IronSocket, a VPN provider with servers in 38 countries and P2P support, presents a comprehensive yet imperfect solution within a neatly packaged client.
Features
IronSocket, based in Hong Kong, originally launched as HideMyNet.com before rebranding and evolving into its current robust VPN solution.
IronSocket VPN is compatible with a wide range of platforms, including Windows, Linux, Mac, mobile devices, routers, gaming consoles, and Smart TVs.
For users familiar with OpenVPN, the process is straightforward: download the configuration files, import them into your OpenVPN client, and you’re set. The configuration files are not bundled into a single compressed folder; instead, users can hand-pick and customize server-specific config files directly from the provider’s website before downloading.
My initial step was to configure the OpenVPN setup before testing IronSocket’s native Windows client, anticipating a smooth experience. While the OpenVPN solution worked well, I encountered a minor issue with the US East server, which showed a connection and assigned a masked IP, but security tests revealed I was browsing without protection. Other servers functioned correctly via the OpenVPN client. It’s important to note that IronSocket does not currently offer native mobile clients, so users must rely on the OpenVPN mobile app and configuration files. While the setup is not overly complicated, it may deter less technically inclined users. IronSocket does, however, offer a native desktop client, which is presently in open BETA.
The desktop client experience was smooth and straightforward, with an easy installation and login process. The user interface is minimalistic and well-organized, making it easy to navigate and adjust settings or switch from VPN to DNS Proxy. For VPN newcomers, the BETA version of IronSocket’s native client is a reliable choice, while more advanced users will appreciate the extensive control over settings.
The IronSocket Windows client includes several options beyond the basic “run at startup” and “minimize to tray when closed.” Users can enable a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and configure the VPN to connect automatically upon launch. Additional options include setting preferred servers, adjusting data protocol and encryption levels, entering custom DNS, and enabling HTTP Proxy and persist-tun for those familiar with these features.
Manual DNS configuration is also supported, with setup guides provided by the provider. Users will need to activate their current IP address in the members’ area to complete this setup.
Pricing
IronSocket offers a 7-day money-back guarantee, three simultaneous connections, 24/7 customer service via live chat, P2P support, a kill switch, and various protocols, including OpenVPN, with all plans.
The monthly plan is priced at $6.99, making it a competitively priced option among monthly VPN plans. The six-month plan is $35.95, while the annual plan is available for $49.95, making IronSocket one of the more affordable solutions on the market. Payment options include anonymous methods like Bitcoin and gift cards, as well as traditional methods such as PayPal and credit cards.
Performance
I tested IronSocket’s performance using Ookla’s speed test, comparing my speeds before and after connecting to the VPN on various servers.
Here are my pre-VPN speeds:
Post-VPN, when connected to a US server:
And a UK server:
The US server reduced my speed by 50%, while the UK server saw a nearly 60% decrease. Although not exceptional, these speeds are manageable.
However, a more concerning issue was a WebRTC leak detected during security tests:
On the positive side, there were no DNS or IPv6 leaks:
IronSocket is not alone in its inability to consistently unblock Netflix US, a common issue due to Netflix’s stringent blacklisting efforts.
While it’s not IronSocket’s fault, the website should reflect this limitation. On a brighter note, BBC iPlayer worked flawlessly during my test, with only minimal buffering.
IronSocket also provides a Channel Guide, available exclusively to subscribers, listing streaming services that can be unblocked using its VPN or Smart DNS.
It’s important to note that not all channels are successfully unblocked. For example, while Discovery worked, HBO GO and Amazon Instant Video did not.
Privacy and Security
IronSocket’s Privacy Policy outlines that the provider does not:
- Log the websites you access while using their VPN.
- Use your information for any purposes other than those you have agreed to.
- Sell your data for commercial purposes.
However, the company does collect certain information, including your registered email and password, referral codes, subscription choices, payment details, and interactions with their support team.
Additionally, IronSocket logs session details, which are retained for 72 hours under normal conditions. This includes:
- The time and date of session connection and disconnection.
- The IP address used for the session.
- The servers you access.
- The total amount of data transmitted per session.
While the 72-hour data retention period might seem reasonable, it is important to note that the company may disclose your data in response to law enforcement requests that are valid under Hong Kong jurisdiction. Moreover, the Information Disclosure clause mentions that IronSocket might share non-personally identifiable information with “non-affiliated third parties for advertising, marketing, or research purposes.” This is often viewed as a red flag.
On the security side, IronSocket supports OpenVPN, PPTP, and L2TP protocols. OpenVPN utilizes 1024-bit encryption over TCP Port 443, which is satisfactory. However, despite the transparency of their Privacy Policy, there is a lingering sense of unease, particularly after reading user feedback about the provider censoring torrenting websites, despite claiming to support P2P
