Founded in 2012, Proxy.sh is a Seychelles-based VPN service provider, despite its name suggesting a focus on proxies. Since its inception, the company has expanded its services to include dedicated client software for Mac, Linux, and Windows, along with mobile apps for Android and iOS. Over time, they have introduced additional utilities such as email management and security checks, further enhancing their offerings.
A key focus for Proxy.sh is security. Users have extensive control over their VPN configuration, with the platform offering a range of tools both within the software and externally. For instance, Proxy.sh operates leak-checking websites that help users identify potential DNS, torrent, GPS, and other types of leaks, ensuring a robust and secure VPN experience. This review delves deeper into these features and the value Proxy.sh offers its users.
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Features Overview:
- Countries Covered: UK, US, AU, CA, AT, FR, IT, NL, and more.
- Bandwidth: Unlimited
- Servers: 100
- Connected Devices: 2
Supported Protocols:
- OpenVPN
- PPTP
- L2TP
- SSTP
- IPSec
- SSL
Security Features:
- Kill Switch: Available
Proxy.sh Client and Additional Tools
Proxy.sh offers excellent client support across multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, iOS, and Android. In addition to these client tools, the company provides a suite of non-client utilities, such as a dedicated speed test website and various leak detection tools. These tools enable users to test their VPN or regular connection for vulnerabilities such as IPv6, GPS, WebRTC, Torrent, and DNS leaks.
The software includes built-in IPv6 and DNS leak protection, though the latter is only available when using Proxy.sh’s servers.
Proxy.sh Windows Client
In addition to its proprietary software, Proxy.sh supports usage with the open-source OpenVPN client. The company provides a configuration generator on their main website, allowing users to set up their VPN on OpenVPN’s platform. While this client is basic and lacks advanced features, it serves as a reliable, general-purpose VPN solution. However, users may experience some inconvenience, such as the need to log in again when changing servers and managing connections through the taskbar.
The Windows client is generally user-friendly, though occasional issues may arise, such as delayed connection times or error messages, even when the connection is otherwise functional. Upon purchasing a subscription, users are provided with a unique username and password for connecting to the VPN, separate from the credentials used to register on the Proxy.sh website. This information is sent via email and can also be accessed through the client area of the official website.
Free Non-Client Extras
Proxy.sh offers several additional services for free, including security check websites and speed test tools. However, these features are only available to registered users, which is free to sign up for. Below is a breakdown of these offerings:
Security Check:
This tool provides a simple overview of your internet connection, showing whether or not your VPN is active. It displays your current IP address and maps your location, helping users ensure their VPN is functioning correctly.
Speed Test:
Available exclusively for Proxy.sh connections, this tool allows users to test the performance of each server node. Users can select multiple locations but are limited to testing ten locations per day.
Torrent Leak Check:
This feature is designed to verify if your proxy or VPN connection is secure during file-sharing activities. Proxy.sh fully supports file sharing on all its servers and offers SOCKS proxy connections both within and outside of their VPN network.
WebRTC Leak Check:
As noted by privacytools.io, “WebRTC is a communication protocol that relies on JavaScript and can leak your actual IP address from behind your VPN.” Proxy.sh provides a WebRTC leak check tool to ensure that this vulnerability does not compromise your privacy.
Proxy.sh stands out for its emphasis on security and the diverse range of utilities it provides, both for client and non-client users. While there are some minor inconveniences, such as occasional connection issues, the service offers strong protection and useful tools for users seeking a secure VPN experience.
GPS Leak Protection
The GPS Leak Check feature offered by Proxy.sh is a valuable tool for smartphone and GPS device users. When your GPS is enabled, third parties can potentially identify your location, similar to tracking seen in crime-related television shows. Proxy.sh’s GPS leak tool enables users to assess their current online visibility, particularly in terms of geographical location, ensuring greater control over their privacy.
IPv6 Leak Check
The IPv6 Leak Check is another important security feature. Although IPv4 addresses remain the most widely used identification protocol on the internet, IPv6 was introduced to address the need for enhanced utility and security. However, even IPv6 is not entirely immune to vulnerabilities. Proxy.sh assists users in identifying potential leaks in their IPv6 connection, enhancing overall security.
VPN Network Coverage
Proxy.sh provides access to VPN servers in 51 countries, offering users a robust range of options, including less commonly supported countries like Moldova and Portugal. Its “Boost Network” delivers enhanced speed and performance, with servers located in regions like the U.S. (East and West Coasts), the U.K., and Japan, with future expansions planned for France and Canada. Despite these improvements, tests conducted with 4096-bit encryption indicated only moderate performance gains, though the results were acceptable for high encryption standards.
Proxy Support
Proxy.sh, true to its name, supports proxy services, with SOCKS proxy being the primary offering today. The company maintains SOCKS proxy servers in North America and Europe, with two setup options: with or without a VPN. However, users should note that the type of SOCKS proxy is not explicitly specified in the setup guides, which may be a concern for those seeking clarity on whether it’s SOCKS4, SOCKS5, or another version.
Location and Legal Protection
Proxy.sh operates out of the Seychelles, a jurisdiction where VPN companies are not subject to restrictive regulations. As a result, the company has limited obligations to government authorities, ensuring that the minimal personal information they collect is well-protected.
Privacy Protection
Proxy.sh offers flexible VPN connection options via both TCP and UDP, with additional customization available through port selection. The default encryption protocol is OpenVPN with a highly secure RSA 4096-bit key. Users can also opt for alternative protocols like L2TP, PPTP, or SoftEther, the latter offering added SSL support for safer browsing. Additionally, Proxy.sh provides a CGI proxy for anonymous website access and supports FTP-based networking proxies.
Network Status and Privacy Policy
Proxy.sh has a strong privacy policy, collecting only the necessary data: email addresses and payment information. For VPN usage, the company logs basic data, such as connection and disconnection times and bandwidth used. However, they do not track users’ browsing activity, ensuring a higher degree of privacy.
Platform and Device Support
Proxy.sh offers extensive platform compatibility, supporting operating systems including Windows (XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10), macOS, Linux (Ubuntu, Debian, Chrome OS), Android, and iOS. The service is also compatible with a range of routers, including Linksys, D-Link, TP-Link, ZyXEL, and Tomato, as well as gaming consoles and devices like Raspberry Pi. This broad compatibility offers users flexibility and wide-ranging possibilities for secure browsing across multiple devices.
Pricing Plans
Proxy.sh offers four pricing tiers. The Quick package, at $2 for three days, allows access to two countries and serves as a short-term trial. The Basic package offers access to five countries at $5 per month or $3.33 monthly when billed annually. The Solid package provides access to over 50 countries, priced at $10 per month or $7.50 monthly for annual plans. The Pro plan, at $20 per month or $16.66 per month when billed annually, includes additional features such as 250GB of Boost Network and multi-hop functionality. However, considering the limited extra features, the Pro plan may not offer sufficient value compared to top-tier VPN providers.
Refund Policy
Proxy.sh’s refund policy is notably restrictive. Refunds are only available for purchases made via PayPal and must be requested within seven days of purchase. No other payment methods qualify for refunds, and free trials are unavailable, requiring users to make a financial commitment upfront. The service accepts 85 different payment methods, providing users with diverse options to pay for their subscription.
Customer Support
- 24/7 Availability
- Live Chat
- Email Assistance
- Phone Support
- Community Forum
- Comprehensive FAQs
- Video Tutorials
- Remote Desktop Assistance
- Blog
- X (formerly Twitter)
- YouTube
Customer Service Overview
One of the standout features of Proxy.sh is its accessibility in approximately 30 different languages, a significant improvement over most VPN providers. While it doesn’t cover every language globally, this multilingual support sets it apart from many competitors.
To get in touch with Proxy.sh, customers have several options. Primarily, users can submit a support ticket through their online form, where queries can be categorized, and attachments can be included to help clarify the issue. Although there is no live chat available, support is available 24/7. Additionally, users can reach out via direct email or through social media, with Proxy.sh maintaining active accounts on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and GitHub.
Bottom Line
Proxy.sh offers more than a typical VPN service, expanding into a comprehensive online protection provider with an array of additional (and free) services. However, while its high-level encryption ensures strong security, it can negatively impact connection speeds. While the servers deliver solid performance, the lack of a free trial is a drawback for users wanting to test the service before committing. Additionally, the refund policy is somewhat limited, as refunds are only available via PayPal or traceable transactions, which may present challenges for some users.