Windscribe Review: Secure & Free—But What’s the Catch?

Windscribe at a Glance

Established in 2016, Windscribe is a privately owned Virtual Private Network (VPN) provider based in Canada. The company was founded by Yegor Sak, Alex Paguis, and Mark Ulicki, who collectively bring years of experience in software development and cybersecurity. Windscribe is self-funded, with no external investors, allowing the founders to maintain full control over the company’s direction and operations.

Windscribe specializes in providing online privacy solutions, offering applications compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. The company’s mission is to promote an internet free from censorship, personal data harvesting, targeted advertising, and geographic restrictions. To this end, Windscribe operates on a freemium model, providing a free plan alongside premium options. The service includes features such as a customizable domain and IP blocking tool called R.O.B.E.R.T. and a strict no-logs policy. Windscribe has been recognized for their commitment to user privacy and transparency, with accolades highlighting its generous free plan and user-friendly interface.

Windscribe Features & Services

• Large network coverage: Access servers in 69+ countries and 134+ cities, ensuring a reliable and fast connection worldwide
•  No virtual locations: Every Windscribe server is physically located in its advertised country, ensuring accurate geolocation and a genuine geographic presence
• RAM-disk servers: These VPN servers operate entirely on temporary memory, meaning all data is wiped clean whenever the server is restarted. This ensures that no logs or user activity can be stored permanently
• R.O.B.E.R.T. custom blocking: A server-side domain and IP blocking tool that filters ads, trackers, malware, and even custom websites of your choice
• No logs policy: Windscribe does not store IP timestamps, connection logs, or browsing history, ensuring true privacy protection
• Strong encryption: The company uses AES-256-GCM encryption and SHA512 authentication . They also implement forward secrecy, ensuring that even if one encryption key is compromised, past and future data remain protected
• Multiple protocols and flexible connectivity: Supports IKEv2, OpenVPN (UDP & TCP), WireGuard®, Stealth, and WStunnel, allowing connections in restricted environments
• Split tunneling: This feature allows you to choose which apps go through the VPN tunnel and which connect directly to the internet, optimizing performance
• Port forwarding: Securely access devices on your home network or host private servers while connected to the VPN. This allows you to reach security cameras, gaming servers, or remote desktops from anywhere, all while keeping your connection protected
• Static IP addresses: Windscribe gives you the option to use a consistent external IP to reduce CAPTCHAs, improve remote access, and avoid shared IP blacklisting
• Free plan: With 10 GB of free data per month and access to essential features, Windscribe stands out as one of the most generous free VPN options available
• Bypass censorship: Advanced obfuscation technology helps users bypass restrictions in countries with strict VPN blocking
• LAN traffic control: You can configure whether devices on your local network can communicate while connected to the VPN, ensuring flexibility
• Custom packet size adjustments: Fine-tune MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) settings for optimal performance based on your network conditions

VPN protocols and speeds

Windscribe offers a variety of VPN protocols to cater to different user needs and network conditions. The available protocols include IKEv2, WireGuard, OpenVPN (UDP and TCP), Stealth, and WStunnel. IKEv2 is known for its fast connection times and high speeds on most networks but can be easily blocked since it only uses Port 500. WireGuard is a next-generation VPN protocol that offers record-breaking speeds and is harder to block since it can use multiple ports. OpenVPN (UDP) is usually the fastest protocol to run OpenVPN on, while OpenVPN (TCP) is more resilient to bad network conditions but could be slower.

User experiences with Windscribe vary in terms of overall service speed. Some users have reported slower speeds when using Windscribe compared to other VPN services. For instance, one user noted a significant loss of speed when the VPN was active, experiencing occasional buffering during streaming and substantial speed reductions in tests. Both in-house and third-party speed tests have confirmed these findings, showing noticeable slowdowns in various conditions, which may impact activities like streaming, gaming, and downloads. Our in-house test found that download speeds dropped by more than half, while upload speeds took a massive hit, slowing down by 17 times when the VPN was active.

Windscribe acknowledges that internet speeds can be affected by various factors, including server load, network conditions, and the chosen protocol. They recommend connecting to the closest server location geographically to achieve the best performance.

Windscribe Security & Privacy

Windscribe prioritizes user privacy by maintaining a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that IP timestamps, connection logs, and browsing history are never stored. Their RAM-disk servers further enhance security by wiping all data upon reboot, leaving no trace of user activity. The VPN employs AES-256-GCM encryption, SHA512 authentication, and perfect forward secrecy, making it virtually impossible for third parties to intercept or decipher user traffic.

To provide a secure and flexible connection, Windscribe supports multiple protocols, including WireGuard®, OpenVPN (UDP & TCP), IKEv2, Stealth, and WStunnel, allowing users to bypass restrictions and maintain privacy even in heavily monitored regions. Additionally, R.O.B.E.R.T., Windscribe’s built-in DNS-level blocking tool, prevents ads, trackers, and malware from compromising user security.

Unlike many VPN providers, Windscribe does not require personal information for sign-up, allowing users to register without an email and even pay with cryptocurrency for complete anonymity. The company also maintains a Transparency Report, publicly documenting all data requests from legal entities—none of which have been complied with due to Windscribe’s strict privacy policies.

Plans & Prices

Free Plan: 10GB of data per month, access to servers in 10 countries, no identifying logs, no personal data required, and strong privacy protections
Windscribe Pro Plan: For $9 per month or $69 per year (equivalent to $5.75 per month), you get unlimited data, access to servers in 69+ countries, support for multiple protocols, advanced security features, and priority access to high-speed servers
Build-A-Plan: Customize your VPN by selecting specific server locations at $1 per location per month, with an option to add unlimited data and R.O.B.E.R.T. for an additional $1 (minimum $3/month)

Pros

Free VPN plan

Windscribe offers a free plan with 10GB of data and access to multiple locations, making it one of the most generous free VPNs on the market. Unlike many competitors, their free plan includes essential security features, strong encryption, and an ad-blocker, ensuring a secure and private browsing experience without requiring a subscription. 

Customizable domain and IP Blocking (R.O.B.E.R.T.)

Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T. is an advanced server-level tool that blocks ads, trackers, and malware across all your connected devices. Unlike traditional browser extensions, it operates at the DNS level for more comprehensive protection and faster browsing. Users can customize their experience by setting rules to block or allow specific domains and IPs, ensuring greater control over online security and privacy.

Static residential and data center IPs

Windscribe allows users to reserve static IPs, including residential ones, which are less likely to trigger CAPTCHAs or blacklisting issues—something most VPNs don’t offer.

No virtual locations for transparency

Unlike some VPN providers that use virtual servers (misleading users about actual locations), Windscribe ensures all servers are physically present in the advertised country, providing users with accurate geolocation.

RAM-disk servers for enhanced privacy

Windscribe operates RAM-disk servers, which erase all data upon reboot. Since no information is ever stored on a hard drive, logs cannot be retained, reinforcing Windscribe’s commitment to privacy. This setup ensures that even if a server is compromised, there would be no stored data to retrieve.

Mobile app availability

Windscribe offers dedicated mobile applications for both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring users can maintain privacy and security across their devices. These VPN apps provide a user-friendly interface and include features such as ad and tracker blocking, access to servers in multiple countries, and support for various VPN protocols.

Unlimited device connections for personal use

Windscribe stands out by allowing unlimited simultaneous connections across all your personal devices, unlike many VPN providers that impose strict limits. You can secure your Windows, Mac, or Linux computers, Android and iOS mobile devices, browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, Edge), and even routers and streaming devices like Amazon FireTV and Android TV—all under one account. However, the service is strictly for personal use, and excessive connections from data centers or commercial setups may result in account suspension.

Cons

Limited functionality in China

Many users report that Windscribe struggles to maintain connections within China. Despite offering protocols like Stealth and Wstunnel designed to bypass censorship, these methods often fail against China’s internet filtering systems. The Great Firewall employs sophisticated techniques, such as deep packet inspection and active probing, which can effectively block or throttle VPN connections. Consequently, users in China may experience difficulties when attempting to use Windscribe’s services. 

Buggy client

Some users have encountered issues with Windscribe’s client software disrupting internet connectivity, even when the VPN is inactive, sometimes requiring a reboot to resolve. Compatibility conflicts with antivirus or firewall software have also led to slow speeds or unstable connections. These concerns indicate the client could benefit from further optimization.

Limited server network

Windscribe’s server network is relatively smaller compared to some of their competitors. A limited number of servers can lead to congestion, resulting in slower connection speeds and reduced performance during peak usage times. While Windscribe offers servers in various countries, the overall count is limited, which can impact the VPN’s versatility and reliability.

Customer Experience

With a strong 4.6/5 rating on Capterra, Trustpilot, and GetApp, Windscribe often earns high praise from users. The majority of reviews highlight their privacy-first policies, free plan, and ease of use. While most feedback is positive, some users have raised concerns about customer support responsiveness, billing practices, and occasional performance inconsistencies.

Positive reviews

Many customers appreciate Windscribe for their reliable free plan, strong privacy protections, and user-friendly interface. Users frequently praise the VPN’s ability to unblock geo-restricted content, with one customer noting how it allowed them to access myAT&T while overseas. Another reviewer highlighted the built-in firewall feature, which adds an extra layer of security by terminating connections when the VPN disconnects. Speed is also a major positive, with one user noting that Windscribe exceeded their expectations in performance.

Critical reviews

However, there are some recurring complaints, particularly about billing and customer support. A few users have reported issues with auto-renewal, stating they were charged unexpectedly without prior notice. Others noted that while Windscribe’s support bot is helpful, getting in touch with a human representative takes too long.

How Can I Contact Windscribe?

If you need assistance or wish to connect with Windscribe, there are several options available. For direct support, you can submit a ticket through their Contact Support page. Additionally, The company offers a Knowledge Base that addresses common questions and issues. For community discussions and solutions, you can visit their subreddit or join their active community on Discord. To stay updated with the latest news, follow them on social media platforms like X (Twitter) and Facebook. For general inquiries, you can reach out via email at [email protected].

Conclusion

Founded in 2016 and based in Canada, Windscribe is a privacy-focused VPN provider known for its commitment to security and transparency. Their freemium model includes a generous 10GB free plan with access to multiple locations, making it one of the best free VPNs available. Windscribe prioritizes user privacy with a strict no-logs policy, RAM-disk servers that wipe data upon reboot, and industry-standard encryption protocols. The service also features R.O.B.E.R.T., a customizable ad and malware blocker, along with advanced VPN tools like split tunneling, port forwarding, and static IPs. While the company offers strong security and reliable performance, it has some drawbacks, including a relatively smaller server network, inconsistent functionality in restrictive regions like China, and occasional client software issues. Customer feedback is generally positive, highlighting privacy protections, a robust free plan, and ease of use, though some users have experienced billing concerns and limited customer support responsiveness. Despite these challenges, Windscribe remains one of the best choices for users looking for a secure, feature-rich VPN with both free and premium options.

If you’re looking for more VPN options beyond Windscribe, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the best VPN providers to find the right fit for your needs, or use our comparison tool to see how different services stack up in terms of speed, security, and features. For more insights, expert tips, and industry updates, explore our blog for the latest trends in online privacy and cybersecurity.