Our Verdict
Overall Rating: 5.6/10
We do not recommend Bitdefender VPN, even if it is bundled with an antivirus package. While it offers impressive speeds, it temporarily logs your IP address and features a malfunctioning kill switch. Additionally, it struggles to unblock most streaming platforms, including Netflix, and is not suitable for torrenting due to its privacy concerns.
Ranked #33 out of 62 VPNs
Bitdefender VPN Category Ratings:
- Streaming: 2.5/10
- Torrenting: 4.5/10
- Privacy & Logging: 6.7/10
- Speed: 9.4/10
- Server Locations: 7.3/10
- Bypassing Censorship: 3.8/10
- Security & Features: 2.1/10
- Ease of Use: 5.9/10
- Customer Support: 6.1/10
- Price & Value: 5.5/10
Pros:
- Very fast speeds
- Unblocks BBC iPlayer
- Allows torrenting
- Simple app design
Cons:
- Ineffective at unblocking streaming services like Netflix and Disney+
- Limited server network
- Faulty kill switch
- Lacks support for Firestick, Smart DNS, and routers
Bitdefender is widely recognized for its antivirus solutions, but it also provides a VPN service, which can be obtained either as part of a cybersecurity bundle or through a standalone subscription.
However, Bitdefender VPN is not directly operated by Bitdefender. Instead, it is a ‘white-label’ version of Hotspot Shield, utilizing Hotspot Shield’s server network, protocols, and technology.
We evaluated the VPN service across various criteria, including its privacy and security features, speed performance, and ability to unblock websites.
This review reveals that Bitdefender VPN falls short when compared to our top-rated VPNs. Although it offers fast speeds, it does not deliver comprehensive privacy protection, lacks a robust server network, and fails to access popular streaming services.
In summary, there are superior premium VPN options available that offer better value for money.
Bitdefender VPN Key Data
| Data Cap | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| Download Speed | 92Mbps |
| Logging Policy | Some User Logs |
| Data Leaks | Yes |
| Jurisdiction | Romania (EU member) |
| Servers | 1,300+ |
| IP Addresses | 1,300+ |
| Countries with Servers | 53 |
| US Netflix | No |
| Torrenting | Unlimited |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 |
| Works In China | No |
| Support | Live Chat, Email & Online Resources |
| Cheapest Price | $4.16/mo over 12 Months |
| Free Trial | 7 Days (No Payment Info Required) |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30-day Money-Back Guarantee |
| Official Website | Bitdefender.com |
Privacy & Logging Policy Review
Can You Trust Bitdefender VPN?
Privacy & Logging Policy Rating: 6.7/10
Bitdefender VPN raises concerns regarding privacy due to its collection of identifiable data. Furthermore, as a white-label version of Aura’s VPN products, its privacy policy is notably complex. Given these factors, we advise considering alternative VPN services if privacy is a primary concern for you.
Rank: 25th out of 62 VPNs for Privacy & Logging Policy
Here is a summary of the information logged by Bitdefender VPN:
| Data Type | Logged by Bitdefender VPN |
|---|---|
| Account Information | No |
| Browsing Activity | Yes |
| Date of Last Connection | No |
| Device Information | Yes |
| DNS Queries | No |
| Individual Bandwidth Usage | Yes |
| Individual Connection Timestamps | Yes |
| ISP | Yes |
| Number of Simultaneous Connections | No |
| Originating IP Address | Yes |
| VPN Server IP | No |
| VPN Server Location | Yes |
Privacy Policy Overview for Bitdefender VPN
As with many white-label VPN services, Bitdefender VPN’s privacy policy is notably complex.
A brief section within Bitdefender’s “Home Solutions Privacy Policy” addresses data collection practices related to its VPN service. However, it discloses that the VPN logs users’ real IP addresses, which is a significant privacy concern. This data is highly identifiable, and Bitdefender does not specify when it is deleted.
Additionally, Bitdefender VPN operates using Aura’s server network, protocols, and software. Consequently, all data collected by Bitdefender VPN is processed and managed by Aura.
Bitdefender VPN users are affected by a combination of privacy policies from both Bitdefender and Aura. It is concerning that both entities collect substantial amounts of personally identifiable information.
Jurisdictional Considerations
Bitdefender is headquartered in Romania, a country governed by EU data retention laws and data-sharing agreements. Compounding the issue, Aura operates from the United States, a region known for its challenging data privacy landscape.
The interplay between these jurisdictions, coupled with the VPN’s complex privacy policy and extensive data logging practices, renders this service notably inadequate for privacy-focused users.
Speed Performance
Exceptional Download Speeds
Speed Rating: 9.4/10
Bitdefender VPN delivers outstanding performance, both on local and international servers. Our tests indicate a minimal average speed reduction of only 3% for international connections. This remarkable speed is attributed to Bitdefender’s utilization of the same advanced technology employed by Hotspot Shield, which is recognized as one of the fastest VPN services available.
Ranked #13 out of 62 VPNs for Speed
Below are the speeds recorded while using Bitdefender VPN:
| No VPN (New York) | US (New York) | Canada (Toronto) | US (Los Angeles) | UK (London) | Germany (Berlin) | Brazil (São Paulo) | Japan (Tokyo) | South Africa (Johannesburg) | Australia (Sydney) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Server Location |  |
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| Download Speed | 100Mbps | 92Mbps | 98Mbps | 97Mbps | 96Mbps | 97Mbps | 97Mbps | 98Mbps | 99Mbps | 95Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 100Mbps | 87Mbps | 95Mbps | 65Mbps | 56Mbps | 50Mbps | 27Mbps | 30Mbps | 54Mbps | 21Mbps |
| Ping | 1ms | 6ms | 15ms | 73ms | 73ms | 84ms | 114ms | 144ms | 249ms | 208ms |
| Distance | 0mi | 5mi | 300mi | 2,500mi | 3,500mi | 4,000mi | 4,800mi | 6,700mi | 8,000mi | 9,900mi |
The data demonstrates that Bitdefender excels in speed across all locations. Notably, its international speeds reach up to 97 Mbps, surpassing even leading VPNs such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
This impressive performance is attributable to Bitdefender’s use of Hotspot Shield’s proprietary Hydra VPN protocol, a technology that distinguishes it from many competitors.
Bitdefender is not alone in leveraging this technology; our McAfee VPN review reveals that McAfee’s VPN service also utilizes a white-labeled version of Hotspot Shield’s protocol.
Server Locations
1,300+ Servers in 53 Countries
Server Locations Rating: 7.3/10
Bitdefender VPN operates a network of over 1,300 servers across 53 countries, with coverage in Europe, North America, Asia, and South America.
Ranked #29 out of 62 VPNs for Server Locations
- 53 Countries
- 25 Cities
- 1,300+ IP Addresses
Refer to the table below for a detailed breakdown of Bitdefender VPN’s server distribution.
| Continent | Countries with Servers |
|---|---|
| Europe | 28 |
| Asia | 15 |
| South America | 3 |
| North America | 3 |
| Africa | 2 |
| Oceania | 2 |
Bitdefender’s server network spans 53 countries, predominantly concentrated in Europe and North America. However, the VPN’s city-level server coverage in North America proves beneficial for circumventing US sports blackouts.
The following is a list of Bitdefender’s city-level servers in the US, Canada, and the UK:
- US: Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Newark, Phoenix, Portland, San Jose, Seattle, Washington
- Canada: Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver
- UK: London, Manchester
While server options in Asia are somewhat limited, notable locations include Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, and Singapore. South America has only three server locations, and Africa is served by just two.
Overall, while Bitdefender VPN offers solid server coverage, it does not match the extensive reach of leading VPNs. For comparison, our review of CyberGhost highlights its coverage across 100 countries, with city-level servers available in the US, UK, and eight other countries.
Streaming Performance
Limited Ability to Unblock Popular Streaming Services
Streaming Rating: 2.5/10
While Bitdefender VPN offers sufficient speed for HD streaming, it struggles to unblock major streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max. Although it was able to access some UK-based services like BBC iPlayer during our testing, other VPNs provide more effective streaming capabilities at a similar price point.
Ranked #37 out of 62 VPNs for Streaming
| Streaming Platform | Works with Bitdefender VPN |
|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | No |
| BBC iPlayer | Yes |
| Channel 4 | Yes |
| Disney+ | No |
| Hotstar India | No |
| Hulu | No |
| ITVX | Yes |
| Max | No |
| Netflix US | No |
Bitdefender claims its VPN can “unlock media from all over the world,” but our experience suggests otherwise. In reality, Bitdefender performs poorly in streaming scenarios.
During our tests, Bitdefender VPN was unable to access Netflix on any server, including those in the UK and US. It also failed to unblock HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video. Compared to leading VPNs for Netflix and HBO Max, Bitdefender falls short.
However, Bitdefender VPN can unblock YouTube videos, which can be advantageous if the site is restricted at your school or workplace.
Unblocks BBC iPlayer & ITVX
On a positive note, we successfully accessed several free UK platforms, such as BBC iPlayer and All4, using the UK server.
Bitdefender VPN provides sufficiently fast download speeds for streaming HD films and TV shows. However, it lacks dedicated streaming servers and specialized features for bypassing geo-restrictions.
Overall, we do not recommend this VPN for streaming purposes.
Torrenting
Bitdefender VPN: Not Recommended for Torrenting
Torrenting Rating: 4.5/10
While Bitdefender VPN offers impressive torrent speeds, its performance is marred by a faulty kill switch and excessive logging of sensitive information. Due to these privacy concerns, we strongly advise against using Bitdefender VPN for torrenting activities.
Rank: #41 out of 62 VPNs for Torrenting
Here’s a brief overview of Bitdefender VPN’s performance in our torrenting evaluations:
| Torrenting Attribute | Result |
|---|---|
| Average Download Bitrate | 7.6MiB/s |
| No. of P2P Servers | 1,300+ |
| Logging Policy | Some User Logs |
| Kill Switch | Faulty |
| Port Forwarding | No |
Bitdefender VPN is not a suitable choice for torrenting. Although it supports torrenting across all servers and includes an auto-connect feature for torrent clients, its overall reliability remains questionable.
Our testing revealed that the VPN fails to effectively protect your IP address even with the kill switch activated. Additionally, it logs excessive identifiable information, which undermines its privacy assurances.
For a secure torrenting experience, we recommend selecting reputable, privacy-focused VPNs such as ExpressVPN or Proton VPN.
Bypassing Web Censorship
Bitdefender VPN: Ineffective at Evading Web Censorship Filters
Bypassing Censorship Rating: 3.8/10
Bitdefender VPN lacks obfuscation technology, rendering it ineffective against web censorship measures such as China’s Great Firewall. There is no evidence to suggest that it can bypass censorship in other heavily restricted countries either.
Rank: #40 out of 62 VPNs for Bypassing Web Censorship
Bitdefender VPN does not effectively circumvent internet censorship in countries such as China, the UAE, and Turkey. This limitation is consistent with Bitdefender’s own policy, which restricts VPN use in the following countries:
- Belarus
- China
- Iran
- Iraq
- Oman
- Russia
- Turkey
- UAE
If you need to overcome stringent web censorship, consider using VPNs specifically designed for high-censorship environments, such as those recommended for China, Russia, Turkey, or the UAE.
Security & Technical Features
Bitdefender VPN: Lacks Essential Security Features
Security & Technical Features Rating: 2.1/10
While Bitdefender VPN employs secure protocols and encryption, it falls short in providing advanced security features found in top-tier VPNs. Notably, it does not offer double VPN or diskless servers. Additionally, its kill switch fails to adequately protect your real IP address when switching between servers.
Rank: #53 out of 62 VPNs for Security & Technical Features
Protocols
| Protocols | Available in Bitdefender VPN |
|---|---|
| Hydra | Yes |
| IKEv2/IPSec | No |
| OpenVPN (TCP/UDP) | Yes |
| WireGuard | Yes |
Encryption
| Encryption | Available in Bitdefender VPN |
|---|---|
| AES-128 | No |
| AES-192 | No |
| AES-256 | Yes |
| Blowfish | No |
| ChaCha20 | Yes |
Security
| Security | Available in Bitdefender VPN |
|---|---|
| Diskless Servers | No |
| DNS Leak Blocking | No |
| First-party DNS | No |
| IPv6 Leak Blocking | Yes |
| Supports TCP Port 443 | No |
| VPN Kill Switch | Yes |
| WebRTC Leak Blocking | No |
Advanced Features
| Advanced Features | Available in Bitdefender VPN |
|---|---|
| Ad Blocker | Yes |
| Dedicated IP | No |
| Double VPN | No |
| SOCKS | No |
| Split Tunneling | Yes |
| Static IP | No |
| Tor over VPN Server | No |
| Tracker Blocker | Yes |
Bitdefender VPN offers a range of technical features, including a kill switch, ad blocker, and a public WiFi mode. Despite recent improvements, it still falls short in some fundamental areas. Notably, the kill switch has been found to leak IP addresses when switching server locations without first disconnecting.
While Bitdefender VPN has made progress, it is still lacking essential security enhancements. As such, we cannot consider it a fully secure service at this time.
No IP, WebRTC, or DNS Leaks
In our latest security tests, we observed that Bitdefender VPN no longer exhibits DNS leaks. In fact, no leaks of any kind were detected.
Safe & Open-Source Protocols
Bitdefender VPN supports top-tier protocols including OpenVPN and WireGuard. Among these, WireGuard is particularly notable for its exceptional speed, efficient data usage, and advanced encryption.
As a rebranded iteration of Hotspot Shield, Bitdefender VPN also features Hydra, a proprietary protocol known for its high-speed performance.
Kill Switch Test Results
Unfortunately, Bitdefender VPN’s kill switch did not perform as expected. It leaked our real IP address when switching servers without first disconnecting.
This issue is prevalent among lower-tier VPNs; however, we expect VPN providers to either resolve this issue or notify users to disconnect before switching servers.
Effective Ad & Tracker Blocker
As an antivirus provider, Bitdefender’s VPN excels in blocking ads and trackers. It successfully blocked over 90% of intrusive ads and trackers, outperforming some top-tier VPNs in this regard.
For even better results, consider using a dedicated browser extension such as uBlock Origin.
Security Features We’d Like to See
Bitdefender VPN has made notable advancements in security since our last review. It no longer leaks DNS requests and has added more technical features. However, several key improvements are still needed:
- A fully functional kill switch that protects your real IP address when switching servers, not just during internet disconnections.
- Diskless servers to prevent excessive data logging.
- Dedicated IP addresses to facilitate bypassing geo-restrictions and minimizing CAPTCHAs.
- Double VPN servers for an additional layer of protection.
Device & OS Compatibility
Apps for Popular Devices
Bitdefender VPN is available on the four major platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. However, it lacks compatibility with routers and does not offer any browser extensions, making it less competitive compared to other leading VPNs.
Available Apps:
- Windows
- macOS
- iOS
- Android
While Bitdefender provides dedicated VPN apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, its compatibility with additional devices is limited. There is no support for Smart DNS or routers, so the VPN cannot be used on Apple TV, game consoles, Android TV, or Fire TV Stick. Additionally, the absence of web browser extensions further limits its utility for users who prefer this feature.
Ease of Use
Beginner-Friendly Apps
Ease of Use Rating: 5.9/10
Bitdefender’s applications are generally straightforward to use due to their minimalist design. However, accessing the VPN requires logging into a broader suite, which can be confusing and seems unnecessary.
Ranked #52 out of 62 VPNs for Ease of Use
While some VPN apps are user-friendly because of their intuitive design, others achieve ease of use through their simplicity and limited features. Bitdefender VPN falls into the latter category.
This does not imply that the app’s design is subpar; on the contrary, we found it quite user-friendly. However, its limited functionality results in a less commendable evaluation.
Android & iOS Applications
The mobile apps feature a straightforward layout, with the VPN easily accessible via one of the five tabs at the bottom of the screen.
The VPN interface includes a central “Connect” button and a clearly visible server selection button. Servers are organized alphabetically by country, making it straightforward to locate your desired server. For users of the free version, a connection timer and a data usage meter are also provided.
Beyond these features, the VPN’s functionality is quite limited. Users seeking advanced VPN settings will find them absent, although additional anti-virus and security features are available through other tabs if you opt to use Bitdefender’s comprehensive suite.
Windows & macOS Applications
The VPN for both Mac and PC necessitates the installation of Bitdefender Total Security. While you can operate the VPN independently, the Total Security application may seem redundant if you do not utilize its other features.
The VPN application itself is even more simplified than its mobile counterparts, featuring an intuitive server list that enhances ease of navigation.
The settings menu is readily accessible, though its options are limited. One notable feature is the ability to automatically launch the VPN when connecting to unsecured WiFi networks.
However, several essential features expected of a high-quality VPN are notably absent. For example, a kill switch, which is a critical component for ensuring connection security, is not available.
Customer Support
Efficient and Supportive Assistance
Customer Support Rating: 6.1/10
Bitdefender provides comprehensive customer support through 24/7 live chat, email, and community forums. Our evaluation reveals that all these channels are responsive and effective. Additionally, Bitdefender offers a range of online support guides to assist users.
The service is currently ranked 39th out of 62 VPN providers for customer support.
| Customer Support | Available in Bitdefender VPN |
|---|---|
| 24/7 Email Support | No |
| 24/7 Live Chat Support | Yes |
| Chatbot | No |
| Yes | |
| Email Support via Online Form | No |
| Online Resources | Yes |
| Tutorial Videos | No |
Live chat support is available around the clock. However, based on our experience, there can be a wait time. Additionally, the quality of support agents varies; some respond swiftly and effectively, while others may be slower and less informed.
Before engaging with an agent, you are required to complete a form. This process is intended to direct customers to the appropriate support representatives, but it can feel like an additional hurdle when seeking prompt assistance.
Bitdefender offers comprehensive setup guides and troubleshooting instructions for common issues, which are well-organized and effective for resolving most problems you may encounter.
Additionally, the forums can be useful; however, as they are primarily user-operated, they may not always be the most reliable source of information.
Price & Value
Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation
Rating: 5.5/10
Bitdefender VPN is competitively priced at $4.16 per month on a 12-month contract. Despite its affordability, it does not offer exceptional value for its subscription cost. More cost-effective VPN options are available that provide enhanced security, faster speeds, and broader access to streaming services.
Ranked #29 out of 62 VPNs for Price & Value
Many Bitdefender VPN users are actually subscribed to Bitdefender’s Premium Security or Premium Security Plus plans. As Bitdefender primarily emphasizes its antivirus solutions, the VPN service is essentially a rebranded version of Hotspot Shield. This rebranding is not unique, as other antivirus providers such as Kaspersky and McAfee offer similar rebranded VPN services, also under Aura (the parent company of Hotspot Shield).
It is important to note that Bitdefender’s Premium Security and Premium Security Plus plans include access to the same premium Bitdefender VPN software.
Standalone Pricing for Bitdefender VPN:
- Monthly Plan: $6.99/month, billed monthly
- 12-Month Plan: $3.33/month, billed $39.99 for the first year; $69.99 annually thereafter (Save 43%)
Please note: This review focuses exclusively on Bitdefender’s VPN subscription and does not cover Bitdefender’s security bundle, which includes additional features such as anti-malware, device optimization, and digital identity protection.
Payment & Refund Options
Bitdefender accepts payments through major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Payments can also be made via PayPal or direct bank transfer. However, alternative payment methods such as cryptocurrency, prepaid credit cards, or cash are not available.
Free Trial & Money-Back Guarantee
Bitdefender offers a 30-day free trial for its Premium Security plan, which includes VPN access. However, a free trial specifically for the VPN service alone is not available.
Bitdefender VPN also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, which aligns with industry standards. To obtain a full refund, customers can contact support via live chat, email, or cancel their subscription through Bitdefender Central.
