CyberGhost VPN fast insights
Our evaluation: 4.3 stars out of 5Pricing: Initiates at $6.99 per month (6-month arrangement)Major features:
Provides servers in 100 nations and 125 spots.
Comprises streaming, file sharing, and gaming servers.
CyberGhost VPN fast insights
Our evaluation: 4.3 stars out of 5 Pricing: Initiates at $6.99 per month (6-month arrangement) Major features:
Provides servers in 100 nations and 125 spots.
Comprises streaming, file sharing, and gaming servers.
Offers ample free trial choices.
CyberGhost VPN possesses an noteworthy server aggregation covering 100 nations and 125 spots, an economical starting rate, and specialized servers for streaming, file sharing, and gaming. It also supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android and Apple TV, and even gaming consoles.
Even though its tangled company history might raise some doubts, the complete VPN package provided by CyberGhost positions it as a deserved VPN option for this year.
Although several VPNs present diverse features at variable price ranges, CyberGhost’s pricing is transparent. It offers three costs based on your favorite service duration — either one month, six months, or two years. The monthly choice is invoiced each month, the six-month choice is billed every six months at $41.94, and the two-year choice is billed biennially at $56.94, then annually thereafter.
In terms of cost-effectiveness, you will obtain the best value with their two-year scheme. At $2.03 per month, CyberGhost is among the most budget-friendly VPN alternatives available currently. This is especially accurate when factoring in the number of servers provided at this rate. Nevertheless, bear in mind that this agreement locks you in for two years, thus limiting the flexibility to easily switch providers.
If you desire to trial the VPN for one month, CyberGhost VPN’s $12.99 is on the pricier side compared to its rivals like Proton VPN, which currently offers a $9.99 monthly Plus plan on a one-month basis. Moreover, you do not receive CyberGhost VPN’s in-house NoSpy servers for free with the one-month scheme.
Personally, I would prefer if CyberGhost offered at least a one-year alternative for its paid schemes instead of the six-month subscription. This would grant users more flexibility in terms of cost and lessen the time commitment. Annual schemes are commonplace offerings for most VPN providers. In my perspective, having a one-year choice wouldassistance CyberGhost in delivering a superior one-on-one presentation in comparison to its rivals.
When juxtaposed with other VPN options, Surfshark’s mid-range One subscription for a year comes at a monthly rate of $3.39, whereas NordVPN’s Plus plan costs $5.49 per month. With CyberGhost priced at $6.99 for only six months, it may appear less cost-effective when weighed against the offerings of other VPN providers.
CyberGhost VPN offers a relatively extensive trial program. Windows and macOS users can avail a 24-hour trial without the need for payment or credit card details. Android users can access a three-day trial, while iOS users receive a complimentary seven-day trial.
Despite the brevity of the 24-hour trial for Windows and Mac, the opportunity to explore all premium features without financial data exchange is a valuable trade-off.
Is CyberGhost VPN secure?
CyberGhost VPN offers all the standard security protocols expected from a reliable VPN in 2023. It includes OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols, along with AES-256 encryption. The service also features a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling functionality.
It is highlighted on CyberGhost’s website that its headquarters are located in Romania, a country with robust privacy legislation. This is advantageous for users concerned about government intervention. However, it is important to acknowledge that Kape Technologies, formerly known as Crossrider, owns CyberGhost. Crossrider was previously linked to malware and adware controversies prior to acquiring CyberGhost in 2017.
Although CyberGhost asserts that it operates independently from Kape, the company’s past is pertinent when addressing security and privacy matters.
CyberGhost adheres to a no-logs policy, ensuring that user data such as browsing history, IP addresses, and session durations are not logged. This policy has been validated through an independent audit conducted by Deloitte in 2022.
In April 2024, CyberGhost underwent a second independent audit of its server infrastructure and operational systems. Deloitte Audit Romania confirmed that there was no evidence to suggest non-compliance with CyberGhost’s No-logs Policy and No-Logging Safeguards.
Commendations are due to CyberGhost for upholding its commitment to external audits. The recent nature of their most recent audit provides added assurance to potential subscribers considering a CyberGhost subscription today.
The VPN service regularly releases quarterly Transparency Reports, detailing law enforcement requests and reports of malicious activities received. This level of transparency significantly bolsters CyberGhost VPN’s credibility.
Given its complex background, potential users might initially hesitate to choose CyberGhost VPN. However, the steps taken by the company to address security concerns should alleviate any hesitations customers may have.
Noteworthy features of CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN presents a compelling array of features at its price point, positioning it as a strong contender. Let’s delve into some key features individually.
Expansive server network
CyberGhost servers. Image: Luis Millares
CyberGhost VPN boasts one of the most extensive server arrays currently available. As of the present time, the service operates servers in 125 locations across 100 countries.
The vast server network enhances user experiences by providing optimal server proximity for faster speeds or expanded access to geo-blocked content. CyberGhost’s broad network is undeniably a valuable asset, especially if you opt for the $2 plan, offering an irresistible package.
Specialized server options
CyberGhost specialized servers. Image: Luis Millares
CyberGhost VPN features threespecialized servers for various common VPN applications. These servers are divided into three categories: For Gaming, For Torrenting, and For Streaming.
I particularly appreciate the detailed insights provided by CyberGhost regarding the specific strengths of each server.
CyberGhost streaming servers. Image: Luis Millares
For instance, it specifies the optimal streaming service for each server, a small but valuable detail that I believe many users will appreciate. If you seek a VPN with straightforward specialized servers, CyberGhost should be your top choice.
Smart Rules panel
Smart Rules panel. Image: Luis Millares
CyberGhost boasts a built-in “Smart Rules” panel that enables automation of various VPN functions based on different triggers.
For instance, you have the option to configure CyberGhost to automatically connect to a specific server upon startup or to launch a preferred application once the VPN connection is established. This feature enhances usability and is ideal for those seeking a customized VPN for specific tasks or workflows.
RAM-only server technology
CyberGhost VPN employs RAM-only servers that store server data in random access memory rather than on hard drives. Consequently, when a server is disconnected, all data is wiped clean.
This additional security measure, appreciated by many privacy enthusiasts, complements CyberGhost’s meticulous system design that makes it challenging to retain user data. This underscores the value of CyberGhost’s strict no-logs policy.
CyberGhost VPN speed and performance
In my evaluations, CyberGhost VPN delivered excellent performance. It maintained commendable speed and stability while simultaneously running multiple Chrome tabs, streaming 1080p YouTube content, and utilizing Google Suite applications for work.
These results were consistent with the speed test outcomes. Notably, CyberGhost VPN exhibited only a 12.67% decrease in upload speed compared to my internet service provider—a remarkable feat given that many VPNs struggle with upload speed retention. In terms of downloads, CyberGhost outperformed expectations, boasting a speed that was 9.1% faster than my ISP. Real-world usage confirmed minimal speed reductions, leaving me wholly satisfied with CyberGhost’s performance overall.
A slight delay was noted when switching between servers, which may be attributed to the extensive server network maintained by the VPN. Nevertheless, this observation is subjective, as no connectivity drops occurred during my experimentation with server changes.
To assess for DNS leaks, I subjected CyberGhost VPN and various servers across different locations to a public DNS leak tool. Throughout the test, no leaks were detected.
CyberGhost offers servers in 125 locations spanning 100 countries. While an exact number of servers is not disclosed by CyberGhost VPN, third-party estimates suggest a network size ranging from 9,000 to 11,000 servers at any given time.
In my 2023 assessment, I highlighted CyberGhost as possessing one of the most extensive server fleets. While this remains accurate in 2024, it is worth noting that competing VPN services have made significant strides in expanding their server networks. For example, NordVPN increased its server count from 60+ to servers in 111 countries within a year, and ExpressVPN expanded its network from 94 to servers in 105 countries as well.
Though this proliferation of server options benefits consumers, it also intensifies competition among providers due to the diminishing gap in server fleet sizes.
Aside from its robust server network, CyberGhost offers specialized servers tailored for streaming, gaming, and torrenting, catering to users with specific preferences and requirements.
Look out for these particular utilization cases.
Ultimately, CyberGhost also provides NoSpy Servers, which are servers located within the company’s Romanian headquarters. This implies that the servers, and the information they carry, are safeguarded by CyberGhost staff themselves and cannot be reached by external entities. CyberGhost also mentions that NoSpy servers utilize more premium hardware, offer enhanced speeds, and possess greater bandwidth.
Regrettably, you must acquire a minimum of a six-month plan to avail access to CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers as this feature is not accessible on the one-month plan.
Although incorporating more security-oriented servers into CyberGhost’s VPN server collection would enhance its offerings, the diversity available here is sufficient to fulfill the VPN requirements of many individuals.
Ease of Utilization in CyberGhost VPN
In terms of user experience, I encountered CyberGhost to be a blend of different aspects. While its application design is not my preferred, I encountered no problems with it during testing.
Full CyberGhost VPN interface. Image: Luis Millares
I truly value CyberGhost’s convenient classification of dedicated servers. This simplifies the process of discovering the most suitable server for typical VPN application scenarios, and I believe it should be a standard practice adopted by all VPN providers.
CyberGhost Settings page tabs. Image: Luis Millares
On the flip side, I believe CyberGhost could enhance the organization of its other menus. In particular, I found its utilization of multiple Settings pages somewhat perplexing. There exists a settings page for the primary VPN, General settings for your dashboard, and Privacy settings for privacy-centric functionalities. In my opinion, these toggles could either be consolidated onto a single page or be more diversified into distinct tabs within the primary dashboard for a more intuitive user experience.
Strengths of CyberGhost VPN
Extensive array of servers from 100 nations, 125 locales.
Dedicated servers for gaming, torrenting, and streaming.
RAM-only servers that inhibit data recording.
Reasonably priced two-year subscription.
Customizable Smart Rules panel for automated processes.
Complimentary trial.
Capability to link up to seven devices using one subscription.
45-day money-back pledge.
User-friendly application.
Weaknesses of CyberGhost VPN
Complex organizational background.
Insufficiency of additional security-focused servers.
Desktop interface could be more user-friendly.
Expensive monthly subscription.
NoSpy servers inaccessible in a single-month plan.
Evaluation of CyberGhost VPN
The broad spectrum of servers in CyberGhost VPN will meet the requirements of numerous users seeking flexibility in terms of velocity, dependability, and access to region-restricted content. It is exceedingly challenging to dispute servers distributed across 100 countries for merely $2 per month (with their two-year package), not forgetting that it is ideal for users specifically seeking a VPN service for streaming, torrenting, or gaming.
Despite CyberGhost VPN being hindered by its contentious company past, its impressive server diversity, specialized servers, and lenient free trial alternatives position it as a VPN service that most individuals should unquestionably contemplate.
Substitute VPN Services for CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN possesses a unique assortment of attributes that establish it as a dependable VPN service. Nevertheless, these characteristics might not align perfectly with your preferences. Below, we have outlined a few alternatives that may better cater to your requirements.
Located in privacy-friendly Switzerland; open-source VPN
Quick performance and a range of security-centric features such as anti-malware protection
Reasonably priced paid plans across the spectrum; speedy VPN performance
Image: Proton VPN
Proton VPN
If you desire a VPN that emphasizes safeguarding against government intervention and illegitimate data requests, Proton VPN is the top pick. Situated in Switzerland, Proton operates under stringent Swiss privacy statutes that provide an additional coating of privacy and protection for your personal or sensitive data.
For more safety-focused functionalities, you may want to explore NordVPN. It boasts robust third-party testing, server types prioritizing privacy, and a distinct encrypted file-sharing system that caters to even the most stringent privacy requirements. Additionally, it features integrated anti-malware threat protection, making it a trustworthy comprehensive security solution.
For VPN users seeking multi-device support, Surfshark stands out as one of the finest options. It provides an unlimited count of simultaneous connections, ensuring you don’t have to worry about exceeding a particular device limit. Moreover, it offers robust encryption and privacy features for those requiring enhanced security measures.
My evaluation of CyberGhost VPN encompassed a thorough appraisal of its characteristics, pricing, and real-world performance. I engaged with CyberGhost VPN hands-on utilizing their 24-hour trial on my personal Windows device.
For speed testing, I utilized Ookla’s public Speedtest to gauge download and upload speeds. Additionally, I conducted multiple checks on CyberGhost using DNSLeakTest to ensure no lapses in its DNS leak protection.
Finally, I rated CyberGhost VPN on a spectrum ranging from security protocols to pricing utilizing an in-house algorithm, resulting in a score of 4.3 out of 5 stars. In my assessment, I examined CyberGhost VPN both independently and in comparison to other present-day VPN services.
Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.
