VPNBook Review – Free & Secure, But Is It Reliable?

At a Glance

VPNBook is a Switzerland-based VPN service offering free virtual private network access. The company provides VPN connections through both PPTP and OpenVPN protocols, allowing users to choose their preferred connection method. VPNBook operates servers in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Poland, and the United Kingdom. The service is funded through advertising and donations, enabling it to offer VPN access without charge.  

Features

Optimized performance: VPNBook’s VPN servers are designed with dedicated hardware to enhance speed and performance. This setup allows users to experience fast web surfing and smooth connectivity while maintaining their privacy.

Unrestricted access: The service does not restrict websites or ports, allowing users to access any online content, use various applications, and play games without limitations.

Advanced encryption: VPNBook employs AES-256 and AES-128 encryption to secure the connection between users and their VPN proxy servers. This level of encryption is considered highly secure and helps protect user data from interception or unauthorized access. The encrypted tunnel ensures that internet traffic remains private, reducing the risk of surveillance from an internet service provider or third parties.

Smart traffic routing: The service uses a CDN-based system to optimize traffic routing. By directing user traffic through less congested routes, VPNBook aims to maintain network performance. A fallback mechanism ensures connectivity even if the CDN encounters issues.

Privacy considerations: VPNBook places their servers in jurisdictions without mandatory data retention laws. While minimal connection logs (IP addresses and connection times) are kept, these are automatically deleted daily to enhance user privacy. However, users should be aware of these temporary logs when assessing the service’s privacy standards.

Device compatibility: VPNBook supports multiple devices but requires manual configuration through third-party clients like the OpenVPN Connect app.

Speeds and protocols

VPNBook supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and PPTP. While OpenVPN is widely recognized for its robust security features, PPTP offers easier setup and broader compatibility across various platforms. However, despite these options, VPNBook’s poor performance is especially evident in its speed. Tests have indicated that connecting to VPNBook can significantly decrease internet speed, with some reports showing a reduction of up to 99.80% from the original speed. Such drastic slowdowns can severely impact activities like streaming and browsing.

Additionally, VPNBook’s server network, primarily located in North America and Europe, may contribute to server congestion and further affect connection speeds. Users connecting to US servers or UK servers may experience a performance hit, as speed tests have shown that VPNBook’s network can become congested during peak hours.

Security & Privacy

VPNBook offers AES-128 and AES-256 encryption to secure user connections, but there are a few factors to consider regarding security and privacy:

• Logging policy:  VPNBook temporarily logs IP addresses and connection timestamps, but these are automatically deleted daily. While this helps manage network performance, users seeking complete anonymity may prefer a VPN with a strict no-logs policy that avoids any data retention
• Security features: The service does not include a built-in kill switch, which typically prevents data leaks if the VPN connection drops. Additionally, third-party test results have indicated WebRTC and DNS leaks, which could potentially expose user IP addresses in certain situations
• Setup process: VPNBook requires manual configuration through third-party clients like OpenVPN. While this allows for flexible use, it may require additional setup steps, especially for users unfamiliar with VPN configurations

Plans & Prices

VPNBook provides free VPN services with OpenVPN and PPTP connection options, requiring no subscription or payment. While fully accessible at $0/month, the service relies on donations and accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Dogecoin for support.

Free PPTP VPN: The PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) VPN is compatible with Windows, Linux, macOS (Mac OS X), mobile devices, and even gaming consoles like the PS3. It provides a simple setup process but is easier for ISPs or governments to block. If PPTP is restricted in a region, VPNBook recommends using OpenVPN instead.

Free OpenVPN: The OpenVPN service is VPNBook’s recommended option due to its higher security and resistance to network restrictions. OpenVPN requires users to manually download the OpenVPN client along with VPNBook’s configuration and certificate bundle. It offers multiple connection options, including UDP and TCP protocols.

Pros

Free service with the option to donate

VPNBook is completely free, offering VPN access without requiring a subscription or payment. While the service does not charge users, it relies on donations to maintain its operations. Users who wish to support VPNBook can contribute via Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Dogecoin.

Outside the 4/9/14 Eyes Alliance

VPNBook is based in Romania, a country that is not part of the Fourteen Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. This means it is not subject to data-sharing agreements that require companies to hand over user information to international intelligence agencies, which can be a privacy advantage.

No registration required

Unlike many VPN providers that require an account or email sign-up, VPNBook allows users to connect without registering. This makes setup quick and helps maintain user anonymity by eliminating the need to share personal information.

Multiple configuration options

VPNBook supports both OpenVPN and PPTP protocols, allowing users to choose the best connection method based on their security needs and device compatibility. OpenVPN is recommended for stronger encryption and resistance to blocking, while PPTP offers easier setup and broader compatibility.

Broad device compatibility

VPNBook’s manual configuration approach allows it to work across various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. This flexibility makes it accessible for users who need VPN protection on multiple devices, including those without built-in VPN apps.

Cons

Limited server network

VPNBook’s server network is relatively small, with most servers located in North America and Europe. This means there are no available servers in Asia, Africa, or South America. This limited distribution can result in network congestion and fewer options for users trying to bypass geo-restrictions in regions outside these areas.

Manual configuration required

Unlike many modern VPNs that offer dedicated apps for various platforms, VPNBook requires manual setup through third-party clients like OpenVPN. This configuration process can be complex and time-consuming, particularly for users without technical expertise, potentially making the service less convenient for beginners.

Temporary data logging poses privacy risks

VPNBook retains login details, including IP addresses and connection timestamps, but these logs are automatically deleted daily. While this practice helps manage network operations, it may still raise privacy concerns, as the logs could potentially be accessed in case of a court order. Users prioritizing strict anonymity may prefer a VPN with a no-logs policy, as VPNBook’s temporary logging could still pose a risk to user privacy.

No kill switch

VPNBook does not include a kill switch, a critical security feature that automatically disconnects a device from the internet if the VPN connection drops. Without this safeguard, users risk exposing their real IP address and online activity if the connection unexpectedly fails, which can be a concern for those prioritizing security and privacy.

Customer Experience

VPNBook receives mixed reviews on forums like Reddit but lacks official ratings on sites like Trustpilot. Some users appreciate its free access and ability to bypass geo-restrictions, while others criticize its privacy policies, security, and frequent password changes. Opinions are divided, with concerns over reliability and performance also being common.

Positive reviews

Many users highlight VPNBook’s convenience and effectiveness for basic tasks. Several reviews mention that the service is easy to set up, even for those without prior VPN experience. One user described how they quickly configured VPNBook during an internet restriction event and continued working without major issues. Another noted that it worked well for streaming and general browsing but recommended using OpenVPN over PPTP for better security. Others appreciate the fact that it is entirely free and feel that, despite some limitations, VPNBook serves as a decent option for casual use.

Negative reviews

However, negative reviews focus on privacy concerns, security risks, and inconsistent performance. Some users warn against using VPNBook for sensitive activities due to its logging policy, with one person citing past allegations that logs were used in a federal investigation. Another reviewer shared a concerning experience of receiving blackmail emails shortly after using VPNBook, leading them to question their security. Others report slow speeds, occasional connection failures, and frustration with the frequently changing login credentials. Many users suggest that those looking for reliable privacy protection should consider paid VPNs with stricter no-logs policies.

How Can I Contact VPNBook?

VPNBook offers multiple ways for users to get in touch. For general inquiries, suggestions, or support, you can reach them via email at contact@vpnbook.com. They are also active on Facebook and Twitter, where users can send messages or follow updates. If you need to report abuse or misuse of the service, VPNBook provides a dedicated email at abuse@vpnbook.com.

Conclusion

Based in Switzerland, VPNBook offers a free VPN service with support for OpenVPN and PPTP protocols, allowing users to browse securely without a subscription. The service provides basic privacy protection and operates outside the Fourteen Eyes alliance, making it an appealing option for those looking to avoid intelligence-sharing networks. VPNBook also requires no registration, offers multiple configuration options, and is compatible with a wide range of devices.

However, the service comes with several drawbacks. Its limited server network, primarily in North America and Europe, can lead to congestion and slow speeds. The temporary logging of user data, the lack of a kill switch, and occasional WebRTC and DNS leaks raise privacy concerns for users seeking complete anonymity. Additionally, the need for manual configuration through third-party clients makes it less convenient compared to VPNs with dedicated apps.

If you’re interested in exploring more VPN options, you can check out our list of top VPNs to see other services that might suit your needs. You can also use our comparison tool to find the best fit or visit our blog for more insights on online security and privacy.