US-Based VPN Scrutiny

UltraVPN: An American Privacy Service Worth Considering

Privacy concerns naturally arise when evaluating VPN services based in the United States. With the presence of the NSA and legal mechanisms like warrants and gag orders, American-based privacy tools require extra scrutiny.

Since Pango's acquisition of UltraVPN, significant improvements have been implemented, particularly regarding their logging practices. The service now boasts a comprehensive zero-logs policy that addresses previous privacy concerns.

Affordability stands as one of UltraVPN's key advantages. However, budget-friendly pricing in the VPN industry often raises questions about potential compromises in application quality, data handling practices, and overall performance capabilities.

Our thorough evaluation included critical security tests for DNS and IP leaks, verification of encryption standards, and assessment of essential privacy features including kill-switch functionality and obfuscation capabilities.

Performance testing revealed whether UltraVPN's speeds meet industry benchmarks for everyday usage. Additionally, we evaluated its effectiveness in accessing popular streaming platforms including Netflix US, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.

The comprehensive testing process covered both mobile and desktop applications, examining streaming capabilities, server speeds for HD content, security implementation details, torrenting support, user experience, and overall functionality.

When comparing UltraVPN to industry leaders like NordVPN, several factors were considered including server network size, feature set, reliability, and value proposition. This comparison provides context for understanding UltraVPN's position in the competitive VPN marketplace.

UltraVPN: A Budget-Friendly Solution with Impressive Speed

Looking for a cost-effective VPN that doesn't compromise on streaming capabilities? UltraVPN might be the answer you're seeking. This service stands out particularly for its remarkable speed performance, making it an attractive option for both gaming enthusiasts and streaming aficionados.

Navigation and user experience are straightforward, with privacy protections that satisfy most everyday security needs. The service includes valuable additions like ad and tracker blocking, malware protection at server level, and a customizable kill-switch on Windows devices that comes pre-activated on mobile platforms.

While UltraVPN lacks the OpenVPN protocol and the increasingly popular WireGuard that many competitors offer, it compensates with its proprietary Hydra protocol. This technology delivers exceptional speed and built-in obfuscation capabilities, making the absence of other protocols less concerning.

There are some limitations worth noting - the Android application only supports the Hydra protocol, while other platforms allow switching to IKEv2. Additionally, compared to premium VPN services, UltraVPN doesn't offer the same range of advanced features.

For the price point, UltraVPN represents solid value, though comparable alternatives might offer slightly better feature sets. Current promotion includes PassWatch and DarkWeb monitoring with all subscription plans.

UltraVPN offers a robust service with some notable features and a few areas for improvement. For those looking to stream, it effectively connects to Netflix US via the New York server, enhancing your entertainment experience.

The service supports multiple platforms, including Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS, making it accessible across a wide range of devices. Users can connect up to six devices simultaneously, which is convenient for families or individuals with multiple gadgets.

UltraVPN boasts an extensive network, with over 350 servers spread across 85 countries. This global reach ensures that users can find a nearby server for optimal performance. The proprietary Hydra protocol delivers extremely fast connections, ensuring a smooth and seamless browsing experience.

During our testing, we used a Windows virtual machine on an AWS test server in Ohio, equipped with a high-speed gigabit connection. We conducted nine speed tests at different times of the day, focusing on servers in the UK, USA, and Hong Kong. The results were impressive, with speeds ranging from a low of 179 Mbps on the Hong Kong server to a high of 250 Mbps on the US server.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. UltraVPN does store device identifiers and some non-identifiable logs, which may be a concern for privacy-conscious users. Additionally, the Android app has been reported to be somewhat temperamental, which could impact the user experience on mobile devices.

UltraVPN delivers impressive performance metrics with an average speed of 211 Mbps across all tested servers. The Hydra protocol demonstrates exceptional speed capabilities, making this VPN solution ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities.

During my streaming tests across multiple platforms, UltraVPN handled high-definition content without any noticeable buffering or quality issues.

It's important to consider latency factors when selecting servers. My testing revealed significant ping increases when connecting to distant locations - reaching approximately 229ms when using the Hong Kong server. Gamers should prioritize connecting to geographically closer servers to minimize latency.

Regional performance breakdown:

North American servers averaged 236 Mbps

European connections delivered 209 Mbps

Asian servers performed at 187 Mbps

The service permits up to six simultaneous device connections per subscription. While this falls short of competitors like IPVanish and Surfshark that offer unlimited connections, the six-device allowance should satisfy typical user requirements.

UltraVPN provides compatible applications for Windows (version 7 and newer) and macOS (10.12+) systems. Both desktop clients share similar interfaces and offer competitive feature sets when compared to industry-leading alternatives.

UltraVPN offers a range of useful features, including a kill-switch available on Windows, iOS, and Android platforms. This ensures that your data remains protected even if the connection drops.

For users who need to bypass strict internet controls, UltraVPN provides basic obfuscation through the Hydra protocol. This makes your traffic appear as regular HTTPS over port 443, adding an extra layer of security.

The service also includes a split tunneling feature, making it a reliable choice for Windows users who frequently engage in torrenting. This feature allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which do not, providing more control over your internet usage.

When it comes to mobile devices, UltraVPN supports both Android (OS 5.0 or later) and iOS (11 or later). The mobile apps come with a default always-on kill-switch, ensuring continuous protection.

Both iOS and Android users can benefit from the auto-connect feature, which automatically connects the VPN when the app is launched. To conserve battery life, you can set the app to disconnect when your device goes into sleep mode. Additionally, Android users have the option to configure the app to launch and connect automatically on device startup, enhancing convenience and security.

For automatic VPN activation on recognized network types, UltraVPN offers an auto-connect function. This feature triggers the VPN connection whenever you access unsecured Wi-Fi, secured Wi-Fi, or cellular data networks.

Android users gain an additional capability: trusted Wi-Fi. This setting intelligently deactivates the VPN connection while you are utilizing designated, trusted Wi-fi hotspots.

While iOS devices also support the auto-connect feature, their options are more limited compared to Android. On iOS, auto-connect only provides two network categories: unsecured Wi-Fi and secured Wi-Fi.

Feature Overview

UltraVPN enables bypassing its protection for specific URLs via domain exclusion

This browser-based split tunneling whitelists domains for direct access

While connected to the VPN service

Windows currently offers this functionality exclusively

Android implementation remains forthcoming

With iOS and macOS versions potentially following later

Notable feature gaps exist versus competitors

Double-hop encryption remains unavailable

Absent protocols include WireGuard and OpenVPN

Port forwarding capability is also missing

Protocol selection varies by platform

Windows, macOS, and iOS offer Auto, IKEv2, or Hydra options

Android restricts connections to Hydra protocol only

As confirmed by the provider

Linux users face limitations

Native applications are unavailable

No setup guides or OpenVPN configuration files exist

Third-party client connections remain unsupported

Important clarification regarding browser extensions

Contrary to some reports

No Firefox, Chrome, or Safari extensions exist

This misinformation requires correction

Security enhancements provide value

Server-level ad and tracker blocking operates continuously

Malware filtering adds another layer of protection

Subscriptions bundle password manager access

Plus dark web scanning services

Subscription setup follows standard procedures

Provide email, name, postal address and payment details

Monthly plans start at $7.99

Downloads initiate post-payment confirmation

Platform-specific applications available immediately

Including options for both Windows and macOS devices

The installation proved refreshingly straightforward

and impressively storage-efficient at only 13MB.

This compact size ensures minimal impact on your device's drive space.

You'll experience an effortless setup process

requiring just a few simple steps.

Be prepared to review and accept the provider's Terms of Service

alongside their Privacy Policy during the installation phase.

We'll delve into the specifics of these agreements later.

Accessing UltraVPN's applications proved straightforward across mobile platforms—Android and iOS installations were free from app stores, though account credentials are necessary post-download.

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The signup process is notably user-friendly, guiding newcomers directly to downloads while silently installing essential encryption components to avoid confusion.

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Once logged in, the apps shine with intuitive navigation. Connecting to servers requires minimal effort, and critical protections like the automatic kill switch operate seamlessly from the start.

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For streaming enthusiasts, UltraVPN offers "UltraFlix" servers tailored for Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video, available in the US, Canada, UK, and Japan.

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However, functionality feels restricted: real-time server speeds aren't displayed, and favoriting locations is exclusive to iOS—clear areas for enhancement.

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Disappointingly, no free trial exists despite live chat claims of limited iOS access. Subscriptions mandate upfront payment, though a 30-day refund policy allows risk-free testing on all major platforms.

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This refund guarantee remains the primary method to evaluate UltraVPN's capabilities before fully committing.

Testing revealed no labeled "UltraFlix" servers within the VPN's mobile or desktop applications.

Surprisingly, support confirmed these specialized servers were entirely scrapped, contradicting active website promotions.

When seeking alternative streaming locations, agents offered no specific guidance, forcing manual server experimentation.

The UK server selection presented an unusual choice: "United Kingdom" or the oddly specific city "Coventry".

Exploring UltraVPN's Streaming and Torrenting Capabilities

During my evaluation of UltraVPN's Manchester-based UK server, I successfully accessed several British streaming platforms including BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and Channel 4. However, when attempting to stream UK-exclusive Netflix content like Thunderbirds, both the Manchester and Coventry servers failed to provide access.

The New York server performed considerably better for US content, successfully unblocking Netflix US exclusives such as "Alone" and "The Car." CBS content typically unavailable in the UK was also accessible. Additionally, UltraVPN currently works with Amazon Prime Video US and Disney+.

Despite these successes, I encountered limitations with certain platforms. ABC content remained blocked despite trying multiple US server locations including Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Similarly, Ireland's RTE detected the VPN proxy and prevented playback despite showing the correct content catalog.

A significant drawback is UltraVPN's lack of guidance regarding which servers work with specific streaming services. Users must experiment to discover which connections successfully bypass geo-restrictions—a process that more premium VPN services have simplified with dedicated streaming servers.

For torrenting enthusiasts, UltraVPN allows P2P file sharing across its entire server network without offering specialized torrenting servers. This universal support provides flexibility to choose servers based on proximity or location preferences for optimal speeds.

The inclusion of a kill-switch feature in the Windows, macOS, and Android applications adds an essential layer of security for torrenting activities, preventing accidental data leaks that might expose your activities to your ISP.

While UltraVPN demonstrates capability with certain streaming platforms and offers comprehensive torrenting support, its inconsistent performance with major streaming services suggests that users seeking reliable geo-restriction bypassing might find more consistent options elsewhere.

Port forwarding is not available in UltraVPN's applications. This feature, which enables faster BitTorrent downloads by allowing unsolicited connections through the VPN, has become quite rare. If you require port forwarding, it might be best to look for an alternative service.

UltraVPN advises that torrenting is permissible on any server, but it depends on the specific site being used. They recommend using Vuze and its Azureus torrent client, which can be downloaded from their official website (http://www.vuze.com/). The reasoning behind this recommendation is unclear, but it’s worth considering if you plan to use UltraVPN for torrenting.

Unlike many other VPNs that utilize WireGuard and OpenVPN, UltraVPN employs IKEv2 (IPSec) and a proprietary protocol named Hydra. We consider IKEv2 to be secure, and UltraVPN provided details on their encryption methods: they use AEAD AES128 and AES 256 (both in Galois/Counter Mode), with SHA256 for integrity checks, and ChaCha20 with Poly1305 for message authentication. They also support ECDSA and RSA for older clients.

For the Hydra protocol, UltraVPN uses OpenSSL as the crypto/TLS library, and the handshake/key negotiation is conducted through ephemeral key elliptic curve Diffie-Hellman (P-256). This protocol also offers basic obfuscation, making traffic appear as regular HTTPS. However, since it is a closed-source protocol, some users may prefer the more transparent IKEv2.

The implementation of IKEv2 appears robust, ensuring a secure tunnel for your data on all devices except Android. Additional security features include a dark web scan that checks illicit marketplaces, forums, and data dumps for your email address and password. If a match is found, you will be prompted to update your password and take other necessary actions.

As of June 2022, UltraVPN includes Passwatch, a password manager, to help create and manage strong passwords. Keep in mind that this feature will no longer be accessible if you cancel your subscription, so exporting your passwords beforehand is recommended.

To ensure the service is effective for privacy, I tested UltraVPN for leaks. Leaks can compromise your privacy by allowing your ISP or visited websites to see your real IP address, even when connected to the VPN.

Privacy and Security Evaluation

Our leak assessment confirmed robust privacy safeguards:

IPv4 and IPv6 addresses remained fully concealed during connection,

with the VPN actively blocking IPv6 pathways to eliminate exposure risks.

WebRTC vulnerabilities were entirely absent in testing protocols.

DNS integrity remained uncompromised throughout our examination,

effectively shielding online activities from ISP surveillance.

No trace of personal ISP details surfaced in diagnostic reports.

Notably, DNS leak prevention activates automatically across all applications,

requiring no manual configuration adjustments by users.

Ownership structure presents jurisdictional considerations:

UltraVPN operates under Pango, a subsidiary of US-based Aura.

This geography introduces theoretical compliance obligations

due to American surveillance alliances and legal frameworks.

To counter jurisdictional concerns, the provider maintains a strict no-usage-logs policy.

This data minimization approach substantially limits retained subscriber information,

rendering compliance demands largely inconsequential.

The August 2022 privacy policy revision demonstrated meaningful improvements,

establishing clearer boundaries for data retention.

Upon registration, only these billing essentials are stored:

• Full name

• Email contact

• Transaction details

During active VPN sessions, the service collects:

• Application version identifiers

• Connection success/failure records

• Selected server locations

• User country and ISP metadata

• Mobile advertising identifiers

• Device-specific hashes

While advertising IDs and device hashes warrant attention,

they remain detached from actual VPN usage patterns.

Users can reset advertising identifiers on mobile platforms

to further mitigate potential correlation risks.

Ultravpn boasts a robust privacy policy, emphasizing that it refrains from collecting your original IP address or the IP addresses of the servers you connect to. This marks a significant enhancement since our previous evaluation. Additionally, no records are kept regarding your downloads, web history, or any other activities conducted while using the service.

Regarding device hashes, Ultravpn provides the following information:

UltraVPN's Hydra Protocol: A Solution for Chinese Internet Users

The Hydra protocol implementation in UltraVPN offers basic traffic obfuscation capabilities, effectively masking VPN connections as standard HTTPS traffic through port 443. This feature is particularly valuable for users in China who face the restrictions of the Great Firewall, potentially allowing access to otherwise blocked content.

It's worth noting that while UltraVPN provides this circumvention method, it does not offer SOCKS5 proxy functionality, which some advanced users might find limiting. Nevertheless, the Hydra protocol generally makes UltraVPN a viable option for those navigating China's internet restrictions.

Customer Support Challenges

One significant drawback of UltraVPN's service is its support accessibility. Potential customers should be aware that support services are exclusively available to paying subscribers, creating a frustrating barrier for those with pre-purchase questions.

The live chat support experience proved inconsistent during our testing. Despite numerous attempts to access customer service through the website, the live chat option appeared only sporadically. After approximately 15 visits to the site, the live chat window became available just once, suggesting serious reliability issues with their support interface.

Eventually, we discovered a hidden link within their support documentation confirming the existence of live chat support. However, the difficulty in consistently accessing this feature indicates potential problems with UltraVPN's customer service infrastructure.

When exploring UltraVPN's customer support, I discovered some notable limitations. Interestingly, their support link redirects to Hotspot Shield's page, suggesting a somewhat disjointed service structure. The support agents, while courteous, seemed inadequately trained specifically on UltraVPN's features.

Email support is available with generally polite and reasonably knowledgeable responses, though you might wait approximately three hours for assistance. This delay could be problematic for users needing immediate help.

I encountered several concerning issues during my interactions. When inquiring about the advertised UltraFlix servers, the agent appeared completely unaware of this feature until I provided screenshots. This knowledge gap about a basic streaming capability was particularly disappointing.

More troublingly, obtaining technical information proved challenging. Support representatives couldn't explain encryption implementations for IKEv2 or Hydra protocols. Multiple attempts were needed to extract basic security information from Aura, the parent company.

Regarding company history, UltraVPN operated under Network Protect Limited in the UK from 2006 until 2020, when Aura acquired it. This acquisition moved operations to the United States—a Five Eyes member nation that can implement warrants and gag orders, raising potential privacy concerns. The service does maintain some minimal logging, including device hashes and advertising identifiers.

On the positive side, UltraVPN offers competitive pricing. Monthly subscriptions start at $7.99, while annual commitments reduce the rate to $2.99 monthly. Their most economical option is the two-year plan at just $1.99 per month, making it quite affordable considering its performance and content unblocking capabilities.

UltraVPN Review Summary

UltraVPN: A Balanced Perspective After Extended Testing

After several weeks of hands-on testing with UltraVPN, I've developed a nuanced view of this service that potential users should consider before subscribing.

The 30-day money-back guarantee offers a risk-free trial period, allowing thorough evaluation without financial commitment. This policy demonstrates confidence in their product while providing peace of mind for hesitant customers.

Performance-wise, UltraVPN delivers impressive speeds and successfully unblocks numerous streaming platforms and geo-restricted content. Gamers seeking access to foreign servers and BBC iPlayer enthusiasts will find this VPN particularly beneficial.

Regarding privacy, the policy appears adequate for typical users. However, the collection of device hashes and advertising IDs raises minor concerns for privacy-focused individuals. The Hydra protocol's built-in obfuscation capabilities make this service potentially viable for users in restrictive regions like China.

During my Windows testing, I encountered an increase in Google CAPTCHA challenges when using Firefox, which somewhat hampered the browsing experience. Chrome users may not face this issue, suggesting browser compatibility differences.

The user interface deserves praise for its intuitive design and straightforward functionality across platforms, making it accessible even for VPN novices.

While UltraVPN offers solid performance at a competitive price point, comparable services like Surfshark provide additional benefits with minimal price difference. Surfshark's British Virgin Islands jurisdiction offers stronger privacy protections, maintains a stricter no-logs policy, and supports unlimited simultaneous connections—ideal for households with multiple devices.

For those prioritizing simplicity, CyberGhost presents another alternative in a similar price range. Though offering fewer features than Surfshark, it maintains a strong stance against invasive logging while providing excellent streaming platform compatibility.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN functions as a digital key, enabling users to bypass geographical content restrictions imposed by the streaming service. Its primary purpose is to unlock international libraries by connecting users to servers in other countries, granting access to a significantly broader range of shows and movies unavailable in their home region. Essentially, a Netflix VPN expands your viewing catalog beyond local borders.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you're looking to access region-restricted content on Netflix and experiencing the frustration of Netflix vpn not working , SafeShell VPN might be the solution you've been searching for. This powerful VPN service is specifically designed to overcome the challenges that many users face when trying to access global Netflix libraries, offering a seamless streaming experience regardless of your location.

SafeShell VPN stands out from competitors with its impressive array of features tailored for Netflix users. Its high-speed servers are optimized for buffer-free streaming, ensuring you enjoy your favorite shows in high definition without interruptions. The exclusive App Mode feature allows you to unlock content from multiple regions simultaneously, expanding your entertainment options beyond what's available in your local Netflix library. Additionally, SafeShell VPN supports connectivity on up to five devices at once across various platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and smart TVs.

Security is paramount with SafeShell VPN, as its proprietary "ShellGuard" protocol ensures your private browsing sessions remain protected while you stream. This is particularly important when dealing with Netflix VPN not working issues, as inferior VPNs often fail to provide adequate protection against Netflix's detection systems. If you're still unsure, SafeShell VPN offers a flexible free trial plan that lets you experience all these benefits without immediate commitment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking reliable access to Netflix's global content library.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

Accessing global Netflix content has never been easier with SafeShell Netflix VPN . Here's how to unlock worldwide streaming in just a few simple steps:

• First, head to the SafeShell VPN website and select a subscription plan that matches your needs
• Download the SafeShell application for your specific device (compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android)
• After installation, open the app and log into your account
• For optimal Netflix streaming, select APP mode within the SafeShell interface
• Browse through SafeShell's server locations and connect to your desired region (such as US, UK, or Canada)
• Once connected, simply open your Netflix application or visit the Netflix website
• Log in with your existing Netflix credentials and enjoy your newly expanded content library from around the world