Full Report
Astrill VPN is touted as one of the best VPNs around. But is it worth the extra money?
Analysis Summary
# Main Topic
Security and feature analysis of the Astrill VPN service to determine its value proposition relative to its premium pricing.
## Key Points
- **Security & Anonymity:** Features include a kill switch (to shut down web activity upon disconnection) and multi-hop encryption.
- **Encryption Protocols:** Uses OpenWeb, StealthVPN, and Wireguard.
- **Jurisdiction Benefit:** Registered in the Seychelles, placing it outside the jurisdiction of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and 14 Eyes surveillance alliances, which can reduce pressure to hand over user data.
- **Performance:** Noted for high speeds and success accessing Netflix/streaming services in regions like China (though connectivity can be spotty).
- **Configuration Note:** Allows unlimited devices to connect but limits simultaneous connections to five.
- **Pricing:** Significantly more expensive than competitors ($12.50/month for a two-year plan; $30/month standard).
- **Server Network:** Server count is relatively limited compared to leading competitors.
## Threat Actors
- Not directly mentioned in relation to a specific threat incident. The analysis focuses on mitigating surveillance risks from **Eyes Alliance** nations by leveraging the Seychelles jurisdiction.
## TTPs
- **Data Protection:** Uses specific techniques to ensure data security:
- Kill Switch: Automated system shutdown upon VPN failure.
- Multi-hop Encryption: Adds layers of security during transit.
- **Evasion:** Successful operation in China suggests evasion techniques relevant to geographically restrictive environments.
## Affected Systems
- VPN Users seeking online privacy and security.
- Users requiring geo-unblocking capabilities (e.g., Netflix access).
- **Affected Platforms:** Supports multiple devices, though specific platform details are limited outside of mention of an Android free trial.
## Mitigations
- **Data Integrity:** Utilize the built-in kill switch feature to prevent data leakage during connection drops.
- **Encryption Selection:** Use protocols like StealthVPN or Wireguard for robust protection.
- **IP Management:** Utilize dedicated IP addresses if shared IPs cause issues with email providers or specific websites.
- **Alternative Assessment:** Competitors like NordVPN and ExpressVPN were rated higher (4/5 vs. Astrill's 3/5) due to a better balance of features, server network size, and overall value, suggesting these alternatives serve as viable mitigations against the high cost of Astrill.
## Conclusion
Astrill VPN offers strong security features (kill switch, multi-hop, strong jurisdiction) and good performance, particularly in restrictive areas. However, it is significantly more expensive than established competitors (NordVPN, ExpressVPN) while fielding a smaller server network. For users prioritizing absolute top-tier performance and jurisdictional advantages, it may be worth the cost; however, most users may find better value and equivalent security from competitors.