IPVanish At-A-Glance
IPVanish VPN is a US-based VPN service that offers unlimited simultaneous device connections, military-grade encryption, and a verified no-logs policy. With over 3,200 servers across 150+ locations in 112 countries, IPVanish excels in speed and torrenting support but has some limitations with streaming services.
IPVanish
Pros
- Securely access streaming & live sports
- Unlimited device connections
- Strong encryption protocols
Cons
- Less servers than other top brands
Pros & Cons of IPVanish
Pros:
- ✅ Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- ✅ Independently audited no-logs policy (verified multiple times, most recently February 2025)
- ✅ Over 3,200 RAM-only servers in 150+ locations
- ✅ Excellent connection speeds with minimal slowdown
- ✅ All servers support P2P and torrenting
- ✅ WireGuard protocol support
- ✅ 30-day money-back guarantee (not 7-day as previously stated)
- ✅ 24/7 live customer support
- ✅ Double Hop VPN feature for extra encryption
Cons:
- ❌ US-based jurisdiction (Five Eyes alliance)
- ❌ No Bitcoin payment option
- ❌ Expensive renewal rates after initial subscription
- ❌ Past logging incident in 2016 (under previous ownership)
IPVanish Server Network & Infrastructure
- Total servers: 3,200+
- Locations: 150+ global locations across 112 countries
- Server technology: 100% RAM-only servers
- IP addresses: 56,000+ available IPs
- Server ownership: IPVanish owns and operates all its own servers (no third-party rentals)
Server Distribution by Region
| Region | Number of Servers (approx) | Key Locations |
|---|---|---|
| North America | ~1,326 servers | United States (dominant presence), Canada |
| Europe | ~551 servers | UK, Germany, Netherlands, France |
| Asia | ~99 servers | Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, India |
| South America | 31+ servers | Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Venezuela |
| Oceania | ~73 servers | Australia, New Zealand |
| Africa | Limited presence | South Africa |
ℹ️ Note: IPVanish significantly expanded its South American presence in 2024, now offering more server locations in South America than any other major consumer VPN service.
Why Server Ownership Matters
Unlike most VPN providers that rent servers from third-party data centers, IPVanish owns and operates its entire server network. This provides:
- Enhanced security: Complete control over server hardware and software
- Better performance: Ability to optimize servers for speed and reliability
- Privacy benefits: No third-party access to server infrastructure
- Maintenance advantages: Hands-on management and faster issue resolution
All servers are P2P and torrenting-enabled, making IPVanish an excellent choice for file sharing without restrictions.
IPVanish Price & Subscription Plans (as of 2025)
IPVanish offers two subscription tiers, essential and advanced, with three payment durations each:
IPVanish Essential Plan
What’s Included:
- Complete VPN service
- Unlimited device connections
- All 3,200+ servers
- Threat Protection (ad/tracker blocking)
- 24/7 customer support
- Free global eSIM data: 3 GB via aloSIM
| Duration | Initial Price | Monthly Cost | Renewal Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $12.99 (for 1 month) | $12.99 | $12.99/month |
| 1 Year | $39.99 (for 12 months) | $3.33 | $89.99/year ($7.50/mo) |
| 2 Year | $52.56 (for 24 months) | $2.19 | $89.99/year ($7.50/mo) |
Savings: Up to 83% off with 2-year plan
⚠️Note: Prices do not include local tax; prices may vary by region.
IPVanish Advanced Plan
Everything in Essential, PLUS:
- Secure browser extension
- Cloud backup for up to 3 TB
- File sync & share
- Free global eSIM data: 10 GB via aloSIM
| Duration | Initial Price | Monthly Cost | Renewal Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $14.99 (for 1 month) | $14.99 | $14.99/month |
| 1 Year | $53.88 (for 12 months) | $4.49 | $109.99/year ($9.17/mo) |
| 2 Year | $78.96 (for 24 months) | $3.29 | $109.99/year ($9.17/mo) |
Savings: Up to 78% off with 2-year plan
⚠️Note: Prices do not include local tax; prices may vary by region.
Important Pricing Notes
⚠️ Renewal Price Increase: The attractive introductory rates significantly increase upon renewal:
- Essential 1-year renews at $89.99/year (126% increase)
- Essential 2-year renews at $89.99/year (242% increase)
- Advanced plans increase similarly
💡 Best Value: The 1-year Essential plan at $39.99 offers the best balance of price and commitment length, especially considering renewal costs.
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Money-Back Guarantee
- 30-day money-back guarantee on yearly and two-year plans
- NO refunds on monthly subscriptions
- NO refunds if you’ve used the mobile free trial
- Full refund if canceled within 30 days of purchase
Free Trial
- 7-day free trial available on iOS and Android only
- Access via Apple App Store or Google Play Store
- No free trial on desktop platforms
- Cannot claim money-back guarantee after using free trial
Payment Methods
Accepted:
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
- PayPal
- Google Pay
- Amazon Pay
- Apple Pay
NOT Accepted:
- ❌ Bitcoin or cryptocurrency (major limitation for privacy-focused users)
Price Comparison with Competitors
| VPN Provider | Best Monthly Rate | Annual Renewal |
|---|---|---|
| IPVanish Essential | $2.19/mo (2-year) | $89.99/year |
| NordVPN Basic | $3.09/mo (2-year) | $139.00/year |
| Private Internet Access | $2.19/mo (3-year) | $39.95/year |
| ExpressVPN | $4.09/mo (1-year) | $99.95/year |
| CyberGhost | $2.19/mo (2-year) | $56.94/year |
Value Assessment: IPVanish offers competitive introductory pricing but renewal rates are higher than some alternatives like Private Internet Access and CyberGhost.
Privacy, Logging Policy & Security
No-Logs Policy Verification
IPVanish maintains a strict zero-logs policy that has been independently verified multiple times:
Audit History:
- 2022: Leviathan Security Group audit confirming no-logs policy
- May 2024: Google Secure VPN Certificate for Android app
- February 2025: Schellman Compliance, LLC audit reaffirming no-logs commitment
According to their verified privacy policy, IPVanish does NOT log:
- ❌ Browsing history or internet traffic
- ❌ IP addresses (original or VPN-assigned)
- ❌ Connection timestamps
- ❌ DNS queries
- ❌ Any user activity or session data
What they DO collect (for service operation only):
- ✓ Email address (for account management)
- ✓ Payment information (handled by third-party processors)
- ✓ Aggregate bandwidth monitoring across servers (not user-specific)
The 2016 Logging Incident
In 2016, under previous ownership (Highwinds Network Group), IPVanish provided user data to the Department of Homeland Security in a child pornography investigation. This contradicted their stated no-logs policy at the time.
What Changed:
- 2017: New ownership under StackPath (no logging systems in place per CEO statement)
- 2019: Acquired by Ziff Davis with renewed privacy commitment
- Multiple independent audits since 2022 confirming the current no-logs practices
- Implementation of RAM-only servers that cannot retain data
While this incident remains a concern for privacy-focused users, the current company is fundamentally different with verified practices.
Encryption & Security Protocols
Encryption Standard:
- AES-256 military-grade encryption (same as used by banks and government agencies)
- SHA-256 authentication
- RSA-2048 handshake
Supported Protocols:
- WireGuard (recommended) – Modern, fast, lightweight protocol
- OpenVPN (UDP/TCP) – Industry standard, highly secure
- IKEv2/IPsec – Good for mobile devices
Security Features:
- Kill Switch: Automatically disconnects internet if VPN connection drops (available on Windows, iOS, FireTV, Android)
- DNS Leak Protection: Prevents DNS queries from bypassing VPN tunnel
- IPv6 Leak Protection: Blocks IPv6 traffic to prevent IP exposure
- Threat Protection: Blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites
- Double Hop VPN: Routes traffic through two separate servers for enhanced anonymity (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chromebook)
- Split Tunneling: Choose which apps use VPN (Windows, macOS, Android)
Speed & Performance Testing
Real-World Speed Test Results
IPVanish consistently ranks among the fastest VPNs tested in 2025 reviews:
Average Speed Loss: 15-20% (industry average is 30-40%)
Test Conditions:
- Base connection: 65 Mbps
- Test locations: US, UK, European servers
- Protocol used: WireGuard
Results:
- US servers: 58-60 Mbps (7-8% loss)
- European servers: 50-55 Mbps (15-23% loss)
- Asian servers: 45-50 Mbps (23-30% loss)
Torrenting Performance:
- Download speeds: 56-64 Mbps (7-8 MB/s)
- No throttling detected
- Fast peer connections
- Free SOCKS5 proxy available for enhanced P2P speeds
Why IPVanish Is Fast
- Self-owned servers: Optimized hardware and network infrastructure
- WireGuard protocol: Modern, efficient encryption
- Strategic server placement: High concentration in high-traffic regions
- RAM-only servers: Faster read/write operations
Streaming & Content Unblocking with IPVanish
Netflix Compatibility
IPVanish has limited but functional Netflix support:
Working:
- ✅ Netflix US (most US servers work)
- ✅ Netflix UK (select servers)
- ✅ Netflix Japan (added 2024)
Not Working:
- ❌ BBC iPlayer (UK)
- ❌ Sky Go (UK)
Streaming Services Supported:
- ESPN
- HBO Max
- Amazon Prime Video
- Hulu
- MLB TV
- NBC Sports
- YouTube (geo-restricted content)
- Spotify
Verdict: IPVanish works for basic US streaming needs but isn’t the best choice if you need reliable access to multiple regional streaming libraries. Services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN perform better for comprehensive streaming access.
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Device Compatibility & Apps
Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
⭐️Major Advantage: IPVanish allows unlimited device connections on a single account – no artificial limits. Connect your laptop, phone, tablet, router, Smart TV, and more simultaneously.
Supported Platforms
Desktop:
Mobile:
TV & Streaming:
- Amazon Fire TV/Firestick
- Android TV
- Roku (via router setup)
- Apple TV (via router setup)
Other:
- Routers (DD-WRT, Tomato firmware)
- Gaming consoles (via router)
App Features by Platform
Windows App:
- Kill Switch
- Split Tunneling
- LAN Blocking (prevents local network snooping)
- Always On feature
- Threat Protection
- OpenVPN Scramble (helps bypass VPN blocks)
- Double Hop VPN
macOS App:
- Redesigned interface (2023)
- Kill Switch
- Split Tunneling (beta)
- Threat Protection
- Optimal Location feature
- Double Hop VPN
- Secure Browser extension
iOS App:
- Kill Switch
- 3D Touch support
- Threat Protection
- Always On feature
- OpenVPN protocol (beta)
- URL scanner
- Free 7-day trial available
- Double Hop VPN
Android App:
- Kill Switch
- Threat Protection
- Split Tunneling
- URL scanner
- Free 7-day trial available
- Double Hop VPN
Fire TV App:
- Optimized for remote control
- Encryption support
- Bypass geo-restrictions
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New Features & Recent Updates (2024-2025)
September 2024: Major Infrastructure Expansion
- Increased server count to 3,200+ servers
- Expanded to 150+ locations across 112 countries
- Full transition to RAM-only servers across entire network
- Added 700+ new servers for better load balancing
December 2024: Double Hop VPN Release
- Multi-hop connections through two separate servers
- Double encryption layer for enhanced security
- Customizable entry and exit server selection
- Available on Windows, Mac, Chromebook, Android, iOS
2025 Feature Additions
- Threat Protection: Ad blocking, tracker blocking, malicious site filtering
- Secure Browser Extension: Cloud-based browser isolation (Windows, macOS)
- URL Scanner: Mobile apps can scan links for threats
- Google Secure VPN Certificate: Android app verified by Google’s security program
- Free eSIM Data: Upcoming feature (Sept 2025) – 3-5 GB global data depending on plan
2024 Free Security Tools
IPVanish released four complimentary tools on their website:
- IP address checker
- Password generator
- Internet speed test (powered by Ookla)
- Link Checker (uses AI/ML to identify threats)
Customer Support
Support Channels
24/7 Live Chat:
- Available in-app and on website
- Quick response times (typically under 5 minutes)
- Knowledgeable support agents
- Can handle technical issues and billing questions
Email Support:
- support@ipvanish.com
- Response within 24 hours typically
- Suitable for non-urgent inquiries
Phone Support:
- Dedicated phone line available
- Less common among VPN providers
Self-Service Resources:
- Comprehensive knowledge base
- Setup guides for all platforms
- Troubleshooting documentation
- FAQ section
Support Quality
Based on testing, IPVanish’s customer support is responsive and helpful. The 24/7 live chat is particularly valuable for troubleshooting connection issues or technical questions.
IPVanish History & Ownership
IPVanish was founded in 2012 by Mudhook Media Inc., a subsidiary of Highwinds Network Group in Orlando, Florida. The service started modestly with just 32 servers supporting only Windows clients in the United States.
Ownership Timeline
- 2012: Founded by Mudhook Media Inc./Highwinds Network Group
- 2017: Acquired by StackPath (including parent company Highwinds)
- 2019: Acquired by J2 Global (now Ziff Davis), establishing NetProtect consumer cybersecurity division
- Present: Owned and operated by Ziff Davis
This change in ownership is significant. The controversial 2016 logging incident occurred under the original Highwinds ownership. Since the StackPath acquisition in 2017 and subsequent purchase by Ziff Davis in 2019, IPVanish has undergone multiple independent no-logs audits to rebuild trust.
IPVanish vs. Competitors
How IPVanish Compares
Better Than Competitors:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections (most limit to 5-10 devices)
- Self-owned server infrastructure (better security)
- Excellent torrenting support across all servers
- Fast connection speeds
- Competitive pricing (initial term)
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Competitors Do Better:
- Netflix/streaming unblocking (NordVPN, ExpressVPN)
- Bitcoin payments (Mullvad, IVPN)
- Non-Five Eyes jurisdiction (ProtonVPN, Surfshark)
- No price hike on renewal (Mullvad, PIA)
- More specialized servers (NordVPN, CyberGhost)
Use Cases: Who Should Choose IPVanish?
✅ IPVanish Is Excellent For:
Torrenting Enthusiasts:
- All servers support P2P without restrictions
- Fast download speeds (56-64 Mbps tested)
- Free SOCKS5 proxy for optimal torrenting
- Strong encryption protects your activity
Multi-Device Households:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Protect every device in your home with one account
- No need to choose which devices get protection
Speed-Focused Users:
- Minimal speed loss (15-20% vs. 30-40% industry average)
- Excellent for gaming, HD streaming, large downloads
- WireGuard protocol for maximum performance
US-Based Streaming:
- Reliable access to Netflix US
- Works with Hulu, ESPN, Amazon Prime
- Good for basic streaming needs
General Privacy & Security:
- Military-grade encryption
- Verified no-logs policy
- Strong security features (kill switch, leak protection)
❌ IPVanish May Not Be Ideal For:
Maximum Privacy Advocates:
- US-based (Five Eyes jurisdiction)
- Past logging incident (though under previous ownership)
- No cryptocurrency payment option
- Consider Mullvad, IVPN, or ProtonVPN instead
International Streaming Fans:
- Limited Netflix library access beyond US/UK
- Doesn’t unblock BBC iPlayer
- Struggles with some regional services
- Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN instead
Budget-Conscious Long-Term Users:
- High renewal rates after initial term
- Better long-term value from PIA or Mullvad
Installation & Setup Guide
How to Get Started with IPVanish
- Choose Your Plan
- Create Account
- Download & Install on your devices
- Connect & browse!
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Step 1: Choose Your Plan
- Visit IPVanish’s website
- Select subscription length
Step 2: Create Account
- Enter email address
- Select payment method
- Complete payment ($39.99 for 1-year Essential recommended)
Step 3: Download & Install
- Download IPVanish app for your device
- Run installer (simple one-click installation)
- Sign in with your email and password
Step 4: Connect
- Launch IPVanish app
- Click “Connect” for optimal server selection
- Or manually choose server location from the map/list
Step 5: Configure Settings (Optional)
- Enable Kill Switch for automatic protection
- Set up Threat Protection to block ads/trackers
- Configure auto-connect on WiFi networks
- Customize protocol (WireGuard recommended)
Quick Start Tips
Best Performance:
- Use WireGuard protocol
- Connect to nearby servers
- Enable Optimal Location feature
Maximum Security:
- Enable Kill Switch
- Activate Threat Protection
- Use Double Hop VPN for sensitive activities
- Disable WebRTC in browser
For Torrenting:
- All servers work, no special setup needed
- Consider using SOCKS5 proxy for speed
- Verify IP address at ipleak.net before downloading
Final Verdict: Is IPVanish Worth It in 2025?
The Good: IPVanish excels as a fast, secure VPN with unlimited device connections, verified no-logs practices, and excellent torrenting support. The self-owned server network of 3,200+ servers provides reliability and performance. At $39.99 for the first year ($3.33/month), it offers solid value.
The Not-So-Good: US jurisdiction raises privacy concerns for some users, Netflix unblocking is limited beyond US/UK, and renewal prices increase significantly. The lack of cryptocurrency payments is disappointing for privacy advocates.
Who Should Subscribe?
IPVanish is ideal if you:
- Need to protect multiple devices (unlimited connections)
- Torrent or download large files frequently
- Prioritize speed over maximum streaming compatibility
- Want a reliable VPN at a competitive price
- Need strong customer support (24/7 live chat)
- Are primarily concerned with US-based streaming
Look elsewhere if you:
- Need maximum privacy (Five Eyes jurisdiction concern)
- Want comprehensive international Netflix access
- Require Bitcoin payments
- Are extremely budget-conscious long-term (high renewal rates)
- Need specialized servers (dedicated IPs, double VPN before 2024, etc.)
Recommended Plans
Best Value: 1-Year Essential Plan ($39.99 total, $3.33/month)
- Good balance of price and commitment
- 30-day money-back guarantee to test
- Substantial savings over monthly ($155.88/year)
- Reasonable renewal rate compared to 2-year option
For Cloud Storage Needs: 1-Year Advanced Plan ($53.88 total, $4.49/month)
- Includes 1 TB encrypted cloud storage (worth $60+ separately)
- Secure Browser extension
- Still competitive pricing with added features
Bottom Line
IPVanish has transformed significantly since its controversial 2016 logging incident. Under Ziff Davis ownership with multiple independent audits confirming their no-logs policy, extensive RAM-only server infrastructure, and continuous feature improvements, IPVanish has rebuilt credibility.
While it’s not perfect—US jurisdiction, limited streaming, high renewals—it’s a solid choice for users prioritizing speed, torrenting, multi-device protection, and value. The 30-day money-back guarantee makes it risk-free to test whether IPVanish meets your needs.
For most users seeking a reliable, fast VPN with strong security and unlimited device connections, IPVanish delivers excellent value, especially at the discounted first-year rate.
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Try IPVanish Risk-Free
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee on all yearly and two-year plans. Test the service thoroughly:
- Check connection speeds in your location
- Verify it works with your required streaming services
- Test torrenting performance
- Ensure it works on all your devices
- Evaluate customer support quality
If IPVanish doesn’t meet your expectations within 30 days, request a full refund—no questions asked.
Frequently Asked Questions: IPVanish Review
Yes. IPVanish uses military-grade AES-256 encryption, maintains a verified no-logs policy (audited multiple times), and implements RAM-only servers. However, it’s US-based (Five Eyes jurisdiction) and had a logging incident in 2016 under previous ownership.
Yes, but with limitations. IPVanish reliably accesses Netflix US and UK libraries. Other regional libraries have spotty support. For comprehensive Netflix unblocking, NordVPN or ExpressVPN are better choices.
Unlimited. IPVanish has no device connection limits – you can protect as many devices as you own with a single account.
No. IPVanish maintains a verified zero-logs policy confirmed by multiple independent audits. They don’t log browsing history, IP addresses, connection timestamps, or DNS queries.
Excellent. All 3,200+ servers support P2P and torrenting without restrictions. Fast speeds (56-64 Mbps tested), strong encryption, and free SOCKS5 proxy make it ideal for file sharing.
Yes, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee on yearly and two-year plans. Monthly subscriptions and users who’ve already used the free trial are not eligible for refunds.
Yes, a 7-day free trial is available on iOS and Android through the App Store and Google Play Store. No free trial is available for desktop platforms.
Credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, SEPA, and Apple Pay. Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin) is NOT accepted.
IPVanish includes an OpenVPN Scramble feature that may help bypass VPN blocks, but success in China is not guaranteed. The service doesn’t specifically market itself for use in China or other restrictive countries.
Essential includes the complete VPN service. Advanced adds 1 TB encrypted cloud storage (Livedrive), Secure Browser extension, and additional eSIM data.
