Pros

• Unblocks most streaming services
• Includes web filters
• WireGuard® protocol
• Live support
• Built-in 2FA login
• Free version
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• Based in the US
• Small server fleet

What is Atlas VPN?

Atlas VPN was established in 2019, which means it is relatively new compared to established industry players such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN. Nevertheless, it is widely regarded as one of the top VPN services on the market because of its reasonable pricing and impressive set of features. Its excellence is evident from the fact that it became part of Nord Security in 2021. By 2023, the service has accumulated a global user base exceeding 6 million.

Atlas VPN offers both paid subscriptions and a free plan, making it a freemium service unlike most VPNs. Opting for the premium option comes with benefits such as fast connectivity with the WireGuard protocol, unlimited device connections, and access to geo-restricted content through its extensive 1000+ server network across 42 countries. However, it is important to note that Atlas VPN is based in the United States, which has weak privacy protections and is part of the Five Eyes alliance. Furthermore, it does not support router configuration files or the Smart DNS feature, and lacks an independent audit to verify its no-logs policy.

Pricing: How much does Atlas VPN cost?

When it comes to VPN services, Atlas VPN stands out as one of the most affordable options available. Despite being budget-friendly, it still provides unlimited simultaneous connections. This means that a single account can be used to protect multiple devices at once, making it an excellent choice for families or businesses. With Atlas VPN, users can enjoy top-notch security and privacy protection without breaking the bank.

Version	Price
1-month plan	$11.99/month
1-year plan	$3.29/month
2-year plan	$1.64/month

The monthly plan costs the most at $11.99/month, so we don’t recommend short-term plans. Opting for a year-long subscription gives a significant discount, with a monthly price of only $3.29. The 2-year plan offers budget-friendly prices, with a cost of just $1.64/month.

Each plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you the opportunity to test the paid features and determine if they warrant a purchase. Accepted payment methods are credit cards, Google Pay, PayPal, iDeal for users in the Netherlands, KakaoPay for Koreans, Sofort for Germans, cryptocurrency options such as BTC, LTC, ETH, and QIWI, and the newly added Klarna for US users to pay for Atlas VPN in multiple installments.

Atlas VPN free version

Atlas VPN offers a free version, but it’s important to note that there is a 5 GB data limit on this plan, so it may not be suitable for downloading and streaming large media files. As a free user, you have access to four locations: Netherlands – Amsterdam, USA – Los Angeles, USA – New York, and Singapore – Singapore. However, the free version does not provide access to streaming-optimized servers, unlimited bandwidth, 24/7 support, unlimited simultaneous connections, and the Shield feature. Although the two USA locations do have streaming servers, it’s uncertain if those servers are included in the free plan.

Is Atlas VPN safe?

Certainly, Atlas VPN provides a reasonable level of security, but there are better options available for those seeking the highest level of cybersecurity. The service includes fundamental security features commonly found in VPNs, such as a no-logs policy, AES encryption, and a dependable kill switch. Although the available tunneling protocols are reliable, there are only two choices – IKEv2 and the industry-standard WireGuard.

Encryption	AES-256, ChaCha20-Poly1305
Tunneling protocols	WireGuard, IKEv2
Kill switch	✅Yes
RAM servers	❌No
Dark web monitoring	✅Yes
Privacy policy	No logs
Security audits	iOS app audit by VerSprite, Windows app audit by MDSec

Atlas VPN still has potential for growth, as it does not utilize RAM-only servers but rather stores data in fully encrypted drives. While its no-logs policy has not been independently audited, security tests have been conducted for the iOS and Windows apps. It is worth noting that Atlas VPN has been acquired by Nord Security, the owner of NordVPN, which suggests that it will likely adopt similar security standards and practices.

Encryption and tunneling protocols

Upon connecting to an Atlas VPN server, your online activities are encrypted, preventing anyone from viewing them. Atlas VPN employs the AES-256 cipher, widely adopted by government and financial entities for data security, and also incorporates the ChaCha20 cipher with the Poly1305 authenticator for advanced protection.

When it comes to tunneling protocols, you have two choices: IPSec/IKEv2 and WireGuard. The latter is the industry-standard tunneling protocol and the latest feature of Atlas VPN, providing faster speeds and reduced ping. It is accessible on Android, Windows, macOS, and iOS devices.

Logging

Unfortunately, Atlas VPN is headquartered in the state of Delaware, which is not a privacy-friendly jurisdiction due to the United States’ involvement in the 5-Eyes alliance. Therefore, this will not be highlighted as one of Atlas VPN’s advantages.

Nevertheless, similar to other trustworthy VPN services, Atlas VPN does indeed have a no-logs policy. The statement confirms that they do not retain any personal information. Although not explicitly stated, it appears that the no-log policy also extends to the free version. According to their policy, you have the option to reach out to them to request permanent deletion of your account. Residents of California also have the right to request a copy of the data that the company holds about them.

Kill switch

Atlas VPN has introduced a new safety feature aimed at preventing data leaks. Known as a “kill switch,” it is meant to halt Internet traffic in the event of a disruption in the connection to the VPN server. To assess its effectiveness, we conducted two tests: one involved blocking the connection from a router, while the other involved disabling background VPN processes.

During the initial test, the kill switch functioned effectively by terminating the connection when server access was obstructed. Our only concern was the lack of notification when the kill switch was activated. Nonetheless, we appreciated the feature that allowed the Internet connection to be re-established by toggling the kill switch on and off.

The second test posed greater complexity than usual due to the absence of OpenVPN support within the service. Consequently, the VPN processes are linked to the client, necessitating the deactivation of the client while the kill switch remained active. Despite this, the kill switch continued to operate even under these conditions.

Is Atlas VPN fast: What’s Speed & performance:

Certainly, Atlas VPN is a speedy service due to its utilization of the advanced and effective WireGuard protocol. While it may not be one of the top 5 fastest VPN providers, our testing has demonstrated that Atlas VPN performs exceptionally well and shows great promise. The specifics of our assessments are outlined below.

Baseline: 1 millisecond ping, 500 megabits per second download, and 493 megabits per second upload.

Location	Download speed (Mbps)	Upload speed (Mbps)
US (NY)	438	393
UK	455	416
Germany	478	456
Sweden	475	460
Australia	465	239

The test findings indicate that Atlas VPN was able to maintain approximately 92% of our original download speed, which is quite remarkable. It is evident that Atlas VPN’s speeds have significantly improved since the integration of WireGuard. Across the five locations we examined, there were no discernible decreases in connection speed for downloads or uploads. Therefore, you are unlikely to experience buffering or delays.

Expect exactly this from WireGuard, as it is among the fastest protocols available. However, connectivity is influenced by factors beyond just the protocol. Let’s compare Atlas VPN’s speed retention with that of a few leading VPN providers using WireGuard or similar protocols.

What is the Atlas VPN performance with other protocols?

In certain cases, you might consider choosing the alternative tunneling protocol IKEv2 offered by Atlas VPN. Now, let’s examine its performance in our manual speed tests.

• Baseline: 1 millisecond ping, 500 megabits per second download, and 493 megabits per second upload.

Location	Download speed (Mbps)	Upload speed (Mbps)
US (NY)	183	309
UK	461	453
Germany	470	450
Sweden	459	431
Australia	425	162

In most countries, Atlas VPN’s IKEv2 protocol showed strong performance, except in the US. The download speeds in Australia were comparable to WireGuard. Overall, the protocol maintained approximately 80% of its initial speed, which is quite impressive.

Atlas VPN servers & locations

Atlas VPN operates a strong network comprising over 1000 servers in 42 countries, although it is not as extensive as market leaders such as NordVPN or Surfshark. In addition to its general servers, Atlas VPN offers specialized servers for activities like streaming. While initially a mobile-only service, Atlas VPN has since expanded to include desktop clients, with potential for further growth in server numbers.

Regions:	42
Europe:	26
Asia:	7
Americas:	6
Rest of the world:	3

At present, the server selection is the most extensive in Europe, with limited coverage in Asia, the Americas, and other parts of the world. Atlas VPN has recently added 10 Gbps servers, which optimize connection speeds for various online activities, thanks to their increased bandwidth.

When you connect to a server, you have the option to select the Privacy Pro feature, which incorporates SafeSwap and MultiHop+. Servers equipped with these features will reroute your traffic through various IP addresses, effectively preventing tracking. Atlas VPN has also introduced server maintenance notifications, so if any servers undergo short maintenance, you will receive notifications on macOS and iOS devices.

Is Atlas VPN work Safely in China?

Regrettably, Atlas VPN is not a suitable option for bypassing the Great Firewall of China. Our testing showed inconsistent results regarding its functionality in China, and it lacks traffic obfuscation, the primary method for circumventing VPN bans. Your only option is to alternate between tunneling protocols and servers.

Please note that not every server and country will provide reliable service every time you connect. You may need to search for an alternative option. We have had successful connections with Denmark, Ireland, and a few other countries, and fortunately, the connections were quite stable!

How does Atlas VPN work and its use?

Atlas VPN, like all other VPNs available, secures your online data through encryption and alters your IP address, ensuring that third parties, ISPs, and government entities cannot track or log your online activities. Moreover, a VPN is an effective solution for accessing geo-blocked content, securely engaging in torrenting, and more.

If you’re unsure about how to utilize Atlas VPN, simply connect to a server. This will establish a secure connection tunnel, encrypting and routing all of your computer’s data. Once the encrypted data reaches Atlas VPN servers, it is decrypted and forwarded to your desired website. This process makes it seem like the request originated from Atlas VPN servers, ensuring the security and privacy of your data.

How to download Atlas VPN Online?

The official website is the most reliable source for downloading Atlas VPN. Nonetheless, the software can also be found on third-party app stores like Google Play for Android devices. If you need guidance, here are the essential steps to follow.

1. Visit the Atlas VPN site and click on the ‘Grab the deal’ button.
2. Select your subscription package. Every choice comes with a 30-day refund policy.
3. Click the button located at the bottom-right corner to proceed to checkout.
4. Sign up for an account by providing your email address and payment details.
5. Click the ‘Complete purchase’ button to download the app.
6. Follow the provided instructions to install the VPN application.
7. Please log in, establish a connection to the server, and make use of the Atlas VPN services.

How to use Atlas VPN Step by Step Guide?

Atlas VPN is acclaimed as one of the most user-friendly VPNs available, making it intuitive, suitable for beginners, and easy to personalize. However, it’s recommended to make some tweaks for the optimal Atlas VPN experience.

1. Open the Atlas VPN application after it has been installed.
2. Access the Settings menu situated on the left side.
3. Please go to the Security section and activate the kill switch and Shield function.
4. After that, proceed to Protocol and make sure to use Auto or WireGuard for optimal performance.
5. If you wish to modify the UI language or color scheme, please refer to the App settings tab.
6. Return to the Home page in order to activate the VPN connection.

How Is Atlas VPN good for streaming?

Platform	Does it work?
Netflix	✅ Yes
Youtube	✅ Yes
BBC iPlayer	✅ Yes
Hulu	✅ Yes
Max	✅ Yes

Certainly, Atlas VPN is a superb option for those seeking a high-quality VPN for streaming. This service can easily unlock leading streaming platforms with its specialized servers, allowing access to a wide range of global content libraries for endless entertainment.

Moreover, thanks to the excellent connection speeds, using Atlas VPN will provide you with a smooth and uninterrupted streaming experience. Nonetheless, it’s important to remember that Atlas VPN does not have router configuration files, which makes it difficult to use on home theater devices without VPN app support.

Steps For Unblocking Netflix with Atlas VPN

Atlas VPN went beyond what we expected and effortlessly unlocked 11 different Netflix libraries. Therefore, if you find yourself with nothing to watch, you can download it and explore the shows accessible in other countries.

We have managed to access Japanese Netflix as well as the UK and US libraries without any interruptions. Similarly, Atlas VPN is an excellent provider that allows you to watch anything on Netflix by connecting to the appropriate server.

How To Unblock other streaming sites with Atlas VPN?

Atlas VPN successfully bypassed restrictions on other well-known streaming services as well. For instance, the renowned British media streaming platform, BBC iPlayer, was readily accessible, allowing uninterrupted streaming of popular UK shows. Throughout the testing phase, no interruptions or buffering problems were observed. Therefore, if you intend to access BBC iPlayer from the USA or any other location, this VPN is highly recommended.

We had another successful experience with Hulu using Atlas VPN. We were able to unblock the site and stream content without any interruptions or lags. The same positive results were achieved with HBO Max. Accessing the streaming site was easy, the video quality was excellent, and there were no interruptions or lags. We also used Atlas VPN to access a geo-restricted NBA highlights video on YouTube that was only available to US viewers, and it worked just as effectively as with other streaming platforms.

Is Atlas VPN Safe And Good for torrenting?

Atlas VPN is a suitable choice for those who enjoy torrenting. It provides satisfactory speeds and dependable security, even without specific P2P servers. Notably, Atlas VPN accommodates P2P traffic on the free plan, making it a great option for securing your activities at no cost. However, some torrent users may be dissatisfied due to the absence of port forwarding. Our download speed ranged from 4-6MB/s (32-48mbps), resulting in an approximately 7-minute download time for a 2.7 GB file.

The speeds of the VPN may vary due to various factors, making it difficult to determine precisely. Factors such as seeders/leechers and other variables can affect the speed. Testing the service yourself is the best way to gauge its performance realistically. Even the free version of Atlas VPN supports torrenting, but the speeds may not be as fast as those with the premium subscription.

User Friendly Interface & ease of use

The applications provided by Atlas VPN are simple to navigate and highly user-friendly, making them particularly attractive to individuals with limited experience using VPN applications. Atlas VPN provides applications for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux. For added convenience, Atlas VPN has implemented auto-connect and quick-connect features (excluding the Linux app). The Windows app also includes a VPN pause option, and users have the ability to translate the app into multiple languages.

Continuing with the most recent updates to the platform, this VPN now has built-in support for Android TV and Amazon Fire Stick. Atlas VPN offers sufficient choices to compete with the leading services available. Now, let’s explore the primary user interfaces of Atlas VPN.

Android

The Android app of Atlas VPN has actually been available for much longer than its desktop version. This has a positive impact on the user experience, as the mobile app features a much cleaner interface that doesn’t appear cluttered or basic.

In terms of features, the available options include Shield and a system-wide kill switch. Additionally, you can verify if your emails have been involved in any data breaches using Data Breach Monitor. When it comes to Android VPNs, this is a reliable app suitable for everyday use.

iOS

Differentiating between the Android and iOS apps would be a challenge. Both apps appear and function in exactly the same way. This is a positive aspect that companies should strive for more frequently.

The features in Android and iOS apps are identical, including the Shield, Data Breach Monitor, and a kill switch. The only variation is the location of the usage statistics sharing button, but that won’t significantly alter your experience.

Windows

The design of the Windows VPN app is based on that of the mobile apps, which were introduced first. It features numerous rounded corners to enhance visual appeal, and it is quite user-friendly for easy navigation and accessibility.

To quickly find a country, use the search function at the top of the screen. Alternatively, you can browse through the list, which is not too difficult since there are only a limited number of countries. The login includes built-in 2FA, requiring you to confirm a code sent to your email whenever you log in from a new device. While it may be annoying, this feature enhances security.

macOS

The macOS app provided a very smooth experience. There could be some improvement in image and text scaling, but the text was generally easy to read.

It’s important to understand that you don’t manually choose the server to connect to; the application automatically connects you to the closest one. The distinction is that the top of the list does not show this information, so you will need to scroll through the list to identify the location with a green icon.

Linux

Atlas VPN now offers a service for Linux, which includes the advanced WireGuard protocol and dedicated servers. Linux users can also benefit from specialized servers for streaming, as well as SafeSwap and MultiHop+ servers for enhanced online privacy.

While Atlas VPN may not offer a graphical user interface for Linux, it can still be installed and operated through the terminal to connect to servers. This method of use is more suitable for experienced Linux users who are familiar with command-line interfaces. Despite its lack of a GUI, Atlas VPN is still user-friendly for those who are well-versed in Linux operating systems. The absence of a graphical interface does not compromise its functionality or performance, making it an excellent choice for privacy-conscious individuals seeking a reliable VPN solution on their Linux devices.

Atlas VPN features Of Extensive Range

While Atlas VPN may not have a vast array of features, it boasts several noteworthy ones. The Shield feature, formerly known as SafeBrowse, offers a browsing experience that is free from malware and advertisements. Additionally, it provides an IP rotator to ensure that your online activity remains private and secure. Another impressive feature is the data breach monitoring service that alerts you if any of your personal information has been compromised. While other VPNs offer more features, Atlas VPN’s unique offerings make it worth considering for those seeking basic yet effective online security.

Shield

You can locate Shield in the “Assistant” menu toggle. It is a discretionary security feature that you can activate to prevent access to harmful websites. If you are using a VPN and come across a website on the blacklist, you will be unable to access it.

If you are familiar with VPN services like Cyberghost or NordVPN, you may have come across similar premium features. These features generally require a subscription to access and are considered an added benefit of using the service. For instance, some VPNs offer split tunneling, which allows users to route specific traffic through the VPN while other traffic is sent through their regular internet connection. Other premium features may include ad-blocking, malware protection, or specialized servers for streaming or torrenting. While these features can enhance your online experience and provide added security, it’s important to choose a VPN provider that prioritizes privacy and transparency in their policies.

SafeSwap

Atlas VPN introduced the SafeSwap function, located under the Privacy Pro tab, which rotates your IP address while connected to its server. Unlike other VPN providers, where you would need to disconnect and reconnect to a different server, SafeSwap switches your IP address every 10 minutes while you browse.

The SafeSwap server has multiple IP addresses assigned to it, which are shared among users to make IP rotations unpredictable. The changes in IP addresses are not noticeable unless checked manually, and they do not lead to speed drops. SafeSwap offers three location options: The Netherlands, Singapore, and the United States. It is possible that the provider plans to increase the number of servers, although this increase may not be exponential due to the significant number of IP addresses required for each server setup.

Data Breach Monitor

This feature may sound futuristic, but it simply scans whether your data has been exposed in any data breaches. However, this is a premium feature that only paying users can access. This feature can provide peace of mind to those concerned about their online security and privacy. It’s important to note that while this feature is helpful, it’s not foolproof as not all breaches are reported. Additionally, users should always take necessary precautions like using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication to protect their online accounts.

In the event of your data being involved in a data breach, you will receive a summary of the type of data that was exposed. This allows you to easily determine if only your email address was compromised or if passwords were also impacted. It is a useful reference for addressing security vulnerabilities.

MultiHop Puls

When it comes to secure server options, MultiHop+ is considered an upgraded version of SafeSwap. While both servers change your IP address periodically, MultiHop+ takes it a step further by routing your connection through multiple servers. This not only enhances the level of security but also ensures that your IP address is masked from potential hackers or cybercriminals. With MultiHop+, you can browse the internet with peace of mind, knowing that your online activities are protected and kept confidential.

Similar to other double VPN setups, MultiHop+ has the potential to significantly decrease connection speeds as your traffic is required to take multiple alternate routes. Additionally, it’s important to consider that multiple encryption layers will further diminish connectivity. Nevertheless, certain users may consider this a minor trade-off for the unique level of security it provides.

Customer support

The AtlasVPN app provides direct access to customer support sections. Clicking on the FAQ redirects you to the website where you can find general explanations and workarounds for technical issues. All users can access email support at [email protected], while Premium users have the additional option of using 24/7 live chat support.

Atlas VPN sets a high bar for VPN support. Email requests are answered within a few hours, while live chat provides instant and efficient assistance. The company’s exceptional response time and dedication to resolving issues reflect its commitment to delivering top-notch service. With reliable support, Atlas VPN ensures users have a seamless browsing experience while staying protected online.

Is it worth getting Atlas VPN Not?

Atlas VPN is an up-and-coming player in the VPN sector that should not be ignored by customers looking for a cost-effective and efficient service. It ensures fast connections with WireGuard, offers reliable streaming performance, and allows protection for unlimited devices with one account. Nevertheless, it may not meet the requirements of more demanding users.

For the fastest and best overall VPN, we suggest using NordVPN. Alternatively, if you require unlimited connections, router support, and numerous additional features at a reasonable cost, Surfshark is a valuable option.

Bottom Line

Atlas VPN offers a reliable and secure VPN service that is worth considering. With its freemium model, users can enjoy the benefits of a VPN without breaking the bank. The VPN provides strong encryption, fast connection speeds, and a wide range of server locations, making it a great option for both privacy-conscious individuals and those looking to access geo-restricted content. While there are some limitations with the free version, the premium subscription offers even more features and functionality. Whether you’re concerned about your online privacy or want to bypass restrictions, Atlas VPN is definitely worth trying out. Check out our full review for more details on its features and performance in 2024.

Atlas VPN Review 2024 FAQS

Is Atlas VPN free?

Certainly, there are free and premium options available. The free version provides 5 GB of monthly data, so opting for the paid version is more suitable for heavy VPN usage.

How good is Atlas VPN?

Atlas VPN offers a simple and lightweight service. While the premium version may appear to have some limitations, their free version is considered one of the best.

Is Atlas VPN safe?

Atlas VPN is secure, utilizing robust AES-256 encryption for sufficient protection and privacy. Additionally, their kill switch functions properly, and they enforce a strict no-logs policy.

Is Atlas VPN trustworthy?

Atlas VPN is considered reliable due to its strict no-logs policy. However, being located in the United States, a member of the Five Eyes surveillance alliance, raises concerns. Additionally, the provider has not undergone any independent audits of its no-logs policy.

Can you use Atlas VPN for free?

Certainly! You have the option to utilize Atlas VPN at no cost, albeit with limited features and a monthly data cap of 5 GB. Just download the app, register an account, and you can then access the free plan.

Is Atlas VPN legal?

Atlas VPN is permissible in countries where VPN usage is not limited, which includes most of the world except for authoritarian and monitoring nations such as Russia, Belarus, China, North Korea, Iraq, Oman, the UAE, and others.

How do I download Atlas VPN?

To obtain Atlas VPN, the most recommended method is to utilize the official website of the provider. Nevertheless, the VPN software can also be located on different third-party app stores such as Google Play, Apple, Amazon, and Microsoft.