PrivadoVPN Review: Is It Good for Online Privacy and Security?

What is PrivadoVPN?

PrivadoVPN is a Switzerland-based VPN provider that ensures uninterrupted streaming without geo-restrictions. Its no-logs policy ensures users’ online activities are not tracked or stored.

Currently, the company has servers in 49 countries and 66 cities, covering key locations in Europe, North America, Asia, and other regions. This solidifies its use case for casual internet activities, such as unrestricted gaming and streaming.

PrivadoVPN Features

PrivadoVPN offers various features, such as a Kill Switch, SmartRoute split-tunneling, and customizable VPN protocols, designed to provide a secure and private online experience. These features are discussed below.

Encryption

VPNs use encryption to scramble your data so only you and the intended recipient have access to it. PrivadoVPN protects sensitive information by using 256-bit-AES encryption and offers IKEv2, WireGuard, and OpenVPN protocols, which can be manually selected.

To test PrivadoVPN’s encryption capabilities, I connected to a network, visited unsecured websites on a browser, and recorded the activity by collecting packets using Wireshark, a network analyzer.

The HTTP and TCP packets were highlighted when visiting unsecured websites. To verify if the packets were encrypted, I followed a packet, and the information inside was readable, making it accessible to unauthorized parties.

Knowing the risk involved, I connected to a server and set the VPN protocol to WireGuard. I repeated the process by visiting the same unsecured websites and collecting the packets.

As expected, all packets were secured with WireGuard, and my IP address was updated with the PrivadoVPN assigned IP. To confirm if the packets were encrypted, I followed a random packet, and the information was scrambled entirely, making it unable to read.

With this test, it’s clear that PrivadoVPN encrypts the data and passes the encryption test.

Kill Switch

A kill switch automatically disconnects your device from the internet if your VPN connection drops. This prevents your IP address and data from being exposed, which is vital for maintaining privacy during unexpected disconnections.

PrivadoVPN offers the standard kill switch and goes beyond the standard functionalities with its Applications Kill Switch, which blocks application activity until the VPN connection is restored.

To test the standard kill switch on PrivadoVPN, I used a Page Reloader to simulate a situation where the page refreshes every 2 seconds. I manually disconnected the VPN randomly to see how it responded.

If the kill switch works properly, you’ll encounter an error message like “No internet” or “This site can’t be reached”.

With PrivadoVPN, I had a similar outcome. The website didn’t load until the VPN was connected to a server, passing the kill switch test.

IP Leak Test

An IP leak occurs when your actual IP address is exposed, even though you’re connected to a VPN. This defeats the purpose of using a VPN because it compromises your privacy and location.

To test for any IP leak with PrivadoVPN, I visited ipleak.net and verified the IP after connecting to a VPN server. As expected, it displayed the VPN server’s IP address rather than my IP address, making it evident that there was no IP leak.

DNS Leak Test

DNS leaks happen when your browser sends requests to your Internet Service Provider’s DNS servers instead of the VPN’s, which can expose your browsing activity.

To test if PrivadoVPN has a DNS leak, I connected to a server and visited DNSleaktest.com. The servers listed on the website didn’t feature the server offered by my ISP, making PrivadoVPN DNS leak-free.

WebRTC Leak Test

WebRTC leaks occur in web browsers that use WebRTC, potentially exposing your actual IP address, even when connected to a VPN. To ensure there wasn’t any such issue, I connected to PrivadoVPN’s servers to check for WebRTC leaks on Browserleaks.

There was no WebRTC leak with PrivadoVPN, as the Remote IP and the Public IP remained the same.

No-logs Policy

A no-logs policy means the VPN provider doesn’t collect or store data about your online activities. This is important for ensuring true anonymity because, without logs, the VPN can’t share your data, even if requested by authorities.

PrivadoVPN is based in Switzerland, outside FVEY (Five Eyes), and offers a strict no-log policy. To verify this, I checked their Privacy Policy, and PrivadoVPN stated that there was no logging.

However, PrivadoVPN does gather information. This is a common scenario with even prominent VPNs like NordVPN, but rest assured, none of the data is sold, shared, leased, or rented, and it is maintained and handled securely.

Speed Test

Speed tests help you evaluate how much the VPN affects your internet speed. Since VPNs slow down your connection due to encryption and server distance, running a speed test before and after connecting to the VPN gives you a clear idea of its performance.

PrivadoVPN didn’t specify the number of servers, but they were transparent about the coverage, with servers in 49 countries and 66 cities worldwide. Furthermore, you can sort the servers based on your location and latency.

To test PrivadoVPN’s performance, I first tested my network speed, and it recorded consistent download and upload speeds of around 64Mbps.

After connecting to my nearest VPN server (Mumbai, India), I noticed a significant speed drop. This is common with most VPNs due to the government restrictions.

Despite the drop, it doesn’t affect the streaming or unblocking of content. However, with lower upload speeds, expect slower file transfers and mediocre video calls.

The scenario was different with the distant servers, as the speed drop was minimal, offering closer speeds to my ISP. While a few distant servers did struggle, connecting to their recommended server gives you the best speeds.

Streaming Performance and Unblocking Content

A good VPN should bypass geo-restrictions and allow you to access streaming content from different countries. My testing involves accessing prominent streaming platforms for content that is usually unavailable in specific regions.

In the United States, Rick and Morty isn’t available on Netflix due to licensing restrictions. These restrictions can be bypassed by connecting to a server where the content is available.

First, I connected to a US server, and was greeted with the restriction. To bypass it and to test PrivadoVPN’s unblocking capability, I connected to an Indian server, since Rick and Morty is available on Netflix India. Connecting to the Indian server unblocked the restrictions, and I could stream the series in FHD without buffering.

Split Tunneling

Split tunneling allows you to route part of your traffic through the VPN while allowing other parts of traffic to access the internet directly. This feature is useful when you want to secure only specific apps or websites but keep the rest of your internet activity unaffected by speed.

PrivadoVPN offers split tunneling through SmartRoute, where you can bypass or tunnel apps. For testing, I proceeded with the Bypass, adding Chrome to the bypass list.

As there isn’t a tool to test split tunneling, I visited What is my IP Address on Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. With the Chrome traffic bypassed, the results displayed my actual IP on Chrome and VPN IP on Edge, making it evident that split tunneling works perfectly on PrivadoVPN.

Ad and Tracker Blocking

VPNs often include features to block ads and trackers, which enhances your browsing experience and protects your privacy by preventing websites from tracking you.

PrivadoVPN goes beyond ad and tracker blocking with its Control Tower, which offers customizable controls for Threats, Family Security, and Social media.

Before I tested each aspect of the Control Tower, I proceeded with the basic ad and tracker blocking test using an Ad-block tool, and disabled the Control Tower feature.

The results were poor, as expected. I then enabled all options in the Control Tower and performed the test again. With the Control Tower feature enabled, the score increased to 90%.

With an exceptional score and multiple options in the Threats, Family Security, and Social sections, PrivadoVPN offers better features than other VPNs for ad and tracker blocking.

However, there was also a need to test each option of the Control Tower to understand its working scope. Starting with the Threats section, I disabled the Ads option, and the score drastically dropped to 30%.

Next, I went with the Family Security section, where I tested the Gambling option by visiting a betting site. As claimed, disabling the option allowed me to access the site, and enabling the option restricted my access.

I followed the same approach with the Social section and tested the YouTube option. As expected, disabling it allowed access, and enabling it restricted the access.

All sections and their options worked as claimed. These results indicate that PrivadoVPN offers excellent online privacy and security through various ad and tracker blocking options in the Control Tower feature.

Interface

The VPN’s interface refers to its layout and overall design—it’s the user’s first level of interaction with the tool. A simple, straightforward interface makes it easier for both beginners and advanced users to navigate and use the tool’s features effectively.

When I installed PrivadoVPN for the first time, I was guided by on-screen instructions, which made it easy to install and set up.

PrivadoVPN’s interface is straightforward and responsive. While it doesn’t offer a conventional full-screen window, navigating around isn’t a hassle. You get a dedicated search bar to find servers, and you can also set servers as favorites.

Technical expertise is not required to connect/change servers, or manage the settings. It’s a lightweight application that consumes less memory and can be easily accessed from the taskbar.

However, the default theme was the only one provided with the software. So, for users who like to customize their apps to their device theme, PrivadoVPN lacks this feature.

Compatibility

PrivadoVPN is compatible with Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Android TV, AppleTV, and Amazon Fire TV stick.

The tool offers 10 simultaneous device connections. When tested, I was able to connect 6 devices without a hassle. If you’re having issues with setup, you can refer to their detailed setup guides.

Customer Support and Payments

Reliable customer support is crucial for resolving issues like connectivity problems or setting up the VPN. PrivadoVPN uses the standard support center, where you must fill out a form.

PrivadoVPN also doesn’t offer live chat or call support, which is especially disadvantageous for new users who want immediate help setting up the VPN. The support team replies to your query within a few hours. Although this is fine for minor issues that don’t hamper general VPN use, it is too slow for major issues that negatively impact the app’s performance.

PrivadoVPN payments are secure and offer credit cards, PayPal, and other modes of payment. Moreover, you can make anonymous payments using cryptocurrency, if you’re worried about your privacy.

PrivadoVPN Pricing

PrivadoVPN offers 3 paid pricing plans tailored to meet its users’ varying needs, ranging from short-term to long-term commitments. The table below shows the available plans, based on monthly starting price, features, and best use cases.

PrivadoVPN Ratings and Recognition

When choosing a VPN, it’s essential to consider ratings and feedback from trusted sources. PrivadoVPN has received solid recognition from various well-known platforms, such as Trustpilot, Geeklare, Security.org, and TechRadar. This reflects its reliability, privacy, and ease of use.

The table below indicates the ratings received by PrivadoVPN from trusted software review websites.

Who Should Use PrivadoVPN?

PrivadoVPN is ideal for users seeking strong online privacy and security features with a simple, user-friendly experience. It’s beneficial for individuals who prioritize data protection, accessing and streaming geo-restricted content, and maintaining anonymity online.

Below are some specific use cases where PrivadoVPN excels:

• Streaming: PrivadoVPN helps you bypass restrictions on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, etc. Its global network of servers lets you stream high-quality content across different countries, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy shows or movies unavailable in their region.
• Anonymous Browsing: PrivadoVPN’s Control Tower provides customizable options to block ads, trackers, specific websites, and more, enhancing your online privacy. The kill switch protects your data by instantly disconnecting the internet if the VPN connection fails, ensuring your information stays secure even during unexpected dropouts.
• Public Network Usage: If you often connect to public Wi-Fi at cafes, airports, or hotels, PrivadoVPN adds a layer of protection to your connection, preventing hackers from intercepting your data. It keeps you safe on unsecured networks.

Who Shouldn’t Use PrivadoVPN?

While PrivadoVPN offers solid features for privacy and security, it is not ideal for some users. Businesses and advanced users will find PrivadoVPN lacking in multiple aspects, as elaborated below.

• Businesses: PrivadoVPN doesn’t offer business-focused features like enterprise-level support or advanced management tools. For secure remote access and team management, consider alternatives like NordVPN or ProtonVPN, which provide dedicated business solutions with enhanced security features.
• Advanced Users: PrivadoVPN provides excellent basic features, but lacks the more advanced features found in other VPN services like NordVPN. Seasoned users prefer to have more control over a VPN’s settings, which they will find lacking in PrivadoVPN.

PrivadoVPN Verdict

PrivadoVPN is an excellent choice for casual users who want privacy and security through a simple, user-friendly VPN. It has all the essential features to protect your data and identity, ensuring anonymity when browsing, streaming, or gaming.

While it does not provide features for growing businesses and lacks advanced customization for seasoned users, its Control Tower feature goes beyond most VPN providers’ basic ad blockers. It blocks ads, trackers, and websites, and allows you to choose the type of content you want to block, thereby giving you more control over your online experience.

PrivadoVPN receives the Geekflare Value Award for its easy-to-use interface, uncomplicated user experience, and excellent ad-blocking capabilities. It delivers robust privacy and security to casual users at affordable prices.