IPVanish

IPVanish is a software application for the Windows operating system that essentially works as a desktop interface client to access the virtual private networking (VPN) services provided by IPVanish, a brand that is part of the Ziff-Davis digital media portfolio. In and of itself, IPVanish for Windows is a free app, but access to the IPVanish premium servers requires various levels of subscription.

Understanding IPVanish for Windows

Once installed and configured on your Windows desktop, laptop, or hybrid computing device, IPVanish lets you access the internet through a secure network of servers located around the world. Your internet protocol (IP) address is hidden from public view and your connection is encrypted. IPVanish enables access to managed VPN services to protect your privacy and gain control of your personal information online.

Among the various reasons you should consider using IPVanish and VPN connections in general, one of the most important is cyber security. If you conduct online banking, purchasing, financial trading, or simply work from home, VPN connectivity is a must. IPVanish will not let you down in this regard because all the data traffic generated from your internet-connected devices will be encrypted, which means that even the most sophisticated hackers who conduct man-in-the-middle attacks will not be able to intercept your sensitive information.

Another good reason to download and install IPVanish is to get around certain geolocation blocks, which are also known as "geofencing." Netflix, for example, only lets users who reside in the United States access their American content catalog, but what happens when you go on vacation and wish to access your playlist? With IPVanish, you are able to connect to hundreds of VPN servers located in the U.S. and many other countries, so you can select a connection in the same state you live in even though you are out of the country.

Whether you want to run file-sharing software such as BitTorrent or get around internet censorship systems such as the Great Firewall of China, IPVanish is a good solution. All IPVanish servers are configured to obfuscate your IP address, keep your information private, and provide you with the best bandwidth for downloading and uploading large files. OpenVPN is the default protocol that the IPVanish app uses upon installation, but you can set it to the more secure Wireguard, which is supported by modern versions of Windows.

The IPVanish Advantage

Connection and data security are the highlights of the IPVanish app for Windows. The strict kill switch feature is ideal for individuals who are concerned about monitoring by internet service providers, censors, government agents, corporate spies, or hackers; when this is enabled, the IPVanish app will prevent any internet connections that do not go through the company's VPN servers.

As for reliability, it certainly helps that IPVanish is a Ziff Davis brand. This is a company known to deliver excellent products and services, so you can be assured that the terms of service will be observed.

IPVanish for Windows Pros

• Reliable VPN servers all around the world.
• Kill-switch feature ensures absolute internet browsing privacy and security.
• App is easy to use.

IPVanish for Windows Cons

• Some security settings are too strict.