ExpressVPN Full Review 2024 – Tested By MY Self

Online security is the top priority of every online user. ExpressVPN is one magic tool that creates a secret tunnel for your internet traffic, making it invisible to cyber threats. ExpressVPN is your key to a safer and more private online experience.

What is ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs that is based in the British Virgin Islands, and thus it is not subject to any international surveillance alliances’ jurisdiction. ExpressVPN has been around since 2009 and keeps getting better. 

ExpressVPN is a tool that protects your online browsing. It keeps your data safe from hackers and snoopers. You can access websites and videos from other countries. It’s fast and easy to use and it doesn’t keep track of what you do online.

Features of ExpressVPN 

ExpressVPN might offer more features, but each tool is expertly crafted for maximum privacy and security. From control with split tunneling to the convenience of Aircove, it’s a technical toolbox designed to empower your online freedom. So, if you’re looking for a privacy partner then give ExpressVPN a try. 

Here are some of the best features of ExpressVPN that you must explore:-

• Worldwide explorer: Want to watch videos only available in another country? It is great for streaming. ExpressVPN can change your online location, making it seem like you’re browsing from anywhere in the world! It had over 2,000 servers in around 160 locations and in February 2023, it expanded its server network to over 3000+ servers in 105 countries.
• Tunneling Protocols: ExpressVPN offers a range of protocols and you get to choose between Lightway (ExpressVPN’s own blazing-fast protocol), IKEv2/IPSec, and OpenVPN (TCP or UDP) for optimal security and performance.
• No-Logs Policy: It is independently audited and verified, your online searches remain off the record.
• Split Tunneling: It directs specific apps through the VPN while leaving others on your native network. Stream geo-restricted content on Netflix while keeping local banking apps non-tunneled.
• Threat Manager: Block trackers, malware, and malicious sites for enhanced online safety. This guardian angel is currently available on macOS, iOS, and Linux.
• MediaStreamer DNS: Bypass geo-restrictions on devices not directly supporting VPNs. It’s a US-only SmartDNS solution, but hey, that’s where most of the good stuff lives.
• 8 Simultaneous Connections: Protect your entire digital devices – laptops, phones, routers, you name it!
• Network Lock Kill Switch: If the VPN connection drops, your internet traffic grinds to a halt, preventing accidental exposure.
• Aircove Router: Ditch the app installs and enjoy instant VPN protection for all devices connected to this sleek Wi-Fi 6 router.
• Stealth Servers: Mask your VPN usage and bypass Deep Packet Inspection, especially helpful when facing anti-VPN measures.
• ExpressVPN Crypto Payments: Pay for your privacy anonymously with the digital currency of choice, ExpressVPN enables seamless crypto trading. 
• ExpressVPN Keys: This password manager (available on iOS, Android, and browser extensions) keeps your logins safe and sound with zero-knowledge encryption.
• 24/7 Live Chat: Tech troubles? Support is just a click away, anytime, anywhere.
• 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Not feeling the ExpressVPN is worth it? Get your money back, no questions asked.

How does ExpressVPN work

Ever feel like someone might be spying at your online activities? Relax, ExpressVPN is like a secret tunnel for your internet traffic, keeping it hidden from others. 

You connect to a website, but your data travels openly on the internet. Anyone could grab it! But, ExpressVPN creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and its server. Your data enters the ExpressVPN tunnel and gets encrypted, making it impossible to understand even if someone intercepts it. ExpressVPN has servers in many countries, so it can make it seem like you’re browsing from anywhere in the world. Cool, right? And you don’t have to worry about hackers on public Wi-Fi as ExpressVPN keeps your data safe by keeping your browsing private 

In a nutshell, ExpressVPN works in following manners: 

• Turn your public internet connection into a private tunnel.
• Encrypts your data, making it invisible to snoopers.
• Hides your real location, giving you online freedom.
• Protects you from Wi-Fi threats and keeps your browsing private.

How to use ExpressVPN 

Getting started with ExpressVPN is a very easy task. In just a few clicks you can save yourself from cyber threats that stay around your digital world. Follow these steps and get started! 

• Visit https://www.expressvpn.com/ and click on “Get ExpressVPN” 
• After installing it, choose a subscription plan and set up your account 
• Now Login to you ExpressVPN account dashboard
• Click on the download button 
• Now take note of the activation code and click on the open file link 
• Click on “Yes” on the Windows permission popup
• The VPN will be installed in a minute 

You have successfully installed and downloaded ExpressVPN, now follow the below given steps to set up your account:- 

• After downloading ExpressVPN, now you need to log in with the same account 
• Allow the windows to install ExpressVPN 
• Enter the Activation Code 
• You can choose to initiate a VPN connection when you log in or skip this. 
• Start ExpressVPN click on the menu available on the top left and choose from the options available to you. 
• Please remember to check the kill switch option- “STOP all internet traffic if VPN disconnects unexpectedly”. 
• Additionally, check “Allow access to devices on the local network (such as printers or file servers)” to enable connection to local devices.
• Click on Ok and 
• Go to the three dots and choose your desired location and hit on connect. 

You can now not connect to your desired location and you can start using this VPN. 

How much does ExpressVPN cost? 

ExpressVPN offers three subscription plans and you choose the one that suits you the best. 

• 1 Month- $12.95
• 6 Months- $59.95 ($9.99 per month)
• 12 Months- $99.95 ($8.32 per month)

ExpressVPN is comparatively costly as compared to other VPNs but if you choose the 12 month plan you can get a flat 35% off. 

Can you get ExpressVPN for Free? 

Though there is no free plan available on ExpressVPN, they offer a 30-days money back guarantee. So you can claim your money back if any of its features is not working on its promises. 

Is ExpressVPN Safe?

ExpressVPN promises ultimate online privacy, but is it just hype or a genuine promise for your digital life? Let’s dive deeper into its security features and see if it truly protects you from cyber threats.

Encryption:

AES-256: Military-grade encryption, the same used by governments and security experts, scrambling your data into unreadable gibberish. Think of it as locking your data in a secure vault, accessible only with the right key.

ChaCha20/Poly1305: Another top-tier cipher, used for additional secure data transfer. Imagine double padlocks on your vault for extra peace of mind.

Protocols:

Lightway: ExpressVPN’s custom protocol, designed for both speed and security. It’s like a sleek, stealthy tunnel that whisks your data away without compromising protection.

OpenVPN: A well-established and trusted protocol, offering robust security and compatibility with most devices. Like a tried-and-true, reinforced tunnel, reliable but not quite as agile as Lightway.

IKEv2: Ideal for mobile devices and quick switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data. Think of it as a portable tunnel, always keeping you connected and covered.

Kill Switch:

This essential feature acts like a safety net, cutting off your internet connection if the VPN tunnel drops. No leaks, no worries, just uninterrupted privacy.

RAM Servers:

ExpressVPN stores data only on temporary RAM, which gets wiped clean every reboot. It’s like writing on sand – even if someone grabs the server, there’s nothing to find.

No-Logs Policy:

Independent audits verify that ExpressVPN doesn’t track your browsing history, IP addresses, or data content. You’re a ghost in the digital world, leaving no footprints behind.

Security Audits:

ExpressVPN welcomes scrutiny, undergoing regular audits by cybersecurity experts to ensure its systems and apps are free of vulnerabilities. Like having a team of digital detectives constantly searching for weak spots and patching them up.

Network Lock: 

This extra layer of protection blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection falters. Think of it as a force field around your device, repelling any unwanted connections.

TrustedServer Technology: Data resides only in RAM, meaning even if someone physically seized a server, they wouldn’t find any logs. It’s like burning your notes after every meeting, leaving no paper trail.

Speed and Performance:

ExpressVPN prioritizes both security and speed, offering lightning-fast connections for browsing, streaming, and downloading. Imagine a secure tunnel that’s also a highway, letting your data flow swiftly and freely.

ExpressVPN isn’t just a VPN; it’s a comprehensive privacy and security suite. With best encryption, multiple secure protocols, a kill switch, no-logs policy, and independent audits, it ticks all the boxes for keeping your online life private and protected. 

Remember: No VPN is 100% secured, but ExpressVPN goes the extra mile to safeguard your digital world. 

ExpressVPN Review: Is ExpressVPN worth it? 

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs, but is it actually worth its hefty price tag? Let’s dissect its pros and cons to help you decide. 

Pros:

Speed: Lightning-fast connections whisk you through the internet without lags or buffering, ideal for streaming and downloading.

Security: Best encryption, perfect forward secrecy, and a no-logs policy lock down your data tighter than a dragon’s hoard.

Privacy: Mask your IP address and choose from servers in 94 countries to vanish online like a digital Houdini.

Global Explorer: Unblock geo-restricted content and bypass censorship walls, accessing the entire internet without borders.

Feature: Split tunneling, kill switch, Threat Manager (malware and tracker blocker), and MediaStreamer DNS offer a smorgasbord of privacy and security tools.

Device Connectivity: Connect up to 5 devices simultaneously, protecting your entire digital menagerie, from laptops to smartphones.

User-Friendly: Intuitive apps and clear instructions make navigating ExpressVPN a breeze, even for tech novices.

24/7 Support: Friendly and knowledgeable customer support is always just a click away, ready to rescue you from any technical status.

Cons:

Hefty Price: 

Compared to competitors, ExpressVPN is a bit of a splurge, with monthly subscriptions starting at $8.32.

Server: 

Though vast, the server network (3,000+) in comparison to some rivals, potentially impacting connection speeds at times.

No Dedicated IP: 

There is no dedicated IP address in ExpressVPN, while this feature is often preferred by some crypto traders and business users.

No Free Trial: 

Unlike certain competitors, ExpressVPN doesn’t offer a free trial for you to test the waters before diving in.

Particular Location IP Error: 

Our team members used and reviewed this VPN by themselves and they found one of the major drawbacks of this VPN is that IP of some other country is shown when you connect to particular locations. For instance, when you connect to the Argentina location the IP address of Canada will be shown. 

Here is the list of Locations that are set and its corresponding IP locations that you get:-

ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN: Which is Better?

Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN are top-tier VPN providers, offering robust security, excellent speeds, and a multitude of features. But which one is right for you? Let’s see a head-to-head comparison to help you decide.

The Verdict:

ExpressVPN isn’t just a VPN; it’s a premium privacy and security suite. If you prioritize top-notch speeds, unwavering security, and a wealth of features, it’s worth the investment. However, if price is a major concern or you crave dedicated IPs, consider exploring other options.

Ultimately, the decision lies in your digital needs and budget. Remember, the perfect VPN is the one that perfectly complements your online life, and ExpressVPN might just be your digital soulmate.

ExpressVPN is the clear winner in terms of speed, while NordVPN takes the crown for price and advanced features. Both offer excellent security and privacy, making them top choices for protecting your online activity. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.

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