Betternet VPN Review

“A secure and privacy-focused VPN service with features like an always-on connection, a kill switch, and anti-phishing protection. It has both free and premium plans. The network of servers is small and the speeds are average. While the free version has limitations, the premium plan offers additional benefits, including optimized servers for streaming and gaming.”

Concerns about internet privacy and security have grown crucial, particularly in this age of digital connectivity. This resulted in the widespread use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). A VPN creates a secure tunnel between a user’s device and the internet, encrypting data and masking the user’s IP address. This powerful solution not only protects sensitive data from potential cyber threats, but it also allows users to access region-restricted content while remaining anonymous in the broad digital universe.

Betternet VPN is a versatile and easy-to-use virtual private network solution that improves online privacy and security. It encrypts users’ internet connections, offering a secure tunnel to protect sensitive data and mask IP addresses. It offers both free and premium options. Betternet caters to customers of all technical levels with its simple setup across several platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Chrome, and Firefox. An always-on VPN, a kill switch, anti-phishing security, and a wide network of servers provide fast and dependable connections are among the notable features. The premium package adds extra features such as improved servers for streaming and gaming. Betternet’s commitment to simplicity and comprehensive security becomes clear as we go deeper into the specifics, making it an attractive choice in the competitive VPN landscape.

Initial Setup

Regardless of the device or platform, the initial setup consists of a few easy steps. Begin by going to the Betternet official website or the app store for your operating system. Once there, look for the Betternet VPN app and start the download. The installation process is straightforward, walking you through the steps required to install the software on your device. Launch the Betternet app once the installation is complete.

When you launch the app, you’ll see a simple and user-friendly interface that takes little or no effort. The primary screen often has a prominent “Connect” button that invites you to immediately start a VPN connection. By clicking this button, Betternet will automatically link you to one of its servers, guaranteeing your internet activities are secured and secure. This simple setup is intended for customers of various technical abilities, making it especially appealing to those who are new to VPN services or simply want a hassle-free experience.

Security and Privacy

Betternet VPN stresses user security with a robust collection of features meant to protect online activity. The “Always-on” functionality is one of its primary security features, ensuring a continuous and automatic connection to the VPN anytime the device is in use. This continuous protection reduces the possibility of unintentional network exposure when switching between networks.

A “Kill Switch” offers an extra layer of safety, automatically disconnecting the internet if the VPN connection stops unexpectedly, preventing data spillage during potential vulnerabilities. Notably, Betternet includes anti-phishing protection, alerting users of impending visits to dangerous websites that may include malware or phishing scams. This functionality demonstrates Betternet’s dedication to not only encrypting data but also actively protecting consumers against evolving online threats.

Betternet does not log any browsing device data in terms of privacy, strengthening its commitment to user confidentiality. Furthermore, the usage of IP and DNS leak protection ensures that users’ actual IP addresses are hidden and their internet connections are secure at all times. Betternet offers Tor over VPN for those seeking an extra layer of anonymity, allowing users to access Tor sites and services while benefiting from the VPN’s protection. This multifaceted approach to security promotes Betternet as a trustworthy option for users who value both data encryption and preventative safeguards against potential cyber threats.

Free VPN

Betternet VPN has a free version that provides users with key privacy features at no cost. While the free plan is an excellent way to get started with VPNs, it does have some limits. Users can connect up to five devices at the same time, providing flexibility coverage across various devices. One noteworthy feature is the presence of adverts in the free edition, which serves as the primary business model for the service’s supply of a free VPN option.

In terms of server availability, the free version gives you access to 5 virtual locations in the United States. Users that require worldwide access or prefer a specific server location for greater security or content access may be affected by this constraint. Furthermore, while the free version provides limitless data, iOS users are subject to a daily cap. To go above this limit, free users can view advertising, illustrating Betternet’s creative strategy to balance user access with long-term service provision. Overall, Betternet’s free VPN version serves as a simple introduction to private online browsing, making privacy-enhancing technology available to a wide range of users.

Premium VPN

Betternet VPN has a Premium Plan that improves the user experience by including a slew of sophisticated features and perks. The Premium Plan supports up to 10 devices concurrently, allowing individuals to secure many devices under a single subscription. The removal of commercials is a noteworthy benefit of the Premium Plan, providing consumers with an uninterrupted and ad-free surfing and streaming experience. This contributes to a greater sense of privacy and a more efficient online experience.

The Premium Plan considerably enhances the accessible virtual locations, with 115+ server locations worldwide. This expanded server network not only allows users to access content from different areas, but it also provides optimal performance by connecting them to servers that are geographically closest to them. The Premium Plan includes server optimization for popular streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Prime, ensuring a flawless and buffer-free watching experience. Betternet also caters to gamers by providing servers tailored for games like Roblox and Fortnite, assuring low-latency connections for an excellent gaming experience.

Apps

Through its dedicated applications, Betternet VPN provides a seamless and safe online experience across a wide range of platforms. The Betternet software for Windows gives users access to a range of tools targeted at improving privacy and security. Notable features include the ability to rejoin automatically, the ability to avoid manual reconnection in the event of a disconnect, and the ability to prevent IP leaks, which ensures that users’ actual IP addresses remain hidden. The addition of a kill switch is critical, since it stops data transfer in the event of an unexpected VPN shutdown, hence increasing user security. Betternet also caters to customers on unprotected Wi-Fi networks, activating the VPN automatically in such cases for enhanced security. The program also supports split tunneling via a feature called “Exclude Domains,” which allows users to choose which apps or websites run through the VPN tunnel, addressing compatibility and access difficulties.

Betternet brings its features to the mobile domain on Android. Users can benefit from a variety of VPN protocols, including the Smart protocol, which is automatically engaged, the proprietary Hydra protocol, which is noted for its speed, and the WireGuard protocol, which is built for ease of use. The auto-protect and always-on VPN features assure continuous and automatic connections, while the kill switch improves security by blocking background internet traffic in the event of an unexpected disconnect. The addition of split tunneling to the Android app is an intriguing development that allows users to bypass select websites for increased access and convenience.

The Mac OS version of Betternet currently offers few settings, with “Start on Launch” being the primary function accessible. Enabling this setting guarantees that the VPN is activated automatically when the device boots up, simplifying the user experience. Future updates are expected to include new capabilities such as split tunneling and support for a variety of VPN protocols.

On iOS, Betternet has a variety of settings that may be accessed via the app’s interface. Users can choose auto-protection and always-on VPN for automatic connections, while choices such as unprotected Wi-Fi networks enable automatic VPN activation in public places. The kill switch provides an additional layer of security by deactivating the VPN in the event of an internet outage. The iOS app now includes split tunneling, which allows users to avoid select websites for a more tailored browsing experience.

Servers and Speed

Betternet VPN service features a network of over 1,000 servers, allowing users to connect quickly and reliably at speeds of up to 1 Gbps. This comprehensive server architecture not only assures a stable connection, but also allows users to select from a number of server locations, increasing flexibility in accessing content from various countries.

The absence of data limits, which is available on both free and premium plans, is a major convenience factor. This allows customers to enjoy uninterrupted surfing, streaming, and downloading without fear of exceeding their data limit. Furthermore, Betternet provides a variety of mode settings, allowing users to adapt their connection for certain activities such as gaming, browsing, or streaming. This adaptability caters to a wide range of user preferences, recognizing that different online activities may necessitate varying degrees of network optimization.

In a speed test that we conducted with a 300Mbps ISP plan, Betternet demonstrated decent efficiency in maintaining internet speeds even while ensuring data encryption and secure tunneling. Without the VPN, the download and upload speeds reached 288Mbps and 285Mbps, respectively, with a minimal ping time of 3 milliseconds. When Betternet VPN, employing the Hydra Protocol, the download speeds were at 160Mbps, although there was a slight reduction in upload speed to 55Mbps.

Furthermore, we repeated the speed test using the IKEv2 Protocol, and the results were slightly different this time. The download speed was 90Mbps and the upload speed was 125Mbps in this case, with a ping time of 140 milliseconds. While there was a little decrease in download speed when compared to the Hydra Protocol, Betternet continues to provide consistent performance across several protocols.

Specifications

• Supported Platforms: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox
• Fast VPN Servers: 1,000+
• Connection Speed: Up to 1Gbps
• Data Limits: Unlimited for both Free and Premium plans
• Always-on VPN
• Kill Switch
• Split Tunneling
• Protocols: Hydra, IPSec, WireGuard
• 24/7 Customer Support
• Anti-phishing Protection
• IP Leak Protection
• DNS Leak Protection
• Tor over VPN
• Traffic Obfuscation

Price

Betternet VPN offers a flexible pricing structure that responds to various tastes and usage patterns. The Premium Plan, which includes more features, is available for $12.99 a month. This monthly subscription gives users access to the entire suite of benefits on a pay-as-you-go basis, making it a convenient alternative for individuals who prefer a shorter commitment. Betternet provides a yearly package for $95.88, which works out to $7.99 per month for those looking for a more affordable option. This yearly subscription not only saves money but also demonstrates a commitment to long-term privacy and security.

Betternet’s pricing plan is remarkable for including a 45-day money-back guarantee, demonstrating the service’s trust in its services. This assurance allows users to test the Premium Plan without financial risk, ensuring them that if the service does not match their expectations within the stated time frame, they can seek a refund.

Check on Betternet VPN

Final Verdict

The Betternet VPN service’s dedication to privacy is demonstrated by features such as always-on VPN, a kill switch, and anti-phishing security. The addition of Tor over VPN and IP & DNS leak protection demonstrates the company’s commitment to protecting customer data. Betternet offers a reliable and fast connection for consumers across various geographies and usage circumstances with a broad network of over 1,000 servers giving speeds of up to 1 Gbps.

Betternet’s adaptability is visible in the contrast between free and Premium Plans, which provide options for consumers with varying needs and preferences. While the free version introduces users to basic VPN features, the Premium Plan removes advertisements, opens a larger server network, and optimizes servers for streaming and gaming. The pricing flexibility, including a monthly plan and a cost-effective yearly subscription, caters to a diverse user base. Betternet’s 45-day money-back guarantee offers another layer of security, allowing users to experiment with the Premium Plan without financial risk.

Convenience features like split tunneling and multiple mode options improve the overall user experience. Betternet’s extensive apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and other platforms illustrate the company’s commitment to provide a seamless and safe experience across several devices. While the Mac OS version presently has restricted settings, ongoing updates promise additional features, ensuring the service’s continuous progress.