Surfshark VPN: Unlimited Devices & Robust Multihop Security

Surfshark at a Glance

Surfshark, founded in 2018, is a global cybersecurity company that provides virtual private network (VPN) services, antivirus protection, and other privacy-focused tools. Their services are available in multiple languages and cover a wide geographical area, with a significant presence in North America, Europe, and Asia. Surfshark targets users who prioritize secure browsing, access to geo-restricted content, and protection from online threats. While they merged with Nord Security, the parent company of NordVPN, in 2022, both brands continue to operate independently, maintaining their unique service offerings.

Surfshark offers a variety of features aimed at enhancing online privacy and security. Their VPN service includes over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, enabling users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content globally. Their strict no-logs policy ensures that they do not track or store user data, a key aspect of their commitment to privacy. Additionally, they use AES-256 encryption to protect user data with top-tier security standards. Features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads and malware, and multihop, which routes traffic through multiple servers for added protection, position Surfshark as a strong competitor among various paid VPN services.

In terms of reputation, Surfshark has rapidly gained recognition in the cybersecurity industry. In 2022, they won the “VPN Solution of the Year” award in the 6th annual CyberSecurity Breakthrough Awards program and CNET’s Editors’ Choice for Best Value VPN. Their accolades continued into 2023 when they were named Best Value VPN by the Independent Advisor. While they may not have a BBB page, these awards and recognitions highlight their growing reputation as a trusted and secure VPN provider known for delivering excellent value while maintaining robust security features.

Key Features of Surfshark

• Global network of servers: Surfshark boasts an extensive network of over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries. This vast infrastructure allows users to access various content from different regions while ensuring high connection speeds. Whether streaming, gaming, or browsing the global spread, you can enjoy fast and reliable access to geo-restricted services anywhere worldwide, ensuring online privacy and freedom
• Unlimited devices: One of Surfshark VPN's most notable features is the ability to make unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can connect all your devices under a single subscription. Additionally, they do not limit speed, bandwidth, or data, allowing you to stream, download, and surf the internet freely across all your devices without any slowdowns or usage caps
• Obfuscated servers: Known as camouflage mode, this feature ensures your VPN usage remains completely hidden, even from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Obfuscated servers mask your traffic to be indistinguishable from regular network traffic. This is crucial in countries where VPN usage is restricted or under strict surveillance, as it allows you to regain internet access without raising red flags
• Split tunneling: Surfshark’s split tunneling feature, dubbed bypasser, gives you more control over which apps or websites use the VPN connection and which bypasses it entirely. For example, you can keep your banking app outside the VPN for speed while keeping other apps or websites securely encrypted, like streaming services. This helps you maintain faster connection speeds for non-sensitive activities while protecting personal data through the VPN
• Kill switch: The kill switch feature is essential to maintain complete privacy. The kill switch automatically cuts off your internet connection if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly, protecting any unencrypted data from exposure. This is particularly useful in high-risk situations, like when using public Wi-Fi or in a country with strict internet censorship. It ensures no part of your session information is leaked in case of interruptions
• NoBorders mode: NoBorders is a unique feature that allows you to bypass internet restrictions and access the web freely, even in heavily censored regions like China or Iran. Surfshark automatically detects if you are in a restricted network environment and suggests the best server locations to connect, ensuring you can access the internet without any limitations imposed by governments or ISPs
• Dedicated IP: For users who need a static and consistent IP address, Surfshark provides a dedicated IP feature. This is useful for accessing IP-sensitive services like online banking or corporate networks, where constantly changing IP addresses might trigger security alerts or CAPTCHA requests. Your dedicated IP ensures smoother access to such services without compromising security features
• Static IP: Surfshark also provides static IP servers in specific locations, allowing you to consistently connect to the same IP address each time you use the VPN. This feature is particularly useful for applications that require remote access or hosting, such as setting up a game server or connecting to a home automation system
• Pause VPN: This feature allows you to temporarily disconnect from the VPN without completely disabling it. With options to pause for 5 minutes, 30 minutes, or 2 hours, this feature is perfect for quick tasks that don’t require the security of a VPN. After that, they will automatically reconnect without needing manual intervention
• No-logs policy: Surfshark, based in the Netherlands, has no mandatory data retention laws. Surfshark enforces a strict no-logs policy, preventing monitoring, storing, or sharing your online activities—browsing history, connection timestamps, or data usage—with third parties. This commitment to privacy ensures that your online privacy remains

Additional features

• Ad-blocking VPN: CleanWeb blocks intrusive ads, banners, trackers, and even malware-ridden websites, ensuring a safer, faster, and cleaner browsing experience
• Rotating IP: A feature of Surfshark's Nexus technology, Rotating IP randomly changes your IP address every few minutes while keeping your VPN connection intact, making it more difficult for trackers and advertisers to monitor your activities
• Auto-connect and quick-connect: Surfshark automatically connects you to the VPN whenever you go online, safeguarding your online traffic from the moment you access the internet. With just one click, the Quick-connect feature pairs you with the fastest available server
• GPS override: Available on Android, GPS override lets you spoof your device’s GPS location to match the VPN server you’re connected to, offering extra privacy and preventing apps from tracking your real location
• Reverse bypassed: The reverse of split tunneling, Reverse Bypasser allows you to specify which apps or websites should use the VPN while all other traffic remains unprotected, offering more flexibility
• Cookie pop-up blocker: Surfshark’s Cookie pop-up blocker eliminates the hassle of constant cookie consent pop-ups on browsers like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, streamlining your browsing experience

Surfshark also includes additional products such as:

• Antivirus: As part of the Surfshark One bundle, this lightweight antivirus provides real-time protection against malware, viruses, and other online threats, ensuring all your devices remain secure
• Alternative ID: Alternative ID generates fake identities, including a temporary email address and U.S. phone number, for use on websites you don’t fully trust. This protects your real details from data leaks or spam
• Surfshark search: A private search engine that delivers ad-free results with no tracking, Surfshark Search ensures your queries remain anonymous, and your browsing experience is free of targeted ads
• Surfshark alert: This service monitors your personal information—such as email addresses, passwords, and credit card numbers—and alerts you if any of your data is found in a breach, allowing you to secure your accounts immediately

Protocols and speed

Surfshark uses a variety of top-tier protocols to ensure both speed and security. WireGuard, known for its simplicity and high performance, is a next-gen protocol that excels in speed without compromising security. Its lightweight nature, with fewer lines of code than traditional protocols, makes it faster and easier to manage, making it perfect for users seeking fast connections, such as streaming or gaming. Mobile users particularly favor IKEv2 because it maintains a stable connection even when switching between networks, such as from Wi-Fi to 4G. It offers a combination of speed and security, ideal for on-the-go usage and seamless protection across various devices.

Although OpenVPN, an open-source protocol that security professionals around the world trust, isn't as quick as WireGuard, its strong encryption and wide range of compatibility make it one of the most dependable options for private internet access, especially on routers and legacy systems. Additionally, Surfshark’s optimized servers can support up to 10 Gbps speeds, ensuring smooth, buffer-free streaming, gaming, and browsing.

Security & Privacy

Regarding security and privacy, they employ some of the strongest measures available. AES-256 encryption, one of the most secure encryption algorithms, safeguards your data. Surfshark uses ChaCha20 encryption for WireGuard, providing the same high level of security while optimizing speed and performance. They offer DNS leak protection and leak tests, which route all DNS queries through the VPN and shield them from your ISP, preventing any accidental exposure of your online activities.

Every reboot wipes all data from Surfshark's RAM-only servers, eliminating any traces of your activity and enhancing security by preventing long-term data storage. Surfshark also offers a multi-hop VPN for users seeking an extra layer of anonymity, which routes your internet traffic through two separate servers in different countries. This effectively doubles the encryption and makes it nearly impossible to trace your activity.

Plans & Prices

They offer three main plans—Surfshark Starter, Surfshark One, and Surfshark One+—with flexible pricing across different durations. Each plan offers various features and pricing options depending on the subscription length.

• Surfshark Starter: This plan includes essential VPN services, including secure VPN access, an ad blocker, and a cookie pop-up blocker. For users looking for short-term flexibility, the monthly plan is priced at $15.45 per month and billed every month. For those willing to commit to a longer period, the 12-month plan offers a better deal for 15 months at $2.99 per month. After completing the seven-day free trial, you will be charged $44.85. The best value comes with the 24-month plan, which provides 27 months for $2.19 per month with a one-time payment of $59.13 after the trial
• Surfshark One: The Surfshark One plan includes all the features of the Starter plan but adds antivirus, anti-spyware, malware protection, and real-time email breach alerts. The monthly plan is priced at $15.95 per month, offering a similar short-term option. However, if you prefer the 12-month plan, you will get 15 months for $3.39 per month, billed as $50.85 after the trial. The 24-month plan offers the best value for long-term users, priced at $2.69 per month with a one-time payment of $72.63 after the free trial
• Surfshark One+: The most comprehensive plan, Surfshark One+, includes all the features of Surfshark One, along with additional security features such as 24/7 antivirus protection, webcam security, real-time breach alerts for credit cards and IDs, and personal data removal services in select regions. The monthly plan costs $17.95, while the 12-month plan offers 15 months at $6.09 monthly, billed as $91.35 after the trial. The best value comes with the 24-month plan, which provides 27 months of service for $4.29 per month with a one-time payment of $115.83 after the trial
• Surfshark for teams: They also provide a solution for teams designed to provide businesses and groups with robust online security and privacy protection. Pricing starts at $5.90 per user per month for the Surfshark Starter plan, with a minimum of five users when billed annually. The Surfshark One plan, which includes all of Surfshark’s security tools, such as private search, identity protection, and antivirus, costs $6.90 per user per month with a one-year commitment. Pricing may vary depending on the number of users, but the comprehensive features ensure teams benefit from encryption, data breach alerts, identity protection, and private search capabilities

Each plan includes a seven-day free trial, allowing users to test out Surfshark’s features before committing, and all come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This ensures a risk-free experience while users determine the best VPN option.

The Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits

• Strong security features: Surfshark offers a range of robust security features, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and multihop, ensuring high levels of protection for your online activity
• Robust cross-platform functionality: Surfshark supports various platforms, including Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Apple TV, and FireTV. This makes the VPN incredibly versatile and easy to use across different devices
• Independent security audits: Independent audits back up Surfshark's commitment to security. Cure53 has audited their browser extensions and VPN infrastructure; Deloitte has audited their no-logs policy; and their Android app passed the MASA (Mobile Application Security Assessment) audit, ensuring users’ safety and privacy
• RAM-only servers: Surfshark employs RAM-only servers, a feature that wipes all data upon reboot, guaranteeing that no information remains on hard drives. This adds an extra layer of security and privacy for users
• Threat management features: They offer CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware, providing a safer browsing experience. Additionally, Surfshark includes antivirus protection to guard against viruses, malware, and spyware, ensuring comprehensive security for your devices
• 24/7 customer support: Surfshark provides live chat support around the clock, ensuring users can get help anytime they encounter issues
• No-logs policy: Based in the Netherlands, they operate under a strict no-logging policy. Since no mandatory data retention laws exist in the country, they don’t store or track users’ activity
• Effective streaming performance: Surfshark bypasses geo-restrictions and supports streaming on platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, Hulu, and YouTube. However, they recommend doing a speed test before streaming for optimal performance
• Smart DNS: Surfshark provides a Smart DNS feature for users streaming on Smart TVs that do not support the Surfshark app, allowing for a private and seamless streaming experience

Drawbacks

• Some features limited to platforms: Certain features are only available on specific platforms. For example, Bypasser and Reverse Bypasser are limited to Android and Windows, while the GPS override feature is only available on Android
• High subscription costs: While the Surfshark Starter plan is reasonably priced, it lacks access to many of Surfshark’s advanced features. The Surfshark One and One+ plans offer more comprehensive security tools but may be priced higher than many competitors offering similar services
• Based in the 14 Eyes Alliance: Although Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which has no mandatory data retention laws, the country is part of the 14 Eyes Alliance, a global intelligence-sharing pact
• No free plan: While Surfshark offers a free trial and money-back guarantee, they do not have a free VPN option, which may be a drawback for users, especially since many competitors do

The User Experience

Surfshark’s customer ratings vary across platforms. On Trustpilot, they have a solid 4.3 out of 5, while G2 gives them a 3.9 out of 5. However, Sitejabber rates them lower at 1.1 out of 5, whereas Capterra shows strong approval with 4.5 out of 5. For mobile apps, Surfshark scores 3.3 out of 5 on Google Play but performs much better on the App Store with 4.8 out of 5.

Positive reviews

Customers frequently praise Surfshark for their exceptional customer service and unlimited device connections. Many users have shared positive experiences with Surfshark’s live chat support, noting how quickly and effectively the team resolves issues, often going above and beyond to assist with troubleshooting and account management. The ability to connect multiple devices under one account is a standout feature, making them a perfect choice for families or individuals with several gadgets. Additionally, Surfshark’s high-speed performance has been widely appreciated, with seamless streaming on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney Plus and easy access to geo-restricted content.

Surfshark’s security features are another aspect that draws customer satisfaction. With strong tools like multihop and a strict no-logs policy, users feel confident that their online privacy is protected. Many also commend the VPN’s user-friendly interface, which makes it simple to use across various devices and platforms.

Customers highly recommend Surfshark because they offer dependable performance, strong security, great overall value, and affordability.

Negative reviews

Customers reported experiencing connection issues, such as difficulty accessing certain websites or apps. At the same time, the VPN was active, with some mentioning the need to complete CAPTCHA verifications when frequently using search engines like Google. Several users found canceling subscriptions confusing, especially when handling renewals through different platforms, such as the App Store, leading to unexpected charges. While generally responsive, customer support received mixed feedback, with some users frustrated by lengthy issue resolution processes or dissatisfaction with automatic account blocks.

Pricing has also been a point of contention for some customers. While Surfshark is generally considered affordable, a few users felt the price did not justify the features, especially compared to other VPN services. Others highlighted difficulty connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, with users reporting long wait times for the VPN to connect in locations like airports or restaurants. Surfshark’s auto-renewal process also frustrated some customers, who complained about the difficulty of turning it off through the app or website.

Customer Service

Surfshark offers various ways to reach their customer support team. You can contact them directly via email at [email protected], through the live chat feature available on their help center, or by submitting a request through their website.

In addition to direct support, Surfshark provides a wealth of resources to help you troubleshoot or learn more about their services. Their help center contains detailed FAQs and troubleshooting articles. You can also explore their blog for the latest updates, visit the setup guides to configure their services on your devices, or access the download page to install Surfshark’s apps.

Conclusion

Surfshark, founded in 2018, is a prominent player in the cybersecurity industry, offering a comprehensive suite of privacy-focused tools, including their highly regarded VPN service. They provide robust protection with features like unlimited device connections, over 3,200 servers worldwide, cutting-edge security measures like AES-256 encryption, and a strict no-logs policy. Their commitment to online privacy, with strong streaming capabilities and versatile features like CleanWeb and multihop, makes Surfshark a go-to option for users seeking reliable and secure online access.

While they have received praise for their ease of use, security, and customer service, some users have noted occasional connection issues and concerns about pricing compared to competitors. Nevertheless, Surfshark remains a strong contender for those looking to secure their digital world, offering various solutions tailored to various privacy needs. With a seven-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, potential users can explore Surfshark’s features and determine if it’s the right choice for their online security and privacy needs.

If Surfshark's VPN services do not meet your needs, consider reading our reviews of other top providers. You can also use our comparison tool to see how each company stacks up, and explore our blog page for more industry information and tips.