TorGuard VPN: A Comprehensive Review of Features, Performance, and Security

TorGuard VPN is a service that has gained attention for its robust security features and versatility. Known for its no-nonsense approach to protecting user privacy, TorGuard focuses heavily on providing a simple and secure VPN connection without the bells and whistles that often come with other services. In this review, we will explore the features, performance, and overall value of TorGuard, offering a detailed breakdown of its capabilities and shortcomings.

User Interface and Design

TorGuard has recently updated its user interface, making the app more streamlined and user-friendly. Upon launching the app, users are greeted with a minimalist screen featuring a prominent “Connect” button in the center. At the bottom, the currently selected server is displayed, providing a simple and clear interface.

To switch servers, users need only click on the selected server to bring up a list of available options. This list is automatically sorted alphabetically, though it can be filtered or rearranged using drop-down menus at the top of the screen. One unique feature that sets TorGuard apart from other VPN providers is the “Stealth Servers” option. These servers are designed to appear as regular HTTP traffic, making them more difficult for network administrators or ISPs to detect and block. This feature is particularly useful in regions with heavy internet censorship and is not commonly found in most VPN services. The only other major provider with a similar feature is Surfshark VPN.

Server Network and Connections

With over 3,000 servers located in more than 50 countries, TorGuard offers a solid global server network. The service allows users to connect up to eight devices simultaneously, with the option to increase this limit to 12 devices for an additional fee through the Pro version. This flexibility is ideal for individuals who require multiple connections across various devices.

Settings and Customization

TorGuard provides a range of settings that allow users to tailor their VPN experience. Accessing the settings menu by clicking the gear icon on the main screen reveals a variety of options. These include basic UI customization, a kill switch, and the AppKill feature. The AppKill feature is especially useful as it allows users to designate specific applications to close if the VPN connection drops, rather than shutting down the entire system.

In addition to these features, TorGuard also supports customizable VPN protocols and OpenVPN proxy settings. Users who opt for a dedicated IP address can easily add it in the settings menu. However, the Windows app lacks some of the advanced features found in the Android version, such as split tunneling and multi-hop connections. This is a significant downside, as many competitors in the VPN space offer these features, and their absence is a notable omission. TorGuard has expressed a desire to introduce split tunneling for Windows in the future, but this feature has yet to be rolled out.

Add-ons and Pricing

One of TorGuard’s strengths—and frustrations—is its extensive list of additional features and add-ons. While users can opt for the Pro version of the VPN for added benefits like more device connections and a dedicated IP, there is also a variety of niche add-ons available. These include upgrades for specific countries or streaming services, as well as one-time fees for routers and Wi-Fi adapters. Although this level of customization can be appealing to power users, it may overwhelm average users who simply want a straightforward VPN service. Moreover, some users may feel that TorGuard’s pricing structure feels more like an upsell strategy, similar to tactics used by cable companies.

Performance and Speed

During testing, TorGuard’s connection speeds were solid but not exceptional. When comparing speeds across servers in six countries, the VPN maintained 34% of the baseline download speeds, and just 21% of the baseline upload speeds. While these speeds are sufficient for most everyday activities like web browsing and streaming YouTube videos, they are not ideal for high-performance tasks such as gaming or HD streaming.

When it comes to streaming, TorGuard falls short. Despite claiming the ability to bypass geo-blocking, I found that it was unable to access major streaming platforms such as Netflix or Hulu while connected to its servers. Users seeking a VPN specifically for streaming content might want to consider other options, as TorGuard’s performance in this area leaves much to be desired. For those who are determined to use TorGuard for streaming, purchasing a dedicated IP may improve the experience, but there are likely better options available.

On the other hand, TorGuard excels in torrenting. The service allows P2P traffic on all of its servers, and users can either torrent directly through the TorGuard app or use a SOCKS5 proxy for enhanced privacy. This makes TorGuard a solid choice for individuals who prioritize safe and anonymous file sharing.

Security Features

TorGuard offers impressive security options, including support for AES-128 and AES-256 encryption. Additionally, the service supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, OpenConnect, and WireGuard. The Pro version also adds support for IKEv2 and L2TP/IPsec protocols, further enhancing its versatility.

One of TorGuard’s standout features is its ability to customize VPN protocols and tweak ports, which is especially useful for users in regions with strict internet restrictions or censorship. The ability to change the TLS version under OpenVPN settings is another advanced option that appeals to power users. By default, TorGuard uses TLS 1.3, the most secure version of this protocol, but users can switch to older versions if desired.

Privacy and Logging Policy

In terms of privacy, TorGuard has made improvements to its privacy policy since the last review. The updated policy clearly outlines the types of data collected, including payment information, analytic data, and contact details for customer support. Importantly, the policy states that TorGuard does not log any data from its VPN or proxy services. However, TorGuard has not undergone any independent security audits, which raises concerns about the trustworthiness of its no-logs claim. Independent audits are crucial for establishing transparency and trust, and TorGuard would benefit from undergoing one in the future.

It is also worth noting that TorGuard is based in Florida, which is a member of the Five Eyes data-sharing alliance. This means that user data may be subject to surveillance by government agencies in these countries. For users concerned about data privacy and government oversight, it may be worth considering a VPN provider based in a jurisdiction outside of the Five Eyes alliance.

Conclusion

TorGuard VPN offers a robust and secure service with a range of customizable options for advanced users. Its global server network and solid security features make it a strong contender in the VPN space. However, the service falls short in areas like streaming performance and the availability of certain features like split tunneling on Windows.

While the extensive add-ons and pricing options may appeal to some, the overwhelming number of choices may frustrate average users. Despite its strong security offerings, the lack of independent audits and transparency about user data handling is a concern for those who prioritize privacy.

Ultimately, TorGuard is a great option for users who value security and customization, but its performance and usability may not be ideal for everyone. If you’re looking for a straightforward, high-performance VPN, there are other options available that may better meet your needs.