As the name suggests, SurfEasy aims to offer a simple way to surf internet without worrying about restrictions. Established in 2011, this Canadian provider is focused on helping users to bypass censorship or geo-based blocks, while offering high security to keep their privacy protected. Their VPN is designed to make things simple, which makes it a suitable choice for new users. Here is more about what SurfEasy has to offer.
Privacy/Security
In order to help you to keep your privacy intact, SurfVPN uses OpenVPN protocol, which is known for its high level of reliability and security. With 256-bit encryption, your data will be protected against eavesdroppers, hackers and other threats. For iOS devices, SurfEasy also supports IPsec with 128-bit encryption. The provider also offers a Secure Search area that keeps your personal information safe as it stops websites from accessing your browsing history. With SurfEasy’s high encryption, your connection will be protected even if you are using a public hotpots so you will be able to enjoy internet securely anywhere you are.
Shared IPs are in use, which adds protection for your privacy. With shared IPs it is very difficult to trace specific online activity to an individual. Additionally, SurfEasy’s privacy policy states that no logs of your online activity are kept. While in 2014, the provider announced that it would support Bitcoin payments via BitPay, it doesn’t seem like this option is available at the moment. While SurfEasy aims to offer protection for your privacy, the fact that they are based in Canada also has some implications that should be considered.
SurfEasy is part of Opera, the company behind the popular web browser of the same name. Since they are based in Canada (which is one of the members of the “5 Eyes” spying alliance), customers who require a high level of privacy may have some doubts about the reliability of SurfEasy in this area. However, it should be noted that the provider claims that they can’t identify individual users based on IP addresses of their servers and since they don’t store data related to online activity, they can’t disclose information about applications, websites or services used.
Features
SurfEasy supports popular platforms like Windows, OS X, iOS and Android. In addition, they have browser extensions for Chrome and of course, Opera. Unfortunately, there is no support for Linux at the moment, but the website offers helpful guides to set up SurEasy on the platforms compatible with the service. There are unique features that will allow you to add another level of security to your online browsing. The highlight is their Private Browser, a micro-USB that gives you the possibility of browsing internet with security and without compromising your privacy.
With the Private Browser, you will be able to avoid that your browsing history is stored. Thanks to this convenient portable device, your internet connection will be secure, even if you are using a public or shared computer. The USB protects your data with 256-bit encryption and it offer password protection. You can buy it for $69.99 and there are no subscription fees involved. Additionally, there is an ad-tracker removal that gets rid of cookies or ad-trackers, helping you to enjoy internet without annoying ads.
Servers
They have ultra-fast servers in multiple locations including United States, Brazil, Singapore and Brazil. Torrenting is allowed and there are servers optimized for this purpose. SurfEasy offers great speeds and protection for your torrent traffic, ensuring that your privacy remains secure at all times.
Plans
Plans are priced according to the the length of the subscription chosen. One month costs $11.99 USD, but the monthly cost can be reduced when you extend the subscription. The price for six months is $53.94, which means that the monthly price is $8.99. The biggest saving comes with the yearly plan as it costs $77.88, which reduces the price per month to just $6.49. All the plans support up to five simultaneous connections and there is a 7-day money back guarantee that covers you in case the service is not right for you or if you have any issues that can’t be resolved.
Customer Support
SurfEasy website offers a knowledge base, as well as useful tutorials to set up the service in the platforms supported. However, finding some details can be difficult and the Support section is somehow limited. However, their team can be contacted via email, ticket system, as well as phone, which is not usual among VPN providers. While the email responses can take a while some times, the phone service was very efficient.
Conclusion
SurfEasy has created advanced security solutions to help you to protect your privacy, even if you are using public WiFi hotspots. Their high quality mobile apps and the Private Browser USB key are practical options to enjoy security on the go. Although P2P is supported, the selection of servers is limited, particularly when co,pared to other services available for the same price or less. Although privacy conscious users may have their reserves about the provider, due to the fact that the company is based in Canada, SurfEasy offers a clear policy and aims to gain customers’ trust through a secure and easy to use service.