TorGuard VPN Review 2024 Torguard VPN is a robust product that provides a multitude of security features. In addition to the standard encryption protocols, it also offers the advanced WireGuard tunneling protocol, which ensures faster speeds and better connectivity. The VPN also prevents IPv6 leaks, ensuring that your real IP address remains hidden at all times. Furthermore, it includes a Stealth proxy feature that makes it harder for governments and ISPs to detect VPN usage. Torguard VPN is an ideal choice for those looking to torrent as it provides reliable and secure P2P connections. Additionally, if you’re traveling to countries with restricted internet access like China, Torguard VPN has all the necessary functionality to bypass censorship and maintain online privacy. Overall, Torguard VPN is a top-notch service that prioritizes user security and freedom on the internet.
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Torguard VPN is a popular VPN platform with numerous benefits, but it also has some limitations worth noting. One of its drawbacks is that it struggles to bypass geo-restrictions on most streaming sites, which can be a significant issue for anyone who enjoys streaming content. Furthermore, the app has been known to freeze occasionally, making it less than ideal for users who prioritize a seamless user experience.For these reasons, individuals who value smooth streaming and reliable app performance may find better options with other market-leading solutions like NordVPN. NordVPN provides robust features that enable users to bypass geo-restrictions and access streaming content from anywhere in the world without any issues. With its excellent functionality and reliability, NordVPN emerges as the top choice for anyone seeking a high-quality VPN service. Its innovative technology ensures that your online activity is protected from prying eyes while keeping you connected to the internet securely and quickly.
TorGuard VPN Review Quick Overview 2024
NordVPN | TorGuard | |
⭐ Rating: |
4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
|
3.6 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
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🥇 Overall rank: | #1 out of #42 | #22 out of #42 |
🖥️ Servers: | 6,000 + servers in 61 countries | 3,000 + servers in 50 countries |
📖 No logs policy: | No logs | No logs |
💵 Price: | From $3.39/month | from $4.00/month |
🔥 Coupons: | NordVPN coupon 67% OFF | TorGuard coupon 50% OFF |
🔒 VPN protocols: | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard (NordLynx) | WireGuard, OpenVPN, OpenConnect |
🖥️ Streaming services: | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more | Youtube |
🖥️ Platforms: | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS |
📥 Simultaneous connections: | 6 | 8 |
💁🏻 Support: | Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat | Ticket, email, support center |
Get NordVPN |
TorGuard pros & cons
TorGuard VPN offers a range of benefits and drawbacks for users. On the positive side, TorGuard provides strong encryption and security measures to protect your online activities and data. It also has a large network of servers in various countries, allowing for fast and reliable connections. Another advantage is that TorGuard supports multiple devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and routers. However, there are some potential downsides to consider. TorGuard’s user interface may not be as intuitive or user-friendly as some other VPN providers. Additionally, while TorGuard does offer a 24/7 customer support service, some users have reported slow response times or difficulty resolving issues. Lastly, TorGuard’s pricing plans can be on the higher end compared to other VPN services. Despite these drawbacks, TorGuard remains a popular choice for many users due to its robust security features and wide range of server locations.
Pros
- Strong security features
- IPv6 leak prevention
- WireGuard tunneling protocol
- Lots of DNS options
- Possibility to run scripts
- Good for torrenting
- Stealth proxy
- Free trial version
- Good speeds
Cons
- Android-only split tunneling
- Prone to freezes
- Might struggle to connect
- Unintuitive user interface
- Doesn’t unblock Netflix
Is Torguard fast: What’ s Speed performance?
When it comes to using a VPN, it is common knowledge that your internet speed might take a hit. This is because a VPN adds extra steps to your connection, which can slow down the process. However, some VPNs are designed in a way that minimizes the impact on internet speed, especially if you already have fast internet. TorGuard is one such VPN that provides good speeds, particularly when using the WireGuard tunneling protocol. If you want optimal performance, it’s recommended that you choose a server location nearby to minimize latency and improve your connection speeds.
Baseline: 1 millisecond per second/300 megabits per second download/300 megabits per second upload
Location | Wireguard Latency (ms) | Wireguard Download Speed (Mbps) | Wireguard Upload Speed (Mbps) |
Poland | 44 | 206 | 269 |
UK | 38 | 217 | 275 |
Switzerland | 45 | 292 | 271 |
US (NY) | Failed to connect | Failed to connect | Failed to connect |
US (FL) | 132 | 272 | 239 |
US (LA) | 160 | 185 | 44 |
India | 185 | 178 | 123 |
Brazil | 237 | 232 | 97 |
Japan | 187 | 152 | 208 |
Australia | 317 | 256 | 105 |
In a recent test, the Swiss server emerged as the fastest one, causing only a 2.6% drop in download speed and outperforming most other VPNs available in the market. However, the Japanese server showed the biggest drop in download speed (49%), which is understandable considering its distance from my location. Despite these results, I encountered some issues while using TorGuard VPN, particularly when using tunneling protocols other than WireGuard. The VPN struggled to connect at times and displayed an error message prompting me to check my firewall settings. This problem was not encountered with other VPNs and can be seen as a drawback of using TorGuard VPN.
Despite its potential as one of the fastest VPNs, TorGuard’s connection reliability issues cannot be ignored. To get optimal speeds, users must be strategic about the country they choose to connect to. While this may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can have a significant impact on user experience.When choosing a VPN service, connection reliability is crucial since it directly affects internet speed and stability. While TorGuard’s speed is commendable, it falls short in terms of consistency. As such, users must consider this factor before committing to this VPN.
Streaming performance: does TorGuard work with Netflix?
The race between Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and streaming sites like Netflix is a never-ending one, with both sides constantly trying to outmaneuver the other. VPNs are frequently blocked by streaming sites as they try to bypass geo-restrictions, while VPNs themselves search for loopholes to ensure users can access the content they desire. This cat-and-mouse game has been going on for years and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Despite these challenges, using a VPN remains a popular way to protect online privacy and security, as well as access content from around the world that may not be available in your region.
Platform | Status |
Netflix | No when unblocking US library |
BBC iPlayer | No |
Hulu | No |
YouTube | Yes |
TorGuard VPN may not be the best choice for accessing geo-restricted content on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. Despite several attempts to access American content through the US server, TorGuard VPN failed to bypass the restrictions. However, it was able to unlock geo-blocked content on YouTube. While using TorGuard VPN, I didn’t encounter any errors while trying to access American content on Netflix, but it still remained inaccessible. It is worth noting that some keywords are quite ambiguous and can have more than one meaning.
While TorGuard may not be the best VPN for streaming due to its limited success in bypassing restrictions, there is an option to purchase a dedicated IP address. This can increase your chances of accessing geo-restricted content since these IPs are specifically designed for streaming and may not yet be blocked. With a dedicated IP, you can enjoy faster speeds and better connectivity, which is crucial for streaming high-quality content without buffering or lag issues. Although it’s an additional cost, it can be worth it if you’re determined to use TorGuard for streaming purposes.
Is TorGuard Safe And Good for torrenting?
TorGuard VPN is a reliable solution for those who enjoy peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing, including torrenting. All of their servers support P2P file sharing, and it is possible to torrent via the application itself or the SOCKS5 proxy. TorGuard VPN seamlessly integrates with popular torrenting apps like uTorrent and Vuze, making it an excellent choice for those who want to safeguard their online privacy while engaging in P2P file sharing. With TorGuard VPN, you can enjoy lightning-fast download speeds and a secure connection that keeps your identity anonymous while torrenting.
Based on my personal experience testing multiple servers, TorGuard VPN appears to be a reliable option for torrenting. While the download speed varied at times and was not consistently high, it never seemed to be throttled or capped in any way. In fact, the speeds I experienced were among the fastest I’ve encountered while using a VPN for torrenting. It’s clear that TorGuard VPN lives up to its name and offers a secure and efficient service for those looking to download torrents.
TorGuard features Of Extensive Range
TorGuard VPN is a VPN service that stands out for its extensive range of features, which caters to advanced users. In addition to common features such as auto-login and auto-connect, TorGuard VPN offers many other unique features that are rare among other VPNs. Some of these features include Stealth VPN technology, which allows users to bypass firewalls and other restrictions, and the ability to create custom scripts for more personalized control over their connection. Other notable features include secure email services and dedicated IP addresses, making it an all-in-one solution for online privacy and security needs. Overall, TorGuard VPN’s wealth of features makes it a top choice for those who require a high level of customization and control over their VPN experience.
Split Tunneling
Restricted Apps is a split tunneling feature that is exclusively available on the Android app. It can be particularly useful if you do not want all the applications on your phone to connect to the internet through the VPN. For instance, if you are using banking apps that require secure access, you may want to exclude them from the VPN connection. This way, you can ensure that only the necessary applications are connected through the VPN while others operate independently. The Restricted Apps feature provides users with greater control over their online security and privacy by allowing them to customize their VPN usage based on their needs and preferences.
To exclude certain applications from a VPN connection, simply open the feature and you will be presented with a list of all the apps installed on your smartphone. From there, select the apps that you want to exclude by putting a checkmark next to them. This can be particularly useful if you have certain apps that require a stable internet connection or need to access specific websites or services that may not be accessible through the VPN. By excluding these apps from the VPN connection, you can ensure that they continue to function as intended while still maintaining your privacy and security when using other apps or browsing online.
Scripts
TorGuard VPN offers a Scripts feature in all its apps that allows advanced users to customize their VPN connection. Although it may seem intimidating for beginners, this feature can be incredibly useful. With the Scripts tab, you can write your own scripts or find examples on TorGuard’s website to run before connecting, after connecting, or after disconnecting from the VPN. This means that you can automate certain actions such as launching specific applications or closing them when you connect or disconnect from TorGuard VPN. The Scripts feature adds an extra level of customization and control to your VPN experience, providing more flexibility and convenience.
Automation is a powerful tool that can streamline tasks and improve productivity. With the help of automation software, you can program your app to perform certain actions automatically. For instance, you could set the app to launch a specific website, shut down a program, or map a network drive. This type of automation can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on more important tasks. Additionally, it can reduce the risk of human error and ensure consistency in your workflow. By incorporating automation into your daily routine, you can increase efficiency and achieve more in less time.
DNS options
The Network tab offers a useful feature for managing your DNS options. This can be especially beneficial when a website blocks the DNS of your VPN provider. In such cases, you can choose an alternative DNS to bypass these restrictions. There are various options available, including Level3, Google, OpenDNS, or Cloudflare. Additionally, the China DNS servers are now accessible on this tab. These DNS servers have been designed specifically to operate efficiently within China. With these options at your disposal, you can customize your network settings to better suit your needs and preferences.
Is TorGuard safe & secure?
TorGuard VPN is a highly secure service that prioritizes user privacy. It uses advanced security features such as military-grade encryption, the best tunneling protocols like WireGuard, and WebRTC and IPv6 leak prevention to ensure that your online activity remains private. Additionally, a kill switch is in place to protect users in the event of a sudden disconnection from the VPN server. With TorGuard VPN, you can browse the internet with confidence knowing that your data is protected from prying eyes.
Encryption protocols
Similar to most leading VPNs available, TorGuard VPN utilizes AES-256 encryption as its default option. Cracking it with current technology would require millions, if not billions, of years, which explains why major organizations, governments, and the military rely on AES-256. When utilizing the OpenVPN tunneling protocol, you can opt to switch the cipher to AES-128. While it might appear less robust initially, AES-128 remains a highly effective form of encryption that has not been compromised.
AES-256 requires a significant amount of processing power, up to 40% more than AES-128. It is advisable to utilize the 128-bit version on less powerful devices that struggle with AES-256. Alternatively, one can opt for Blowfish encryption, which may offer slightly faster performance than AES, or disable encryption altogether. However, these choices are no longer accessible within the app itself and must be configured manually. Additionally, TorGuard VPN employs the highly secure SHA-512 algorithm for authentication.
Tunneling protocols
When it comes to choosing tunneling protocols, TorGuard VPN stands out as a top choice, particularly because all of its main apps are compatible with WireGuard. However, there are plenty of other protocols to consider as well.WireGuard, which became available on TorGuard’s Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux applications in October 2020, is a popular tunneling protocol due to its impressive speed and high level of security.OpenVPN UDP/TCP is another highly secure and dependable tunneling protocol that has been the preferred option for most VPN services for a long time. The TCP version is known for its stability, while the UDP version offers slightly faster speeds. Additionally, users can select the encryption type (AES-128 or AES-256) with OpenVPN on any TorGuard app.
OpenConnect, an open-source protocol, is faster than OpenVPN but slightly less secure. TorGuard VPN supports PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and IKEv2/IPSec in addition to the mentioned tunneling protocols. However, these options are not available on the apps and require manual setup, making them suitable for advanced users only. Additionally, there is the Stealth VPN protocol, which disguises TorGuard’s traffic as regular internet traffic and is accessible via port 4443 using OpenVPN, useful for bypassing VPN protocol-blocking firewalls.
Logging
TorGuard VPN is located in Florida, US, which is not considered the most privacy-friendly country due to its membership in the 5-Eyes Alliance. However, TorGuard VPN’s privacy policy assures that they do not gather any user activity logs, meaning that your browsing activity will not be tracked or stored in any manner.
TorGuard gathers data such as payment details, anonymized Google Analytics data, Apache Webserver logs, email addresses, and contact information obtained through live chat. The Apache webserver logs include IP addresses, timestamps, and visited pages, but this information is only accessible when using the website. Furthermore, TorGuard VPN has not been subjected to independent audits, unlike some other VPNs such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark.
Kill Switch
TorGuard includes a built-in kill switch that will disable the internet connection if the VPN unexpectedly crashes. Additionally, the VPN provides a customizable feature called App Kill, allowing users to select which applications should be closed automatically if the connection to the VPN server is lost. Users can test this feature by selecting the programs and clicking the Test button.
Servers & locations
TorGuard VPN is a leading player in the VPN market, boasting an extensive network of 3000 servers that are located across 50 countries. Its servers are compatible with the WireGuard protocol and support torrenting, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize security and privacy. However, while TorGuard VPN’s server count is indeed impressive, there are certain regions where its coverage is limited. For instance, in Africa, only South Africa is supported by its network. Despite this drawback, TorGuard VPN remains a top choice for users looking for reliable and secure VPN services.
Region | Number of countries |
Europe | 27 countries (including Russia) |
Americas | 5 countries |
Asia Pacific | 9 countries |
Africa, India, and the Middle East | 4 countries |
Hotspot Shield VPN Review 2024
Currently, most of TorGuard’s servers are physical. You can verify the physical or virtual status of your preferred server on TorGuard’s official website.One aspect of the TorGuard app that I find lacking is the absence of a map, a feature commonly found in other VPN applications. Instead of visualizing the global server distribution, you can only select a server from a list.
Plans & pricing
TorGuard VPN offers a uniform set of features across all of its subscription plans. Regardless of which plan you choose, you will benefit from 3000 servers spread across 50 countries, allowing you to access content from all over the world. You can connect up to eight devices simultaneously with unlimited speeds and bandwidth. Additionally, TorGuard VPN boasts military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy to ensure your online privacy and security. Whether you’re looking for basic protection or advanced features, TorGuard VPN has a plan that suits your needs.
Version | Price |
Monthly plan | $9.99/month |
Quarterly plan | $6.66/month |
Semi-annual plan | $4.99/month |
Annual plan | $4.99/month |
The plan you choose depends on how long you want to use TorGuard on your computer. I recommend trying the one-month subscription first to test the VPN’s speed, streaming experience, and other factors on your device. If everything works well, you can consider a long-term plan to save money. For a three-month period, you can opt for the quarterly plan at a total cost of $19.99, which equates to $6.66 per month instead of the usual $9.99.
You have the option to consider the semi-annual plan at $29.99 or $4.99 per month. Surprisingly, the annual plan does not offer a greater cost reduction, amounting to $59.99 per year or the equivalent of $4.99 per month. Nevertheless, it would be preferable to receive a larger discount for a full year commitment to the service. TorGuard provides a 7-day money-back guarantee, which is notably shorter than the 30-day money-back guarantee offered by VPNs such as NordVPN and Surfshark.
Is there a free version?
Although experimenting with a free VPN is appealing, TorGuard’s method for obtaining a trial version is quite complex. Essentially, to access a seven-day free trial of TorGuard, you must first purchase a subscription to another VPN. This is because you are required to submit a copy of your most recent bill to a support agent at [email protected]. Upon approval of your bill, you will be granted access to the complete version of TorGuard VPN for seven days.
TorGuard offers a unique opportunity for users to try their VPN service free of charge. If you decide to switch over from your current VPN provider and cancel your old subscription, simply provide proof of cancellation to TorGuard’s customer support team. In return, you will receive a complimentary 30-day trial of the TorGuard VPN service. This offer is a testament to the confidence that TorGuard has in its product and its commitment to customer satisfaction. With this risk-free trial, users can experience all the benefits of TorGuard’s VPN and make an informed decision about which VPN provider best suits their needs.
User Friendly Interface and ease of use
TorGuard’s apps boast a minimalistic design that is almost identical across all its platforms. While this may work for some users, it can be challenging for beginners who are new to VPNs. Unfortunately, the lack of user-friendliness with TorGuard’s apps can be a deterrent for those looking to enhance their online privacy and security. However, despite the initial learning curve, TorGuard offers robust features such as powerful encryption protocols, multi-platform support, and excellent customer service that make it worth considering for experienced VPN users.
As previously stated in this TorGuard VPN review, there is no map available to assist in selecting a country in a more user-friendly manner. Additionally, the settings section appears to be designed without consideration for user experience, as the advanced and basic settings are mixed together, leading many new users to question the purpose of most options. Conversely, the installation process was seamless, and the application’s main window is simple to navigate.
Desktop apps
The desktop applications provided by TorGuard feature WireGuard, OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), and OpenConnect tunneling protocols. I had to manually install the WireGuard package to my Linux app, as it was not part of the initial download. Additionally, the desktop apps offer features such as kill switch, App Kill, script options, and the ability to connect through a proxy.
When using a VPN, it’s crucial to remember that closing the app will disconnect you from the server. To keep using the VPN server, you should minimize the app instead of closing it. This is because when you close the app, the connection between your device and the VPN server is terminated. By minimizing it, you can continue to use the VPN without any interruption in your connection. It’s important to keep this in mind to ensure that your online activities remain secure and private while using a VPN.
TorGuard mobile apps
Despite having a similar appearance, there are some differences between the iOS and Android apps of TorGuard. For instance, while the Android app provides OpenVPN and Wireguard, the iOS app supports IKEv2/IPSec and OpenVPN but not WireGuard. Only the Android version offers split tunneling, which allows users to decide which apps use the VPN connection. However, some users have reported that the Android app is somewhat unstable. When attempting to log in and mistyping the password, the program may freeze and require restarting. Additionally, when utilizing OpenVPN, the connection speed may be slower than with the Windows app. Despite these minor differences, both versions of TorGuard offer robust privacy and security features such as encryption, no-logs policy, and numerous protocols to choose from.
Customer support
The support option labeled as 24/7 on TorGuard’s website may be deceptive as it typically suggests the availability of a live chat feature. However, TorGuard does not offer this feature. Alternatively, users can opt to submit a ticket, which necessitates registration using their TorGuard VPN credentials. Some users may encounter difficulties with this process, such as the page continuously refreshing the login screen after clicking Submit. On the other hand, contacting TorGuard via email at [email protected] proved to be a seamless experience, as it did not require the submission of credentials.
Although they do not offer immediate customer support, they do respond over the weekend. I reached out to them with a question via email on Saturday evening and received a response on Sunday morning. Additionally, they promptly replied to my second question within two minutes, which was remarkably impressive. The responses provided were excellent, and I obtained all the necessary information. Furthermore, the representative was extremely courteous. If you prefer to address issues independently, you can also explore TorGuard’s support center, which features a FAQ section, a knowledge base, and a Community Forum with new threads posted daily.
TorGuard review summary: is it good, and should you get it?
TorGuard VPN offers a wide range of features, strong encryption choices, and impressive torrenting speeds, making it a suitable option for individuals seeking a reliable VPN for security and anonymity. Nevertheless, TorGuard is a somewhat unreliable program prone to freezing and connection issues. Additionally, it is unlikely to bypass the Netflix libraries you wish to reach. While TorGuard provides excellent customer support, it may not resolve persistent app malfunctions.
While TorGuard has great potential as a VPN provider, its applications fall short in terms of user-friendliness. The lack of intuitive interfaces makes it more suitable for technologically-advanced users rather than the average consumer. Despite this, TorGuard has the potential to improve and become a reliable VPN service that can cater to a broader audience. However, for now, it requires significant polishing before one can confidently recommend it to their less tech-savvy family members or friends.
TorGuard VPN In 2024: FAQ
Is TorGuard VPN free?
Although TorGuard does not provide a permanent free version, it does offer a 7-day trial. To access it, you need to email them the most recent bill from your current VPN to [email protected].
Does TorGuard work in China?
TorGuard is expected to function in China, as it has introduced dedicated DNS servers designed to operate effectively within the country’s boundaries. However, users should anticipate less reliable and slower connections. For further details on top choices, refer to our list of the best VPNs for China.
Does TorGuard work with Netflix?
TorGuard VPN typically struggles to bypass the restrictions of Netflix and other streaming platforms. Nevertheless, utilizing a dedicated IP address may yield some favorable results.
Does TorGuard have a kill switch?
Indeed, TorGuard VPN features a built-in kill switch. Additionally, you have the option to designate which applications should close automatically in the event of a VPN disconnection.