VirtualShield VPN: A Secure & User-Friendly VPN Solution

Company Overview

VirtualShield VPN was established in 2017 and operates under VirtualShield LLC, a U.S.-based company with their headquarters listed in Los Angeles, California. However, the address provided is a virtual address, meaning it may not reflect an actual corporate office. This raises transparency concerns, particularly since many VPN providers emphasize clear ownership and independent audits to build trust with users.

Being based in the United States, VirtualShield falls under the jurisdiction of the Five Eyes Alliance, a global intelligence-sharing network that includes the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This is a significant consideration for privacy-conscious users, as it means that VirtualShield could be legally compelled to share user data with government agencies. However, the company claims to follow a strict no-logs policy, which they say ensures that there is no browsing activity to share even if requested.

In terms of services, VirtualShield targets both casual users and businesses, offering an easy-to-use VPN application available across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. They also offer additional identity protection and cybersecurity features, setting them apart from many traditional VPN providers.

While VirtualShield does not disclose the exact number of subscribers they have, they have received a mixed reception in the VPN industry. Some users appreciate their simplicity and built-in security features, while others criticize their lack of transparency, small server network, and higher pricing for additional features.

Features & Services

VirtualShield offers a broad range of features that go beyond basic VPN protection. Unlike some VPNs that focus solely on hiding your IP and encrypting your traffic, VirtualShield integrates malware protection, identity monitoring, and threat detection into their service. Below is a breakdown of their key features:

Core VPN features

VirtualShield provides the essential VPN functions that are expected of a modern provider. Users can mask their IP address, encrypt their internet traffic, and bypass geo-restrictions to access streaming services.

One of their standout features is their unlimited bandwidth, ensuring that users do not experience speed throttling while streaming, gaming, or downloading large files. Many VPN providers restrict bandwidth on cheaper plans, but VirtualShield maintains high-speed access across all their plans.

Another notable feature is always-on protection, which means the VPN automatically reconnects if the connection drops, ensuring that your data remains protected at all times.

Identity protection and threat monitoring

Unlike traditional VPNs, VirtualShield offers identity protection and cybersecurity tools integrated into their Plus and Ultimate plans. These features include:

• Malware and ad blocking: Prevents malicious websites from infecting your device and blocks intrusive ads
• Real-time threat monitoring: Detects and alerts you about potential security threats
• Social Security Number monitoring: Helps protect users from identity theft by monitoring for suspicious activity
• Dark web and data breach alerts: Notifies users if their personal data appears on the dark web
• 24/7 U.S.-based restoration concierge: Provides identity theft assistance for Ultimate plan users

Streaming and torrenting

VirtualShield is marketed as a VPN that works well for streaming. It successfully unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. However, their ability to access Netflix varies by region, as they sometimes struggle with Netflix UK and Canada.

For torrenting, VirtualShield allows P2P traffic, but they do not have dedicated torrenting servers like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, which means speeds may be inconsistent when downloading large files.

VPN protocols and speed performance

VirtualShield supports a range of VPN protocols:

OpenVPN (UDP & TCP): The default protocol, offering a balance of speed and security.

L2TP/IPSec: A legacy protocol that is less secure but may be useful for older devices.

WireGuard and shadowsocks: Advanced protocols designed to bypass censorship and provide improved speeds.

Despite having a small server network (20 servers across 12 countries), VirtualShield’s speeds are better than expected.

• U.S. Server – 33.47 Mbps (Strong performance)
• UK Server – 12.50 Mbps (Decent for streaming)
• Singapore Server – 8.37 Mbps (Slower but usable)

However, long-distance connections may experience dropped speeds and latency issues, making VirtualShield less ideal for gaming.

Security and privacy measures

Security is a major selling point for VirtualShield, but there are some trade-offs.

VirtualShield employs AES-256 encryption, the gold standard for cybersecurity. However, unlike many top VPNs that now rely on RAM-based servers, VirtualShield still uses traditional SSD storage, meaning user data could technically be retained unless manually erased.

As a U.S.-based company, VirtualShield is subject to surveillance laws that could compel them to share information. However, they claim to have a no-logs policy, meaning no identifiable browsing data is stored.

Plans & Pricing

VirtualShield VPN offers a tiered pricing structure designed to accommodate different levels of security and privacy needs. Unlike most VPN providers, which focus solely on internet security and anonymous browsing, VirtualShield integrates identity protection, malware blocking, and dark web monitoring into their higher-tier plans. This makes them more than just a VPN service—they are positioned as a comprehensive solution for safeguarding your online identity and digital life.

One of the standout features of VirtualShield is their flexible subscription options, allowing users to choose from monthly, yearly, and two-year plans with increasing discounts for longer commitments. Whether you need protection for various devices or want extra points in security by adding identity theft protection, there is a plan tailored to meet different user requirements.

Overview of subscription plans

VirtualShield offers three primary subscription plans based on different levels of security and privacy needs:

• Basic Plan: A budget-friendly solid VPN solution focused on VPN protection with strong privacy mechanisms
• Plus Plan: Adds antivirus protection, malware blocking, and dark web monitoring for enhanced online security
• Ultimate Plan: A premium package that includes social security protection, credit monitoring, and identity theft insurance for full-spectrum digital security

Each plan includes a kill switch feature to ensure a successful connection without exposing personal data if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly.

1. Basic Plan – $14.99 per month
Best for: Users looking for a simple, secure VPN with good privacy mechanisms and a yearly subscription option for savings.

The Basic Plan is VirtualShield’s entry-level offering, providing essential VPN functionality without any additional cybersecurity tools. They might be a great option for users whose sole purpose is to secure their connection, access an open internet, and browse anonymously.

Despite being a good privacy mechanism, the Basic Plan does not include malware blocking, identity protection, or dark web alerts. Compared to industry leaders like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, they are slightly more expensive for their limited features.

Pricing options for the Basic Plan:

• Monthly subscription: $14.99/month
• Yearly subscription: $14.99/month (billed annually at $179.88)
• Two-year subscription: $9.58/month (billed $229.95 for two years)

2. Plus Plan – $19.95 per month
Best for: Users who want antivirus protection, dark web monitoring, and malware blocking alongside VPN services.

The Plus Plan includes everything in the Basic Plan while adding more cybersecurity-focused tools for stronger digital life protection. They are ideal for individuals who frequently shop online, use public Wi-Fi, or store personal data on their devices.

Pricing options for the Plus Plan:

• Monthly subscription: $19.95/month
• Yearly subscription: $16.33/month (billed annually at $195.95)
• Two-year subscription: $13.75/month (billed $329.95 for two years)

3. Ultimate Plan – $39.95 per month
Best for: Users who want full identity protection, credit monitoring, and financial fraud prevention alongside VPN security.

The Ultimate Plan is VirtualShield’s most comprehensive solution, providing a combination of VPN services, identity theft protection, and financial security features. Unlike industry leaders like NordVPN, which only focus on VPN protection, VirtualShield goes beyond by integrating credit monitoring and financial recovery tools.

Pricing options for the Ultimate Plan:

• Monthly subscription: $39.95/month
• Yearly subscription: $32.99/month (billed annually at $395.95)
• Two-year subscription: $22.08/month (billed $529.95 for two years)

Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages

User-friendly interface
One of VirtualShield VPN’s biggest strengths is their user-friendly interface, making them an ideal choice for beginners who may not be familiar with VPN configurations. The setup process is straightforward, and the interface is designed to be intuitive, allowing users to easily connect to a server with minimal effort. Whether you are new to VPNs or simply looking for a hassle-free experience, VirtualShield ensures a smooth and simple setup.

Strong encryption standards
Security is another strong point, as VirtualShield employs AES 256-bit encryption, one of the most advanced encryption standards available. This level of security is used by military and government agencies worldwide, ensuring that users’ data remains safe from cyber threats and unauthorized access.

Good streaming support
For streaming enthusiasts, VirtualShield provides good support for unblocking major streaming platforms, including Netflix US, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Many VPNs struggle with bypassing geo-restrictions on these services, but VirtualShield has been able to consistently provide access to US-based streaming content.

Multi-device compatibility
Device compatibility is another advantage, as VirtualShield supports multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. This ensures that users can protect their digital life across all their devices, from desktops and laptops to smartphones and tablets.

30-day money-back guarantee
Lastly, VirtualShield offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service risk-free. This is especially beneficial for those who want to evaluate the VPN’s performance before committing to a long-term plan. If users are unsatisfied for any reason, they can request a full refund within the first 30 days of their subscription.

Disadvantages

Small server network 
One of the biggest drawbacks of VirtualShield is their small server network, as the service currently operates only 20 servers across 12 countries. Compared to industry leaders like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, which offer thousands of servers worldwide, VirtualShield’s limited network may impact performance, connection stability, and accessibility to global content. Users looking for a VPN with widespread coverage and high-speed global access may find this restrictive.

Lack of transparency
Another major concern is the lack of transparency regarding VirtualShield’s operations and policies. The company’s headquarters are listed in the United States, but its address is a virtual one, raising questions about its true location. Additionally, VirtualShield has not undergone independent audits to verify its no-logs policy, unlike competitors such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, which have had their security claims validated by third-party firms.

No RAM-based servers 
Unlike some leading VPNs, VirtualShield does not use RAM-based servers, which means that user data is stored on traditional hard drive servers until manually erased. Many modern VPNs use RAM-only servers that automatically delete all user data upon reboot, reducing the risk of data retention in case of a security breach. Without this feature, VirtualShield may present higher risks if their servers are ever compromised.

Higher prices for extra features
Another notable downside is the pricing structure, as VirtualShield charges extra fees for features that are standard with other VPN providers. Essential tools such as malware blocking and dark web monitoring are only available in the Plus and Ultimate plans, meaning users on the Basic plan must pay more for comprehensive security. This makes VirtualShield less budget-friendly compared to competitors that include these features at lower price points.

No dedicated IP servers
Finally, VirtualShield does not offer dedicated IP servers, which can be an issue for users who require a consistent, stable IP address for work, secure transactions, or bypassing CAPTCHAs. Many VPN providers allow users to purchase a dedicated IP address, but VirtualShield does not provide this option, limiting their functionality for specific use cases.

Customer Experience

VirtualShield VPN has received mixed reviews across various customer review platforms, reflecting a combination of positive feedback for their ease of use and streaming capabilities and criticism for their lack of transparency and limited server network. Based on user ratings, VirtualShield holds a 3.7/5 rating on Trustpilot and a 3.9/5 rating on SiteJabber, suggesting that while many users find the service satisfactory, they still have some areas for improvement.

Positive feedback

One of the most frequently praised aspects of VirtualShield is their ease of use. Many users have noted that the interface is intuitive and beginner-friendly, making them a great option for those who are new to VPNs. Unlike some industry-leading VPNs that require manual configurations or technical know-how, VirtualShield’s simple setup process and clear navigation make them accessible to all users. This has been particularly appreciated by individuals who do not have extensive experience with cybersecurity tools but still want a straightforward way to enhance their online privacy.

Another area where VirtualShield receives positive feedback is their performance in streaming. Many users have reported that the VPN works well with Netflix US, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, making them a solid option for those looking to bypass geo-restrictions and access region-locked content. Unlike some VPNs that struggle with streaming speeds, VirtualShield’s optimized servers allow for relatively smooth playback with minimal buffering. While the server network is small, their US-based servers appear to be well-maintained for streaming services, providing a good overall experience for entertainment-focused users.

Additionally, VirtualShield is praised for their compatibility across multiple devices and operating systems. The VPN is available on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux, allowing users to secure their internet connection across various devices. Some users have specifically mentioned that VirtualShield works well on mobile devices, providing a stable and reliable connection even when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.

Critical feedback

Despite the positives, VirtualShield has faced criticism in several key areas, with one of the most commonly cited issues being their lack of transparency regarding their ownership, policies, and infrastructure. Users have raised concerns over the fact that VirtualShield’s official address is a virtual one, making it difficult to verify where the company is truly headquartered. Unlike industry leaders such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN, which have undergone independent security audits, VirtualShield has not provided third-party verification of their no-logs policy, leading some users to question whether the company truly adheres to their stated privacy standards.

Another major concern is VirtualShield’s small server network, which currently consists of only 20 servers spread across 12 countries. Compared to competitors like NordVPN (5,500+ servers) or ExpressVPN (3,000+ servers), VirtualShield’s limited global presence can lead to slower speeds and restricted access to region-specific content. Several users have reported dropped connections and inconsistent speeds, particularly when connecting to servers outside the United States. Those who need reliable global access for tasks such as bypassing censorship, accessing international websites, or gaming may find VirtualShield’s small network to be a significant limitation.

Additionally, VirtualShield has been criticized for their lack of advanced security features, particularly the absence of RAM-based servers. RAM-only servers are considered a gold standard for VPN security, as they automatically erase all user data upon reboot, ensuring that no information is stored long-term. Many top-tier VPNs, including ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark, have adopted RAM-based technology, but VirtualShield continues to use traditional hard drive-based servers. Some privacy-conscious users have expressed concerns that this makes VirtualShield less secure in the event of a data breach or government request for user information.

Customer Support

VirtualShield provides one customer support option: their ticket system. To submit a ticket to VirtualShield’s support team, users must fill out a request form on their website. The form requires the requester’s name, email address, subject, and a detailed description of the issue. Once submitted, the support team reviews the request and responds via email. While this method ensures that inquiries are properly documented, response times may vary, and users needing immediate assistance may find the lack of live chat or phone support limiting.

Conclusion

VirtualShield VPN provides a straightforward and user-friendly VPN solution, making them a suitable choice for those who prioritize ease of use and strong encryption. They deliver solid performance for streaming and browsing, offering a seamless experience for users looking to access geo-restricted content or secure their online activities. However, despite thier convenience, VirtualShield falls short in several key areas, including server availability, transparency, and advanced security features. The small server network, with only 20 servers across 12 countries, limits access to global content and may lead to inconsistent speeds for users outside the U.S.. Additionally, the lack of independent security audits raises concerns about whether VirtualShield’s no-logs policy and data protection claims can be fully trusted.

Another aspect that may deter potential users is the pricing structure, which places essential security features—such as malware blocking, dark web monitoring, and identity theft protection—behind higher-tier plans. While VirtualShield does offer a good entry-level VPN solution, the cost of unlocking comprehensive protection can add up quickly, making them less competitive compared to industry leaders. For users who expect a fully-featured VPN experience at a base price, alternatives such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN may offer better value, more robust security, and a larger global server network.

That being said, VirtualShield may still be a viable choice for those who value simplicity and basic privacy protection without the need for extensive customization. Their intuitive interface, solid encryption, and compatibility with multiple devices make them appealing to casual users who want a VPN without the complexity of manual configurations. However, those seeking greater security, independent audits, and a more expansive network should explore alternative VPN providers that offer a stronger balance between price and performance.

If VirtualShield does not fully meet your needs, we recommend checking out our detailed reviews of other top VPN providers. You can use our comparison tool to evaluate how different VPN services stack up in terms of speed, security, features, and pricing. Additionally, visit our blog for industry insights and cybersecurity tips, helping you make a more informed decision about choosing the right VPN for your digital privacy needs.