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Express VPN

iOS
Android
macOS
Windows
Browser
FireTV
Linux logo
Jurisdiction
80%
Privacy
95%
Performance
85%
Add-ons
80%
  • High-speed connections suitable for streaming and gaming

  • Over 3,000 servers in 105 countries

  • Threat Manager and identity protection tools

  • Supports a wide range of devices and platforms

  • User-friendly & easy setup with 24/7 support.


About ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a well-established VPN provider based in the British Virgin Islands, known for its strong commitment to user privacy and security. Founded in 2009, it has become one of the most trusted names in the VPN industry.

Express VPN team

Pors and Cons of Express VPN

👍 What We Like
  • Cutting-Edge Privacy and Security
  • Excellent for Streaming
  • User-Friendly Interface
  • Strong Server Network
👎 What We Don’t Like
  • One of the pricier VPN options, with a monthly plan at $12.95
  • Limited Simultaneous Connections
  • Speed Performance Decline Occasionally
  • No Multi-Hop Feature

ExpressVPN’s Privacy Policy

ExpressVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your browsing activity remains private. It does not store any data that could identify you, making it a secure choice for users concerned about privacy.

  • No Storage of Identifying Information: ExpressVPN does not store any data that could be used to identify you, such as browsing history, traffic destination, metadata, DNS queries, or IP addresses.
  • RAM-Based Servers (TrustedServer Technology): All data is stored in RAM, which is erased every time the server reboots. This ensures that no data remains on the servers after a restart, preventing any potential data breaches.
  • Independent Audits: ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited by firms like KPMG, PwC, and Cure. These audits confirm that ExpressVPN does not store any logs of user activity.
  • Minimal Data Collection for Support: While ExpressVPN collects some minimal data for troubleshooting and support, such as connection dates and server locations, this information cannot be linked back to individual users.
  • Optional Diagnostic Data Sharing: Users can choose whether to share anonymized diagnostic data, which helps improve the service but does not contain personally identifiable information.

ExpressVPN’s Speed and Performance

ExpressVPN is renowned for its fast speeds, though recent tests show a slight decline. In 2025, it experienced a 35% speed loss, which is noticeable but still suitable for most online activities. However, when using its proprietary Lightway protocol, speeds remain impressive, with some tests achieving download speeds of up to 718 Mbps.

Speed Test Results:

  • US (Seattle): 411.49 Mbps download, 217.33 Mbps upload.
  • US (New York): 361.54 Mbps download, 180.09 Mbps upload.
  • UK (London): 406.84 Mbps download, 127.01 Mbps upload.
  • Germany (Frankfurt): 398.55 Mbps download, 198.81 Mbps upload.

Encryption Technology

ExpressVPN uses industry-leading encryption protocols, including AES-256 and ChaCha20. It also supports Perfect Forward Secrecy, ensuring that each session has unique encryption keys.

ExpressVPN employs advanced encryption technology to safeguard user data, ensuring a secure and private online experience. It utilizes AES-256 encryption, which is considered virtually unbreakable with current technology. This method ensures that even if unauthorized parties intercept your data, they cannot read it.

ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol is designed for both speed and security. It integrates post-quantum encryption standards, which are future-proof against threats from quantum computing. This means that even as computing technology advances, your data will remain secure.

Express VPN Encryption Technology

In addition to Lightway, ExpressVPN supports other secure protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec. These protocols offer robust encryption and are widely trusted for their reliability and security.

ExpressVPN also offers a private DNS service on every server, ensuring that your DNS requests are encrypted and secure. The Network Lock kill switch feature automatically blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP address from being exposed.

By combining these advanced encryption technologies, ExpressVPN provides a robust security framework that protects user data from unauthorized access and ensures a secure online experience.

How Express Protects Data Leak?

ExpressVPN includes robust data leak protection features, such as DNS leak protection and a kill switch. These features ensure that your data remains secure even if the VPN connection drops.

  1. Network Lock (Kill Switch): This feature, available on both mobile and PC apps, automatically blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This ensures that your real IP address and sensitive data remain protected from unauthorized access.
  2. DNS Leak Protection: ExpressVPN routes all DNS requests through its encrypted VPN tunnel, preventing them from leaking outside the secure connection. This means that even if your device sends DNS queries, they are encrypted and cannot be intercepted by third parties.
  3. Network Protection on iOS: The ExpressVPN app for iOS includes a network protection feature that prevents data leaks by blocking internet traffic when the VPN connection is interrupted. It also warns users about potentially malicious networks and provides options to secure their connection.
  4. RAM-Based Servers: ExpressVPN operates on RAM-based servers, which ensure that no data is stored on hard drives. This means that even if a server is compromised, no user data will be found because it is erased upon server restart.
  5. No-Logs Policy: ExpressVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, verified by independent audits. This policy ensures that no user activity logs are stored, further reducing the risk of data leaks.

Compatibility

ExpressVPN is highly compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms, ensuring that users can secure their online activities across various devices.

Express Compatibility

Here’s an overview of its device compatibility:

Operating Systems

  • Windows: Supports Windows 7 and later versions.
  • macOS: Compatible with macOS 10.11 (El Capitan) and later.
  • Linux: Offers support for various Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch, and CentOS.
  • Chromebook: Supports Chrome OS.

Mobile Devices

  • Android: Works on Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and above.
  • iOS: Compatible with iOS 11 and later versions.
  • Amazon Kindle Fire: Supports FireOS 5 and above.
  • Barnes & Noble Nook HD: Powered by Android, so compatible with ExpressVPN.

Routers

  • Asus: Compatible with several Asus router models, including RT-AC68U, RT-AC87U, and more.
  • Linksys: Supports models like EA6200, WRT1200AC, WRT1900AC, and others.
  • Netgear: Works with models such as R6300v2, R6700v3, and Nighthawk R7000.

Streaming Devices

  • Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick: Supports these devices with a dedicated app.
  • Android TV: Compatible with streaming media devices running Android TV.
  • Chromecast with Google TV: Can be used with ExpressVPN through MediaStreamer or router setup.

Gaming Consoles

  • PlayStation 4: Supports manual configuration.
  • PlayStation 3: Also supports manual setup.
  • Xbox One: Can be configured manually.
  • Xbox 360: Supports manual setup.
  • Nintendo Switch: Can be configured manually.

Simultaneous Connections

Up to Eight Devices: Allows simultaneous connections on up to eight devices, regardless of the platform.

ExpressVPN Owned Servers and RAM Servers

ExpressVPN Owned Servers and RAM Servers

ExpressVPN does not own its servers but rents them from dedicated server providers. However, it uses RAM-based servers exclusively, which enhances security and privacy. Here’s how ExpressVPN’s server setup works:

RAM-Based Servers (TrustedServer Technology)

Overview: ExpressVPN operates on RAM-based servers, which means all data is stored in volatile memory. This ensures that no data remains on the servers after a reboot, providing a high level of security against data breaches.

Security Benefits: RAM servers eliminate the risk of data retention, as any information stored in RAM is automatically erased when the server restarts. This is particularly effective against physical server seizures or unauthorized access.

Audits and Verification: ExpressVPN’s RAM-based servers have been audited by third-party firms like PwC, KPMG, and Cure53, confirming their effectiveness in maintaining user privacy.

Server Network

  • Locations: ExpressVPN covers 105 countries with over 3,000 servers. While it does not own these servers, it rents them from reputable providers to ensure a wide and reliable network.
  • Virtual Servers: Some of ExpressVPN’s servers are virtual, meaning they are not physically located in the same country but are routed through nearby locations. This helps maintain connection quality and availability in regions where establishing physical servers is challenging.

Owned vs. Rented Servers

Rented Servers: ExpressVPN rents its servers from companies like QuadraNet, IBM (Softlayer), GigeNet, and others. This approach allows it to maintain a large server network without the need for physical ownership.

Security Measures: Despite not owning the servers, ExpressVPN ensures security through its TrustedServer technology, which guarantees that all servers are RAM-based and regularly updated to prevent data retention.

By using RAM-based servers and maintaining a robust security framework, ExpressVPN provides a secure and private VPN experience for its users.

Bug Bounty Program

ExpressVPN actively engages with the cybersecurity community through its bug bounty program. This initiative encourages researchers to identify vulnerabilities, which are then promptly addressed.

Payment Options and Pricing

ExpressVPN offers a wide range of payment methods to cater to different user preferences and needs for privacy. These include:

  • Credit Cards: Supports major cards like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Diners Club International, and others.
  • Digital Wallets: Accepts PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
  • Cryptocurrencies: Allows payments via Bitcoin through BitPay, providing an anonymous payment option.
  • Debit Cards and Prepaid Options: Includes Maestro, Mint, FanaPay, Teencash, Boleto, Sepa Direct Debit, PostePay, Dankort, Elo, Carte Bleue, Mercado Pago, Culture Voucher, and Book Voucher.

Pricing Plans

ExpressVPN offers several pricing plans to suit different budgets and needs:

PlanMonthly RateTotal CostBilling Frequency
1 Month$12.95$12.95Monthly
1 Year$6.67$99.95Annually
2 Years$4.99$139.72Every 2 Years

The two-year plan offers the best value, with a significant discount compared to the monthly or annual plans.

Additional Features and Costs

Dedicated IP is available as an add-on, priced at $8.99 per month for a one-month plan, $3.75 per month for a one-year plan, and $3.19 per month for a two-year plan.

Trial and Money-Back Guarantee

ExpressVPN does not offer a free trial, but it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee. This allows users to test the service risk-free and request a refund if they are not satisfied.

Renewal and Cancellation

Subscriptions automatically renew unless you opt out. You can manage your subscription settings through the ExpressVPN account dashboard or contact customer support for assistance.

Customer Support

ExpressVPN offers comprehensive customer support through multiple channels, ensuring users can quickly resolve any issues. Its 24/7 live chat is the fastest way to get help, with response times typically under one minute. For more complex queries, users can contact ExpressVPN via email, which generally receives responses within a few hours. The company also maintains an extensive help center with detailed tutorials and guides, including video tutorials for setup and troubleshooting. Additionally, users can reach out through social media platforms for general inquiries or feedback. While ExpressVPN does not offer phone support, its focus on live chat and email provides efficient assistance for both urgent and detailed issues.