VPN.ac - Detailed Review
Privacy Tools
VPN.ac - Product Overview
Introduction to VPN.ac
VPN.ac is a Romania-based VPN service that specializes in providing strong encryption, secure applications, and excellent performance, making it a reliable choice in the privacy tools category.Primary Function
The primary function of VPN.ac is to ensure online privacy and security by encrypting user traffic, hiding real IP addresses, and protecting against data theft and intrusive actions. It achieves this through various VPN protocols and advanced security features.Target Audience
VPN.ac caters to a diverse range of users, including:- Consumers: Particularly late teens and adults, with the largest demographic being individuals aged 16-34.
- IT Professionals: To protect sensitive data.
- Journalists: To bypass censorship.
- Frequent Travelers: To access home content while abroad.
- Users in restricted networks: Such as those in China, Saudi Arabia, or other countries with strict internet censorship, as well as users on work or school networks that block VPNs.
Key Features
VPN Protocols
VPN.ac supports several VPN protocols, including:- OpenVPN: The gold standard, offering a good speed/security ratio and various encryption ciphers.
- OpenVPN XOR: Used for obfuscation to bypass censorship in countries like China.
- L2TP/IKEv2 (IPsec): Ideal for frequent network changes, but not recommended due to its resource-heavy nature.
- PPTP: Not recommended due to its weak encryption.
- TLS: Used for browser extensions to protect browser traffic.
- WireGuard: Although in beta and requiring manual setup.
Obfuscation
VPN.ac offers excellent obfuscation features, such as OpenVPN XOR, which can hide VPN traffic as standard HTTPS encrypted traffic. This is particularly useful for users in countries with strict internet censorship or on networks that block VPNs.Secure Proxy
The service provides secure proxy browser extensions for Firefox, Chrome, and Opera, allowing users to encrypt only their browser traffic without tunneling all PC traffic through the VPN.DNS Filtering
VPN.ac includes a DNS filtering feature called SecureDNS, which blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing domains. This feature is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS apps.Kill Switch
The VPN comes with an automatic kill switch, but it only works with the OpenVPN protocol. This ensures that no data leaks occur if the VPN connection drops.Multi-Device Support
VPN.ac supports up to six simultaneous device connections and is compatible with major platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and various router configurations.Additional Features
- China Optimized Servers: Specialized servers for users in China and other restricted countries.
- Multi-Hop Servers: For added security by routing traffic through multiple servers.
- Torrenting Support: Allowed on specific servers, though not all servers support torrenting.
Pricing and Support
VPN.ac offers various pricing plans, including one-month, three-month, one-year, and two-year subscriptions, with a seven-day money-back guarantee. The service also provides ticket-based support and Skype support options. VPN.ac - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The VPN.ac client features a clean and intuitive interface. Here are some key aspects:
- The main window includes a prominent on/off button, displaying your current IP address and server location. There is also a shortcut to the list of servers for easy access.
- Users can customize the interface with options like light and dark themes, which adds a touch of personalization.
- The client is organized into several tabs: ‘Connect’, ‘Preferences’, ‘Advanced’, ‘News’, and ‘Help’. These tabs are self-explanatory and help in keeping the interface uncluttered.
Ease of Use
- The installation process is quick and effortless. Users can download the VPN apps directly from the VPN.ac website or from app stores for mobile devices. The website is well-organized, making it easy to find and download the necessary software.
- Once installed, the VPN.ac app is straightforward to use. Users simply need to enter their assigned username and password in the ‘Preferences’ tab to log in. There is no login button or confirmation required; entering the credentials is sufficient.
- The ‘Advanced’ tab offers various customization options, such as choosing protocols and ports, activating obfuscation and DNS filtering, and enabling the kill switch. These features cater to more experienced users without overwhelming beginners.
Overall User Experience
- VPN.ac provides a balanced user interface that is neither too crowded nor too sparse. The subtle customization options, such as displaying protocols and ports on the main window, make the client dynamic and user-friendly.
- The support team, although lacking live chat, is knowledgeable and responsive. Users can access their personal dashboard to manage their services, check news, open support tickets, and download apps, which enhances the overall user experience.
- While the client occasionally shows incorrect location information, this is a minor glitch that does not affect the actual VPN connection. Users can verify their IP and DNS settings using external tools to ensure everything is working correctly.
In summary, VPN.ac offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to set up and use, with features that cater to both beginners and advanced users. The overall user experience is positive, with a well-organized website and responsive customer support.
VPN.ac - Key Features and Functionality
Encryption and Security
VPN.ac uses high-end encryption, including 256-bit AES encryption, which is the same standard used by banks and governments. This ensures that your data remains unreadable to outsiders even if it is intercepted.No-Logs Policy
VPN.ac follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not collect data about the websites you visit or the files you download. This policy helps maintain user anonymity and privacy.Kill Switch
VPN.ac includes a kill switch that automatically disconnects you from the internet if your connection to a VPN server drops. However, this feature only works with OpenVPN connections.Connection Protocols
VPN.ac supports several VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, L2TP/IPSec, and PPTP. Although PPTP is not recommended due to its weak encryption, VPN.ac also supports WireGuard, but it requires manual configuration, which can be inconvenient for less tech-savvy users.Double Hop Servers
VPN.ac offers double-hop servers in over 30 locations. These servers route your internet traffic through two VPN servers, providing an extra layer of security and ensuring your real IP and location are hidden.Perfect Forward Secrecy
VPN.ac implements perfect forward secrecy, which changes your encryption key for each VPN session. This feature prevents hackers from accessing your past or future encryption keys.DNS Filtering
VPN.ac’s SecureDNS feature acts as an ad and malware blocker. It is effective in blocking intrusive ads and preventing access to malicious websites, although it requires a bit of manual configuration to be fully effective.Split Tunneling
VPN.ac offers split tunneling, but this feature is only available on Android devices. It allows you to choose which apps will be routed through the VPN connection and which will use your normal IP and location.Server Locations and Performance
VPN.ac has a large network of servers worldwide, which is beneficial for bypassing geo-blocks and censorship. The service is also known for its fast speeds, making it suitable for streaming and other high-bandwidth activities.AI Integration
As of the current information, VPN.ac does not integrate AI into its features. The benefits of AI integration, such as real-time threat detection, optimized network performance, and personalized security solutions, are not available with VPN.ac. If you are looking for a VPN with AI-enhanced features, you might need to consider other providers that specifically offer these advancements. VPN.ac - Performance and Accuracy
Performance Evaluation of VPN.ac
When evaluating the performance and accuracy of VPN.ac, several key points and limitations come to the forefront.
Speed Performance
VPN.ac generally offers decent speeds, particularly on nearby servers. Tests conducted from Europe showed consistent speeds, with download rates ranging from 80 to 130 Mbps on servers in the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK. However, the performance drops significantly on distant servers. For example, speeds in the United States were notably lower, with download rates as low as 48.97 Mbps, and in Japan, the speeds were even more compromised, with a download rate of just 28.62 Mbps. This makes VPN.ac less suitable for users who need high speeds over long distances or for activities like online gaming, which requires low latency and high speeds.
Latency and Ping Times
VPN.ac has high ping times, both locally and internationally, which is a significant drawback for online gaming. Ping times can be as high as 455 ms in Japan and up to 40 ms on local connections, placing it in the worst 10% of VPNs for latency.
Security and Encryption
VPN.ac employs strong encryption protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IKEv2 (IPsec), PPTP, TLS, and WireGuard, although WireGuard requires manual setup. The service also supports SecureProxy, which allows for split-tunneling and encrypting data through a browser add-on. However, there are some security concerns. The kill switch only works with OpenVPN, and there have been issues with the kill switch on macOS. Additionally, VPN.ac collects temporary connection logs, including IP addresses and timestamps, which are automatically erased after the session.
Privacy
Located in Romania, which is not part of the 14 Eyes coalition, VPN.ac benefits from a more privacy-friendly jurisdiction. Despite this, the service keeps temporary connection logs, which might be a concern for some users.
Server Network and Features
VPN.ac has a relatively small server network and does not unblock most streaming services except for Netflix US. It does offer special P2P, multi-hop, and China-optimized servers, which can be beneficial for specific use cases. The multi-hop feature, while useful for obfuscation, significantly reduces speeds due to double encryption.
User Experience
The software is easy to install and use, making it an okay choice for beginners. However, the lack of live chat support and the tedious ticket system can be frustrating for users needing quick help.
Areas for Improvement
- Server Network Expansion: VPN.ac needs to expand its server network to improve performance on distant servers.
- WireGuard Integration: Improving the integration of WireGuard to make it easier to set up and use could enhance speeds and user experience.
- Kill Switch Reliability: Ensuring the kill switch works across all protocols and platforms is crucial.
- Live Support: Adding live chat support would significantly improve user satisfaction.
- Streaming Capabilities: Expanding the ability to unblock more streaming services would make the VPN more versatile.
Conclusion
In summary, while VPN.ac offers good speeds on nearby servers, strong encryption, and some advanced features, it has several limitations, particularly in terms of long-distance speeds, latency, and customer support. Addressing these areas could make VPN.ac a more competitive option in the VPN market.
VPN.ac - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure of VPN.ac
Subscription Plans
VPN.ac offers several subscription plans with varying durations, but all plans include the same set of features. Here are the available plans:- One Month: $9.00 per month
- Three Months: $24.00 total, which works out to $8.00 per month
- One Year: $57.60 total, or $4.80 per month
- Two Years: $90.00 total, or $3.75 per month
Features Included in All Plans
Regardless of the subscription duration, all plans come with the following features:- 6 simultaneous connections
- VPN kill switch (only works with OpenVPN)
- P2P servers
- Cross-platform software
- Protocol support (including OpenVPN, L2TP/IKEv2, PPTP, TLS, and WireGuard in beta)
- OVPN configuration files
- No speed limits
- SecureProxy (split-tunnelling) feature
- Multi-hop servers
- Servers optimized for China
- DNS filtering against malware, ads, and trackers
Trial and Money-Back Guarantee
- VPN.ac does not offer a free trial in the traditional sense, but there is a one-week trial available for $2.00. This trial includes full functionality but is limited to three simultaneous connections. However, there have been reports that this trial option may not be consistently available.
- There is a seven-day money-back guarantee for all plans, which allows you to request a refund if you are not satisfied with the service.
Payment Methods
VPN.ac supports a variety of payment methods, including:- PayPal
- Credit/debit cards
- Region-based payments (e.g., UnionPay, iDeal, Webmoney, SEPA Direct Debit)
- Cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Monero, Dash)
- Gift cards
Conclusion
In summary, VPN.ac offers a straightforward pricing structure with consistent features across all plans, along with a short trial period and a money-back guarantee. VPN.ac - Integration and Compatibility
VPN.ac Overview
VPN.ac demonstrates a robust integration with various tools and excellent compatibility across a wide range of platforms and devices, making it a versatile option for users with different needs.Platform Compatibility
VPN.ac offers client software for major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. This ensures that users can easily install and use the VPN on their primary devices. For users with other operating systems or devices, VPN.ac provides step-by-step connection instructions using third-party VPN software or OS-specific built-in settings. This flexibility extends to routers, supporting custom ROMs like DD-WRT, Tomato, Advanced Tomato, OpenWRT, AsusWRT/Merlin, and pfSense, allowing users to protect their entire home network.VPN Protocols
VPN.ac supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN (with various encryption types and both TCP and UDP on several ports), IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard (currently in beta). L2TP/IPsec is also available, though it is less secure compared to the other options. This variety ensures that users can choose the protocol that best suits their needs, whether it be for speed, security, or compatibility.Advanced Features and Integration
The VPN.ac client app includes several advanced features that enhance user experience and security. For instance, the app has a kill switch that blocks direct internet connectivity if the VPN connection drops, ensuring that the user’s data remains protected. It also offers options to block IPv6 traffic, force reconnect on sleep resume, and lower MTU for better speed and stability on certain connection types.User Interface and Customization
The client app provides a user-friendly interface with various customization options. Users can select their preferred connection protocol and port, choose from a list of server locations, and even set the app to auto-connect to the last used location when launched. Additional features include IP leak checks, connection logs, and the ability to minimize the app to the tray/notification area.Support for Multiple Devices
VPN.ac allows up to six simultaneous device connections, but users can bypass this limit by configuring their routers with the VPN. This setup enables protection for additional devices such as game consoles and smart TVs, which are not natively supported by the VPN.ac client app.Conclusion
In summary, VPN.ac integrates well with a variety of devices and platforms, offering a range of protocols and advanced features to ensure both security and convenience for its users. VPN.ac - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support Options
VPN.ac offers several customer support options and additional resources to ensure users have a smooth and satisfactory experience with their VPN service.
Support Channels
- For technical or billing support, users can utilize the ticketing system available on the VPN.ac website. This system allows direct communication with the team that designed and implemented the VPN service, ensuring personalized and effective support.
- For other inquiries or general questions, users can use the contact form on the website or send an email to info@vpn.ac.
Direct Support
- VPN.ac prides itself on not externalizing its support. This means users talk directly to the people who developed the VPN service, avoiding ticket escalations and generic responses.
Additional Resources
- The FAQ section on the VPN.ac website is comprehensive and addresses common questions such as account setup, billing plan changes, username changes, and refund policies.
- VPN.ac provides detailed information about their protocols, encryption methods, and server network, which can be helpful for both beginners and advanced users.
User Interface and Settings
- The VPN client is user-friendly, with features like a prominent on/off button, location and IP address info, and shortcuts to server lists. Advanced users can customize their experience through the “Preferences” and “Advanced” tabs, which include options for protocol selection, obfuscation, DNS filtering, and more.
Multi-Device Support
- VPN.ac supports multiple devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and various router configurations. Users can connect up to six devices simultaneously, or use a router to connect more devices.
By providing these support options and resources, VPN.ac ensures that users can quickly resolve issues and make the most out of their VPN service.
VPN.ac - Pros and Cons
Advantages of VPN.ac
Strong Encryption and Protocols
VPN.ac supports a variety of secure protocols including OpenVPN, L2TP/IKEv2 (IPsec), PPTP, TLS, and WireGuard. This ensures your data is well-protected with high-end encryption features.
Privacy-Friendly Jurisdiction
Being based in Romania, VPN.ac is outside the 14 Eyes coalition, which reduces the likelihood of your data being shared with foreign authorities. Romania also has laws that protect against mandatory data retention.
No Activity Logs
VPN.ac does not keep any activity logs, such as records of the sites you visit, DNS queries, or email messages. However, they do collect temporary connection logs, including IP addresses and connection timestamps, which are deleted after the session ends.
Secure DNS Resolvers
VPN.ac uses private DNS resolvers to protect DNS queries from being monitored or hijacked. This adds an extra layer of security and privacy for users.
Multi-Hop and China-Optimized Servers
The service offers double-hop servers and servers optimized for use in China, which can help in bypassing strict internet censorship.
Secure Proxy Browser Extensions
VPN.ac provides secure proxy extensions for Firefox, Chrome, and Opera, allowing you to encrypt browser traffic without tunneling all your PC traffic through the VPN.
DNS Filtering
The SecureDNS feature blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing domains, enhancing your online safety.
Good Speeds
VPN.ac generally offers good speeds, especially on nearby servers, although speeds can drop significantly on distant locations.
No Data Leaks
Tests have shown that VPN.ac does not leak DNS or IP information, ensuring your private data remains safe.
Disadvantages of VPN.ac
Temporary Connection Logs
While VPN.ac does not keep activity logs, it does collect temporary connection logs, including your IP address and connection timestamps. This could potentially be used to identify you, although these logs are deleted after the session.
Kill Switch Limitations
The kill switch feature only works with the OpenVPN protocol, leaving other protocols vulnerable to data leaks if the connection drops.
Small Server Network
VPN.ac has a relatively small server network with around 130 servers across 20 countries, which can limit its ability to unblock various streaming services and may result in slower speeds for users far from the servers.
Limited Streaming Capabilities
VPN.ac can only unblock Netflix US and does not support other major streaming platforms.
Visual Client Glitches
Users have reported visual glitches in the client software, which can be frustrating.
No Live Chat Support
Support is only available through email tickets, which can be slower than live chat support.
Short Refund Period
The money-back guarantee is only seven days, which is shorter than many other VPN services.
Manual WireGuard Setup
WireGuard protocol requires manual setup, which can be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, VPN.ac offers strong security features and good privacy protections but has some significant drawbacks, particularly in terms of its logging policy, server network size, and limited support options.
VPN.ac - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing VPN.ac to Other VPN Services
Security and Encryption
VPN.ac stands out with its strong encryption and support for multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IKEv2, PPTP, TLS, and WireGuard. However, it is important to note that the kill switch, a crucial feature for preventing data leaks, only works with OpenVPN. In contrast, Surfshark offers a kill switch that works across all its apps, providing comprehensive protection against data leaks. Surfshark also supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, and it has undergone independent audits to ensure its no-logs policy.Logging Policy
VPN.ac collects temporary connection logs, including IP addresses and connection timestamps, which could potentially be used to identify users. Although these logs are supposed to be deleted at the end of each session, this policy is not ideal for maximum privacy. Mullvad VPN, on the other hand, has a strict no-logs policy that has been audited by third parties, ensuring that no user activity is tracked or stored. This makes Mullvad a more privacy-oriented option.Server Network and Performance
VPN.ac has a relatively small server network with over 130 servers in 20 countries. While it offers good speeds on nearby servers, performance drops significantly on distant locations. It also struggles with unblocking streaming services other than Netflix US. Surfshark, in contrast, boasts a massive server network of over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, providing better coverage and performance. It also supports unlimited simultaneous connections and unblocks a wide range of streaming services.Additional Privacy Features
VPN.ac offers some unique features such as multi-hop (double VPN) server configurations, obfuscated servers, and secure proxy browser extensions. However, it lacks some advanced privacy features compared to other leading VPNs. Perfect Privacy, another competitor, offers advanced features like user-configurable multi-hop servers (up to four servers in a chain), NeuroRouting for optimal network paths, and a TrackStop filter to block ads, trackers, and malware. Despite its smaller server network, Perfect Privacy provides strong privacy and security features.Jurisdiction and Compliance
VPN.ac is based in Romania, which is outside the Eyes alliance and does not have mandatory data retention laws. This is a positive aspect for privacy, as it reduces the risk of data being shared with surveillance organizations. Mullvad VPN, although based in Sweden (part of the 14 Eyes alliance), argues that its strict no-logs policy and audited security measures ensure user privacy is protected. However, the jurisdiction might still be a concern for some users.User Experience and Support
VPN.ac is user-friendly, especially for beginners, but it lacks live chat support, which can be a drawback for users needing quick assistance. The refund period is also limited to seven days. Surfshark, on the other hand, offers 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it more convenient for users who might need immediate help or want to test the service extensively before committing.Conclusion
While VPN.ac has some strong security features and is a good option for those on a budget, its logging policy and limited server network are significant drawbacks. For users prioritizing maximum privacy, Surfshark or Mullvad VPN might be better alternatives due to their stricter no-logs policies and more comprehensive feature sets. Perfect Privacy is another option for those seeking advanced privacy features, although it comes with a higher price tag and a smaller server network. VPN.ac - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about VPN.ac
What are the pricing plans for VPN.ac?
VPN.ac offers several subscription plans. You can choose from a 1-month plan at $9.00, a 3-month plan at $8.00 per month, a 1-year plan at $4.80 per month, or a 2-year plan at $3.75 per month. The longer the subscription, the more you save.
Does VPN.ac offer a free trial?
VPN.ac does not offer a traditional free trial. However, they do provide a one-week trial period for $2.00, which includes full functionality but is limited to three simultaneous connections. Additionally, there is a 7-day money-back guarantee for all plans.
How many simultaneous connections does VPN.ac allow?
VPN.ac allows up to 12 simultaneous connections, but this is split between two types of protocols. You can have 6 connections using native protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and L2PT/IPSec) and another 6 using WireGuard.
What security features does VPN.ac offer?
VPN.ac provides several strong security features, including military-grade encryption, obfuscated servers, double VPN, and a VPN kill switch. It also offers DNS filtering and ensures no data leaks. The service supports various secure protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and L2PT/IPSec.
Can I use VPN.ac for streaming services like Netflix?
Historically, VPN.ac has not been reliable for accessing Netflix and similar streaming services. However, recent updates suggest that it may now unblock Netflix US, though this is not guaranteed.
What payment methods does VPN.ac accept?
VPN.ac supports a variety of payment methods, including PayPal, credit/debit cards, region-based payments like UnionPay and iDeal, and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Monero, and Dash. You can also use gift cards and prepaid cards.
Does VPN.ac support torrenting?
Yes, VPN.ac supports torrenting and has P2P servers available, making it a good option for users who need to download and upload files via peer-to-peer networks.
Where is VPN.ac based?
VPN.ac is based in Romania, which is known for having favorable privacy laws.
What kind of customer support does VPN.ac offer?
VPN.ac has a decent customer support team available to help with any issues or questions you might have. However, the specifics of their support hours and contact methods are not detailed in the available sources.
Does VPN.ac offer split tunneling?
There is no explicit mention of split tunneling as a feature offered by VPN.ac in the available sources. If this is a critical feature for you, you might want to check directly with their customer support.
Can I pay anonymously with VPN.ac?
Yes, you can pay anonymously using any of the cryptocurrency options supported by VPN.ac, such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Monero, and Dash.
VPN.ac - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of VPN.ac
VPN.ac is a strong contender in the privacy tools category, offering a blend of security, privacy, and performance that makes it an attractive option for various users.Security and Privacy
VPN.ac is based in Romania, a country with strict privacy laws that prohibit monitoring of online activities. This jurisdiction adds an extra layer of protection for users. The VPN uses state-of-the-art encryption, including 256-bit AES and the OpenVPN, L2TP/IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols, ensuring that your data remains secure and private. Key features include a strict no-logs policy, which means VPN.ac does not record any of your online activities, such as the sites you visit, videos you watch, or files you download. Additionally, it has a kill switch that blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing any data leaks.Performance
VPN.ac delivers fast and reliable internet speeds, with minimal impact on your regular non-VPN speeds. It retains around 92% of your regular speed for web browsing, 78% for HD streaming, and 88% for online gaming. For large file downloads, it operates at about 73% of non-VPN speeds, which is still very quick. The VPN supports specialized servers optimized for streaming, gaming, and torrenting, ensuring that you get the best possible performance for your specific needs. The use of advanced protocols like WireGuard further enhances speed and security.Ease of Use
VPN.ac is user-friendly and easy to set up. The apps are lightweight, clean, and intuitive, making it simple for beginners to install and use the VPN on various devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.Customer Support
While VPN.ac’s customer support is decent, with guides and an online knowledge base, it lacks 24/7 live chat support. Response times can vary, which might be a drawback for users needing immediate assistance.Who Would Benefit Most
VPN.ac is particularly beneficial for:- Privacy-conscious users: Those who prioritize online privacy and security will appreciate the strong encryption, no-logs policy, and secure DNS features.
- Streamers and gamers: Users who need to access geo-restricted content or require low latency for gaming will find VPN.ac’s specialized servers and fast speeds very useful.
- Digital marketers: Marketers can use VPN.ac to research and target audiences in different regions, access geo-restricted content, and ensure secure social media marketing activities.