Goose VPN presents a compelling offering with its strict no-logs policy, over 72 servers, cross-platform compatibility, multi-protocol support, unlimited simultaneous connections, streaming and P2P capabilities, and wallet-friendly plans, all complemented by a free trial.
Features
Goose VPN, a relatively young service based in the Netherlands, is worth considering for anyone seeking a reliable VPN provider.
It is compatible with all major platforms, including various versions of Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, routers, Linux, and Kodi. The user interface is clean and intuitive, making the experience seamless. In a short time, I was able to download the Windows installer, access the server status page, and retrieve the OVPN configuration files. The knowledge base is comprehensive, and customer support is readily available through multiple channels, including a live chat bubble, email, and an in-app system for submitting logs for troubleshooting.
Note: The live chat feature is not truly live; it directs users to the knowledge base. Goose VPN could improve in this area.
The Windows client interface is well-designed, though the bright colors may cause some eye strain. However, the simplicity and ease of use compensate for this. Key features include a quick connect button, real and spoofed IP display, a smart server list with details on streaming and P2P support, and comprehensive settings for both beginners and advanced users.
By default, the protocol is set to automatic rather than OpenVPN, which is not ideal from a security standpoint. It would be better if the strongest security settings were enabled by default, as less experienced users might not know how to adjust these settings for enhanced protection.
Notably, when using the automatic protocol selection, I encountered connectivity issues, but switching to OpenVPN resolved the problem.
Navigating the server list, switching servers, and connecting or disconnecting is effortless. Overall, Goose VPN offers excellent usability. However, I found the double pop-up window requesting feedback and ratings a bit too intrusive for a premium product.
The Windows client offers a range of customization options. In addition to standard auto-start settings, you can enable reminders when you’re not connected to the VPN. Connection settings allow for automatic VPN connections to your preferred server or the nearest one based on your location. The smart server list feature automatically connects you to the best available server in your chosen country, while categorizing servers into P2P and streaming groups.
Protocol options include automatic selection (though not always reliable), IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec, PPTP, and OpenVPN. The FAQ and Support tabs provide easy access to the knowledge base and a quick method to open support tickets or send debug data.
P2P is supported on many servers, while others are optimized for streaming. Although Goose VPN lacks a firewall and a kill switch, it remains one of the most streamlined VPN clients for Windows users.
Pricing
Goose VPN initially creates a favorable impression by offering a 30-day free trial. However, this appeal is diminished by the requirement to make an upfront payment, and the service’s automatic renewal policy. That said, customers are entitled to cancel their subscription and request a full refund within the first 30 days, with no obligation to provide a reason.
However, there are some caveats. Upon reviewing their strict Refund Policy, it becomes clear that usage beyond 100MB may limit your eligibility for a refund, as the decision then falls solely at the provider’s discretion. Furthermore, the cancellation process is unnecessarily complicated. The “cancel your subscription” button is not easily accessible, adding an additional layer of frustration.
After submitting a cancellation request, users must confirm their decision by responding to a follow-up email. It’s important to note that instead of a clear cancellation confirmation, you may receive a promotional email offering an additional month of Goose VPN for free. This email contains a less-than-obvious “Confirm termination” link, which can be easily overlooked, especially if you tend to ignore promotional emails. Failure to click this link may result in your subscription not being fully terminated.
Such practices can understandably affect the overall user experience. For those who prefer not to deal with these limitations, Goose VPN offers a $10/month subscription with unlimited usage. Additionally, for $62 per year, you can enjoy unlimited data and connect to Goose VPN on as many devices as needed.
Payment options include credit cards, PayPal, and GiroPay.
Tests
Goose VPN performed well in security tests, successfully preventing DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks.
In terms of speed, while not the fastest service tested, the results were satisfactory and within an acceptable range for regular usage.
Goose VPN, with the OpenVPN protocol enabled,
reduces connection speeds by approximately half for US servers
and by about a third for UK servers.
During my tests,
Goose VPN excelled in streaming, successfully unblocking Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and even Australia’s Channel 9.
Privacy and Security
Goose VPN’s strongest security configuration is built on the OpenVPN protocol, utilizing an AES-256 encryption cipher with a 2048-bit RSA key. While this combination is widely regarded as standard for VPNs, some providers opt for more advanced 4096-bit RSA keys. Weaker protocols like IKEv2, PPTP, and L2TP/IPSec are also available, but I would not recommend them due to known vulnerabilities that could compromise your data.
I also question the decision to automatically select the VPN protocol by default. Strong security should be a fundamental design choice, implemented consistently and by default.
On the privacy front, Goose VPN claims a strict no-logs policy, which is a common marketing point in the VPN industry. However, it’s always prudent to examine the fine print in a provider’s privacy policy to understand the actual practices.
In Goose VPN’s case, their privacy policy states that they do not track or store your browsing activity, originating IP address, or the servers you connect to during a session. They do, however, log your bandwidth usage, which is understandable given that some subscription plans have data caps. The policy also includes details on how their servers are configured, offering a level of transparency that is appreciated.
Their Terms of Service mention “legitimate P2P” use in the fair usage policy, but there is no clear information on how the company handles DMCA notices. One concern is their frequent promotion of the “refer your friends” campaign across their website and VPN client. If maintaining your privacy is a priority, disclosing personal connections to any company, especially a VPN provider, might be undesirable.
A notable drawback is that Goose VPN is based in the Netherlands, a member of the Fourteen Eyes surveillance alliance, and subject to some of the most invasive privacy laws in Europe. This may deter those with heightened privacy concerns, like whistleblowers. However, for general consumer use, this shouldn’t be a significant issue.
