ExtremeVPN is one of the fastest VPN services and an excellent option for streaming or torrenting enthusiasts. While testing the VPN impressed us, given that itās a new entry into the VPN market. It unblocks different streaming platforms and has solid security. This VPN also guarantees privacy, which is audited to provide complete transparency.
What about privacy and other security features if put to the test?
In this review, weāll explore a recently launched VPN service that is already in the headlines for its excellent value. But how much protection does it offer? Let’s find out in this detailed review.
ExtremeVPN quick review
Base of Operations | British Virgin Islands |
Server Count | 6500+ |
Torrenting Support | Yes |
Does VPN store logs? | No |
Kill switch | Yes |
Customer Support | 24/7 Live chat, Tickets, Knowledgebase |
Number of devices per subscription | 10 |
Money Back Guarantee | 30 Days |
Lowest Price | $3.29/mo |
Pros and cons of ExtremeVPN
- Extremely budget-friendly
- Lets users bypass geo-restrictions with its stealth browsing feature
- The VPN is user-friendly and has a simple and fast installation process
- Has a large pool of server network
- Supports torrenting
- Unblocks Netflix and other streaming platforms
- Customer support is available 24/7, knowledgeable, and reliable
- Does not offer Double VPN or dedicated IP
ExtremeVPN overview
If you do not have enough time on your hands to go through the entire review, we have outlined the key points for ExtremeVPN for your convenience:
- Impressively large server network: ExtemeVPN is powered by over 6,500 servers, ideally spread across 78+ countries and 88+ locations. This careful distribution ensures that users can easily access any servers or services wherever they are.
- Lightning-fast and stable connection: Unlike most other VPNs that struggle with speeds, especially from long-distance servers, ExtremeVPN is consistent and fast no matter how far away you are connecting from.
- Top-notch security and privacy features: Based on our test results, ExtremeVPN is among the best VPNs that offer top-notch security and privacy features. These include RAM-based servers, a reliable kill switch, a wide range of tunneling protocols, a strict no-logs policy, and AES-256 encryption. These features provide an entirely safe and private online experience.
- Intuitive and user-friendly application interface: The VPN’s client apps are designed with one thing in mind ā user convenience. This is no small feat since ExtremeVPN has client apps for all major devices and operating systems. Each app is unique to the device and OS, but all share an intuitive and user-friendly design that favors newcomers and experts alike.
- Quality unblocking and streaming abilities: The recently launched VPN service seamlessly unblocks streaming platforms and provides consistent speed. It is compatible with all major streaming services, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Hulu.
- Knowledgeable and reliable customer support: Before we get to the team of customer support staff, ExtremeVPN has a page dedicated to any FAQs you can find relevant to your situation. But if you have a unique issue and require a more hands-on approach, customer support is available 24/7.
- Costs less than most providers: ExtremeVPN’s monthly subscription costs $3.29, which is less than what you would pay for other major brands. The VPN service provider also has a 30-day money-back guarantee policy. Users who don’t like the service can get a full refund.
How extensive ExtremeVPN’s server network is?
ExtremeVPN has a wide range of server networks in different countries. As a result, it is easy to avoid server overloads, lagging, or geo-restrictions. Any VPN looking to gain users should always have a large and functional server network; ExtremeVPN takes that seriously. We noticed this VPN automatically lets you connect to a different domain address that your ISP has not yet blocked.
In addition, ExtremeVPN’s large server network features virtual servers. The key difference between virtual and physical servers is that the former is located in the country of the same name, while the latter is not.
You can also access more specified functions in the server list, such as torrenting-optimized servers.
ExtremeVPN takes the ease of use to a whole new level; its recommended server feature and straightforward interface let users use VPN with one tap.
Speeds – How fast is ExtremeVPN?
ExtremeVPN records impressive speeds on most of its servers. As a result, this VPN service offers users the best server networks for their location, with fast connection speeds. On a standard connection of 100Mbps, you can get download speeds of 303.93Mbps, upload speeds of 329.92Mbps, and a ping of 77ms.
Even in locations as far as Australia, you may only experience a 14% drop in speed. However, you must note that you may experience speed drops if you are far from the server you’re using. At the same time, you will get better results as the distance is reduced.
Below is a table showing major locations and their respective server performances:
Server | Download speed | Upload Speed | Ping |
---|---|---|---|
No VPN | 309.93 Mbps | 329.92 Mbps | 77 ms |
New York | 133.63 Mbps (57% decrease) | 120.02 Mbps (61% decrease) | 162 ms |
Toronto | 323.58 Mbps (3% increase) | 89.13 Mbps (62% decrease) | 53 ms |
Sydney | 266.26 Mbps (14% decrease) | 327.73 Mbps (1% decrease) | 243 ms |
Houston | 287.98 Mbps (8% decrease) | 311.53 Mbps (5% decrease) | 88 ms |
SĆ£o Paulo | 240.12 Mbps (20% decrease) | 221.68 Mbps (27% decrease) | 167 ms |
Our tests showed that pings and the download speeds stayed strong over long distances, but the upload speeds were inconsistent. This isn’t entirely a problem, but you may experience a slower upload time when you try to upload a video on TikTok, for example.
Each server provides enough speeds to ensure a buffer-free streaming experience.
Security – Is ExtremeVPN secure?
With ExtremeVPN, you can expect top-notch security protocols and features. Below is an in-depth review:
Encryption
The VPN service provider uses AES 256-bit encryption, currently the highest level of encryption available, to ensure security and privacy. Its IPv6 leak protection also ensures anonymity from your ISP, trackers, hackers, and other spying bodies.
When you connect to ExtremeVPN, it does not allow you to connect to a second VPN. This is an excellent feature because it won’t let any leaks occur while you are connected to it. This VPN also uses Quantum-Resistant Encryption Keys to keep you safe from hackers.
It is necessary to note that the dangers this feature will prevent are yet to be mainstream, but it soon will be.
Protocols
With the native apps, you can choose from three protocols by default, but you also have the option in “Preferences” to manually set up a protocol of your choice. Below are the protocols available to you with ExtremeVPN:
Protocol | Details |
---|---|
WireGuard | A superfast VPN protocol is now on major operating systems, allowing you to have the safest and quickest connections possible without having to compromise security. |
OpenVPN | This protocol is easy to configure and is regarded as the industry standard, offering safety and speed. It has two major options: TCP and UDP. TCP is more secure, while UDP is faster. ExtremeVPNās use of OpenVPN also comes with an obfuscation protocol, making your VPN traffic appear like regular traffic to trick ISP/network censors and firewalls more easily. |
IKEv2 | This protocol is popular for its reliability, safety, and versatility. It is a tunneling protocol but sometimes offers better connection speeds than OpenVPN. |
However, the Automatic Protocol Selection is always activated, but you can choose the protocol you want to use instead.
Kill switch
A kill switch helps turn off internet traffic when your VPN connection fails. This protects your device’s IP and private data from leaking to your ISP or other spying entities. The ExtremeVPN kill switch (the ‘Enable IKS’ option) is very active and works as long as you are connected to the VPN.
Split tunnelling
This feature allows you to decide what traffic the VPN is rerouting if you want all of it, or just the traffic from specific apps. For example, you can use your bank application within the ISP’s IP while still using ExtremeVPN’s IP for other online activities. However, you can only access this feature on Windows and Android apps.
IPv6, IP, and WebRTC leak protection
We tested ExtremeVPN for all types of leaks and found none, making the VPN 100% leakproof. This means your traffic gets routed through an encrypted tunnel, and the personal identifiers, such as your IP address, are scrubbed off.
Below are the different types of data leaks that can happen:
- WebRTC leaks: The WebRTC technology lets you call without using a plugin or app. The drawback is that it will reveal your IP address to any websites you visit.
- DNS leaks: The DNS converts domain names into IP addresses for the sites you visit. If your DNS requests are leaked, your ISP can see what you’re doing online.
- IP leaks: If the VPN does not hide your main IP, it will be exposed to the websites you visit. When this happens, hackers can find your actual location.
ExtremeVPN generally offers impressive security features with no leaks. This service keeps your DNS requests hidden and changes your IP address from every location you switch to.
Privacy – Is ExtremeVPN private enough?
ExtremeVPN does not keep identifiable logs
We found it to be a true no-log VPN. ExtremeVPN does not store your IP address or browsing history. It also does not collect or store your assigned VPN server IP address, origin IP address, DNS requests, VPN session timestamp, and browsing activities. However, it collects your name and email address, which are all standard for service maintenance.
Audits
ExtemeVPN’s privacy policy is not only airtight according to the company’s statement; two independent audit companies back it up.
The first company is an independent US-based auditor. And according to their analyses, they have certified that ExtremeVPN does not have any “indications that system configurations and/or system/service log files, independently or collectively, could lead to identifying a specific person and/or the person’s activity when using the ExtremeVPN service.”
Furthermore, if you need a second opinion, KPMG has also conducted its audits on ExtemeVPN’s privacy policy and protocols to ensure complete transparency. Their audits stated that ExtremeVPN, as a service, strongly cares about its users’ privacy. Those are very sound and confident statements from two independent and reputable auditing firms, which should fill anyone with enough faith when they use this VPN service.
We were also impressed seeing that ExtremeVPN got Apple’s “Data Not Collected” tag on their App Store listing page. That’s the best label an app can get. As privacy experts, we closely monitor Apple labels as we know they are super strict regarding how a company handles user data.
We see even the top VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN get “Data Linked to You” tags from Apple, where the App Store indicates the apps in question may collect data, such as contact info and identifiers, and link to your identity.
An excellent jurisdiction in the British Virgin Islands
ExtremeVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands. It is a self-ruling authority known for its strict laws shielding firms and individuals’ anonymity.
British Virgin Islands (BVI) offers distinct advantages to VPN services based there. BVI lacks mandatory data retention rules and extensive surveillance initiatives. Its robust privacy and data confidentiality distinguish it from countries in the Five Eyes association, similar to Switzerland.
British Virgin Islands (BVI) companies aren’t required to disclose customer records. The country’s law system is wholly independent and not subject to any other administration. The BVI itself is a fully autonomous entity despite its historical links to Britain.
Looking at ExtremeVPN doesn’t feel like you’re in a young player’s hand.
The provider has earned its user’s trust and allows them to enjoy the VPN experience at its best. For this reason, they have taken measures to enhance their privacy.
Apps and device compatibility
ExtremeVPN is compatible with almost any device type, model, or brand. The primary operating systems, including iOS, Android, macOS, or Windows, have no hassle working with the VPN service. Our tests show a stunning level of compatibility with these devices over various platforms.
Windows
ExtremeVPN supports OpenVPN (UDP and TCP) and IKEv2 tunneling protocols on the Windows native client. You can also select the protocol you wish to use and toggle the kill switch and auto-connection functions off and on. This will be perfect for beginners and users who prefer straightforward apps.
In addition, the Windows client allows users to turn on the “Auto-connect after launch” option, meaning whenever you open the app, the VPN will connect automatically. You can also sepcify the server you want to connect to.
macOS
In our tests on the client app for macOS, we discovered that it is similar to the Windows apps. The OS supports L2TP/IPSec, PPTP, and IKEv2 tunneling protocols. However, the difference is that the Mac app does not display pings automatically.
Android
The ExtremeVPN Android app is packed with multiple features. The app users can enjoy streaming, internet freedom, file sharing, security, and privacy.
With the Android app, you get a split-tunneling option to choose either a NAT or non-NAT network. You also get the same amount of protocols as the Windows version, which is a plus if you need the whole experience on a portable device.
iOS
The iOS app is easy to use, optimized, and secure. With the app, users will notice that they can automatically connect and will auto-reconnect if the connection drops.
Simultaneous device connections
It is common among VPN users to subscribe to another VPN to protect multiple devices simultaneously. However, ExtremeVPN supports multiple devices and can protect them at the same time.
With one ExtremeVPN subscription, you can protect up to 10 devices concurrently. For clarity, this number is the limit of simultaneous connections, not how many separate devices you can protect with one subscription.
With its speed, excellent compatibility, and ease of use, the VPN is a great value for money.
Streaming – Does ExtremeVPN unblock all major streaming platforms?
ExtremeVPN offers amazing playback quality and unblocking capabilities for streaming. In our tests, we learned that the VPN lets you quickly load videos and stream movies without buffering. Additionally, it unblocks popular streaming platforms, including Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more.
You can also access over seven different Netflix libraries, including France, Japan, the UK, Germany, the US, and Australia, which is a lot compared to other VPNs. ExtremeVPN also keeps upgrading IPs for different streaming services and lets you connect to the best servers for that particular service with one click.
Hulu users can also access various content libraries using ExtremeVPN. HBOMax was no different; ExtremeVPN’s US server allows users to bypass geo-restrictions.
Furthermore, while Amazon Prime Video arguably has some of the toughest censorships, ExtremeVPN slides through seamlessly and grants you access to US and UK libraries. Additionally, the Manchester server helped us access BBC iPlayer with little to no trouble, as is the trend with ExtremeVPN.
Other platforms that ExtremeVPN unblocks without hassles include:
- SlingTV
- YouTube
- ITV Player
- Hotstar
- CBS
- ESPN+
- Crackle
- Disney+
- Funimation
Does ExtremeVPN support Torrenting?
ExtremeVPN supports torrenting on over 30 P2P-optimised servers and can be made to work on even more. With ExtremeVPN, we could download a file in less than 15 minutes, the fastest speed recorded in our tests.
After testing other approved servers, ExtremeVPN performed very well for torrenting. Not all its servers are P2P enabled, but they’re enough for users not to notice.
Is ExtremeVPN suitable for hassle-free gaming?
ExtremeVPN works great for gaming on local servers. If you are a gamer and need a VPN to give you maximum speed, access, and protection, then ExtremeVPN would be a suitable choice. For example, you can connect to the nearest server and try League of Legends (we tried it). Gaming with this VPN service is a fast-paced experience, and you will not notice any lags whatsoever.
Does ExtremeVPN Work in China? Yes, but it requires manual settings
ExtremeVPN works in China, and we have confirmed that its servers can bypass China’s great firewall with little resistance. In addition, there are no IP leaks or speed compromises. Thanks to the VPNās obfuscation server technology, your VPN traffic will appear like regular HTTPS internet traffic, making it difficult to block.
However, it is better to install ExtremeVPN before you visit China, as the government has blocked all services that do not comply with its privacy laws and regulations. All you have to do is install and sign in before entering the country, and you won’t have anything to worry about.
Customer support
Regarding customer support, ExtremeVPN offers 24/7 friendly live chat support. The VPN provider has human customer support representatives to assist you with your problem. You can also find helpful articles.
ExtremeVPN customer service representatives are patient, helpful, and knowledgeable. In under 10 seconds, a human CSR will respond with a welcome message. Then, you can tell them your query, and the team will guide you.
Overall, ExtremeVPN has awe-inspiring customer support. In addition, you can contact them via email to file a detailed complaint and receive an equally detailed response. Furthermore, ExtremeVPNās extensive FAQ page answers popular questions, and you may not have to contact customer care at all.
ExtremeVPN’s pricing and plans
ExtremeVPN has three price tiers:
- 1 Month: $10.59
- 6 Months: $5.15
- 12 Months: $ 3.29 (best deal)
You can enjoy the ease of paying with any payment method that is most convenient for you. The VPN service supports various payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal. In addition, you don’t need to worry about your money, as the ExtremeVPN payment plans come with a 30-day, no questions asked, money-back guarantee.
ExtremeVPN is more affordable than most other VPNs. To get the most out of this service, consider the 12-month plan, which offers a 68% discount at $3.29 a month.
In addition, it is worth mentioning that the VPN service offers a 7-day free trial on iOS and Android clients. This is a good option for beginners who want to test ExtremeVPN before subscribing to it.
Do we recommend using ExtremeVPN? Our thoughts
ExtremeVPN is a newcomer that offers robust security and privacy features similar to those of the market’s biggest providers, such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
The provider seamlessly unblocks geo-restricted content, keeps you safe while torrenting, provides consistent speed while gaming, and offers intuitive apps for various operating systems. In addition, compared to its features, the VPN’s pricing makes it a value for money.
However, we would love to see extra features, such as security add-ons established VPN providers offer today, including an ad blocker, dedicated IP address, and password manager. But, ultimately, we couldn’t ask for more from a beginner. Its well-prepared start suggests the provider will soon be able to offer such add-ons. We recommend it if you need a fast, safe, and private VPN.
FAQs
Yes, ExtremeVPN is safe to use. It operates with 256-bit encryption and present-day protocols and has a safety switch. It has a credible no-logs policy and is consistently audited to ensure it is up to par since it has recently focused on preserving its users’ privacy.
Yes, ExtremeVPN can unblock Netflix in several countries. It’s a good alternative for streaming because it provides rapid speeds on many servers. On servers over 10,000 km away, you can broadcast in HD without buffering.
Yes, ExtremeVPN is a reliable service. Its privacy policy indicates that it will not log your data or allow your ISP to monitor your activities. Two reputable third parties have also audited and verified the policy; this indicates that you can trust it to keep your data safe.
No, ExtremeVPN has a verified no-logs policy, and their infrastructure is also designed to that effect.
ExtremeVPN comes equipped with a router applet that is easy to install and use. Most other VPNs require some measure of expertise to get them to work with routers, but ExtremeVPN makes it a breeze. Note that the models it works best with are Netgear, Linksys, and Asus router models.
It is very easy to cancel your ExtremeVPN subscription, whether it’s an ongoing or recurring subscription. You only need to contact their customer support team via live chat or email. Once you do so, you will receive your money back, but only if you cancel within its 30-day money-back guarantee period. If you cancel a recurring subscription, you will not be auto-charged when the ongoing plan expires.