Sometimes, I need to change my IP address, and when I do, I want to feel protected. Thankfully, VPNs exist to keep your sensitive information safe when you send it online. My name is Daniel, and today I'm going to review Atlas VPN, a service designed to keep your personal information private.
Here's what I'll be covering in this video: What is Atlas VPN?, its main features, pros and cons, pricing, and, of course, my final thoughts on whether it's worth the money. Also, I'll include all the useful links in the description below, so feel free to check them out after watching this video – you might even find some discounts there. Okay, let's begin!What is Atlas VPN?
Before diving into the details, let me tell you a bit about Atlas VPN. This service launched in 2019, which is relatively recent compared to some of the bigger names in the VPN industry. However, its newer status certainly doesn't mean it's inferior.
Today, Atlas VPN stands out as one of the most popular VPN services available, boasting over 6 million users worldwide. I'm confident that its affordable prices and excellent features are key reasons for this widespread adoption. Unlike many other VPNs, Atlas VPN operates as a freemium service, meaning it offers both a free and a paid version. It's no surprise that the paid version provides a significantly broader range of features.
Atlas VPN boasts super-fast connections and allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. More importantly, it effortlessly unlocks geo-restricted content from around the world. This is facilitated by its extensive network of over 1,000 servers spread across 42 countries.
Main Features
Now, let's take a closer look at Atlas VPN's main features. Many VPNs typically limit the number of devices that can connect simultaneously. Atlas VPN, however, operates differently; it imposes no limits on concurrent connections.
So, what exactly does it offer? Frankly, it's not the largest VPN provider on the market in terms of server count, but Atlas VPN supports both WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols, making it excellent for streaming HD and 4K content. It also includes split tunneling, which allows you to selectively route certain apps or websites through the VPN while others use your regular internet connection.
Furthermore, Atlas VPN provides a suite of security features such as IP jumping, SafeSwap, a built-in malware and ad blocker (referred to as "Shield" later in the text), data breach monitoring, private DNS, and a strict no-logs policy. It also offers an improved kill switch that requires manual disabling.
Now, let's delve into each of Atlas VPN's features in more detail:
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SafeBrowse: The SafeBrowse feature is designed to shield your online activities. It achieves this by preventing third-party trackers from collecting data about your Browse habits. Additionally, it tackles annoying ads and blocks access to websites known for spreading malware. Here's how it works: when connected to one of Atlas VPN's three SafeSwap locations, the app automatically changes your IP address every minute or two, even when you're inactive. This feature is currently limited to Singapore, the Netherlands, and the United States but genuinely adds an extra layer of protection against tracking.
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MultiHop+: The MultiHop+ feature combines multiple VPN servers to significantly enhance your anonymity. It not only doubles encryption, similar to a regular multi-hop or double VPN setup, but also rotates exit servers in different locations. This provides stronger protection against surveillance and censorship. I must note that you don't have extensive control over this feature; you can only choose between two server regions: North America and Europe. Atlas VPN manages the rest. Personally, I'm not a fan of this restriction, but it's still a valuable anonymity feature.
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SafeSwap: You can also utilize SafeSwap servers, which automatically change your IP address, significantly boosting your anonymity without requiring you to disconnect and reconnect. Plus, it doesn't compromise performance. However, SafeSwap servers are currently limited to three countries: the United States, the Netherlands, and Singapore.
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Shield (Malware & Ad Blocker): Shield is an invaluable tool for your online privacy and security. It effectively prevents sneaky trackers from following your every move and blocks malicious websites that could infect your device with nasty software. This allows you to browse the web without worrying about surveillance or being tricked into clicking dangerous links.
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Split Tunneling: Split tunneling is a convenient feature for users who like to customize their VPN setup. With it, you can choose which applications use the VPN connection and which ones access the internet directly. For example, it's handy for streaming video securely while keeping other activities local. However, please note that this feature is currently only available for Android devices and Windows 10.
User Experience
Atlas VPN currently supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Fire TV, and Apple TV. They are also developing a Chrome browser extension. However, it's important to note that they do not support routers at the moment.
Overall, installing and using Atlas VPN's applications is straightforward. However, to be honest, I wish I could add servers to favorites for quicker access, and I'm not particularly fond of the limited ability to search servers only by continent. While generally simple and easy to use on all platforms, the absence of split tunneling on devices other than Android is noticeable. Additionally, the Linux version currently lacks many features, which diminishes its overall usability.
Pros and Cons
Before we move on, I strive to create educational content in an entertaining way – making it fun instead of boring. In return, I simply ask you to like this video and subscribe to my channel if you enjoy the content I make. That's all!
Okay, now let's discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this service. I'll start with the advantages:
- Affordable: If you're new to VPNs or on a tight budget, Atlas VPN is a top choice. Its paid subscriptions are among the most inexpensive available, and it also offers a free version to try out.
- Fast: Atlas VPN delivers impressive speeds thanks to its use of the WireGuard protocol and the quality of its servers. While speed can vary depending on your distance from the country you're connecting to, overall, it's among the fastest VPNs on the market, with no significant download speed drop-offs.
- Great for Streaming: Atlas VPN is an excellent option for streaming enthusiasts. It provides reliable access to various platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and others, with streaming-optimized servers available in 12 countries, including the US, UK, and Japan. This makes it one of the best VPNs for streaming.
- Safe: Atlas VPN employs military-grade encryption and adheres to a strict no-logs policy. It includes a reliable kill switch and utilizes the secure WireGuard protocol for enhanced security. Furthermore, it offers additional safety features for extra protection.
However, folks, of course, it's not perfect. So, let's talk about this VPN's limitations:
- Small Server Network: Compared to its main competitors, Atlas VPN offers a relatively limited choice of servers to connect to.
- US-Based: Atlas VPN is based in the United States, a country known for its connections to the Five Eyes Alliance, which could be a concern for some privacy-conscious users.
- No Smart DNS/Router Support: Atlas VPN does not offer router configuration files or a Smart DNS feature. This means you cannot set it up directly on devices that don't natively support VPN applications.
Pricing
Okay, let's talk about Atlas VPN's pricing. As I mentioned earlier, the service offers a free version with limited features. This plan has a 5 GB data limit, which might not be ideal for downloading or streaming large files. The free version provides access to four locations: Amsterdam, Los Angeles, New York, and Singapore. It does not include access to streaming-optimized servers, unlimited bandwidth, 24/7 support, unlimited simultaneous connections, or the Shield feature.
There are also three premium plans to choose from: a monthly plan, an annual plan, and a three-year plan. Naturally, the three-year plan offers the best value for money due to its significant discount. Since a free version is available, there isn't a free trial period. However, there is a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can get a full refund within 30 days of your purchase if you're not satisfied for any reason.
Do I Recommend Atlas VPN?
Alright, my friends, it's time for the final question: Do I think you should get an Atlas VPN subscription today? Honestly, I believe it's a good option to consider, especially given its affordability. In my opinion, Atlas VPN is perfect for anyone looking for a budget-friendly and reliable VPN solution. However, if you have more demanding needs or require a larger server network and more advanced features, Atlas VPN might not be the best fit.
Alright, my friends, that concludes my Atlas VPN review! Be sure to check out all the links in the description below; you can find some discounts there. As usual, don't forget to like this video and subscribe to my channel. Thanks for watching, and I'll see you next time!
