From newcomer to knockout: Surfshark has made tidal waves in the VPN world in just seven years. Launching in 2018, they’ve aggressively expanded their reach to 100 countries and unleashed a torrent of features in their Surfshark One suite. And for those seeking ultimate stealth? Surfshark is experimenting with IP-rotating servers, leaving snoopers chasing digital ghosts.
Surfshark’s shed its “budget” skin, now chasing innovation, not rock-bottom prices. While monthly subscriptions sting, the feature set impresses. Forget bleeding-edge hype; Surfshark polishes proven tech to a mirror sheen. Nexus reimagines Tor’s core, while Everlink elevates the humble kill switch. Speed demons rejoice: downloads and uploads blaze.
Surfshark: The perfect VPN for newbies, but veterans beware. I dove deep, dissecting 11 key features through rigorous testing and old-school reporting. Skip to what matters most, then discover my final verdict on this lightweight champion.
Heads up! We’re overhauling our VPN reviews to bring you the freshest, most accurate insights. Stay tuned as we rigorously re-evaluate top VPN services, adding comprehensive ratings and side-by-side comparisons to help you make the best choice. Expect revamped reviews coming soon!
Surfshark
Surfshark VPN
A fast, stable VPN with unique features and good attention to security.
Pros
- Very fast speeds
- Split tunneling on all apps
- Can choose your own multihop paths
Cons
- Single-month pricing is excessive
- Lots of popups on desktop
- NoBorders Mode useful but can turn on needlessly
$53.73 for 27 months at Surfshark
Table of contents
- Findings at a glance
- Installing, configuring and using Surfshark
- Surfshark speed test: Super fast with some latency
- Surfshark security test: Simple but effective protocols
- How much does Surfshark cost?
- Surfshark side apps and bundles
- Close-reading Surfshark’s privacy policy
- Can Surfshark change your virtual location?
- Investigating Surfshark’s server network
- Extra features of Surfshark
- Surfshark customer support options
- Surfshark background check: No real blemishes
- Final verdict
Findings at a glance
Dive into the Surfshark deep end! This table distills my complete exploration. For the nitty-gritty on each highlight, plunge into the full review.
| Category | Notes |
| Installation and UI | Excellently organized, but geared toward new VPN users Apps are overly reliant on popup messages to convey information Auto-connect and NoBorders are enabled by default Mobile apps have the same clear controls with less friction, though Android and iOS are quite different |
| Speed | Download speed drops an average of 5.4 percent worldwide, the fastest in our current round of tests Average upload speed drop is 3.6 percent Mean worldwide latencies slightly higher, with an average ping of 344 ms |
| Security | Uses WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2, which are all secure protocols No IP address leaks, including via DNS or WebRTC Blocks IPv6 by defaultWireShark test showed that encryption works |
| Pricing | Three pricing tiers, each available at three durations Surfshark Starter has the full VPN service Best deal is $53.73 for 27 months, but can only be renewed as $47.85 for 12 months One month is sharply overpriced, but longer durations grant steep discounts |
| Bundles | Alternative ID masks your email address and personal details when signing up for websites Surfshark Antivirus got a perfect AV-Test protection score with no false positives Surfshark Alert checks data breaches to see if any of your important info turns up Surfshark Search is a private search engine that can change locations using Surfshark’s VPN network Incogni automatically requests that data brokers delete your information Surfshark includes a coupon code for Saily eSIM service |
| Privacy policy | Based in the Netherlands and appears to be GDPR compliant June 2025 audit confirmed that the posted privacy policy is accurate RAM-only servers delete stored activity at intervals Does gather information from ad trackers, but those are run by third parties and don’t compromise what you do on the VPN |
| Virtual location change | Unblocked Netflix on 14 out of 15 servers in five test locations One Japan server got caught, but disconnecting and reconnecting solved the issue Every server showed the content library from its country, suggesting an untraceable change of location |
| Server network | 100 servers in 141 countries 47 server locations are virtual, or about 1/3 of the entire network a smaller fraction than any direct competitor At least one real server on every continent |
| Features | Everlink instantly switches you to the next-best server if your current one fails Nexus makes it possible to select your own multihop nodes and constantly switches out your IP address Technically has unlimited simultaneous connections, but you might get in trouble for using a huge number at once NoBorders and Camouflage modes help Surfshark work on restrictive networks, though NoBorders sometimes activates when you don’t need it Bypasser lets you split tunnels by URL or app (URL only on iOS) CleanWeb blocks banner ads and trackers on all apps, while the CleanWeb 2.0 browser extension blocks video ads and auto-rejects unnecessary cookies |
| Customer support | Can access the most-used troubleshooting articles straight from the app FAQ pages are easy to use without technical knowledge Live chat support starts with a bot but gets you to human experts quickly Email ticket took less than a day to return with a useful answer |
| Background check | Founded in Lithuania in 2018; currently based in the Netherlands No major hacks or breaches since launch Merged with NordVPN in 2022, but continues to operate independently Removed risky certification authority formerly used by IKEv2 on Windows |
Installing, configuring and using Surfshark
Let’s dive into the Surfshark experience! We’re putting this VPN to the test, exploring everything from initial installation to daily use. Is it a breeze to set up? Does the user interface guide you seamlessly, or does it become a frustrating obstacle? Join us as we dissect Surfshark’s usability across various platforms, uncovering the good, the bad, and everything in between.
Windows
Forget complicated setups! Getting Surfshark on your Windows PC is a breeze. While the Microsoft Store offers a download, going straight to Surfshark’s website unlocks the full, cutting-edge experience. The installation is practically hands-free – a single “Yes” is all it takes before it’s up and running in a flash. Get protected, instantly.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Surfshark welcomes newcomers with a guided tour, a helping hand in the often-confusing world of VPNs. But for seasoned users, this persistent hand-holding can quickly become an unwelcome tour guide – a digital nag demanding attention instead of fading into the background.
Navigating the app felt like wading through treacle. The main screen, while logically laid out and boasting a clear display of stats and options, was constantly ambushed by a relentless barrage of pop-ups. Trying to kill a frozen connection? Pop-up. Toggling a setting? Pop-up. Attempting a graceful exit? You guessed it, pop-up. Yes, the information was usually relevant, but the app weaponized these alerts, freezing every other function hostage until you acknowledged their presence. A user experience equivalent to being lectured while your hands are tied.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
It’s frustrating, because the core functionality is rock solid. The settings panel is surprisingly efficient, cleverly condensing diverse features into a unified interface. Be warned, though: it’s a bit of a wild garden out of the box. Auto-connect and NoBorders are on by default, potentially causing the VPN to act in unexpected and unwanted ways.
Mac
Surfshark’s macOS app mirrors its Windows counterpart, a double-edged wave. Installation is lightning-fast, and the interface is intuitively organized, offering crystal-clear feature explanations. However, prepare for a barrage of pop-ups and a battle with pre-enabled settings. Occasionally, connections stubbornly cling on. If you’re stuck at 95% during connection, patience is key – it’s likely still working its magic.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Android
Surfshark’s Android app, a simple download and login away on the Google Play Store, skips the bells and whistles and delivers exactly what you need. Think of it as Surfshark, streamlined for mobile. The only surprise? It’s draped in a sleek dark mode, a stark contrast to its brighter siblings on other platforms. But don’t worry, navigating is a breeze. I found everything I needed in seconds. Plus, Android smartly keeps those annoying full-screen interruptions to a minimum, letting you browse in peace.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Heads up! When you fire up the Android app, you’ll likely land on a Surfshark One feature-packed page. If you’re just after the straight-up VPN controls, tap the arrow next to “VPN” at the top to switch views. Either way, you can still access all the core features you need, no matter which screen you’re on.
iOS
Surfshark’s VPN app takes a surprising turn, splitting from the norm with distinct designs on Android and iOS. Forget platform parity – iOS gets a streamlined experience with everything neatly tucked into four bottom-of-screen tabs. The real star? The settings tab, which shamelessly steals macOS and Windows’ preference pane aesthetics for a familiar, comfortable feel.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
The VPN’s main window? A usability puzzle. While functional, its design choices leave me scratching my head. The server list, permanently plastered on the screen (a feature I find redundant), pushes the actual VPN connection controls into a separate, floating box. It feels like an orphaned UI element, a forgotten stepchild. And the kicker? A buttonwithinthis floating window whose sole purpose is to open the server list… which isalreadyopen. Maybe it’s just me, but this interface quirk borders on the absurd.
Browser extensions
Surfshark’s browser extensions aren’t just extensions; they’re pocket-sized portals to VPN power, mirroring almost everything you love about their desktop apps. But here’s the kicker: the Alert tab acts like your personal digital bodyguard, flashing red if a website’s been compromised. And CleanWeb 2.0? Forget standard ad blockers – this feature nukes ads with extreme prejudice, even the sneaky ones embedded in videos. If you’re not using Surfshark’s browser extension, you’re missing out on a fortress of online security.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Surfshark speed test: Super fast with some latency
Think of your VPN like a trusty sidekick, always there for protection, but occasionally slowing you down. Every VPN adds a little extra baggage to your browser’s workload, causing a dip in speed – it’s inevitable. The real heroes? VPNs that minimize that impact. To see just how agile Surfshark is, I put it to the test. I clocked my download speeds via speedtest.net across six different server locations, giving me a clear picture of how swiftly it handles everything from streaming videos to grabbing those hefty files.
Beyond mere numbers, I hunted down the hidden gremlins of lag – latency, the bane of any serious gamer’s existence, where milliseconds can mean victory or crushing defeat. And upload speed? Crucial for blasting files into the digital ether, whether you’re a content creator, a frequent torrent user, or simply sharing memories with loved ones. The showdown results are cataloged below.
| Server location | Latency (ms) | Increase factor | Download speed (Mbps) | Percentage drop | Upload speed (Mbps) | Percentage drop |
| Portland, U.S.A. (unprotected) | 18 | 58.27 | 5.88 | |||
| Bend, U.S.A. (fastest) | 30 | 1.7x | 55.35 | 5.0 | 5.56 | 5.4 |
| Montreal, Canada | 164 | 9.1x | 56.47 | 3.1 | 5.58 | 5.1 |
| Bogota, Columbia | 281 | 15.6x | 55.01 | 5.6 | 5.58 | 5.1 |
| Johannesburg, South Africa | 605 | 33.6x | 51.87 | 11.0 | 5.62 | 4.4 |
| Dubai, U.A.E. | 534 | 29.7x | 54.53 | 6.4 | 5.74 | 2.4 |
| Jakarta, Indonesia | 449 | 24.9x | 57.55 | 1.2 | 5.92 | -0.7 |
| Average | 344 | 19.1x | 55.13 | 5.4 | 5.67 | 3.6 |
Surfshark doesn’t just flirt with speed; it leaves the competition in the dust. It blew past ExpressVPN, Proton VPN, and NordVPN in my tests – and those guys aren’t exactly tortoises. Check out the Indonesia results – my upload speedincreasedwhile Surfshark was running. Chalk it up to the fickle internet gods if you will, but that spike proves one thing: Surfshark’s impact on your connection is so light, you might just miss it.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Latency, the bane of online gamers, reveals a mixed performance with Surfshark. While distance predictably inflated ping, a surprising spike occurred even on a local server. Frag fests might suffer, but for streaming, browsing, and everything else, Surfshark’s speeds are more than adequate.
Surfshark security test: Simple but effective protocols
Can Surfshark truly safeguard your digital life? The answer hinges on three critical elements: robust, cutting-edge VPN protocols, airtight IP address security, and unwavering data encryption. While the tech specs speak for themselves, I put Surfshark to the ultimate test, diving deep to expose any potential IP leaks and confirm that every single packet is shielded with ironclad encryption.
VPN protocols
Surfshark boasts a trio of trusted VPN protocols: the cutting-edge WireGuard, the stalwart OpenVPN (in both TCP and UDP flavors), and the speedy IKEv2. Forget closed-source mysteries or outdated relics; these protocols are battle-tested, built on rock-solid encryption and bulletproof authentication. Surfshark sticks to what works, ditching the risks of the unknown. The only missing wave? OpenVPN on macOS.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Think of VPN protocols as translators, each speaking a slightly different dialect to connect your device to the VPN server and, ultimately, the internet. While the end result is the same – secure communication – they each have their own way of getting there. Don’t get bogged down in the technical weeds; the average user will barely notice the subtle nuances. Experiencing connection hiccups? Simply swap protocols until you find one that sings. Or, better yet, let the VPN intelligently choose the optimal protocol automatically – a feature that proved remarkably reliable in my experience. For those who like to tinker under the hood, the guide below offers a more detailed protocol breakdown.
| Protocol | Use case | Available on | Other notes |
| WireGuard | Generally provides the best speeds | All platforms | Saves static IP addresses, but Surfshark masks these with dynamic IPs for users |
| OpenVPN over TCP | When the other protocols have dropped your connection | All platforms except macOS and iOS | Automatic obfuscation |
| OpenVPN over UDP | When you need speed more than stability (and WireGuard isn’t working) | All platforms except macOS and iOS | Automatic obfuscation |
| IKEv2 | On mobile, as it’s good at reconnecting when moving between Wi-Fi and data | All platforms except Windows | Not open source |
Leak test
Then, I put five unused servers through the wringer, probing them for leaks with ipleak.net. Surfshark boasts its own private DNS servers, a fortress against the dreaded DNS leak – the kind you get when a VPN outsources DNS requests to public servers. True to form, my IP address remained a ghost, unrevealed in every test.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Surfshark and IPv6: A Potential Privacy Quirk?
Surfshark doesn’t natively support IPv6, the next-generation internet protocol. Their workaround? A recommendation to disable IPv6 altogether, and they even provide handy guides to do so.
But I decided to throw Surfshark a curveball. I left IPv6 enabled on my machine during testing, curious to see what would happen. The result? On all five servers tested, the IPv6 test flatlined. This suggests Surfshark doesn’t just ignore IPv6; it actively blocks it.
For now, with IPv6 adoption still a work in progress across the internet, this proactive blocking is a pretty effective shield against potential IPv6 leaks.
I threw everything I had at Surfshark – active Google Meet calls buzzing in the background, the works. The goal? To trigger a WebRTC leak. But Surfshark remained unfazed. Leak test after leak test came back clean. It wouldn’t budge. Consider this VPN officially sealed tighter than a submarine hatch.
Encryption test
“I didn’t just take Surfshark’s word for it – I put their encryption to the test myself. Armed with Wireshark and HTTP Forever, I dove into the data stream. The result? A scrambled mess of indecipherable code. See for yourself. This screenshot proves that Surfshark’s VPN protocol isn’t just talk – it’s a wall of unbreakable encryption protecting your data.”
Sam Chapman for Engadget
How much does Surfshark cost?
Surfshark, much like its sibling NordVPN, is a comprehensive security suite, but stands out with its straightforward tier system. Choose from three subscription options, each offered in three different commitment lengths. Unlock the pricing secrets in the table below.
Heads up! Our amazing 24-month plans? Think of them as your grand entrance. Renewals offer flexibility with either a breezy month-to-month or a solid 12-month commitment. Also, those sweet deals you see below? They include extra months for first-timers only, so grab ’em while they’re hot – they vanish upon renewal!
| Plan | One month | 12 months | 24 months |
| Surfshark Starter | $15.45 | $48.75 ($3.19/month with 3 extra months) | $53.73 ($1.99/month with 3 extra months) |
| Surfshark One | $17.95 | $50.85 ($3.39/month with 3 extra months) | $67.23 ($2.49/month with 3 extra months) |
| Surfshark One+ | $20.65 | $91.35 ($6.09/month with 3 extra months) | $107.73 ($3.99/month with 3 extra months) |
Surfshark’s pricing is a rollercoaster. At $15.45, the shortest plan is a definite wipeout – even for a VPN we genuinely enjoy. But hold on, because the longest subscription plunges to a ridiculously low $1.99 per month! That’s practically stealing a top-tier VPN. Want even more bang for your buck? The upgrade from the basic VPN-only “Starter” plan to the full-featured “One” package (everything but Incogni) is almost negligible on the annual plan – a mere $0.20. Seriously, that’s less than you’d spend on gumballs.
Surfshark’s playing the numbers game – and you can win. Sure, they’re probably boosting user stats with this offer, but who cares? If you’re already eyeing Surfshark VPN, the 12-month Surfshark One subscription is a steal. Jump on it.
Risk-free exploring! If you aren’t completely satisfied, get a full refund within 30 days – just start a live chat. Think of it as a test drive. (We only offer this perk once every six months.)
Want to test the Surfshark waters? Dive in with a free trial! Grab the Surfshark app from the Apple or Android store, set up your account, and pick a plan that unlocks a 7-day free pass. Keep in mind, you’ll need to enter payment details to get started. Prefer a longer swim? Skip the app store hustle and snag a hassle-free 30-day money-back guarantee no app needed, just pure browsing freedom.
Surfshark side apps and bundles
Beyond VPN: Unveiling Surfshark’s Hidden Arsenal. We’ve kept the spotlight on the VPN, but peek behind the curtain! Here’s a glimpse at Surfshark’s other offerings – consider this your quick-start guide to a world of digital tools.
Alternative ID
Surfshark Starter: Your online cloak and dagger kit. This plan doesn’t just give you VPN protection; it throws in an “Alternative ID” feature, a double dose of digital disguise. Think disposable email addresses with our masked email generator and on-the-fly fake personal details, thanks to our personal detail generator. Use them to sign up for services without revealing your real self.
Tired of handing out your real email like candy to every website that asks? A masked email generator conjures up a unique, disposable email address that forwards directly to your actual inbox. Think of it as a secret agent for your inbox, shielding your true identity, not blocking spam. It’s about privacy: keep your real email under wraps when signing up for online services and dodge the data-leak bullet. Want to go incognito on calls too? For just $2.89 a month, snag a temporary phone number that works the same way.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Tired of handing out your real info like candy? A personal detail generator conjures up believable, yet totally fake, names, addresses, and birthdays perfect for those “iffy” websites. Think of it as your digital cloak of anonymity. Pro Tip: Pair it with a VPN to become a true internet ninja; otherwise, your IP address might blow your cover! Bonus: Feeling uninspired? It’s also a killer RPG character generator for your next tabletop adventure.
Surfshark Antivirus
Surfshark Antivirus: Buried within Surfshark One and One+ subscriptions, this unassuming guardian silently patrols your digital realm. It intercepts threats mid-download and unleashes full system scans, cross-referencing files against a constantly evolving blacklist updated every three hours. Consider it your digital sentry, relentlessly vigilant against lurking malware.
Surfshark Antivirus isn’t just good; it’s AV-Test PERFECT. Achieving a flawless 6/6 in protection, Surfshark slammed the door on 100% of malware – from well-known nasties to the sneakier zero-day attacks. False alarms? Forget about it. A perfect usability score confirms Surfshark’s accuracy. Performance is where it gets interesting: downloading and file copying are virtually untouched, but you might notice popular websites loading with a 30% slower.
Surfshark Alert
Surfshark Alert acts like your personal digital bloodhound, sniffing out data breaches to protect your online identity. Part of the comprehensive Surfshark One and One+ packages, it relentlessly scans leaked information for your compromised email addresses, usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and even government IDs. Think of it as an early warning system, alerting you to malware lurking on your device, poised to snatch your precious data before it’s too late.
Surfshark Search
Ditch the ads and reclaim your search privacy with Surfshark Search, now unlocked with One or One+! Imagine a search engine as powerful as Google, but cleaner, sharper, and completely free of manipulative ads. Surfshark Search delivers just that, fueled by subscription fees instead of intrusive advertising. Want to see results from Tokyo? Or maybe London? Effortlessly switch your search region for localized insights. Forget tracked searches and biased algorithms; Surfshark promises purely organic results, respecting your privacy every step of the way.
Incogni
Tired of your personal data floating around the web like digital debris? Surfshark One+ offers a potent solution: Incogni. This automated data removal service acts as your digital cleanup crew, scouring data brokerages for your information and relentlessly demanding its deletion. Think of it as a tireless advocate for your privacy, persistently pushing brokers to erase your digital footprint. While complete erasure isn’t always guaranteed, Incogni keeps at it, resending requests and fighting for your right to be forgotten, as long as your Surfshark One+ subscription is active. Reclaim your privacy – let Incogni do the dirty work.
Saily eSIM
Ditch roaming fees! Some VPNs are now hooking users up with Saily eSIM discounts, paving the way for affordable mobile service abroad. Surfshark’s leading the charge with the coupon codesurfshark5– and rumor has it, you don’t even need a Surfshark subscription to snag the deal. Time to explore!
Close-reading Surfshark’s privacy policy
Surfshark’s privacy policy is a window into their soul or at least, their corporate strategy regarding your data. Dishonest VPNs rarely outright lie in their policies; legal consequences loom. Instead, they weave a web of ambiguity, exploiting loopholes and half-truths to feign privacy while secretly undermining it. A close read reveals whether Surfshark truly values your anonymity or is simply playing a deceptive game.
Most VPNs boast “no logs,” but a trustworthy service spells out every exception. I plunged into Surfshark’s privacy policy – a 5,000+ word behemoth. The summaries offered were useless, so I dove into the full text, determined to uncover the truth about their data practices.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Surfshark’s Dutch headquarters puts it under the watchful eye of the GDPR, a privacy powerhouse that demands justification for every byte of data stored. Think of it as GDPR keeping Surfshark honest.
While the Netherlands is rumored to be part of the Nine Eyes intelligence alliance, don’t panic. These agencies can only snoop if Surfshark is already logging your activity – and if that were the case, your location would be the least of your worries. Surfshark’s no-logs policy is your real shield here.
Imagine a digital vault where every secret vanishes in a blink. That’s Surfshark. Their servers operate on RAM alone, wiping clean any trace of your online activity like waves erasing footprints on the sand. Forget lengthy data retention policies – Surfshark promises a 15-minute vanishing act. Trust them, and the fear of seized servers becomes a distant shore.
“The only real gamble here? Whether Surfshark, despite its promises, might peek at your data. They do admit a view of information gathered by third-party trackers – think those pesky social media cookies measuring ad clicks. But rest easy, those trackers aren’t spying on your VPN-protected browsing, nor are they excavating your activity logs – which, poof, vanish faster than a Snapchat after 15 minutes.”
Independent privacy audits
VPN privacy claims: Fact or fiction? While proving a VPNneverlogs data is like chasing a ghost, independent audits offer a powerful reality check. Think of these audits as white-hat hackers, meticulously dissecting a VPN’s infrastructure and policies, interviewing staff, and leaving no digital stone unturned to confirm their promises. They’re your best bet for separating genuine privacy from marketing hype.
Fresh off a June 2025 audit, Surfshark’s privacy armor shines. Independent eyes at Deloitte confirmed: Surfshark’s digital fortress is built exactly as promised, leaving virtually zero cracks for intrusion. Appendix I, now essentially a badge of honor, details a system humming in perfect alignment with its advertised security.
Surfshark aligns with its stated privacy policy, offering a secure haven for your data. While it might not eradicate every targeted ad, it effectively cloaks your personal information from prying eyes, delivering a significant privacy boost.
Can Surfshark change your virtual location?
Craving international cinema from the comfort of your couch? This is where Surfshark swims with the sharks of streaming services. I put it to the ultimate test: Can it convincingly fake its location to unlock geo-restricted content without getting blocked? Let’s find out if Surfshark can outsmart Netflix, Hulu, and more in this streaming showdown.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Think you can hop the digital border and binge shows from anywhere? Here’s my Surfshark Netflix test: I’m hitting up five global hotspots, bouncing through three servers in each, and firing up Netflix. Clean access, no error codes, and a totally different show selection than usual? That’s Surfshark nailing a location change. Pro Tip: Always log into your streaming accountbeforeunleashing the VPN magic. Happy watching!
| Server Location | Unblocked Netflix? | Changed content? |
| Canada | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Ireland | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Colombia | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| South Africa | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Japan | 2/3 | 2/3 |
Surfshark aced the unblocking challenge, conquering every location we threw at it, not just once, but twice! Streaming was smooth sailing, with speeds so fast they left stuttering in their wake. A single server in Japan briefly raised the red flag, being identified and blocked. But fear not, a quick disconnect and reconnect was all it took to overcome that minor hiccup.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
VPNs aren’t perfect chameleons; even the best occasionally stumble, failing to mask your location. NordVPN, a heavyweight contender, earned a respectable 14/15 in our tests. Consider that a solid “B+” for streaming. If flawless performance is a must-have, ExpressVPN and Proton VPN remain undefeated champions in the location-spoofing arena.
Investigating Surfshark’s server network
Surfshark boasts a sprawling network of 100 server locations across a staggering 141 countries. Dive deeper, and you’ll find a mix: 92 physical servers rooted in their stated locations, and 47 virtual servers that add a layer of geographical flexibility.
What’s a virtual server? Think of it as digital camouflage. It presents an IP address in one country while physically residing elsewhere. Security isn’t usually compromised, but speed can be a gamble depending on the distance between you and the server’s true home.
Here’s the rub with Surfshark: they keep the actual locations of their virtual servers under wraps. Selecting one becomes a bit of a speed lottery – you might strike gold, or you might end up in the digital slow lane.
Curious if Surfshark’s global network has you covered? The server location breakdown below helps you determine if their reach aligns with your needs. For a complete, up-to-the-minute server list, check Surfshark’s website. A pro tip: Surfshark’s apps are the key to identifying which servers are virtual.
| Region | Countries with servers | Total server locations | Virtual server locations |
| North America | 8 | 32 | 5 |
| South America | 10 | 10 | 6 |
| Europe | 46 | 58 | 13 |
| Africa | 6 | 6 | 4 |
| Middle East | 3 | 3 | 1 |
| Asia | 25 | 26 | 18 |
| Oceania | 2 | 6 | 0 |
| Total | 100 | 141 | 47 (33%) |
Surfshark’s server setup is noteworthy for a couple of reasons. Unlike many competitors, only a small fraction of their network around a third is virtual. This is the lowest I’ve seen from any major VPN. More importantly, Surfshark boasts a physical server presence on every continent. So, whether you’re trekking through the Himalayas or exploring the Amazon, you can likely count on consistently good speeds with Surfshark.
Surfshark’s server fleet favors Europe and North America, but Asia holds its own with a solid collection of virtual outposts. For a VPN newcomer, Surfshark’s rapid network expansion is remarkable. The numbers paint a picture: a VPN committed to growth, but prioritizing dependable, high-performance locations over sheer quantity.
Extra features of Surfshark
Surfshark isn’t chasing fleeting trends; it’s building a fortress. While NordVPN pioneers with eye-catching novelties like Meshnet, Surfshark focuses on perfecting the fundamentals, adding subtle but impactful tweaks under the hood and user-facing improvements that elevate the everyday VPN experience. Don’t mistake this for a lack of ambition; it’s a quiet revolution hinting at a future brimming with potential.
Underlying technology: Surfshark Nexus and Everlink
Surfshark isn’t just another VPN; it’s packing some serious heat under the hood. Since 2022, their Nexus technology has been weaving a tighter web than your average VPN. Imagine Surfshark’s servers as nodes in a sprawling, interconnected network think Tor, but exclusive. This proprietary setup creates a labyrinth of pathways, offering a unique and fortified browsing experience.
Think of choosing a server location as just setting your destination. Surfshark’s smart tech handles the journey. It picks the best starting point and the route, ensuring everyone gets a smoother ride and a constantly changing IP address. This means your online tracks are scrambled, making it nearly impossible to follow you. It’s this intelligent routing that also powers our Dynamic MultiHop feature, letting you hand-pick two stops along the way for ultimate privacy.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Surfshark’s Everlink: your VPN lifeline. Think of it as an invisible guardian watching over your connection when using WireGuard. Should your VPN stumble, Everlink pounces, seamlessly switching you to a backup server. The result? A blip, not a break, keeping your online journey uninterrupted.
Forget kill switches; Everlink is a safety net woven from interconnected servers. Instead of outright disconnection, it seamlessly reroutes your traffic the instant a server falters. Testing this failsafe, however, is a unique challenge. The standard kill switch test manually severing your connection becomes paradoxical. How do you simulate a server drop to verify a system designed topreventserver drops? Despite this testing hurdle, the promise of uninterrupted connectivity makes me cautiously optimistic about Everlink’s potential to render server outages a thing of the past.
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Surfshark tears down device limits, offering a single subscription to cover you, your entire household, and even the friend who always forgets their charger. Think of it as VPN freedom for everyone.
Unlimited sounds great, right? Think again. Surfshark technically lets you connect as many devices as you want. However, don’t get any bright ideas. Reselling access or hiding a massive botnet behind a wall of connections will get you flagged faster than you can say “bandwidth hog.”
Surfshark doesn’t advertise a connection limit, but tread carefully. Push too many simultaneous connections and you might find your account frozen, flagged by their fraud detection system. While not a ban, it’s a temporary timeout. The good news? A quick explanation to customer support usually unlocks things, proving you’re not a botnet overlord, just a power user.
Bypasser split tunneling
Imagine juggling privacy and speed online. Bypasser is your digital acrobat, splitting your internet connection. Send sensitive apps through a VPN for ironclad security, while the rest of your traffic flies free, unburdened by VPN overhead. Need your real IP for a specific service? No problem, Bypasser lets you selectively bypass the VPN. Think torrenting: keep your downloads shrouded in VPN protection while browsing at lightning speed, simultaneously maximizing both security and performance. It’s like having two internet connections in one!
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Surfshark’s split tunneling feature, dubbed “Bypasser,” lets you pick which apps and sites use the VPN. Available on every desktop and mobile platform, it offers tailored control. iOS users gain website-specific routing, while Windows and Android users can go deeper, choosing between two modes: “Bypass VPN” excludes specified traffic from the VPN tunnel, while “Route via VPN” exclusively protects chosen apps and sites. Fine-tune your VPN experience with Bypasser.
Dynamic MultiHop
Double your security, double your control. Most VPNs offer a double-hop option, bouncing your connection through two servers for extra protection. But they usually lock you into a pre-set path. Surfshark rips up that rule book. With Nexus, Surfshark is the only VPN that lets you hand-pickbothserver locations, forging your own super-secure route across the globe.
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Maximize your connection speed! For optimal performance, pinpoint an entry node close to home. Need to bypass geo-restrictions? Select your exit node based on the content you crave. Otherwise, stick with servers within your own country for both entry and exit – it’s usually the fastest route.
Camouflage Mode obfuscation
Is your VPN being blocked? Imagine disappearing online, not just masking your IP, but concealing the very fact you’re using a VPN. That’s VPN obfuscation. Surfshark calls it Camouflage Mode, and it’s your secret weapon. Simply switch to the OpenVPN protocol within Surfshark, and it activates automatically. Think of it as a digital invisibility cloak, bypassing firewalls that try to detect and block VPN traffic. If you’re facing connection issues, especially when you suspect VPN blocking, OpenVPN with Camouflage Mode could be your instant solution.
NoBorders mode
Bypass censorship with Surfshark’s NoBorders mode. Traveling somewhere with heavy internet restrictions like China? NoBorders automatically kicks in, routing you through servers strategically located to circumvent firewalls. Think of it as your digital passport, instantly granting you access by switching to an IP address just outside the restricted zone.
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NoBorders: Great feature, but watch out! It’s like an overprotective friend, always trying to help but sometimes holding you back. Because it’s on automatically, you might be stuck on slower servers without realizing it. My advice? Give yourself a speed boost! Dive into your settings and flip NoBorders OFF. It might sneak back on when itthinksyou need it, so if your speeds suddenly tank, that’s the first place to check. Unleash your full speed potential!
CleanWeb
Tired of annoying banner ads and sneaky trackers? Surfshark’s CleanWeb has you covered. Get the core protection – banner ad and tracker blocking – built right into all Surfshark apps.
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Tired of ads interrupting your streaming binges? CleanWeb 2.0 is here to rescue your browser. This extension isn’t messing around – it annihilates those pesky video ads on YouTube and your favorite streaming sites. Plus, say goodbye to endless cookie consent pop-ups! CleanWeb 2.0 automatically rejects all those non-essential trackers, freeing up your focus for what really matters. As someone with ADHD, I can personally attest to the bliss of a pop-up free browsing experience. Finally, distraction-free streaming is a reality.
Static and dedicated IPs
Tired of CAPTCHA hell? Surfshark throws you a lifeline: static IP addresses, absolutely free. Unlike other VPN bigwigs, they understand the frustration of ever-changing IPs raising red flags. A static IP is your consistent digital handshake, proving you’re not some suspicious interloper every time you log in. Wave goodbye to endless CAPTCHAs. Plus, imagine this: your home devices are always connected through a static IP, creating a secure, private tunnel straight back to your home network, accessible from anywhere. Surfshark: it’s more than a VPN, it’s your digital home base.
Surfshark’s dedicated IPs static IPs exclusively for you come at a premium, but they’re worth it. Unlike shared static IPs, where one user’s misdeeds can get everyone blocked, a dedicated IP ensures your online reputation remains pristine. Think of it as your own VIP lane on the internet highway.
Other features
Beyond the essentials, Surfshark packs some clever extras. A kill switch acts as a safety net, severing your internet connection if the VPN falters, preventing accidental exposure. While Everlink makes this almost redundant, the kill switch stands guard in the shadows. Customize your connection by setting Surfshark to auto-connect everywhereexcepton your trusted home or office network, picking your favorite server location for seamless, hands-free protection.
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Need a quick VPN break? Surfshark lets you pause your protection for 5 minutes, 30 minutes, or even a couple of hours. And for Android users seeking ultimate privacy, Surfshark can spoof your GPS location to match your VPN server’s IP address. Just remember to disable it before relying on your phone for directions – unless you fancy a detour to, say, Iceland.
Surfshark customer support options
Surfshark’s in-app “Get Help” section is a mixed bag. It teases a potentially awesome feature: direct links to troubleshooting guides tailored to your VPN client version. Imagine, instant answers! Clicking “Browse Guides” whisks you away to relevant FAQs in your browser – handy for the top five most common issues. But here’s the catch: if your problem is a bit more exotic, you’re forced to navigate to the full support page anyway. So close, yet so far from being truly helpful.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Dive in and discover a treasure trove of user-friendly guides designed to banish tech headaches! Forget confusing jargon – Surfshark’s help center speaksyourlanguage. Need a hand getting started? Our visual setup guides, overflowing with screenshots, walk you through every Surfshark app. But the real magic? Solutions crafted fromyourpoint of view. Instead of drowning in technical babble, you’ll find answers to everyday frustrations like “Help! I’m stranded – can’t connect!” or “Error messages got me down.” We provide easy-to-follow DIY fixes, empowering you to reclaim your online experience.
“Surfschool,” however, feels less like a school and more like a digital attic. It’s a jumbled collection of feature breakdowns, pro-level pointers, and VPN fundamentals, all tossed together. Lost? Your best bet might be skipping the treasure hunt and firing up the search bar instead.
The live support experience
Need a lifeline to real support? Navigating to the bottom of the main support page reveals the “Chat with us” portal. Clicking it conjures a chat window, your direct line to assistance. I put it to the test, hunting for a link to my review’s test account. Like threading a digital maze, I encountered the obligatory chatbot guardian, but the detour was brief. Victory! A human agent materialized, armed with solutions, and promptly delivered the elusive link.
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Surfshark pledged to ditch IKEv2 back in 2022. So, I decided to poke their email ticket system with a slightly thorny question: the status of that promise. Turns out, theydidkill it… on Windows. I wasn’t aware of that little detail going in, but it made for a more interesting test, given the email system is intended for those gnarly issues, not quick “yes/no” answers.
The response arrived in a flash, just 22 hours later, delivering a clear verdict: a Surfshark rep confirmed that ditching IKEv2 across all platforms isn’t on their roadmap – a decision that carries a potential sting, detailed in the following section.
Surfshark background check: No real blemishes
In 2018, a disruptor arrived on the cybersecurity landscape: Surfshark. Launching with its VPN as its flagship product, it quickly expanded its arsenal with Alert and Search in 2019, followed by the powerful additions of Antivirus and Incogni in 2021. Interestingly, Surfshark’s early days were intertwined with Tesonet, a Lithuanian startup incubator – the same group that nurtured NordVPN, revealing a shared origin story in the competitive VPN world.
Surfshark boasts a squeaky-clean reputation, and its youth might be the secret. Like the similarly fresh-faced Proton VPN, it hasn’t been around long enough to amass a catalog of blunders. But don’t mistake a short history for guaranteed perfection. Surfshark seems to be learning from the VPN veterans, cleverly sidestepping the pitfalls that tripped up its forerunners.
The trusted root certification authority risk
Surfshark holds a skeleton key – a trusted root certificate. While it hasn’t unlocked any digital doors for hackersyet, its existence raises eyebrows. Back in 2022, watchdogs flagged Surfshark (along with other VPNs) for using this verification method. Imagine a master key that, if stolen, could let bad actors disguise malware as legitimate Surfshark software, sneaking it onto your device. Surfshark insists it’s essential for IKEv2 functionality, but the risk remains: a potential backdoor, still unopened.
Following a security design critique, Surfshark has axed its Windows app’s IKEv2 protocol. While IKEv2 remains available on other operating systems, a Surfshark representative confirmed in an email that these versions bypass the risky trusted root Certificate Authorities (CAs) used by the deprecated Windows version, effectively mitigating any potential security vulnerabilities. The chopping block for IKEv2 applies solely to Windows, ensuring the security concern is neutralized.
Connection to NordVPN
In a move that sent ripples through the cybersecurity world, Surfshark and NordVPN secretly joined forces in 2022. While the merger raised eyebrows, both companies insisted it was business as usual. Surfshark described the deal as a strategic alignment, promising continued independent operations while pursuing shared objectives. The big question remains: What exactly does this alliance mean for the future of online security and VPN users?
Despite whispers of a closer connection, NordVPN and Surfshark remain strikingly independent as we approach 2025. A digital glance reveals two distinct brands, with nary a cross-mention on their respective online domains. Further solidifying this separation, a Surfshark insider stated plainly, “We operate as autonomous companies, from our infrastructures to our future plans and our users.”
Beneath the surface of the VPN world, a curious connection links Surfshark and NordVPN. Both sprang from the same Lithuanian tech incubator, Tesonet, sharing co-founders Tom Okman and Eimantas Sabaliauskas. Tesonet even nurtured Surfshark in its early years. While Surfshark asserts its independence today, this shared origin highlights a growing trend: VPN industry consolidation. Just like Kape Technologies and Ziff Davis, who operate multiple VPN brands, the Surfshark/Nord connection illustrates how seemingly distinct competitors can share common roots in an increasingly interconnected market.
Final verdict
Surfshark doesn’t just ask for your trust; they actively earn it. Forget virtual servers – their commitment to physical infrastructure speaks volumes. Speed? Consistently impressive. Privacy? Audited rigorously and repeatedly. But what truly separates Surfshark is its refusal to stagnate. Nexus and Everlink, while perhaps not flawless, deliver demonstrable benefits, proving they’re far more than empty promises. In a sea of VPNs, Surfshark is a beacon of genuine innovation and a clear attempt to rise above the noise.
Surfshark’s swift, targeted response to the trusted root CA risk is a breath of fresh air. While I’m still holding out hope for a less risky IKEv2 implementation on Windows – other VPNs have cracked that code – I can’t help but be impressed by their proactive approach to security vulnerabilities. It’s this dedication, coupled with blazing-fast speeds and user-friendly features, that makes recommending Surfshark an absolute pleasure. They don’t just talk about security; they live it.
Thanks for reading Surfshark VPN review: A fast VPN for casual users
