TorGuard VPN helps you to stay safe and maintain your privacy while accessing your favorite content without restriction. But this virtual private network (VPN) stands out from the best VPN services for its flexibility and customization. We tested TorGuard VPN to verify its privacy and security capability and examined its features and their peculiarities, benefits, and fine print to help you determine if it suits your privacy needs.
Pros
- Multiple security protocols
- Lots of DNS leak protection options
- Highly customizable subscriptions
- Works in China
- Seven-day free trial
- The first month is free on all premium plans
Cons
- Nonintuitive user interface
- Android-only split tunneling
- Streaming on its Standard plan requires a dedicated IP address
- Only a seven-day money-back guarantee
- No public audits
- Under the Five Eyes alliance
What Sets TorGuard VPN Apart?
TorGuard VPN is a virtual private network service that offers a range of features and plans to suit different needs and preferences. Some of the features that set TorGuard VPN apart are:
– Multiple security protocols— TorGuard VPN supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, SSTP, and Stealth protocols, giving you the option to choose the best one for your device and network. Stealth protocol is especially useful for bypassing firewalls and VPN blocks in countries with strict internet censorship.
– Lots of DNS leak protection options — TorGuard VPN has built-in DNS leak protection, as well as the option to use your own DNS servers or TorGuard’s secure DNS servers. You can also enable WebRTC leak protection and IPv6 leak protection in the settings.
– Highly customizable subscriptions — TorGuard VPN offers different packages and plans that let you tailor your experience according to your budget and needs. You can choose from Anonymous VPN, Anonymous VPN+Streaming Bundle, VPN+Private Mail Bundles, and Secure Business VPN packages, each with different features and prices. You can also add extras like dedicated IP addresses, port forwarding, DDoS protection, and more.
– Works in China — TorGuard VPN is one of the few VPNs that can reliably work in China and other countries with strict internet censorship. It uses Stealth protocol and Stealth proxy to disguise your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic, making it harder for firewalls to detect and block it.
– Seven-day free trial — TorGuard VPN offers a seven-day free trial for all its plans, so you can test its features and performance before committing to a subscription. You can also get the first month free on all premium plans.
TorGuard VPN’s Core Features
– Anonymous browsing — TorGuard VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, preventing anyone from tracking your online activity or accessing your personal information. You can also use TorGuard’s anonymous proxy service to browse the web without revealing your identity.
– DNS leak protection — TorGuard VPN prevents your DNS requests from being exposed to third parties, such as your ISP or government agencies, by using its own secure DNS servers or allowing you to use your own. You can also enable WebRTC leak protection and IPv6 leak protection in the settings.
– Split tunneling — TorGuard VPN lets you choose which apps or websites to route through the VPN and which ones to access directly, giving you more control over your bandwidth and privacy. Split tunneling is available on Android devices only.
– Kill switch — TorGuard VPN automatically disconnects your internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing any traffic leaks that could compromise your privacy. The kill switch is available on all apps, including iOS.
– Dedicated IP addresses — TorGuard VPN offers dedicated IP addresses for an extra fee, which can help you access geo-restricted content, such as streaming services, that may block VPN users. Dedicated IP addresses also provide better security and performance than shared IP addresses.
TorGuard VPN’s Pricing and Plans
TorGuard VPN has different pricing and plans depending on the package and features you choose. Here are some of the options:
– Anonymous VPN+Streaming Bundle — This is a bundle that includes the Anonymous VPN Standard plan and a streaming IP address that can help you access geo-restricted streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. You can choose from four regions: the US, the UK, Germany, or Japan. The bundle costs $21.98 per month and supports eight simultaneous connections.
– VPN+Private Mail Bundles — This is a bundle that includes the Anonymous VPN Standard plan and a PrivateMail secure email account with 10GB of encrypted cloud storage. You can also add more storage or a dedicated IP address for an extra fee. The bundle costs $11.54 per month and supports eight simultaneous connections.
– Secure Business VPN — This is a package designed for businesses that need to secure their online communications and data. It offers dedicated servers, dedicated IP addresses, port forwarding, DDoS protection, 24/7 support, and more. You can choose from four plans: Starter, Small, Medium, and Enterprise. The Starter plan costs $32.99 per month and supports 10 users and 10 email accounts. The Small plan costs $69 per month and supports 15 users and 15 email accounts. The Medium plan costs $110 per month and supports 20 users and 20 email accounts. The Enterprise plan costs $169 per month and supports 30 users and 30 email accounts.
TorGuard VPN Setup
To set up TorGuard VPN, you need to follow these steps:
– Download the client — You can download the TorGuard VPN client for your device from the TorGuard website or the app store. You can choose from Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and more.
– Run the installer — Once you have downloaded the client, run the installer and follow the instructions to install TorGuard VPN on your device. You may need to grant some permissions or enter your administrator password.
– Log in with your credentials — After installing the client, launch it and log in with your TorGuard VPN username and password. If you don’t have an account yet, you can sign up on the TorGuard website or use the free trial option.
– Choose a location — To connect to a TorGuard VPN server, click on the “Select Server” button and choose a location from the list. You can also use the search bar or filter by region, country, or city. You can also see the ping time and load percentage of each server.
– Click “Connect” — Once you have chosen a location, click on the “Connect” button to establish a VPN connection. You will see a message that says “Connected” and a green icon on the top of the client. You can also check your new IP address and location on the client or the TorGuard website.
TorGuard VPN Ease of Use
TorGuard VPN is easy to use for the most part, but it may also require some tweaking and customization to get the best performance and features. Here are some aspects of TorGuard VPN’s ease of use:
– User interface — TorGuard VPN has a simple and intuitive user interface that lets you connect to a server with one click. You can also choose a server from a list or use the search bar or filter options. The interface shows your connection status, IP address, location, and protocol. However, some users may find the interface too plain or outdated, and some messages may pop up unexpectedly.
– Settings — TorGuard VPN has a lot of settings that you can adjust to your preferences and needs. You can change the VPN protocol, DNS servers, kill switch, split tunneling, and more. You can also access advanced settings, such as cipher, authentication, port, proxy, and scripts. However, some users may find the settings overwhelming or confusing, and some features may not work well on certain devices or platforms.
– Setup — TorGuard VPN is easy to set up on most devices. You just need to download the client from the TorGuard website or the app store, run the installer, log in with your credentials, and choose a location to connect. You can also follow the setup guides on the TorGuard website for different devices and platforms.
– Streaming — TorGuard VPN can access some geo-restricted streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. However, you need to purchase a dedicated IP address or a streaming bundle to do so. You also need to contact customer support to activate your streaming IP address. This may not be very convenient or user-friendly for some users.
– Customer support — TorGuard VPN has a responsive and helpful customer support team that you can contact via live chat, email, or ticket system. You can also find useful information on the TorGuard website, such as FAQs, tutorials, forums, and blogs.
Overall, TorGuard VPN is easy to use for users who are familiar with VPNs and want to customize their experience. However, it may not be very suitable for beginners or users who want a simple and hassle-free VPN service.
TorGuard VPN Security and Privacy
– Encryption — TorGuard VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption to protect your data from prying eyes. This is the same level of encryption used by the military and governments, and it is considered virtually unbreakable. You can also choose from different encryption ciphers, such as Blowfish, Camellia, or ChaCha20.
– Protocols — TorGuard VPN supports various VPN protocols, such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, SSTP, and Stealth. These protocols determine how your data is transmitted and secured over the VPN connection. You can choose the best protocol for your device and network. Stealth protocol is especially useful for bypassing firewalls and VPN blocks in countries with strict internet censorship.
– No-logs policy — TorGuard VPN claims to have a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect or store any information about your online activity or personal data. This ensures that your privacy is protected even if TorGuard VPN is requested to hand over any data by authorities or third parties. However, TorGuard VPN has not undergone any public audits to verify its no-logs policy, so you have to trust the company on its word.
– Kill switch — TorGuard VPN has a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet access if the VPN connection drops. This prevents any traffic leaks that could compromise your privacy. The kill switch is available on all apps, including iOS.
– Dedicated IP addresses — TorGuard VPN offers dedicated IP addresses for an extra fee, which can help you access geo-restricted content, such as streaming services, that may block VPN users. Dedicated IP addresses also provide better security and performance than shared IP addresses, as they are less likely to be blacklisted or abused by other users.
TorGuard VPN Device Compatibility
TorGuard VPN is compatible with various devices and operating systems, allowing you to secure your online activity on multiple platforms. Here are some aspects of TorGuard VPN’s device compatibility:
– Supported devices — TorGuard VPN supports a wide range of devices, such as computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, routers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. You can install TorGuard VPN on any device that supports VPN protocols or use TorGuard’s preconfigured routers to protect all your devices on your network.
– Supported operating systems — TorGuard VPN supports various operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Chrome OS. You can download TorGuard VPN’s native apps for these operating systems from the TorGuard website or the app store. You can also use TorGuard VPN’s browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
– Simultaneous connections — TorGuard VPN allows you to connect multiple devices to the VPN service at the same time. The number of simultaneous connections depends on the plan you choose. The Standard plan supports eight simultaneous connections, the Pro plan supports 12 simultaneous connections, and the Premium plan supports 30 simultaneous connections.
Overall, TorGuard VPN is a versatile and flexible service that can work on most devices and platforms. However, some features may not be available or work well on certain devices or platforms, such as split tunneling on iOS or streaming on Windows. You may also need to configure some settings manually to get the best performance and security on your device.
TorGuard VPN for Streaming
TorGuard VPN is a service that can help you access geo-restricted streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. However, it may not be the best option for streaming, as it requires some extra steps and costs to do so. Here are some aspects of TorGuard VPN for streaming:
– Dedicated IP addresses — TorGuard VPN offers dedicated IP addresses for an extra fee, which can help you access geo-restricted streaming services that may block VPN users. Dedicated IP addresses are unique to you and less likely to be detected or blacklisted by streaming services. You can choose from four regions: the US, the UK, Germany, or Japan.
– Streaming bundle — TorGuard VPN also offers a streaming bundle that includes the Anonymous VPN Standard plan and a streaming IP address. This is a cheaper option than buying a dedicated IP address separately. However, you can only choose one region for your streaming IP address, and you need to contact customer support to activate it.
– Standard plan — TorGuard VPN’s Standard plan does not include a dedicated IP address or a streaming bundle. This means that you may not be able to access some streaming services with this plan, as they may block or limit VPN users. You can try to use different servers or protocols to bypass these blocks, but there is no guarantee that it will work.
Overall, TorGuard VPN is not a very user-friendly or convenient service for streaming, as it requires you to purchase additional features or contact customer support to access some streaming services. It also does not have any optimized servers or smart DNS features for streaming, unlike some other VPNs. However, if you are willing to pay extra and go through some hassle, TorGuard VPN can help you stream your favorite content from different regions.
TorGuard VPN’s Customer Service and Support
TorGuard VPN offers multiple options for customer service and support, including:
– Live chat — TorGuard VPN has a live chat feature on its website, where you can chat with a customer support agent in real-time. You can access the live chat by clicking on the “Chat Now” button at the bottom right corner of the website. The live chat is available 24/7 and can help you with any issues or questions you may have about TorGuard VPN.
– Email — TorGuard VPN also has an email support system, where you can send an email to support@torguard.net and get a reply within 24 hours. You can also use the contact form on the website to send an email to TorGuard VPN. Email support is also available 24/7 and can help you with any issues or questions you may have about TorGuard VPN.
– Ticket system — TorGuard VPN also has a ticket system, where you can submit a support request and get a response within 24 hours. You can access the ticket system by logging in to your account on the website and clicking on the “Support” tab. The ticket system is also available 24/7 and can help you with any issues or questions you may have about TorGuard VPN.
– Knowledge base — TorGuard VPN also has a knowledge base, where you can find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs), tutorials, guides, and other useful information about TorGuard VPN. You can access the knowledge base by clicking on the “Support” tab on the website and then clicking on the “Knowledgebase” link. The knowledge base is updated regularly and can help you with common issues or questions you may have about TorGuard VPN.
– Forums — TorGuard VPN also has forums, where you can interact with other TorGuard VPN users and staff, share your feedback, suggestions, tips, and tricks, and get help from the community. You can access the forums by clicking on the “Support” tab on the website and then clicking on the “Forums” link. The forums are moderated by TorGuard VPN staff and can help you with any issues or questions you may have about TorGuard VPN.
TorGuard VPN Alternatives and How They Compare
TorGuard VPN is a service that has some strengths and weaknesses, but it may not be the best option for everyone. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may want to consider some alternatives to TorGuard VPN. Here are some of the top alternatives to TorGuard VPN and how they compare:
TorGuard VPN vs NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the most popular and trusted VPN services in the market, offering a high level of security, privacy, and performance. NordVPN has over 5,000 servers in 60 countries, supports up to six simultaneous connections, and uses 256-bit AES encryption, a strict no-logs policy, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and other advanced features. NordVPN also has a proprietary protocol called NordLynx, which is based on WireGuard and offers fast and secure VPN connections. NordVPN can also access most streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more, with its SmartPlay feature. NordVPN is easy to use, has a sleek and intuitive interface, and offers 24/7 customer support via live chat or email. NordVPN is more expensive than TorGuard VPN, but it also offers more features and benefits. You can get NordVPN for $3.71 per month with a two-year plan.
TorGuard VPN vs Surfshark
Surfshark is a relatively new but impressive VPN service that offers a lot of value for money. Surfshark has over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, supports unlimited simultaneous connections, and uses 256-bit AES encryption, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and other features. Surfshark also has some unique features, such as CleanWeb (which blocks ads, trackers, and malware), Whitelister (which allows you to exclude certain apps or websites from the VPN), MultiHop (which lets you connect to two servers at once for extra security), and Camouflage Mode (which hides your VPN usage from your ISP). Surfshark can also access most streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more, with its NoBorders mode. Surfshark is easy to use, has a simple and user-friendly interface, and offers 24/7 customer support via live chat or email. Surfshark is cheaper than TorGuard VPN, but it also offers more features and benefits. You can get Surfshark for $2.49 per month with a two-year plan.
TorGuard VPN vs ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another popular and reputable VPN service that offers a high level of security, privacy, and performance. ExpressVPN has over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, supports up to five simultaneous connections, and uses 256-bit AES encryption, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and other features. ExpressVPN also has its protocol called Lightway, which is based on WireGuard and offers fast and secure VPN connections. ExpressVPN can also access most streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more, with its MediaStreamer feature. ExpressVPN is easy to use, has a sleek and elegant interface, and offers 24/7 customer support via live chat or email. ExpressVPN is more expensive than TorGuard VPN, but it also offers more features and benefits. You can get ExpressVPN for $6.67 per month with a 15-month plan.
These are some of the top alternatives to TorGuard VPN that you may want to consider if you are looking for a different VPN service. Of course, many other VPN services out there may suit your needs better. You can check out our reviews of the best VPN services to find out more about them.
TorGuard VPN vs. CyberGhost VPN
Both VPNs offer similar security features, such as the split tunneling feature being available only on Android. These features come at similar rates, with TorGuard’s monthly rates slightly lesser than CyberGhost’s. However, CyberGhost’s annual subscription costs less. Also, it has more than 9,000 servers, while TorGuard VPN boasts only about 3,000.
Still, TorGuard VPN is better for users who want to connect several devices to their VPN at the same time. The least you can connect on TorGuard is eight devices, whereas CyberGhost enables only seven devices each time.
TorGuard VPN vs. PIA VPN
PIA’s monthly basic rate is more expensive than TorGuard’s. But it has a vast server list, up to 35,000, whereas TorGuard has only 3,000. PIA VPN’s split tunneling feature is also available on all desktop apps, providing privacy on your favorite devices.
However, TorGuard enables more simultaneous connections, with as many as 30 devices on its business plan. PIA allows up to 10 and requires additional fees to add more devices. Also, TorGuard VPN’s dedicated IP is cheaper than PIA VPN’s.
Is TorGuard VPN Right for You?
TorGuard VPN has a vast suite of privacy and security features you can customize. It also has several pricing plans and options, making it a good choice for anonymity and security, but is it right for you?
TorGuard VPN for Personal Use
TorGuard VPN is suitable for anyone who wants to customize their VPN experience, with flexible payment options and the opportunity to add as many IP addresses as you want. However, if you don’t want to spend more money on streaming or miss out on features such as split tunneling, which is available only on Android devices, you might want to consider another VPN.
TorGuard VPN for Business Use
TorGuard VPN is one of the best VPNs for businesses. It offers users up to four packages. They all offer maximum security and are Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant. TorGuard allows you to customize your plan with the Starter, Small, Medium, and Large tiers offering different numbers of email accounts, dedicated IPs, and user capacity. You’ll also get a dedicated user management portal and a 24/7 dedicated account manager, guaranteeing your business optimum security, regardless of size.
