GoTrusted VPN, with its 70 servers across the US, UK, Europe, and Asia, offers only one simultaneous connection and does not support torrenting. Despite utilizing a range of protocols, including PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and OpenVPN, users are left in the dark as to which protocol is active at any given time. Advanced users may find the lack of configuration options limiting.
Features
GoTrusted VPN, based in Florida and boasting over 13 years of operation, has seen little evolution since its inception. Its offerings are basic, and customer support is only available during U.S. business hours. During my trial, I encountered a subscription issue—after confirming payment via PayPal, I was not redirected to finalize my account setup. This issue, which seemed minor, took three days to resolve; I signed up on Saturday but could not access my account until Monday.
Surprisingly, given the company’s long-standing presence, its knowledge base is minimal, with only a few FAQs available. GoTrusted supports Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, leaving Linux users and those looking to configure routers unsupported.
One positive aspect is that GoTrusted offers native desktop applications for Windows and Mac, as well as manual setup guides for mobile devices. However, mobile users are limited to L2TP/IPSec connections. The download links for desktop installers are accessible via a basic user dashboard. The Windows installation follows the typical process, and once completed, the app presents a simple login screen, after which it minimizes to a small floating window on the desktop.
The user interface is similarly minimalistic, which may appeal to those new to VPNs due to its simplicity. Users can connect by clicking “Go Secure,” with their connection status clearly displayed. However, the settings menu offers little customization. The Advanced tab provides three connection modes—Standard (the fastest), Compatibility Mode, and Compatibility Mode 2 (slower but occasionally necessary)—with no further information about the protocols or encryption used.
The General Settings tab allows users to change server locations, with options limited to U.S. Auto/East/West/Central, Canada, UK, Europe Auto/East/West, and Asia. Unfortunately, no detailed information is provided about which servers or regions might require compatibility modes.
Pricing
GoTrusted offers a 7-day free trial for first-time users, requiring payment information upfront, with a nominal charge of $0.01. During the trial period, users can test the service without restrictions. After the trial ends, the subscription fee is automatically charged unless canceled. Notably, GoTrusted’s terms of service clearly state that refunds will not be issued once the first payment is processed after the trial.
The provider offers three subscription plans: $9.95 per month on a monthly basis, $52.50 for six months, or $89.88 annually. Payments can be made via credit card, PayPal, or WebMoney, but Bitcoin is not accepted. Regardless of the plan, all users receive the same feature set—there are no speed or data caps, IP switching is unrestricted, and there are no hidden fees. However, GoTrusted only allows one computer to be connected at a time, although users can connect both a computer and a mobile device simultaneously at no extra charge.
Performance Tests
GoTrusted’s three connection modes automatically select the best protocol and encryption based on location, although it remains unclear whether OpenVPN is ever used. Prior to connecting, my base connection speed was tested:
Upon connecting to the U.S. Auto server, my speed dropped by about half:
The UK server performed even worse, with lower speeds than the U.S. connection:
Finally, the server in Asia reduced my speed further:
These speeds are acceptable but far from impressive.
On a positive note, GoTrusted passed all security tests, with no DNS, IPv6, or WebRTC leaks detected. It also successfully unblocked Netflix and BBC iPlayer, which was a pleasant surprise. However, users looking to access Australian channels, such as Channel 9, will be disappointed, as GoTrusted lacks servers in Australia and New Zealand.
Final Thoughts
GoTrusted VPN provides basic VPN functionality with a straightforward user interface, but its lack of advanced controls, limited server coverage, and minimal support options may not satisfy more demanding users. While it can unblock popular streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer, its slower speeds and limited device support make it a less appealing option compared to more feature-rich competitors.
Regarding their Privacy Policy and Terms of Service, the provider claims not to log user activity but does track session data. This metadata, if compromised, can reveal significant details about the user. Additionally, the company collects and indefinitely stores personal information such as name, email, address, payment details, cookies, survey responses, and a category referred to as “evaluation and feedback” data. The broad and vague term “all information pertaining to user satisfaction” encompasses a considerable amount of data that the provider chooses to retain without a defined time limit.
Furthermore, the provider collaborates with an unspecified number of third parties in its supply chain, sharing personal data with them. Coupled with GoTrusted’s operation under U.S. jurisdiction, this creates a concerning mix of data retention laws, gag orders, and privacy policies. The provider also reserves the right to disclose your personal information to law enforcement at its sole discretion, without necessarily providing prior notice. Therefore, if privacy and peace of mind are your priorities, GoTrusted may not be the most suitable option.
