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The 4 Best VPN for Omegle (2023 Update)
By Tibor Moes / Updated: March 2023
Why do you need a VPN? Advertisers spy on your browsing history, and hackers lurk on public Wi-Fi networks. So when you go online, your privacy isn’t guaranteed. With a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you can protect your data against attacks and spies.
- Avoid falling victim to identity theft. On public Wi-Fi networks, a VPN will protect your privacy and prevent hackers from stealing your data.
- Use a foreign VPN server to access blocked shows. When you use a VPN, you can unlock your favorite TV shows and movies.
- Prevent advertisers from monitoring your online activity. ISPs and advertisers monitor your activity. A VPN stops them from snooping on you.
Buying the best VPN for Omegle allows you to chat with strangers anywhere while remaining anonymous.

CyberGhost VPN
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- Security and Privacy 100%
- Speed 100%
CyberGhost is the best affordable VPN of 2023. It’s ultra-fast, private, and secure. And it temporarily offers deep discounts.
✓ Stream: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, and more
✓ Torrent: Optimized P2P servers
✓ Return: 45-day money-back guarantee
✓ Privacy: Maximum (no logs)
✓ Servers: 91 countries
✓ Protect: 7 devices
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 45-day return policy.

NordVPN
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- Security and Privacy 100%
- Speed 100%
NordVPN is the most advanced VPN of 2023. It has the best privacy technology (RAM-Servers and Double VPN) and a beautiful design.
✓ Stream: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, and more
✓ Torrent: Optimized P2P servers
✓ Return: 30-day money-back guarantee
✓ Privacy: Maximum (no logs)
✓ Servers: 59 countries
✓ Protect: 6 devices
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Ranking of the best VPN services of 2023
We have tested cybersecurity software since 2014. Below, we have selected the top 4 from 30 paid and free VPN services (Virtual Private Networks).
- 1. 🥇 CyberGhost VPN - The best affordable VPN of 2023.
- 2. 🥈 NordVPN - The most advanced VPN of 2023.
- 3. 🥉 Surfshark VPN - The best VPN to protect unlimited devices.
- 4. IPVanish VPN
- Comparison table
- How we test
- VPN tested
- Frequently asked questions
Click the links or scroll down for more.

CyberGhost VPN Review

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CyberGhost VPN Review
CyberGhost is the fastest VPN in our test. It also has the lowest price and the biggest server network. It's one of the best VPN services you can buy.
Specifications
- Streaming: Works with Netflix US, Disney, Amazon, HBO Max, and more
- Torrenting: Allowed on P2P servers
- Logging: No Logs
- Servers & Countries: 9,000 Servers in 91 countries
- Connections: 7
- 1-Year Price: € 47.64
- Money-Back Guarantee: 45 days
Streaming
CyberGhost has dedicated streaming servers for Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, Hulu, and more.
Torrenting
CyberGhost has optimized P2P servers. It is an excellent VPN for torrenting, thanks to its kill switch, IP- and DNS-leak protection, and no logs policy.
Privacy
CyberGhost has a strict no-logs policy: It does not monitor or record what you do online, and it does not store your IP address. Therefore, you are completely anonymous when using CyberGhost.
Ownership
CyberGhost is owned and operated by CyberGhost S.A. from Romania. Its parent company is Kape Technologies from the UK, which also owns ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, and ZenMate.
Speed
We test all VPN services on a 1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps) internet connection, with the VPN set to the WireGuard protocol, which is the fastest. These are the test results of the best VPN services:
VPN | WireGuard |
CyberGhost | 825-850 Mbps |
NordVPN | 725-800 Mbps |
Surfshark | 700-800 Mbps |
IPVanish | 700-725 Mbps |
Security
CyberGhost applies the most important security and privacy features:
- AES-256 encryption
- WireGuard and OpenVPN (TCP and UDP)
- Kill switch
- Split tunneling (on Windows and Android)
- Ad, tracker, and malicious website blocker
- Dedicated IP
But it lacks RAM-only servers and Double VPN, which NordVPN does offer.
Censorship
CyberGhost does not use obfuscation technology, which hides your VPN usage. Therefore, it is not the right VPN for high-censorship countries like China, Russia, Iran, Turkey, or the UAE.
Servers
CyberGhost has a huge number of servers: 9,000 in 91 countries.
60 Countries have physical servers within their borders, while the other 31 are virtual servers. Although virtual servers are not located within the indicated country, they will give you a local IP address from that country.
It also offers specialized servers:
- Servers optimized for P2P
- Servers optimized for streaming
- Servers with static IP addresses
- Servers with dedicated IP addresses
- Fully owned NoSpy servers
Devices
You can install CyberGhost on 7 devices at the same time. It works with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and a range of routers. It also has browser extensions for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
Prices
CyberGhost has the lowest 1-year price in the industry.
VPN | 1-Year Price |
CyberGhost | € 47.64 |
Surfshark | € 47.88 |
IPVanish | $ 47.89 |
NordVPN | € 52.68 |
ExpressVPN | € 99.84 |
Is CyberGhost VPN the best VPN software of 2023?
CyberGhost is the fastest VPN in our test and has the most affordable 1-year contract. On top of that, it is secure, private, and has one of the largest server networks. It's excellent.
You can try CyberGhost risk-free, thanks to its 45-day return policy.

NordVPN Review
Ranked #2 out of 30 VPNs

NordVPN Review
NordVPN is the most advanced VPN service you can buy. It uses the latest privacy technology, like RAM servers and double VPN, and works in China. It's one of the best VPN providers you can buy.
Specifications
- Streaming: Works with Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more
- Torrenting: Allowed on 80% of its servers
- Logging: No Logs
- Servers & Countries: 5,600 Servers in 59 countries
- Connections: 6
- 1-Year Price: € 52.68
- Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days
Streaming
NordVPN unblocks Netflix in 10 countries, including the United States. It also works with Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
Torrenting
NordVPN allows torrenting on most of its servers. On top of that, it has optimized P2P servers for extra high download speeds.
Thanks to its no-logs policy, kill switch, DNS- and IP-leak blocking, it is a safe choice for torrenting.
Privacy
NordVPN has a strict no-log policy. So it does not record your IP address or online activities. It was the first VPN company to subject its privacy policy to an independent audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Ownership
NordVPN is owned and operated by NordVPN S.A. from Panama. Its parent company, Nord Security, merged with the parent company of SurfShark to form Cyberspace BV in the Netherlands.
Speed
We test all VPN services on a 1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps) internet connection, with the VPN set to the WireGuard protocol, which is the fastest. These are the test results of the best VPN providers:
VPN | WireGuard |
CyberGhost | 825-850 Mbps |
NordVPN | 725-800 Mbps |
Surfshark | 700-800 Mbps |
IPVanish | 700-725 Mbps |
Security
NordVPN is the most advanced VPN in our comparison. It includes both the mainstream security features and the highly advanced ones:
- AES-256 encryption
- WireGuard and OpenVPN (TCP and UDP)
- Kill switch
- Split tunneling
- Ad, tracker, and malicious website blocker
- Dedicated IP
- RAM-only servers
- Double VPN
- Onion over VPN
- Obfuscated servers
- Meshnet (on Windows and Linux)
NordVPN is also available in a bundle, including NordLocker (encrypted cloud storage) and NordPass (password manager and data breach scanner).
Censorship
NordVPN is one of the few VPNs that work in highly censored countries like China, the UAE, Iran, Russia, and Turkey. This is thanks to its obfuscation technology that hides your VPN traffic.
Servers
NordVPN has an extensive VPN server network, with 5,600 servers in 59 countries. They are all physical servers, meaning every server is located within the country's borders.
It also offers specialty servers:
- P2P servers
- Streaming servers
- Static IP address servers
- Double VPN servers
- Onion over VPN servers
- Obfuscated servers
Devices
You can install NordVPN on 6 devices at the same time. It works with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and some routers. It also has browser extensions for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
Prices
Considering that NordVPN is the most advanced VPN, it is a bargain.
VPN | 1-Year Price |
CyberGhost | € 47.64 |
Surfshark | € 47.88 |
IPVanish | $ 47.89 |
NordVPN | € 52.68 |
ExpressVPN | € 99.84 |
Is NordVPN the best VPN service of 2023?
NordVPN is the most advanced VPN software you can buy, thanks to its RAM servers, double VPN, Onion over VPN, and obfuscated servers.
You can try NordVPN risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.

Surfshark VPN Review
Ranked #3 out of 30 VPNs

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Surfshark VPN Review
Surfshark offers the best value for money. It is fast, secure, and affordable. And it allows you to install it on an unlimited number of devices. It's one of the best VPN programs you can buy.
Specifications
- Streaming: Works with Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more
- Torrenting: Allowed on all of its servers
- Logging: No Logs
- Servers & Countries: 3,200 Servers in 95 countries
- Connections: Unlimited
- 1-Year Price: € 47.88
- Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days
Streaming
Surfshark can stream Netflix in 10 countries, including the United States. It also works with Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.
Torrenting
Surfshark allows P2P file-sharing on all of its servers and offers optimized P2P servers for higher download speeds. Due to its kill-switch, no-logs policy, and leak-blocking, Surfshark is a safe choice for torrenting.
Privacy
Surfshark has a clear no-logs policy. It does not track what you do online and does not store your IP address. In 2021, Surfshark underwent an independent server audit by Cure53, a German cybersecurity firm.
Ownership
Surfshark BV from the Netherlands owns Surfshark. In 2022, its parent company merged with Nord Security, creating the holding company Cyberspace BV, also located in the Netherlands.
Speed
We test all VPN services on a 1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps) internet connection, with the VPN set to the WireGuard protocol, which is the fastest. These are the test results of the best VPN programs:
VPN | WireGuard |
CyberGhost | 825-850 Mbps |
NordVPN | 725-800 Mbps |
Surfshark | 700-800 Mbps |
IPVanish | 700-725 Mbps |
Security
After NordVPN, Surfshark is the most advanced VPN in our comparison. It covers all mainstream and advanced features:
- AES-256 encryption
- WireGuard and OpenVPN (TCP and UDP)
- Kill switch
- Split tunneling
- Ad, tracker, and malicious website blocker
- Dedicated IP
- RAM-only servers
- Double VPN
- Onion over VPN
- Obfuscated servers
- Rotating IP
- Override GPS Location on Android
Next to its VPN service, Surfshark also offers antivirus software, personal data breach alert, and a private search engine. These features are sold separately or together with the VPN in SurfShark One.
Censorship
Thanks to its Camouflage and NoBorders Mode, Surfshark works well in censored countries like Russia, the UAE, Turkey, and Iran. However, it does not consistently work in China.
Servers
Surfshark has an extensive network, with 3,200 servers in 95 countries. However, some of these servers are virtual. That means that although you get a local IP address from the country of your choice, the physical server is located in a different country.
Surfshark also offers specialized servers, including:
- P2P servers
- Static IP address servers
- Double VPN servers (Multihop servers)
Devices
Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections. It works with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and some routers. It also has browser extensions for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
Prices
Surfshark's price is excellent. Especially considering that you can install it on an unlimited number of devices.
VPN | 1-Year Price |
CyberGhost | € 47.64 |
Surfshark | € 47.88 |
IPVanish | $ 47.89 |
NordVPN | € 52.68 |
ExpressVPN | € 99.84 |
Is Surfshark the best VPN service of 2023?
Surfshark offers the best value for money in the VPN industry. It is advanced, affordable, and allows you to protect an unlimited number of devices. It is one of the best VPN deals out there.
You can try Surfshark risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.

IPVanish Review
Ranked #4 out of 30 VPNs

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IPVanish VPN Review
IPVanish is an excellent VPN. It's fast, secure, and affordable. And it allows you to install it on an unlimited number of devices. However, it's not as advanced as the others in this list and has a smaller server network.
Specifications
- Streaming: Works with Netflix USA, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu
- Torrenting: Allowed on all of its servers
- Logging: No Logs
- Servers & Countries: 2,000 Servers in 50 countries
- Connections: Unlimited
- 1-Year Price: $ 47.89
- Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days
Streaming
IPVanish is not the best VPN service for streaming. Although it works with Netflix in the United States, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, it has problems with streaming services like Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max.
Torrenting
IPVanish allows torrenting on all its servers. And thanks to its no-log policy, kill switch, and no DNS leaks, it is a safe option to do so. The kill switch is necessary because it will block the internet traffic if the VPN connection drops.
Privacy
IPVanish has a clear no-logs policy. However, in 2018, it handed user data to the US government. Data it wasn't supposed to have, according to its log policy. Since then, it has changed owners twice, but the reputation remains.
Speed
We test every VPN service on a 1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps) internet connection, with the VPN connection set to the WireGuard protocol, which is the fastest. These are the test results of the fastest VPN connections:
VPN | WireGuard |
CyberGhost | 825-850 Mbps |
NordVPN | 725-800 Mbps |
Surfshark | 700-800 Mbps |
IPVanish | 700-725 Mbps |
Security
IPVanish is the only VPN in our comparison that owns all of its servers and doesn't rely on third-party server parks, which is excellent. That said, it is not the most advanced VPN in our test.
It includes the following mainstream features:
- AES-256 encryption
- WireGuard and OpenVPN (TCP and UDP)
- Kill switch
- Split tunneling
But it misses many of the advanced features:
- Ad, tracker, and malicious website blocker
- Dedicated IP
- RAM-only servers
- Double VPN
- Onion over VPN
- Obfuscated servers
Censorship
IPVanish does not work in censored countries like China, the UAE, Iran, Turkey, or Russia.
Servers
IPVanish has 2,000 VPN servers in 50 countries. All servers are physically located within the country and entirely owned by IPVanish. Because it doesn't rely on third-party server providers, it has complete control over the hardware and software, which theoretically should increase its security.
Devices
IPVanish allows an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. It works with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and some routers. But it has no browser extensions.
Prices
IPVanish has a very attractive price, especially as you can install it on an unlimited number of devices.
VPN | 1-Year Price |
CyberGhost | € 47.64 |
Surfshark | € 47.88 |
IPVanish | $ 47.89 |
NordVPN | € 52.68 |
ExpressVPN | € 99.84 |
Is IPVanish the best VPN provider of 2023?
IPVanish is fast, secure, and affordable. It owns its entire server network and allows you to install the software on unlimited devices. But it's not the most advanced VPN in our test and not the best option for streaming.
You can try IPVanish risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Comparison table of the best VPN services




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How we test the best VPN for Omegle
We’re taking a look at the 30 most popular VPN providers and testing their services on multiple operating systems. These include both mobile and PC systems, including Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Let’s look at the tests performed on each of these operating systems.
> Test 1: Logging policy
What is a logging policy?
If you want to stay secure and anonymous online, you should be familiar with the logging policy of your VPN service.
You’ll receive different protection levels depending on which provider you choose. Your data goes through VPN servers, allowing the service to track your browsing habits.
Not only could a VPN service monitor which sites you visit, but it could also track visited URLs, usage metadata, your originating IP address, and bandwidth usage.
This is usually the case with free services like Hola VPN. It’s an unsettling thought because providers might sell the information to data brokers and advertising companies. They’re not making money from their users, so they tap into a different income pool. Unfortunately, that’s the nature of the business, and your information has a price tag.
In fact, our research indicates that roughly one-third of VPN providers save your IP address, while approximately 5% monitor your browsing behavior.
For this reason, users should be aware of the service’s logging policy. Essentially, it’s the business’s policy regarding data retention. It should be transparent and inform you about what logs the provider store. So far, few services have implemented no-log policies and often use vague wording to confuse customers.
What do we test for?
We examine each provider’s policy to determine the type of data it stores. Some information, like server load data and aggregated bandwidth usage, allows the service to bolster security.
But you should never settle for a service that collects the following data:
- IP address: A VPN service shouldn’t monitor what you do on the web, even if they wipe the information when you end a session.
- Browsing activity: Your security is at risk if the provider stores your originating IP address. The address could potentially reveal your approximate location. Similarly, it can uncover who your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is.
> Test 2: Ownership
What do we mean by ownership?
Although a business owns and operates a VPN service, this business is sometimes part of a larger company. Similarly, this company may belong to an even bigger corporation. In theory, all of these entities can access your sensitive information.
Furthermore, the country where the companies are registered impacts privacy since different countries have different data retention laws.
Thus, users should know who the parent company is and where it’s registered.
You may think there are many VPN solutions, but that’s far from the truth. When you take a closer look, you’ll realize that a few corporations own and operate nearly all of the well-known VPN services:
- The Pakistani-based Gaditek owns Unblock VPN, Ivacy VPN, and PureVPN.
- The U.S.-based Aura (or Pango) operates JustVPN, Hotspot Shield, and Touch VPN. Additionally, Aura provides other services like Kaspersky, Panda, and Bitdefender with VPN technology.
- CyperSpace is based in the Netherlands and owns Surfshark, Atlas VPN, and NordVPN.
- The UK-based Kape Technologies owns ZenMate, Private Internet Access, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost VPN.
- Ziff Davies operates from the United States and owns Perimeter 81, Buffered VPN, SaferVPN, StrongVPN, IPVanish, and more.
What do we test for?
We investigate who owns the VPN service, where the business is registered, and which data detention laws apply to them. We also look into the company’s history to see whether it’s been involved in controversies.
Here’s what our investigation revealed:
- In 2016, Homeland Security acquired data from IPVanish. But according to the provider’s logging policy, its servers shouldn’t have tracked this data. Although a different company now operates IPVanish, many in the privacy industry are reluctant to trust this service.
- Kape Technologies was known as Crossrider until 2018. The business hosted a platform where users could develop browser extensions. Hackers and malware creators took advantage of the platform, marring the company’s reputation. As a result, Crossrider rebranded and began operating under a new name.
> Test 3: Independent audit
What is an independent audit?
VPN services have creative marketing strategies, and you may have seen ads using phrases like “Military Grade Protection” and “Zero-Log Policy.” These are lofty claims, but how do we know they’re true?
An independent audit can verify or disprove these claims. VPN services sometimes work with independent auditors who examine specific operations or elements of the company’s infrastructure. Most of the time, auditors focus on analyzing the privacy policy or the server infrastructure.
Below are some notable examples of independent audits:
- In 2019, PricewaterhouseCooper (PwC) analyzed ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer tech. The goal was to determine whether the technology performed as expected and deleted user data after the servers rebooted.
- PwC also examined NordVPN’s server infrastructure, technical logs, and configuration in 2020. Moreover, the audit involved interviewing the company’s employees.
- In 2021, Cure53 investigated Surfshark’s server infrastructure to ensure it was free of flaws.
- In 2023, Deloitte investigated Private Internet Access (PIA). The audit looked at PIA’S privacy policy and server environment.
What do we test for?
Although our team doesn’t carry out audits, they examine whether a provider has undergone an independent audit. Additionally, they study the results of the investigation and whether they back the provider’s claims.
> Test 4: Available VPN protocols
What is a VPN protocol?
VPN protocols regulate the interaction between VPN apps and VPN servers. A protocol establishes how the two behave towards each other and controls encryption, app logging, and more.
The protocol a VPN service has implemented can significantly impact overall security, download speeds, and connection times.
Some of the most widely used protocols include:
- WireGuard: The most sophisticated open-source VPN protocol, WireGuard stands out from its older competitors like IPsec and OpenVPN. It has fewer lines of code, is easier to customize, and boasts unmatched download speeds.
- OpenVPN: This solution is one of the most versatile protocols, which is why most VPN providers use it in their infrastructure. OpenVPN is suitable for most operating systems.
- L2TP/IPsec: This is now an outdated, slow, and simple VPN protocol.
- IKEv2: Designed by Microsoft and Cisco, this option is fast but falls behind OpenVPN and WireGuard.
- PPTP: Most providers have stopped using this old protocol because of significant security concerns.
Several VPN services like ExpressVPN, Hotspot Shield, and NordVPN have developed proprietary protocols. However, only ExpressVPN has an open-source protocol, meaning others can inspect its structure.
So far, providers have designed the following protocols:
- NordLynx by NordVPN (inspired by WireGuard)
- Lightway by ExpressVPN (open-source, developed from scratch)
- Catapult Hydra by Hotspot Shield (created from scratch)
It’s hard to say which protocol is the best. Most providers use OpenVPN and offer IKEv2 and WireGuard as alternatives.
What do we test for?
We look at which protocol each of the providers uses. Plus, we examine whether the protocols are compatible with all devices and operating systems.
> Test 5: Supported encryption standard
What is an encryption standard?
An encryption standard regulates how providers handle and encrypt data.
Passed in 1977, the Data Encryption Act (DAS) was the first key algorithm. It allowed services to encrypt and decrypt information using one key.
The US government passed the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 2002, replacing DAS. ASE is based on the Rijndael block cipher. Consequently, its key size is 128, 192, or 256 bits, while the block size is 128 bits.
Most providers use either the CBC or GMC version of AES-128 and AES-256. The CBC version is slower than its GMC counterpart because it’s written in a series, which minimizes its throughput. It’s also less secure because services can’t encrypt blocks independently.
What do we test for?
We examine the default encryption standard of each VPN provider and which alternatives it uses. If the provider has AES-128 as its default option, we expect to see the GMC version. Ideally, the service will use AES-256.
> Test 6: Basic security features
What are basic security features?
Every VPN service should offer the following basic security features:
- WireGuard and OpenVPN: When it comes to security, few protocols are as effective as OpenVPN. But WireGuard is well on its way to becoming the new industry standard.
- Kill switch: This feature automatically cuts off the internet connection if encrypted VPN tunnels fail.
- Split tunneling: This feature allows specific apps to go past the VPN tunnel and directly connect to the web.
- AES-256 encryption: This encryption standard is essentially unhackable and protects user data from brute-force attacks.
What do we test for?
Our test determines whether the VPN services have implemented these features into their operations and infrastructure. We also check that the present features function as expected.
> Test 7: Advanced security features
What are advanced security features?
Advanced security measures improve the provider’s service, helping to bolster privacy and security. Some of the most important features include the following:
- Dedicated IP address: Your VPN should provide you with a new IP address. It allows you to connect to blocked servers even without an authorized IP address. Additionally, you’ll see fewer captchas, avoid blacklists, and are less likely to get banking errors or warnings.
- Ad, tracker, and malicious website blocker: This safety feature automatically tracks cookies, blocks ads, and identifies suspicious URLs. It protects users from malware, hacking attempts, and phishing attacks.
- Obfuscated VPN servers: These specialized servers mask the fact that you’re using a VPN-enabled IP address. They’re invaluable for users living in the UAE or China, and other countries known for crackdowns on VPN traffic.
- Double VPN: This feature routes traffic through two servers instead of one. It’s also called VPN server chaining and helps enhance encryption and improve IP protection.
- RAM-only servers: These specialized servers don’t use traditional hard drives. Services use this technology primarily because it automatically deletes data from the Random Access Memory (RAM) whenever the server reboots.
- Override GPS location: Thanks to this feature, you can adjust your location to align with the server’s location. Often called GPS spoofing, it prevents programs like Facebook or Google Maps from tracking your movements.
What do we test for?
We check which, if any, of these features each provider offers and whether they work correctly.
> Test 8: IP leak
What is an IP leak?
Each device we use to access the web has a public and private IP address.
Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) assigns a public IP address to your device. As the name suggests, the information is public and can be accessed via the web.
You’ll either receive an IPv4 or IPv6 address. In the last few years, the latter has become more prominent.
On the other hand, a private IP address allows your device to communicate with other devices using the same network.
Unfortunately, public IP addresses aren’t known for premium safety. Here are the most significant ways they can put you in a vulnerable position:
- Hackers can trace back your public IP address to your ISP and learn your approximate geographical location. They won’t find your home address, but you don’t want strangers to know your zip code or neighborhood.
- It can reveal information about your browsing habits and online activity.
With a VPN, you can prevent the above issues. One of the primary functions of a VPN is to hide the originating IP address and replace your public address with that of the VPN server. This is beneficial in two ways:
- It stops your ISP from monitoring your web activity. The ISP will know you have a VPN but won’t be able to see what’s happening behind the privacy walls.
- When you open an app or website, they’ll register the IP address of the VPN server, not your originating address. Thus, you’ll protect your location and identity. Not to mention, you’ll unlock geo-restricted content.
How does all this tie into VPN leaks? A VPN leak occurs when your online actions lead back to your originating IP address and not the server’s address.
What do we test for?
Our test involves connecting to a VPN service and identifying the IP address that shows up when we go online. If we find the originating IP address, we have an IP leak, which is a major threat to online security and privacy.
> Test 9: DNS leak
What is a DNS leak?
DNS stands for Domain Name System, an internet protocol that transforms web addresses into IP addresses. It allows devices to interact with each other and identify which sites you want to visit. Typically, Internet Service Providers (ISP) operate DNS servers. As a result, the ISP can use this internet protocol to view your browsing history.
Whenever you type a website into the address bar and press “Enter,” the browser contacts DNS servers to access the site’s contents. Since your ISP operates these servers, they can track your browsing behavior.
For this reason, the top VPN providers have their own DNS servers. But DNS leaks can still occur.
A DNS leak happens when a VPN fails to route traffic through encrypted tunnels. It can also occur when you make a mistake while manually tweaking your VPN settings.
What do we test for?
We perform a DNS server lookup to test for leaks for each DNS service. If we find that the provider doesn’t own their servers, we’re likely dealing with a leak.
> Test 10: WebRTC leak
What is a WebRTC leak?
Web browsers like Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Google Chrome rely on WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) for video and audio streaming. It allows users to stream audio files and play video games without installing additional programs.
WebRTC technology shares data with the browser, accessing information like your public and local IP addresses. Although users can block WebRTC requests, this method doesn’t always work. Moreover, it may negatively impact your browser’s performance.
A more effective way of handling the issue is using a VPN. When the VPN server accepts a WebRTC request, it uses its own IP address. But a WebRTC leak may happen from time to time. In such cases, the server will show your local IP address during WebRTC transmissions.
What do we test for?
During our test, we used a VPN and performed a WebRTC lookup. If we see the originating IP address, we identify a WebRTC leak.
> Test 11: Download speed via OpenVPN
What is OpenVPN?
Most VPN providers use OpenVPN because it is among the most secure VPN protocols. This open-source protocol creates stable connections on the web.
Due to its open-source nature, users can access the source code and identify improvement areas.
There are currently two versions of OpenVPN:
- OpenVPN UDP (User Datagram Protocol): Most providers prefer the UDP version because it offers impressive download speeds.
- OpenVPN TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): Although this version guarantees improved data transmission control, it has slightly slower download speeds.
OpenVPN remains the most widely used protocol, despite the release of WireGuard. Nevertheless, several providers have switched to WireGuard because of its unmatched download speeds. But many of these services still carry OpenVPN as an alternative.
What do we test for?
We set this open-source protocol on the Windows app and run a download speed test. We use a 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) internet connection to ensure the most accurate results.
> Test 12: Supported speed via WireGuard
What is WireGuard?
Another popular open-source protocol, WireGuard rivals OpenVPN, with tech experts calling it the new gold standard of the industry.
It’s easier to use and faster than OpenVPN. While the older design uses more than 500,000 lines of code, WireGuard has only 4,000.
WireGuard is compatible with most operating systems, including Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows. Our research concluded that it’s 60% faster than its main competitor, OpenVPN.
What do we test for?
We test each VPN provider using the WireGuard protocol on an internet connection with a speed of 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps).
> Test 13: (Virtual) VPN servers and locations
What are (virtual) VPN servers?
A server hosts the VPN’s software, allowing providers to create encrypted tunnels. Services typically use physical servers, and the equipment is located in the region or country indicated in the VPN app. So, if you have a VPN, your device has an originating IP address from a physical server.
But some countries don’t have the infrastructure to host physical servers. Consequently, several VPNs have started using virtual servers. These specialized servers give your device a local IP address regardless of the server’s actual location.
Most services have physical servers in approximately 60 countries. If the provider hosts servers in over 60 countries, it usually offers both physical and virtual servers.
What do we test for?
We run a test to determine the number of physical and virtual servers each provider has. Moreover, we establish whether users can select servers on a country or city level.
> Test 14: Streaming compatibility
What is compatibility with a streaming service?
One of the main reasons users enjoy using VPNs is accessing geo-restricted content. Many popular streaming services like HBO Max, Netflix, and Disney Plus have titles unavailable in certain countries. Due to your location, you’re unable to relax with your favorite movie or TV show. Thanks to a VPN, that’s a non-issue.
Say the new season of your favorite show is streaming on the U.S. version of Netflix. But you live outside of the U.S. and can’t bypass the geo-blocks. With a VPN, you can hide your originating IP address and connect to a U.S.-based server without difficulty.
However, major players like Netflix have started using VPN detection technology to identify and block users with VPNs. Depending on your VPN provider, you may still be unable to access the platform’s content.
For this reason, we value VPN providers that periodically update their software to bypass the restrictions of major streaming services.
What do we test for?
The goal of the test is to identify providers who provide users access to the following streaming platforms:
- BBC iPlayer
- Hulu
- HBO Max
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video
- Disney Plus
The testing process for Netflix involves additional steps to ensure the provider can unlock the Mexican, Brazilian, Japanese, German, Australian, and UK versions of the service.
> Test 15: Torrenting compatibility
What is compatibility with a torrent network?
Torrenting is a form of P2P (peer-to-peer) downloading that allows users to upload files so others can download them. Servers usually aren’t necessary for this type of downloading. Instead, you can use torrent clients like BitTorrent.
While torrenting isn’t technically illegal, downloading copyrighted content like TV shows and movies is ill-advised. Copyright laws can be pretty stringent, which is why many people equate torrenting with piracy.
What do we test for?
Our tests involve determining whether each VPN provider allows users to download content through P2P networks on their servers.
> Test 16: Annual price and price per device
What is the annual price and price per device?
VPN providers have different pricing plans. While some offer their services free of charge, the top choices have premium paid subscriptions.
As a rule of thumb, long-term plans are the most budget-friendly, and you can lower the monthly subscription price without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, shorter monthly plans are the most expensive. Thus, customers should consider purchasing a six-month or twelve-month plan instead of a one-month subscription.
Our team examines their annual contracts to calculate how much services charge per device. Although most providers have similarly priced options, ExpressVPN’s subscriptions are significantly more expensive.
IPVanish and Surfshark are more user-friendly because you can use their VPN app on unlimited devices. This helps reduce the per-device fees, and you can even split the costs with friends and family members.
What do we test for?
We evaluate the annual contracts of each VPN provider to determine the yearly price. Next, we use the number of allowed devices to calculate monthly and per-device fees.
What VPNs for Omegle have we tested?
We have tested 30 paid and free VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). Proton VPN is the best free VPN service. But if you have the money, we recommend getting a paid VPN service.
In the best case, the free version allows you to protect only one device and doesn’t offer you unlimited bandwidth / unlimited data. And in the worst case, the free VPN providers show you ads or secretly sell your browsing history to advertisers and your internet service provider.
And should you be strapped for cash, don’t opt for an expensive VPN like ExpressVPN. Instead, get a cheap VPN, like Surfshark, that allows you to install it on an unlimited number of devices and share the cost with a friend.
- Astrill VPN
- Atlas VPN
- Avast SecureLine VPN
- Betternet VPN
- Bitdefender VPN
- CactusVPN
- CyberGhost VPN
- ExpressVPN
- HideME VPN
- HMA VPN (HideMyAss VPN)
- Hola VPN
- Hotspot Shield VPN
- IPVanish VPN
- Ivacy VPN
- IVPN
- Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection
- McAfee Safe Connect VPN
- Mozilla VPN
- MullVad VPN
- NordVPN
- Norton Secure VPN
- Private Internet Access VPN
- PrivateVPN
- Proton VPN
- PureVPN
- StrongVPN
- Surfshark VPN
- Tunnelbear VPN
- VyprVPN
- Windscribe VPN
The best are: CyberGhost, NordVPN, and Surfshark.
Frequently asked questions
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) protects your online privacy. It creates an encrypted VPN tunnel between your device and a VPN server. This tunnel hides your IP address, restores your anonymity online and makes you safe on public Wi-Fi networks.
Why do you need a VPN?
You need a VPN to restore your online privacy and security. Without a VPN, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and advertisers can track everything you read, watch and download online. On top of that, if you don’t use a VPN, hackers will be able to steal your data on public Wi-Fi networks, which can lead to identity theft.
How does a VPN work?
A VPN creates an encrypted connection, called a VPN tunnel, between your devices and a VPN server. This hides your IP address and what you do online. As a result, your ISP won’t be able to see what websites you visit, and advertisers won’t be able to know what your IP address is.
What is the best VPN?
CyberGhost, NordVPN, and Surfshark are the best VPN services of 2023. NordVPN is the most advanced VPN service. CyberGhost has the highest download speeds and the lowest one-year price. And Surfshark allows you to install the software on unlimited devices.
What is the fastest VPN?
CyberGhost, NordVPN, and Surfshark are the fastest VPN services of 2023. Although CyberGhost is slightly faster than the other two, the difference is not noticeable for most users.
Languages, comparisons and Sources
Other comparisons on SoftwareLab.org:
- Best Antivirus of 2023
- Antivirus for Windows 11
- Antivirus for macOS
- Antivirus for Android
- Antivirus for iOS
- Antivirus with a VPN
- Best VPN of 2023
VPN privacy policies and independent audits:
- CyberGhost – Privacy Policy
- CyberGhost – Transparency Report
- ExpressVPN – Privacy Policy
- ExpressVPN – PWC Audit
- ExpressVPN – Lightway Audit
- ExpressVPN – Browser Extension Audit
- IPVanish – Privacy Policy
- NordVPN – Privacy Policy
- NordVPN – Privacy Policy Audit
- Surfshark – Privacy Policy
- Surfshark – Infrastructure Audit
VPN testing tools:
- BrowserLeaks – Data Leak Test
- Fast – Speed Test
- Speed Test – Speed Test
- Exodus – Privacy Audit Android
Custom VPN protocols:
VPN mergers and acquisitions:
- NordVPN and Surfshark merger
- Kape technologies buys CyberGhost
- Kape Technologies buys ExpressVPN
- Kape technologies buys Private Internet Access

Author: Tibor Moes
Founder & Chief Editor at SoftwareLab
Tibor is a Dutch engineer and entrepreneur. He has tested security software since 2014.
Over the years, he has tested most of the best antivirus software for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, as well as many VPN providers.
He uses Norton to protect his devices, CyberGhost for his privacy, and Dashlane for his passwords.
This website is hosted on a Digital Ocean server via Cloudways and is built with DIVI on WordPress.