CyberGhost VPN

No DNS Leak

A VPN that results in no DNS leaks is considered the best, ensuring user privacy and security while using the VPN service. CyberGhost’s DNS Leak test showed no DNS leaks. I conducted thorough DNS leak tests on servers in Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom using bash.ws, dnsleaktest.org and dnsleaktest.com and found no DNS leaks.

Server Network Coverage

CyberGhost boasts an extensive network of servers spanning various countries and locations. With over 7,000 VPN servers in 90+ countries, CyberGhost offers a robust network that ensures users can effortlessly connect to servers in their preferred countries. Additionally, CyberGhost simplifies the user experience by providing the following types of optimized servers:

1. Gaming : CyberGhost offers a selection of gaming-optimized servers designed to ensure your security and privacy while gaming. These servers encrypt your traffic and mask your IP address, even when you’re connected to public Wi-Fi networks. In addition, CyberGhost provides fast servers that help reduce your ping, guaranteeing a smoother gaming experience.
2. Streaming : CyberGhost offers an abundance of streaming-optimized servers, allowing users to access their favourite streaming services, including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more, while effortlessly enjoying geo-restricted content. During my testing, I was able to access and stream United States Amazon Prime TV shows and movies in the highest quality without any issues.
3. Torrenting : Using CyberGhost VPN’s torrent servers, you can experience encrypted browsing without concerns about tracking by your ISP or others. These servers are tailored for P2P traffic, guaranteeing more dependable connections and quicker downloads. Furthermore, you can access torrenting sites that might be blocked by your ISP.
4. NoSpy Servers : NoSpy Servers are CyberGhost’s self-owned, self-operated, and in-house servers. These servers are constructed within their Romanian headquarters, where they maintain direct ownership and management of the premium NoSpy servers. This arrangement guarantees your privacy, security, and performance. These servers are equipped with high-quality hardware, dedicated uplinks, and superior bandwidth and speeds.

User Interface

CyberGhost employs a very simple and intuitive user interface for its VPN software, consolidating all essential information in one place. Upon opening the VPN software and attempting to connect to a server, the UI provides comprehensive details, including VPN IP, connection uptime, the protocol used for the VPN connection, and data usage statistics. I appreciate this clear and concise approach, which minimizes the need for extensive user navigation. Additionally, there is a settings menu containing valuable features, which we will explore further in this review.

Device Compatibility

CyberGhost VPN offers broad device support and compatibility, making it an excellent choice for users seeking such extensive device coverage. It is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, streaming and gaming consoles (with Smart DNS), routers, Raspberry Pi, and web browser extensions.

Simultaneous Connections

CyberGhost supports only 7 simultaneous connections for its users. Given its extensive device compatibility, offering just 7 simultaneous connections may seem like a limitation. In today’s world, where users own multiple devices, potential buyers might hesitate since they seek options with better support for multiple devices.

Pricing

CyberGhost offers three pricing plans tailored to users’ needs: $2.19/month for 2 Years + 2 Months, $6.99/month for 6 months, and $12.99/month for 1 month. What sets CyberGhost VPN apart is that its 6 months and 2 Years + 2 Months plans include pCloud 500GB Cloud Storage for 1 Year, access to their NoSpy servers, and a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing ample time to explore all features and functionalities to see if it suits your needs. If you require a dedicated IP, it’s available at an additional cost.

In addition to conventional payment methods, CyberGhost also accepts Bitcoin as a payment option, ensuring privacy for those who prefer not to share their card details during purchases.

Additional Features

CyberGhost VPN offers a range of impressive features in its service. Let’s delve into the details.

RAM-Only Servers

At CyberGhost VPN, every server in their network is fully encrypted. This means that even if someone were to physically access a server, they would find nothing but encrypted data. What sets CyberGhost VPN apart is their use of RAM-only servers. Instead of relying on traditional hard disks for data storage, they utilize volatile memory. But what does this mean for your privacy and security?

Imagine a scenario where a government agency or a rogue spy attempts to physically seize one of CyberGhost VPN’s servers. The moment a server is disconnected or powered down, all data stored on it is wiped clean. It’s as if your data simply vanishes into thin air. The benefits of RAM-only servers are clear. First and foremost, they provide an unparalleled level of security. Unauthorized access becomes nearly impossible, reinforcing CyberGhost VPN’s commitment to their no-logs policy. Your data remains safe and sound, even in the face of physical server intrusion. Moreover, RAM-only servers offer improved performance.

Split Tunnelling

CyberGhost VPN has finely integrated its split tunnelling features into its Windows and smartphone devices. This allows users to decide which websites and apps can access the VPN. In my testing on both desktop and smartphone, it worked flawlessly without any issues. The major drawback I found is that while specific website exclusion is supported on the desktop version, the same feature is not available on smartphones, which is quite strange and could create problems if you need to add exceptions for certain websites not to pass through the VPN. I raised this issue with customer support and received a quick reply, stating that as of now, it’s only available for the desktop version.

Kill Switch

In my testing, CyberGhost VPN’s Kill Switch works efficiently and promptly blocks the internet connection as soon as any interruption or disconnection is detected in the network. This effectively safeguards your data from exposure to prying eyes, especially when you are connected to public Wi-Fi networks. The Kill Switch is integrated as an automatic feature, so you don’t need to worry about enabling or disabling it on smartphones. However, on Windows, in privacy settings, you have the option to turn the Automatic Kill Switch feature on or off.

Dedicated IP

CyberGhost VPN offers a dedicated IP option for users who prefer having a unique and exclusive IP address, rather than using a shared IP address, which is common among most VPN services. This means that your IP address remains the same every time you connect to the internet via the VPN. Another potential advantage of using a dedicated IP address is that you might not encounter Google reCAPTCHA or IP bans, which often happen with VPN service providers when multiple users share the same IP address.

CyberGhost takes user privacy a step further by providing a token-based dedicated IP address. When you add this as an add-on during your purchase, it is not linked to your account but instead associated with a random token. This token is deleted from their servers as soon as it is redeemed by the user.

Content Blocker

CyberGhost VPN includes a content blocking feature designed to block domains that host ads, malware, and tracking tools. I tested this feature on both Windows and smartphones. On smartphones, it does a decent job blocking ads, banners, and trackers within browsers and apps to some extent. However, it’s not 100% effective, as I noticed that after using it for a while, some ads, banners, and pop-ups manage to slip through. The same experience applies to the Windows application. There is room for improvement in this feature, such as adding custom rules for domain blocking and integrating popular ad filter lists to enhance its reliability for users.

 Wi-Fi Protection

CyberGhost offers a Wi-Fi Protection feature that allows you to decide how to respond when CyberGhost detects a new Wi-Fi network or if you are concerned about your device’s security on a public Wi-Fi network. It presents options for dealing with both secured and unsecured Wi-Fi networks, giving you the choice to protect, disable, or ignore them when you attempt to connect to such networks. In my testing, this feature worked perfectly, and you can select and utilize it according to your preferences.

Customer Support

CyberGhost’s customer support is responsive and effective when it comes to addressing your concerns, queries, or technical issues. In my personal experience, I tested their support response time by submitting a query, and I received a response within just 3 hours.

If you ever decide to request a refund, the process is straightforward. Simply raise a ticket or email their support team to initiate the refund process. To validate their money-back guarantee, I applied for a refund and received an email response from the customer support team within a few hours, confirming that my refund claim had been processed. If you’re considering purchasing CyberGhost VPN, you can confidently give it a try, knowing that you have the option for a refund if it doesn’t meet your needs.

Final Verdict

CyberGhost VPN is a reliable choice that strikes a balance between privacy and performance. Its Romanian base and no-log policy provide a strong foundation for safeguarding your data. The extensive server network, user-friendly interface, and split tunnelling feature enhance its appeal. However, it could improve its content blocking capabilities. Dedicated IP options and competitive pricing plans make it accessible to a wide range of users.

While it certainly excels in privacy and performance, there are areas that could benefit from further refinement. Ultimately, the decision to choose CyberGhost VPN will depend on your specific needs and priorities, but it is undoubtedly a VPN service worth considering for those seeking a blend of privacy and performance.