Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Features: 4/5
Price: 3/5
Customer Service: N/A
Pros:
- Excellent utility beyond basic VPN services
- Comprehensive device support
- Strong focus on security
Cons:
- Some performance issues with speed
- No free trial available
- Strict refund policy
Why Trust Us?
The Proxy.sh VPN team rigorously tests all products and relies on firsthand research. We’ve been reviewing products and services since 2012, ensuring that all our content is created and vetted by experts.
About Proxy.sh
Founded in 2012, Proxy.sh is a Seychelles-based company that initially focused on proxy services but soon expanded into the VPN space. Despite its name, Proxy.sh offers much more than proxy functionality.
The company quickly developed software compatible with major platforms, including Mac, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS. Over time, Proxy.sh integrated additional utilities like email control and security checks, further enhancing its value.
Security is at the heart of Proxy.sh’s offering, providing users with highly customizable VPN configurations. These configurations extend beyond the software, incorporating external tools like leak-checking websites, which help detect DNS, torrent, GPS, and other potential leaks.
Service Status
As of December 2019, Proxy.sh VPN has ceased operations and is no longer available.
Features Overview
- Countries Covered: UK, US, AU, CA, AT, FR, IT, NL, and more
- Bandwidth: Unlimited
- Number of Servers: 100
- Number of Connected Devices Allowed: 2
- Supported VPN Protocols:
- OpenVPN
- PPTP
- L2TP
- SSTP
- IPSec
- SSL
- Security Features:
- Kill switch for enhanced protection
Proxy.sh offers excellent client support across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Additionally, the service provides a variety of non-client tools to enhance user experience. For instance, Proxy.sh operates a dedicated speed test site and other specialized test sites that help users detect data leaks.
These tools allow you to test your regular or VPN connection for IPv6, GPS, WebRTC, Torrent, DNS, and other security vulnerabilities. Furthermore, IPv6 and DNS leak protection are integrated within the client, although DNS leak protection is only available on Proxy.sh’s servers.
In addition to its proprietary software, Proxy.sh is fully compatible with the open-source OpenVPN client. To facilitate this, Proxy.sh provides a configuration generator accessible from the main page. It’s important to note that if you found Proxy.sh’s software somewhat minimalistic, the OpenVPN client offers an even more basic experience.
This is expected, as OpenVPN is a general-purpose, open-source software that allows for customization by anyone. Despite its simplicity, the OpenVPN client is fully functional on Proxy.sh’s networks.
Some minor inconveniences include the need to re-enter login credentials when switching servers and managing server changes via the taskbar. However, aside from these factors, the overall experience is straightforward.
The Windows client itself is user-friendly, though we did encounter occasional inconsistencies when connecting to servers.
At times, the connection process seemed to lag, taking longer to connect or disconnect, and displaying error messages even when the connection was functioning properly.
When you make a purchase, you will receive unique login credentials separate from the ones used to register on Proxy.sh’s website. These credentials will be sent via email and can also be accessed in the client area of the official site.
Additional Free Tools
Proxy.sh also offers several non-client tools free of charge, including test sites and a speed test feature. However, these tools are only available to registered users of the Proxy.sh website, which is free to join. We will outline these additional features individually below.
Security Check
The Security Check is one of Proxy.sh’s most straightforward tools. Upon activation, it directs you to a page displaying key details about your internet connection, including whether you’re connected to a VPN.
We recommend using this feature regularly, as it allows you to verify your VPN connection and assess your standard internet connection. The tool provides a clear view of your IP address and includes a world map, which serves as a visual confirmation of your VPN protection.
Speed Test
Proxy.sh’s speed test is exclusively available for testing the performance of its server network. Users can test any of Proxy.sh’s server nodes to evaluate connection speeds.
However, there is a limitation: while you can select multiple server locations at once, you are restricted to testing a maximum of ten locations per day.
Torrent Leak Check
The Torrent Leak tool is particularly useful for users engaged in file-sharing activities, which Proxy.sh fully supports across all servers.
This tool enables you to verify the type of proxy in use. Proxy.sh supports SOCKS proxies in two configurations: within their VPN network and outside of it.
WebRTC Leak Check
WebRTC is a communication protocol that, according to privacytools.io, “relies on JavaScript and can potentially expose your real IP address, even when behind a VPN.”
Proxy.sh’s WebRTC Leak Check tool allows you to verify whether your connection is vulnerable to such leaks.
GPS Leak Check
For users with GPS-enabled devices, the GPS Leak Check tool is invaluable. When GPS is active, third parties may be able to track your physical location—something often depicted in crime-related television shows.
Proxy.sh’s GPS Leak Check allows you to assess your online visibility in terms of geographic location, helping to determine whether your connection is exposing your whereabouts.
IPv6 Leak Check
The IPv6 Leak Check is another essential tool provided by Proxy.sh. Although IPv4 remains the dominant Internet Protocol, IPv6 was introduced to enhance utility and security.
However, no system is entirely foolproof. Proxy.sh’s IPv6 Leak Check helps you monitor the status of your IPv6 connection to ensure its security.
VPN Network
Proxy.sh provides access to VPN servers in up to 51 countries, which is a respectable number, especially given the inclusion of less commonly listed countries like Moldova and Portugal. The service also features a high-speed “Boost Network,” which consists of VPN nodes hosted on some of the fastest internet lines.
According to Proxy.sh’s FAQ, this Boost Network includes nodes in locations such as the U.S. West Coast (Fremont, CA), U.S. East Coast (Newark, NY), United Kingdom (London), and Japan (Tokyo), with plans to expand to France and Canada.
During our tests, we observed only marginal improvements in connection speed on the Boost Network, though it should be noted that we conducted these tests using 4096-bit encryption for maximum security. While the results were solid for such a high level of encryption, the overall performance could be considered average.
Proxy Support
As the name suggests, Proxy.sh also supports proxies. Historically, Proxy.sh may have offered more extensive proxy services, but today it mainly provides SOCKS proxy support. Proxy.sh operates its own SOCKS proxy servers in North America and Europe, with the option to configure SOCKS both with and without a VPN.
It is important to note that when using SOCKS in conjunction with a VPN, only the North American server is available. Additionally, it is somewhat concerning that Proxy.sh does not specify whether the proxy uses SOCKS4 or SOCKS5 in its otherwise well-constructed setup guides, leaving users to assume it may be a basic SOCKS proxy.
It is important to note that Proxy.sh is headquartered in the Seychelles. Despite being a part of the Commonwealth, the Seychelles imposes no laws that specifically govern VPN companies.
As a result, Proxy.sh has minimal obligations to the state, which enhances the security of your stored personal information—albeit limited. This means that your data is managed with a greater degree of privacy and protection.
Czech Republic
Latvia
USA
Privacy Protection
Proxy.sh offers a comprehensive range of privacy protection options. Users can establish VPN connections using both TCP and UDP protocols, providing flexibility in their connectivity choices. Additionally, Proxy.sh allows for the selection of specific ports, enhancing the customization of connections.
The default encryption protocol utilized is OpenVPN, employing RSA 4096-bit encryption, which is highly regarded for its security strength. Alternatively, users have the option to utilize L2TP and PPTP protocols, accommodating various preferences and requirements.
For those seeking additional protection, Proxy.sh provides SoftEther as an alternative to OpenVPN. One of the key advantages of SoftEther is its SSL support, significantly enhancing the security of browsing activities. Furthermore, Proxy.sh offers a CGI proxy, enabling users to connect to websites anonymously.
For users engaged in FTP-based networking, Proxy.sh also facilitates this through its proxy services, catering to a wide array of privacy needs.
Proxy.sh upholds a robust privacy policy, collecting only essential information from subscribers.
The company requires users to provide their email address and payment method. In terms of VPN usage, Proxy.sh maintains standard logging practices, tracking details such as connection and disconnection times, as well as the amount of bandwidth consumed.
Importantly, Proxy.sh does not monitor the websites users visit, ensuring a higher level of privacy for its clients.
OS and Device Support
Proxy.sh provides extensive platform support to ensure a seamless user experience across various devices:
- Web App: The web application allows users to access services directly through their browsers, offering convenience without the need for additional installations.
- Mobile Optimized: The platform is optimized for mobile devices, ensuring users can navigate and utilize services effortlessly on smartphones and tablets.
- macOS: Proxy.sh is fully compatible with macOS, providing Mac users with secure and reliable internet access.
- Linux: The service supports multiple Linux distributions, catering to users who prefer open-source operating systems.
- Android: A dedicated application for Android devices offers a user-friendly interface and robust security features.
- Windows: Proxy.sh is easily installable on Windows, allowing users to secure their online activities with minimal effort.
- iOS: The service is also available for iOS devices, ensuring that iPhone and iPad users can maintain their privacy while browsing the internet.
Proxy.sh offers exceptional device support across a wide range of operating systems. Compatible desktop systems include Windows XP, Vista, RT, 7, 8, and 10, as well as Linux distributions such as Ubuntu and Debian. Users can also utilize Proxy.sh on Google Chrome OS and macOS X.
For mobile devices, Proxy.sh supports Android, iOS, and Windows Phone (versions 6 and 7). Additionally, the service is compatible with various routers, including Boxee Box, Linksys, D-Link, DD-WRT, TP-Link, ZyXEL, Tomato, and PfSense, along with any other Linux-based platform (such as Fedora and Mint). Gaming consoles and Raspberry Pi are also supported, providing users with extensive options for secure internet access.
Pricing
Proxy.sh offers four distinct pricing plans to accommodate varying needs:
- Quick Package: Priced at $2 for three days, this plan allows users to connect to two countries. It is ideal for users looking to test the service.
- Basic Package: At $5 per month or $3.33 per month when billed annually, this option provides access to five countries.
- Solid Package: Available for $10 monthly or $7.50 per month on an annual basis, this plan includes over 50 countries but lacks some of the more advanced features.
- Pro Plan: This premium plan is priced at $20 per month or $16.66 when billed annually. It offers the full server list, an additional 250 GB/month network boost, and the multi-hop feature. However, it may not provide the value found in offerings from top-tier VPN providers at this price point. The other plans are more competitively priced and worth considering for users seeking effective VPN solutions.
Proxy.sh has a strict refund policy, generally not allowing refunds in most cases. If you decide to seek a refund, your request is unlikely to be granted. However, there are some exceptions outlined on their official website:
“PayPal allows effortless refunds with no charges incurred for any of the parties involved in the transaction. Hence, we are able to provide you a refund on PayPal if you request it within seven (7) days after the date of your purchase. Unfortunately, our generosity stops here.”
In essence, this means that a refund is available only if you made your payment via PayPal and requested it within a 7-day window. This policy also applies to free trials, as there is no opportunity to test Proxy.sh without incurring some costs.
Proxy.sh accepts payments through 85 different methods.
Customer Support
Proxy.sh offers robust customer support, available 24/7, through multiple channels:
- Live Chat: While there is no live chat feature, support representatives are accessible via other means.
- Email: Users can contact support directly through email.
- Phone: Phone support is also available.
- Community Resources: Support includes a community forum, FAQs, video tutorials, remote desktop assistance, and a blog.
- Social Media: Proxy.sh maintains a presence on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, GitHub, and YouTube.
An advantage of Proxy.sh is its support for approximately 30 different languages, which is significantly more than many other VPN providers. Users can submit inquiries through a ticket form, categorizing their requests and attaching files for clarification.
Conclusion
Proxy.sh extends beyond a conventional VPN service, offering a comprehensive range of additional (and free) services that position it as a full-scale online protection solution. While the high level of encryption ensures robust security, it may impact connection speeds, despite Proxy.sh’s servers performing admirably.
However, the absence of a free trial and the limitation of refunds only through PayPal are notable drawbacks, making it challenging for users to adequately assess the service before committing.
