Our Score: 4.1/10
Status: This VPN service is no longer active.
Explore our recommended VPNs here.
Finding the ideal VPN is a priority for many users, and understandably so. A reliable VPN enhances online security and privacy, allowing users to navigate the web safely.
With a plethora of options available at varying price points, investing in a quality VPN is often worth the expense. However, thorough research is crucial to identify services that truly deliver value.
ProXPN is a lesser-known VPN provider that has been in the market for a considerable time. Yet, does its longevity translate to effective functionality? My investigation revealed some concerning insights.
Unfortunately, I faced difficulties accessing the ProXPN app on my laptop due to regional restrictions. After contacting their customer service for assistance, I conducted extensive online research to gather information for this review.
The results indicate that ProXPN is an overpriced and outdated service primarily suitable for torrenting and occasionally streaming content from US Netflix.
For a more in-depth analysis of my findings regarding ProXPN, continue reading. For additional VPN reviews, please visit the vpnMentor website.
Key Findings for Quick Reference:
- Streaming Capabilities: ProXPN facilitates streaming from US Netflix with minimal issues; however, it struggles to unblock other popular streaming services. Refer to my streaming test results for more information.
- Account Options: Users can choose between free and premium accounts, but the basic plan lacks essential features, which I elaborate on below.
- Speed Performance: ProXPN significantly reduces connection speeds, complicating torrenting and streaming activities. Detailed speed assessments can be found here.
- Security Features: The VPN’s security and privacy protocols are outdated, creating uncertainty regarding the safety of users’ connections. Notably, it does include a kill switch. A closer examination of its security features is provided below.
- Accessibility in China: ProXPN is ineffective in mainland China due to slow speeds and inadequate security measures. Further insights are available below.
- Platform Compatibility: ProXPN supports all major platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Chromebook, Android, and Linux.
- Sign-Up Process: The registration and installation process is straightforward. However, users must pay for a minimum three-month subscription in advance, though a 30-day risk-free trial is available. Notably, ProXPN does not accept anonymous payment methods. Details on accepted payment options are included here.
ProXPN Features — 2024 Update:
Rating : 7.4
| 💸 Price | 6.25 USD/month |
| 📆 Money Back Guarantee | 30 Days |
| 📝 Does VPN keep logs? | No |
| 🖥 Number of servers | 20+ |
| 💻 Number of devices per license | 3 |
| 🛡 Kill switch | Yes |
| 🗺 Based in country | Netherlands |
| 📥 Supports torrenting | No |
Streaming Capabilities — Unblocking US Netflix
In my evaluation of ProXPN’s performance in accessing popular streaming platforms, I found that it is particularly effective at unblocking US Netflix, offering a seamless experience with minimal lag or buffering.
This capability may be regarded as one of the VPN’s primary strengths.
However, ProXPN encounters significant challenges when attempting to access other popular streaming services, including BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO.
Given the documented slow speeds associated with the basic ProXPN plan, it is evident that this VPN may not be the most suitable choice for users primarily focused on streaming.
Many alternative VPNs are available that provide reliable access to a wider range of streaming platforms.
Successfully Unblocked:
- US Netflix: ProXPN consistently manages to unblock US Netflix, ensuring a smooth viewing experience.
Blocked Access:
- BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO: ProXPN struggles to access these platforms, highlighting its limitations in the streaming domain.
Speeds — Below Average
My research indicates that ProXPN’s speeds are generally below average, typically ranging from 30 to 45 Mbps, with servers in the US and UK being the slowest performers.
These slow speeds across various servers make gaming or streaming experiences less than optimal. Although there are a few reports of successful Netflix streaming, if you are in search of a VPN that excels in speed, I recommend exploring our curated list of faster alternatives.
Are ProXPN’s Speeds Suitable for Gaming? Probably Not
Due to regional restrictions, I was unable to test ProXPN’s speeds for gaming personally. However, based on its consistently reported slow speeds, I would advise against using this VPN for gaming purposes.
There are numerous other VPNs available that offer faster speeds, making them more suitable for online gaming.
Server Network — Limited Coverage
ProXPN operates servers in 12 countries, including Canada, the USA, Australia, Hong Kong, Costa Rica, France, Iceland, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Notably, it lacks servers in significant locations such as Russia and Germany. With only 19 servers across these countries, ProXPN’s server network is relatively limited compared to other VPN providers, particularly given its pricing.
Security — Basic Protections
According to information available on its website, ProXPN offers basic security features, including VPNGuard and encryption. The software utilized is fairly rudimentary and commonly found in operating systems, providing DNS and built-in IP leak protection.
VPNGuard is a notable feature, as it allows users to automatically shut down specific programs in the event of a VPN disconnection.
ProXPN supports three protocols: OpenVPN, PPTP, and IPSec. While OpenVPN and PPTP are established protocols with their respective strengths and weaknesses, IPSec is a newer option designed to enhance reliability in encryption.
However, the encryption standards employed by ProXPN leave much to be desired. With a 2408-bit encryption key, the service may be susceptible to security breaches. If robust security is a priority for you, ProXPN may not be the best choice.
Privacy — Approach with Caution
ProXPN’s privacy policy, while available on its website, is notably brief—less than a page in length. Based in the Netherlands, a country recognized for its commitment to privacy, ProXPN claims to collect only sign-up information and adheres to a standard no-log policy, asserting that it does not track any additional user data.
The service promises to keep email addresses, passwords, and payment details confidential through “standard security measures.” Notably, it does not require users to provide a phone number. However, verifying the accuracy of these privacy claims is not feasible.
It is concerning that ProXPN’s privacy policy has not been updated since September 2018, which may reflect the overall outdated nature of the content on the ProXPN website.
Torrenting — P2P-Friendly
My research indicates that ProXPN is surprisingly accommodating for torrenting activities. It effectively prevents IP leaks and includes a kill switch, enabling users to download files with a secure identity and location.
Although overall speeds tend to be slow, ProXPN is considered a reliable VPN for torrenting purposes.
Does ProXPN Work in China? — Uncertain
As I am located outside of China, I was unable to personally assess ProXPN’s ability to bypass the Great Firewall. While the service does offer a server in Hong Kong, it remains uncertain whether it would function effectively within mainland China.
I contacted customer support to inquire about this issue, and they provided a straightforward response. They indicated that while some customers have successfully used the VPN in China in the past, they could not guarantee its functionality there.
Based on my experience with VPNs in China, I believe ProXPN’s encryption may be outdated for this environment. The Chinese government strictly monitors VPN usage and has completely blocked the OpenVPN protocol.
Although ProXPN suggests using OpenVPN on their Help page, they acknowledge that certain protocols may be blocked in various Asian and Middle Eastern countries.
Furthermore, their kill switch is not particularly reliable, and the absence of a stealth protocol limits ProXPN’s ability to bypass China’s deep packet inspection (DPI). Consequently, ProXPN may not be a dependable VPN option for users in mainland China.
Simultaneous Device Connections — Supports Multiple Connections
The ProXPN website does not specify an exact number of devices that can be connected under a single account. However, my research indicates that users can connect up to four devices simultaneously.
ProXPN recommends connecting different devices to separate servers for optimal performance.
To verify this, you can easily connect multiple devices at once and monitor their speeds. This will help you determine if any devices experience a slowdown or encounter errors due to the additional connections.
Device Compatibility — Supports a Variety of Devices
ProXPN is compatible with a range of devices, including Linux, Windows, Android, Chromebooks, iOS, and Mac, as stated on their website.
They provide direct download links to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store for convenience. However, it is important to note that ProXPN does not offer compatibility with routers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles.
Installation & Apps
Rating: 8.2
Set-Up & Installation — Quick and User-Friendly
Registering for ProXPN is a straightforward process. The design of its landing page and website is simple, making navigation accessible for both new and experienced VPN users.
To get started, you only need an email address, a password, and a payment method, after which you can easily download the app. The ProXPN website conveniently redirects you to the appropriate app store when you click the download link.
However, I encountered an issue while trying to download the app on my MacBook Air and iPhone X, as I received a notification indicating that the app was not available in my country. To address this concern, I reached out to their customer support for assistance.
Pricing Overview
Black Plan
Price: $6.25 per month
Platinum Plan
Price: $8.33 per month
Gold Plan
Price: $9.98 per month
Upon conducting thorough research, I found that ProXPN offers two account options: a basic account and a premium account.
The basic account is characterized by significantly reduced internet speeds, a limited selection of server locations, and a data cap of only 500MB per month. In contrast, the premium account is relatively expensive for the limited features it provides.
The premium account offers various payment options that vary according to the subscription duration. Notably, there is no monthly plan available; subscriptions begin with a minimum duration of three months.
Therefore, if you are seeking a short-term VPN service, you may need to consider alternatives, as a commitment of at least three months is required to start.
However, ProXPN does offer a 30-day risk-free trial, providing the opportunity for a refund if you find the service unsatisfactory.
ProXPN supports payments via Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and PayPal. Additionally, users can apply coupon codes, which may be available online for further savings.
Reliability and Support
Rating: 8.4
ProXPN characterizes its customer support as “friendly” and “professional,” a description that aligns with my research findings. The email support service is noted for its friendliness and willingness to go the extra mile to address any issues.
However, it is important to note that ProXPN does not offer a live chat feature, which necessitates waiting for email responses to resolve problems. The average response time is approximately 24 hours.
The website lists Twitter as an additional contact point; however, upon visiting their account, I discovered that it has been suspended due to violations of Twitter’s rules.
In my experience with ProXPN’s customer support, I received a response within eight hours after inquiring about how to download their VPN.
I mentioned that I had encountered notifications indicating the VPN was unavailable in my country during multiple attempts.
Their reply included a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to install the service in my location. Despite following their alternative method, I was ultimately unsuccessful in accessing the VPN.
The Bottom Line
Final Verdict
In conclusion, my assessment of ProXPN reveals that while it is straightforward to install, it is also overpriced, outdated, and lacks adequate security measures. The sign-up and installation processes are relatively simple, but there are no options for anonymous payment.
Additionally, users are required to commit to a minimum three-month subscription, although a 30-day risk-free trial is available.
However, the limited number of servers in less popular locations makes ProXPN an unattractive option for spending your money, even with the potential for a refund. While it can successfully stream US Netflix, it falls short in unblocking other popular streaming services.
Furthermore, ProXPN’s security and privacy features have not been updated in nearly three years, leaving users uncertain about their actual level of protection.
FAQs on ProXPN
Is ProXPN safe?
Probably not. ProXPN offers basic security features such as VPNGuard and encryption, but the encryption is weak and outdated. While it includes a kill switch, which is essential for torrenting, the overall security is insufficient.
Can ProXPN unblock Netflix?
Yes, based on my research, ProXPN consistently demonstrates the ability to unblock US Netflix.
Will ProXPN slow my speeds down?
Yes. Throughout my testing, ProXPN consistently exhibited slow speeds.
Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days
Number of Devices per License: 3
