Keenow is primarily designed with streaming in mind, and its VPN service seems like an additional feature rather than the main offering. However, it proves to be a capable and generally secure solution. In summary, if your primary concern is privacy and security, a privacy-focused VPN would be more suitable. On the other hand, if streaming with occasional security needs is your goal, Keenow is a viable option.
Features
Keenow’s standout feature is its SmartDNS, which effectively bypasses geo-blocks on streaming services. The VPN component is included as part of their premium subscriptions.
Keenow offers native desktop applications for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV. Additionally, DNS setup guides are available for manual configuration, extending compatibility to Chrome OS, PlayStation 3 and 4, Xbox One, routers, Roku, Android, iOS, and smart TVs. Advanced users can utilize the open-source OpenVPN GUI in conjunction with Keenow’s OVPN configuration files. It’s important to note that the OpenVPN username and password differ from those used for the Keenow desktop app, with detailed instructions provided.
The OVPN files are conveniently organized under the Downloads section, categorized by operating system and port (UDP, TCP). The descriptions of the ports are user-friendly, explaining their respective benefits in simple terms. Keenow provides several support options, including a troubleshooting bot that checks your connection status, a comprehensive FAQ library, and a ticketing system. My interaction with their support team was brief, with a response time of about one hour; the support was both helpful and professional.
One of the challenges with many SmartDNS services is the requirement for manual setup, but Keenow simplifies this by integrating DNS and VPN features into a single, user-friendly application. While the app may not have the most polished interface and experienced a minor UI scaling issue on my laptop, it performed its tasks effectively. The app allows for easy enabling and disabling of DNS regions and offers a VPN toggle to enhance privacy and security. Server switching is straightforward with a drop-down list, and P2P-optimized servers are clearly marked, ensuring a suitable connection.
Keenow’s desktop app, while not visually impressive, includes useful features like a quick DNS cache flush option for your device. Despite being primarily a SmartDNS service, Keenow’s client is surprisingly comprehensive. One standout feature is the Virtual Router, which enables you to share your Keenow connection with other devices by creating a WiFi hotspot, a feature that is both innovative and easy to use.
The advanced settings in the app allow for customization, including running the app on system startup, auto-connecting the VPN on app launch or when unencrypted WiFi is detected, and re-connecting the VPN if the connection drops. There is also a kill switch that disables network access if the VPN connection is lost. Additional options include disabling IPv6 to prevent potential privacy leaks, selecting the connection protocol (TCP, UDP), and configuring the OpenVPN port. P2P is permitted on select U.S. and Dutch servers.
Pricing
A month-to-month subscription is priced at $9.95, with a 7-day refund policy in case of dissatisfaction.
A 6-month subscription costs $41.70 and includes a 15-day money-back guarantee.
The 12-month plan is available for $69.50, offering a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, a closer examination of the provider’s Terms of Service reveals that refunds, if any, are at the company’s sole discretion.
Payment options include PayPal, credit cards via Paymentwall, and Bitcoin via CoinPayments.
Performance Tests
Keenow’s performance in speed tests was somewhat underwhelming. My baseline connection speed before using the VPN was approximately 40Mbps.
The results for Keenow’s U.S. and UK connections were similar across both the desktop app and the OpenVPN GUI with Keenow’s configuration files.
Although these speeds are not exceptional, they are workable.
The VPN did not exhibit any DNS, WebRTC, or IPv6 leaks, with IPv6 being disabled by the app. However, DNS tests frequently showed French servers for U.S. connections.
Keenow provides an extensive guide on how to unblock Netflix, written in a humorous tone.
Despite this, there was a notification in the members’ area regarding ongoing Netflix issues, so I was not entirely surprised when I couldn’t access it. However, HBO streamed without any issues.
What did catch me off guard was the buffering problem with BBC iPlayer. Although I wasn’t outright blocked, and the player recognized my location as being in the UK, the buffering issue persisted and prevented successful streaming.
Privacy and Security
Keenow, based in Israel, operates within a jurisdiction that is reported to have close ties with the Five Eyes mass surveillance alliance, known for its extensive online monitoring activities. The provider’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy clearly indicate that privacy is not a primary focus. Keenow retains detailed connection logs, including bandwidth usage, timestamps, and IP addresses.
On the security front, Keenow utilizes the Open VPN protocol, recognized as one of the most robust options available. It offers both TCP and UDP ports and employs the AES-256-CBC cipher along with SHA512 for HMAC message authentication. Additionally, it uses a 4096-bit DH key supported by Perfect Forward Secrecy. These security measures are exemplary, and it is commendable that the provider does not compromise by offering less secure protocols.