VPNArea adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that any activity or data transmitted through their network is immediately deleted, leaving no trace. This level of security is crucial for businesses like ours, where the confidentiality of client data is paramount. Any breach could jeopardize the entire company.
Features
Founded in Bulgaria, VPNArea is built on robust security infrastructure and offers tools tailored to meet diverse user needs.
Interface
VPNArea offers a wide range of program versions compatible with major and older operating systems, including less common platforms like Linux and Ubuntu. When downloading for your computer, you have 17 platform choices. It is essential to verify your operating system to ensure you download the correct version. After clicking the “Setup File” button, the .dmg file downloaded successfully to my system. Opening this file led to a window prompting the transfer of the VPNArea Chameleon to the applications folder.
However, this initial setup was confusing. The application opened, but only a shell appeared, with login prompts and a menu that lacked content. The installation page provided detailed instructions, suggesting transferring the .dmg file to the applications folder before opening it. Reattempting this, I encountered an issue where I couldn’t replace the existing application because it was still open. Manual deletion was also unsuccessful, as the application did not appear in the toolbar or the “Force Quit” menu.
Eventually, I switched to my desktop computer and successfully installed the program there. The interface is intuitive, featuring a menu on the left for toggling between VPN connections, server lists and speeds, an optional Kill Switch, Anti-DNS Leak, Auto IP Changer, and settings.
Servers
The “Home” screen displays your connection and allows server changes. Below this, a text box logs all actions for review. VPNArea offers an extensive selection of servers across various countries. Servers are initially listed alphabetically by country but can be organized by different criteria. Additionally, a speed test function allows you to sort servers by fastest ping speed or highest upload rate.
Kill Switch
The Kill Switch is an optional security feature that shuts down sensitive programs if the VPN disconnects, protecting your IP address. This tool is invaluable for handling sensitive information, acting as a safeguard against data leaks during unexpected VPN disconnections.
DNS Leak Protection
The Anti-DNS Leak function enables DNS Leak tests on servers before connection, adding another security layer. The Auto IP Changer allows you to select specific servers and set intervals for automatic IP address changes, further enhancing security.
Issues Encountered
During the initial application setup, no icon appeared on my laptop’s toolbar, and the application window floated above others without a minimize option. This was inconvenient as I had to manually move the window when not in use. Upon closing the application, it failed to reopen, with no icon or window appearing. Uninstalling and reinstalling the program was challenging due to the absence of an uninstall function, and attempts to delete the application resulted in errors indicating it was still open, despite not appearing in the “Force Quit” menu. The same issues occurred on my desktop computer.
Pricing
VPNArea offers three tiers of service: monthly, semi-annual, and annual subscriptions. Higher-tier plans provide better value; the monthly plan is $9.90/month, but the 12-month plan reduces the cost to $4.92/month. The best deal is the 36-month plan at $2.99/month. However, these plans require upfront payment for the entire period.
VPNArea provides a 7-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the service.
In line with its commitment to anonymity, VPNArea accepts both traditional payment methods and anonymous methods such as Bitcoin.
A notable feature of VPNArea is the provision of a free dedicated IP and server. While this option is available only for a limited period and in a select few countries, it is a valuable offering for those who need it.
Performance Tests
Speed is a critical factor for most VPN users, so I tested the service on my desktop computer. The VPN performed well, closely matching my network connection speeds without noticeable lag, providing the protection I desired. However, the USA Netflix server showed significantly slower ping and download speeds, possibly due to high server usage at the time.
International connections posed challenges. Attempts to connect to servers in the UK, South America, or Japan consistently failed, crashing the speed test and disconnecting the WiFi. Even successful connections to distant servers stalled and were unusable, impeding basic tasks like Google searches.
DNS Test
Given the international connection issues, I suspected possible DNS leaks. Tests revealed mixed results. While a US-based server showed no leaks, international servers exhibited issues. A subsequent TorGuard leak test confirmed no leaks, and an IPV6 Leak Test also indicated no leaks.
Mobile App Testing
I tested the VPNArea app on my iPhone. Although the app wasn’t particularly intuitive, it effectively enhanced security for browsing and emailing on the go. The app downloaded quickly, and I logged in using my desktop credentials. However, connecting to a server required using the OpenVPN app, which involved additional sign-ins.
Testing the app’s security, an IPLeak.net test confirmed no DNS leaks, ensuring data protection. Speed tests on both 3G and WiFi networks showed inconsistent results. While 3G download speeds were slower, WiFi speeds improved significantly when connected to the VPN. The fastest connection was in Detroit, Michigan, with minimal speed reduction. Conversely, a server in London, UK, exhibited significant slowdowns.
BBC and Netflix Access
While traveling, I tested VPNArea’s ability to access geo-restricted content on BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and Hulu. Despite being flagged on Safari, the VPN successfully accessed content on Firefox and Chrome. The VPN’s reconnection capability when switching between WiFi and 3G was efficient, though a kill-switch option like the desktop version would enhance security.
In conclusion, VPNArea offers a solid VPN service with competitive pricing, robust security features, and effective performance for local connections. However, improvements are needed for international server reliability and mobile app user experience.
Customer Service
During my recent experience with the application, I encountered significant inconvenience due to the unavailability of live chat support. Despite facing issues on a Friday morning around 10 am EST, I did not receive an email response until Monday evening, approximately three and a half days later. Although the weekend and the geographical distance to the home office may have contributed to this delay, such a prolonged response time is not acceptable. Consequently, I was inclined to consider alternative VPN services. Although their eventual response was courteous and willing to assist, they requested error codes that I could not provide as my screen had closed and would not reopen.
Privacy
Privacy is paramount for VPN users, and VPNArea is widely recognized for its excellence in this regard. The service adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that no user information or activity is stored. Additionally, being outside the jurisdiction of the 14 Eyes coalition means they are not compelled to provide user information, even under subpoena. Another notable feature is the ability to maintain anonymity while paying, with options to pay anonymously using Bitcoin.
From my observations, VPNArea has not been involved in any legal controversies and generally receives positive feedback, with the primary criticism being occasional slow speeds.
Security
VPNArea offers robust security features, including an SSL Certificate that ensures a secure tunnel between VPN servers. The service also employs 256-bit encryption, which significantly enhances data security and makes it virtually impossible for hackers to decode the information being transferred.
The application includes additional security tools that further enhance protection. The DNS Leak testing feature surpasses similar offerings from other services, and the ability to automatically change the IP address at specified intervals is impressive. While I may not require this level of protection, it is highly beneficial for users handling sensitive information.
Website Blocking
As an avid traveler and media enthusiast, I greatly value access to blocked websites. VPNs are essential for connecting to data or websites that might otherwise be inaccessible. Although I experienced connection issues with the desktop application, the mobile app performed well, allowing me to connect quickly, with only one browser being flagged. The seamless connection process was particularly appreciated.
VPNArea provides numerous networks designed for accessing services such as Netflix. They offer a USA server with a Netflix EU-hub, a dedicated Netflix server, a UK Netflix server, and another UK server for BBC content.
