Like many VPNs, ZenMate has a free version and a premium. The free version is rather basic and provides limited server locations and download speeds. However, the premium version is loaded with security features and military-grade encryption protocols. Not to mention other juicy features in the form of browser extensions.
Logging
ZenMate has a close-to-zero logging policy. The company doesn’t track or record browsing activities, IP addresses, and server IPs.
It only collects the most basic data required to operate it servers: Connection timestamps and bandwidth usage. Such information is meaningless to anyone trying to track your online presence, as neither can be used to analyze your browsing and downloading behavior.
Jurisdiction
ZenMate is based in Germany, which is part of what’s known as the 5/9/14-Eyes Alliance. The latter alliance includes a list of fourteen countries that have agreed to share gathered international intelligence. That said, due to its no-logging policy, the company has no data to share on its users, even if requested.
Encryption
This VPN offers three popular protocols: IKEv2, L2TP, and OpenVPN. The configurations are pretty much handled by the app, with minimal user input.
The encryption used is AES-256, which is the most secure protocol available. But it’s worth noting that the browser extensions offered by ZenMate only use AES-128 encryption. This is likely a tradeoff between security and speed, As AES-256 is more secure, but slower to decrypt.
Data Leaks
ZenMate hasn’t been known for any noteworthy data leaks. With the VPN kill switch and DNS leak protection features, this is one of the best VPNs in protecting your online privacy.
It also helps that the VPN comes with additional premium features not available in the free version. These include malware blocking extensions and browser add-ons for tracking protection.
Extra Security Features
ZenMate is a VPN that supports many platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, iOS, and even Amazon Fire TV. Its range of security features extends to all platforms.
One of the most important is the VPN kill switch that prevents data leaks upon severed VPN server connections.
An ad blocker is also featured in the premium version of the VPN. However, it’s only available as a browser extension and not included with the desktop client.
Due to its OpenVPN support, another thing that makes the VPN an interesting choice is its compatibility with gaming consoles. And also the ability to install it on a router.
Malware blocking and browser anti-tracking features are also available in the form of browser extensions. That said, ZenMate only works well with Chrome and Firefox, which may leave other browser users a bit disappointed.