark offers bundles (Surfshark One and Surfshark One+) that include:

• Surfshark Antivirus: Provides real-time protection against malware and viruses.
• Surfshark Alert: Monitors your email addresses, personal identity numbers, and credit card numbers for data breaches and alerts you if they are found in known breaches.
• Surfshark Search: A private search engine that provides unbiased search results without ads or tracking
• Incogni (with Surfshark One+): An automated personal data removal system that helps remove your personal information from data brokers.

Pricing:

Surfshark is generally considered a budget-friendly VPN, especially with its longer-term plans. Pricing typically varies based on the subscription length (monthly, 1-year, or 2-year) and the chosen plan (Starter, One, or One+). Longer subscriptions offer significant savings. They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Reviews and Reputation:

Surfshark has received positive reviews from tech publications and users alike. It's praised for its fast speeds (especially with WireGuard), strong unblocking capabilities for streaming services, unlimited simultaneous connections, and user-friendly apps across various platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Fire TV, browser extensions, routers, smart TVs). While its CleanWeb feature for phishing and malware blocking has sometimes been noted for potential improvement compared to standalone products, its overall security, privacy, and value proposition are highly regarded