Surfshark
In this age where online privacy and security are paramount, VPNs have emerged as indispensable tools for safeguarding Internet activities and personal data. Surfshark VPN is one such tool that has become widely recognized for its user-friendly interface, robust features, and commitment to privacy. Here's an in-depth overview of Surfshark VPN, detailing the company's history, its range of products, and its key features.
What Is Surfshark VPN?
It's a VPN service that offers secure, encrypted Internet connections to safeguard users' digital privacy and data. It enables users to encrypt their Internet traffic, mask their IP addresses, and access restricted content by connecting to high-speed servers worldwide. Surfshark VPN is designed to help users bypass censorship, maintain anonymity online, and protect their personal information from surveillance and hackers. The service's comprehensive features, affordability, and ease of use make it popular among individual users and businesses.
Company History
Surfshark, founded in 2018, focused on democratizing digital privacy and security with its user-friendly VPN service. The company initially launched its VPN apps on multiple platforms, such as macOS, Android, Windows, Android TV & Fire TV, and gained credibility with its first independent audit by Cure53. [1] Surfshark rapidly expanded its offerings the following year with Surfshark Alert & Search, which enhanced its cybersecurity capabilities for private searching and detecting breaches.
Surfshark marked significant milestones in the subsequent years, including transitioning to a 100% RAM-only server network and introducing the secure WireGuard® protocol. The company also played a fundamental role in launching the VPN Trust Initiative to raise industry standards. Later, Surfshark had innovative product launches like Surfshark Antivirus & Incogni, drawing international acclaim and awards.
Surfshark launched Nexus, a cutting-edge technology transforming the VPN industry, in 2022. It also merged with Nord Security, achieving a Unicorn Company status with a .6 billion valuation while maintaining operational independence. The company's commitment to privacy was notably reinforced by audits validating its strict no-logs policy. Initiatives such as the Internet Shutdown Tracker also helped address global censorship.
Surfshark is currently a leading force in cybersecurity, renowned for rapid growth and superiority in protecting users' digital lives. With a dedicated team of over 400, the company continues its mission to offer users a secure and free browsing experience.
Products & Services
Surfshark VPN offers extensive products and services designed to meet different user needs. From basic VPN services to modern security features, they all focus on providing an all-inclusive online privacy solution.
Award-Winning VPN Service
Surfshark VPN offers a secure section that helps prevent data collection and online tracking. It conceals your IP address and encrypts your Internet traffic to ensure your browsing history remains private and protected. Surf Shark has an extensive network of high-speed servers in many countries, which enables users to access global content by bypassing geo-restrictions. The service is also well-known for its robust security features and intuitive interface, making it a prudent choice for online privacy.
Surfshark Antivirus
This lightweight but effective security solution is designed to safeguard your devices from different types of malware. It offers real-time protection against ransomware, spyware, and viruses to protect your devices. Since Surfshark antivirus integrates seamlessly with the VPN, this provides an added layer of security. It's also easy to install and manage because its user-friendly design gives users peace of mind.
Surfshark Search
Surfshark Search allows ad-free and private web searches, preventing your search queries from being logged or tracked. The tool is designed to deliver a clean and secure Internet experience without tracking or intrusive ads. That means you can search the web free from profiling and data collection. Surfshark Search is valuable for anyone who prioritizes privacy and an organized search experience.
Surfshark Alert
It's a tool that monitors the web for data breaches involving your personal data. Since it offers timely alerts, you can act promptly to secure your accounts and sensitive information. Surfshark Alert ensures you know of any possible personal data threats. The tool helps maintain your digital identity's security by providing continuous monitoring.
Alternative ID
Surfshark's Alternative ID typically creates a brand-new digital identity and email for users. The service helps safeguard your real identity when communicating online or signing up for services. Alternative ID generates a new identity to mask your name and contact info. The tool helps avoid spam, data leaks, and online stalking.
Incogni
This tool's primary role is removing your personal data from data brokers and large data companies. Incogni helps reclaim your privacy by sending removal requests for you. It usually targets a vast library of databases to ensure your information is deleted and no one uses it without your consent. The service benefits people seeking to protect their private info from unauthorized use.
Surfshark VPN Features
Surfshark VPN has many features that enhance privacy, security, usability, and performance. Below are some of Surfshark VPN's key features that make it a beneficial tool for safeguarding online activities. [2]
CleanWeb
CleanWeb provides a cleaner and safer Internet experience by blocking ads, malware, and trackers. The feature enhances loading speeds by preventing undesirable content from interfering with browsing. CleanWeb also protects your devices from malicious websites and phishing attempts. It ensures you have a more private and streamlined browsing experience.
Whitelister
This feature enables specific sites and apps to bypass the VPN connection. Whitelister is particularly helpful if you want to access local services while securing other traffic with your VPN. It also offers flexibility by allowing you to choose which sites or apps can run outside the VPN. The feature is ideal for activities such as online banking, where local connections are required.
MultiHop
MultiHop provides an added layer of security by routing your Internet traffic through various servers. It's a powerful feature since it improves your anonymity by making it more challenging to monitor your online activities. MultiHop offers double encryption by connecting to two different VPN servers. It's perfect for people emphasizing maximum privacy and security.
NoBorders Mode
Surfshark VPN can work in countries with heavy network restrictions thanks to NoBorders mode. It's a feature that automatically detects Internet restrictions and allows the VPN to bypass them. That means you can always access the Internet freely, even in a region with stringent censorship. This feature ensures a seamless and unrestricted Internet experience wherever you are.
Camouflage Mode
Camouflage mode usually prevents detection by disguising your VPN traffic as regular Internet traffic. It's a highly beneficial feature for regions that monitor or restrict VPN usage. Camouflage guarantees that ISPs and other entities won't detect your VPN connection. It offers users an added layer of privacy and security.
Kill Switch
It works by automatically disconnecting your Internet when the VPN connection drops. Such action protects your data from being leaked to your ISP or other third parties. Kill Switch guarantees that your online activities remain private even during abrupt disconnections. As such, this feature is crucial for ensuring continuous protection.
Private DNS & Leak Protection
Surfshark VPN also uses private DNS on all servers to enhance privacy and security. The feature protects you against DNS leaks, keeping your online activities private. Surfshark guarantees that your DNS requests are managed privately and securely by using private DNS. Leak protection ensures that no part of your browsing history is visible to outsiders.
AES-256-GCM Encryption
Since robust encryption methods provide more security, Surfshark VPN secures your Internet traffic using AES-256-GCM encryption. It's a military-grade encryption that safeguards your data from hackers and other cyber threats. AES-256-GCM encryption offers robust features without sacrificing speed and performance, making it one of the most secure encryption methods.
Unlimited Devices
Regardless of how many devices you have, you can connect to Surfshark VPN with a single subscription. The feature guarantees all your devices will be safe and secure under one account. Such commitment to privacy makes Surfshark VPN a perfect option for individuals or families with multiple devices, offering comprehensive coverage.
24/7 Support
Surfshark also offers exceptional 24/7 customer support via email or live chat to answer questions or help with issues. Since the company values its customers' satisfaction, it ensures that help is always accessible whenever needed. Such support ensures that you get a hassle-free experience with professional assistance at your disposal.
Strict No-Logs Policy
Since Surfshark adheres to a strict no-logs policy, this ensures that no third party monitors, tracks, or keeps your online activities. It also means no activity logs or connections are stored, ensuring privacy. Surfshark's commitment to user privacy gives users peace of mind that their data remains private and unseen by third parties.
Browse Privately
Surfshark usually encrypts your browsing activity to protect you against data trackers. Your online communications and activities will remain confidential by browsing privately with Surfshark VPN. Since your data will be free from cybercriminals and other intrusive entities, you'll not fear data breaches and surveillance while using the Internet.
Secure Protocols
WireGuard® is Surfshark's default protocol on each app, providing a unique balance of security and speed. You can also switch to protocols such as IKEv2/IPsec or OpenVPN. Such protocols ensure that your data transmission occurs securely across the web. Surfshark's secure protocols ensure robust protection for your Internet activities.
Surfshark Pricing Overview
It would be best to have a subscription to enjoy all these features. Surfshark offers three subscription plans (Starter, One, and One+). Each plan gives you a 30-day money-back guarantee and allows unlimited device connections. You can also get a 7-day free trial on the Apple App Stores and Google Play. Compare these plans' prices and features to choose the most suitable one. These plans also offer additional features like auto-connect, split tunneling, kill switch, etc., making it a versatile option for casual and tech-savvy users.
Key Takeaway
Surfshark VPN is a reliable VPN service that provides an all-inclusive suite of features designed to boost digital privacy, security, usability, and performance. Since its inception in 2018, Surfshark has rapidly become a preferred option for people seeking an effective and affordable VPN solution. Its strong encryption, secure protocols, and commitment to user privacy make it a powerful means of protecting personal data and establishing a safe browsing experience.
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Last Modified: July 9, 2024