IPVanish VPN Review Australia 2025 : Security, Speed & Unlimited Connections

Introduction

Brief Overview of IPVanish

IPVanish is a prominent virtual private network (VPN) provider known for its robust security features, global server coverage, and user-friendly interface. Established in 2012 and headquartered in the United States, IPVanish has built a reputation for delivering high-speed VPN connections and advanced encryption protocols. It caters to a diverse audience, including privacy-conscious users, streaming enthusiasts, and gamers.

Purpose of the Review

This review aims to provide an in-depth evaluation of IPVanish’s features, performance, and overall value. With the increasing demand for online privacy and unrestricted internet access, understanding what IPVanish offers is crucial for users seeking reliable VPN services. Whether you’re concerned about bypassing geo-restrictions, safeguarding sensitive information, or enjoying lag-free streaming, this review will address your queries and guide your decision-making process.

Is this direction aligned with your expectations? If so, I’ll proceed to elaborate on the next sections, including features, performance, pricing, and real-world applications. Let me know if you have any specific areas you want me to emphasize!

IPVanish is a prominent Virtual Private Network (VPN) service that has undergone significant developments since its inception.

History and Ownership

Established in 2012 by Mudhook Media Inc., a subsidiary of Highwinds Network Group based in Orlando, Florida, IPVanish has experienced several ownership transitions:

• 2017: Highwinds Network Group, including IPVanish, was acquired by StackPath, a security services provider.
• 2019: IPVanish became part of J2 Global’s portfolio through its NetProtect business.
• 2021: J2 Global rebranded as Ziff Davis, under whose umbrella IPVanish currently operates.

Headquarters Location

IPVanish is headquartered at 114 5th Ave, New York, New York, 10011, United States.

Notable Milestones and Controversies

• Service Expansion: Since its launch, IPVanish has significantly expanded its infrastructure. As of 2024, it boasts over 2,400 servers across 135+ cities worldwide, offering users more than 40,000 shared, dynamic IP addresses.
• 2016 Logging Incident: In 2016, IPVanish was involved in a controversy when it provided user data to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, despite its stated no-logs policy. This incident raised concerns about the company’s commitment to user privacy. However, following its acquisition by StackPath in 2017, the new management asserted that no logging systems were in place post-acquisition.
• Server Withdrawals: In response to geopolitical and legal developments, IPVanish has strategically withdrawn servers from certain regions. Notably, in July 2016, it removed servers from Russia due to conflicts between local laws and its zero-log policy. Similarly, in July 2020, servers were withdrawn from Hong Kong following the enactment of the national security law, which imposed stringent internet restrictions akin to those in mainland China. 

These developments highlight IPVanish’s efforts to adapt to the evolving digital privacy landscape while addressing challenges related to user trust and regulatory compliance.

IPVanish offers a robust server network designed to provide users with extensive global coverage and reliable performance.

Server Network

As of December 2024, IPVanish operates over 2,400 servers across more than 135 locations worldwide, spanning 108 countries.

Number of Servers and Locations

• Total Servers: 2,400+
• Total Locations: 135+
• Total Countries: 108

Server Distribution by Region

• North America: IPVanish has a significant presence in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, with numerous servers in major cities to ensure optimal connectivity.
• Europe: The service covers key European countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands, providing extensive options for users across the continent.
• Asia: IPVanish has expanded its network in Asia, with servers in countries such as Japan, Singapore, and India, catering to the growing user base in the region.
• South America: Notably, IPVanish now offers the most server locations in South America among major VPN services, enhancing connectivity and performance for users in countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. 
• Oceania: Servers are available in Australia and New Zealand, ensuring coverage for users in the Pacific region.
• Africa and the Middle East: IPVanish has servers in select locations, including South Africa and the United Arab Emirates, to serve users in these areas.

This extensive and strategically distributed server network enables IPVanish to deliver high-speed connections and reliable access to content worldwide, catering to the diverse needs of its global user base.

IPVanish is a well-regarded VPN service that emphasizes robust security and privacy features. Here’s an in-depth look at its offerings:

Encryption Standards

IPVanish employs AES-256 encryption, recognized as the industry standard for securing data. This level of encryption is utilized by governments and security experts worldwide to protect sensitive information.

Supported VPN Protocols

IPVanish supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard. OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec are known for their balance of speed and security, while WireGuard offers enhanced performance with modern cryptographic techniques.

Kill Switch Functionality

The service includes a kill switch feature, which automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This prevents your real IP address and data from being exposed. The kill switch is available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices.

Split Tunneling

IPVanish offers split tunneling, allowing users to route specific applications or websites through the VPN while others access the internet directly. This feature provides flexibility, enabling you to protect sensitive activities while maintaining optimal performance for other tasks.

No-Logs Policy and Third-Party Audits

IPVanish maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that user activity is not recorded or stored. In 2022, the company underwent an independent audit to verify this policy, reinforcing its commitment to user privacy.

In summary, IPVanish provides comprehensive security and privacy features, including strong encryption, support for multiple VPN protocols, a reliable kill switch, split tunneling capabilities, and a verified no-logs policy, making it a solid choice for users seeking to protect their online activities.

PVanish is a well-regarded VPN service known for its performance, speed, and reliability. Here’s an in-depth look at its capabilities:

Performance

IPVanish operates a vast network of over 2,400 servers across 75+ locations worldwide, ensuring users have ample options for secure and private internet access.

Speed Test Results

Recent speed tests have demonstrated IPVanish’s impressive performance across various global servers. For instance, when connected to a 100 Mbps internet connection, the following results were observed:

• Germany Server: Download speed of 75.34 Mbps, upload speed of 65.81 Mbps, and a ping of 213 ms.
• United Kingdom Server: Download speed of 67.76 Mbps, upload speed of 72.1 Mbps, and a ping of 321 ms.
• United States (Miami) Server: Download speed of 63.31 Mbps, upload speed of 83 Mbps, and a ping of 206 ms.
• Singapore Server: Download speed of 74.33 Mbps, upload speed of 79.4 Mbps, and a ping of 274 ms.

These results indicate that IPVanish maintains high-speed connections suitable for activities like streaming, gaming, and large file downloads.

Reliability and Uptime

IPVanish is recognized for its robust reliability and consistent uptime. Users rarely experience sudden disconnections, which is crucial for uninterrupted streaming or remote work. The service’s extensive server network contributes to balanced loads and dependable performance across different regions.

In summary, IPVanish offers a reliable VPN service with commendable speed and performance metrics, making it a solid choice for users seeking secure and efficient internet connectivity.

Streaming and Torrenting

Ability to Unblock Popular Streaming Services

IPVanish has made significant strides in enhancing its streaming capabilities. It effectively unblocks major platforms such as Netflix (US, UK, France, Japan, Germany, and Italy), YouTube TV, and HBO Max, providing users with access to a wide range of content.

However, it may encounter difficulties with certain services like BBC iPlayer and Hulu, where access is not consistently guaranteed.

P2P Support and Performance

IPVanish is well-regarded for its torrenting support, allowing P2P file sharing across all its servers without restrictions. This unrestricted environment is complemented by robust security features, including AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user privacy during torrenting activities. Additionally, IPVanish offers a SOCKS5 proxy, which can provide faster speeds for P2P transfers while maintaining a level of privacy.

Users have reported impressive download speeds, with a 4.43GB file downloading in approximately 12 minutes when connected to a nearby server, highlighting its efficiency for large file sharing.

Device Compatibility and Simultaneous Connections

Supported Platforms

IPVanish offers broad device compatibility, supporting a wide range of platforms including:

• Windows
• macOS
• Android
• iOS
• Linux
• Chrome OS
• Fire TV
• Routers

Number of Simultaneous Connections Allowed

One of the standout features of IPVanish is its allowance for unlimited simultaneous connections. This is particularly generous compared to many competitors who often limit connections to 5-10 devices, making it an excellent choice for households with multiple devices or users with a variety of gadgets.

Additional Features

Free SOCKS5 Proxy

IPVanish provides a free SOCKS5 proxy, which can be particularly beneficial for users engaged in torrenting. The SOCKS5 proxy offers faster speeds by omitting encryption while still masking the user’s IP address, providing a balance between speed and privacy.

Browser Extensions

As of now, IPVanish does not offer dedicated browser extensions. Users seeking browser-specific protection would need to utilize the full application, which provides comprehensive device coverage.

Ad-Blocking or Malware Protection

IPVanish includes a feature known as Threat Protection, designed to block unwanted advertisements and protect against web trackers. This feature enhances the browsing experience by reducing intrusive ads and potential malware risks.

Recent Feature Updates

In 2025, IPVanish introduced several notable updates:

• Multi-Hop Feature: This allows users to route their internet traffic through multiple servers, adding an extra layer of security.
• Expanded Server Network: The server locations were nearly doubled, enhancing global coverage and connection options.
• Threat Protection: Added to all applications, this feature blocks unwanted ads and web trackers, improving user privacy and browsing experience.

These enhancements reflect IPVanish’s commitment to evolving its service to meet user needs and industry standards.

IPVanish is a prominent VPN service known for its user-friendly experience, offering seamless installation, intuitive interfaces, and responsive customer support. Here’s an in-depth look at these aspects:

Installation and Setup

Ease of Installation on Various Devices

IPVanish provides dedicated applications for multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and Linux. The installation process is straightforward across these devices:

• Windows and macOS: Users can download the installer from the official website. The setup involves a few clicks, with default settings suitable for most users. Detailed guides are available to assist with the process.
• iOS and Android: The IPVanish app is available on the App Store and Google Play Store, respectively. Installation is as simple as downloading the app and following the on-screen instructions. The apps are compatible with iOS 14.0 and up, and Android 5.1 and up.
• Fire TV: IPVanish offers a native app for Amazon Fire devices, including Fire TV and Fire Stick. Users can download the app directly from the Amazon Appstore, facilitating easy installation without the need for sideloading.

For users preferring manual configurations or using devices without dedicated apps, IPVanish provides comprehensive setup guides covering various platforms and router configurations.

Interface and Usability

Design and Navigation of Desktop and Mobile Apps

IPVanish’s applications are designed with user experience in mind, featuring clean and intuitive interfaces:

• Desktop Apps (Windows and macOS): The main dashboard displays connection status, server selection, and IP information. Users can easily navigate through settings to select preferred server locations, protocols, and other connection options. The interface supports both light and dark modes, catering to user preferences.
• Mobile Apps (iOS and Android): The mobile interfaces are streamlined for touch inputs, allowing quick server selection and connection with a single tap. Features like the kill switch, protocol selection, and auto-reconnect are easily accessible. The apps also include a ‘Quick Connect’ feature that connects users to the fastest available server.

Both desktop and mobile apps offer advanced settings for tech-savvy users, including protocol selection (e.g., OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard), DNS leak protection, and the ability to toggle features like the kill switch and auto-reconnect.

Customer Support

Availability and Responsiveness

IPVanish offers 24/7 customer support to address user inquiries and issues:

• Live Chat: Available around the clock, providing immediate assistance for common issues and questions. Users have reported prompt and helpful responses from the support team.
• Email Support: For more detailed or technical inquiries, users can submit a ticket through the IPVanish website. Responses are typically received within a few hours, depending on the complexity of the issue.
• Knowledge Base: IPVanish maintains an extensive online support center with FAQs, setup guides, troubleshooting articles, and announcements. This resource is valuable for users seeking self-help solutions. 

The combination of live chat, email support, and a comprehensive knowledge base ensures that users have multiple avenues to seek assistance, contributing to a positive overall experience with IPVanish.

IPVanish offers a range of subscription plans tailored to different user needs in Australia, with pricing as of December 2024 as follows:

• Monthly Plan: $12.99 per month.
• Yearly Plan: $89.99 per year, averaging $7.50 per month.
• 2-Year Plan: $179.98 for two years, averaging $7.50 per month.

Each plan provides unlimited device connections, high-speed VPN access, and 24/7 customer support.

In comparison to competitors, IPVanish’s pricing is competitive but not the lowest in the market. For instance, NordVPN offers a two-year plan at $3.99 per month, while Surfshark provides a similar plan at $2.19 per month.

IPVanish offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on its yearly and 2-year plans, allowing users to request a full refund if they cancel within the first 30 days. Monthly plans are ineligible for this refund policy in Australia.

In summary, while IPVanish provides robust features and unlimited device connections, its pricing is higher compared to some competitors, and its refund policy excludes monthly subscribers. Potential users should consider these factors alongside their specific needs when choosing a VPN service.

IPVanish is a well-established VPN service that offers a range of features catering to various user needs. Here’s a concise overview of its advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• Extensive Server Network: IPVanish operates over 2,400 servers across more than 90 locations worldwide, ensuring users have ample options for secure and fast connections.
• Strong Security Measures: The service employs AES 256-bit encryption, considered the industry standard for data protection. Additionally, it supports multiple VPN protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, allowing users to choose based on their security and speed preferences.
• No-Logs Policy: IPVanish asserts a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not record users’ online activities, enhancing privacy. This claim has been supported by independent audits, bolstering user trust.
• Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: Unlike many competitors, IPVanish allows users to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously under a single account, making it cost-effective for households with multiple devices.
• User-Friendly Applications: The service provides intuitive apps compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Fire TV, facilitating easy setup and use across devices.

Cons:

• Inconsistent Streaming Performance: While IPVanish can access certain streaming services, it has limitations with others. For instance, it may not reliably unblock platforms like Amazon Prime Video, which could be a drawback for users seeking comprehensive streaming access.
• Limited Advanced Features: The service lacks some advanced functionalities found in other VPNs, such as multi-hop connections or integrated ad-blocking, which might be a consideration for users seeking more comprehensive protection.
• Past Privacy Concerns: In 2016, under previous ownership, IPVanish was involved in a logging incident where user data was provided to authorities, contradicting its no-logs policy. However, since its acquisition by StackPath in 2017, the company has reaffirmed its commitment to user privacy, and no such incidents have been reported since.
• U.S. Jurisdiction: Being based in the United States, IPVanish falls under U.S. laws and regulations, which may be a concern for users particularly sensitive about privacy, given the country’s surveillance practices.

In summary, IPVanish offers robust security features in Australia, a vast server network, and the flexibility of unlimited device connections. However, potential users should weigh these benefits against its inconsistent streaming capabilities, the implications of its U.S. jurisdiction, and the absence of certain advanced features when considering it as their VPN service of choice.

When evaluating IPVanish alongside leading VPN services like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, several key distinctions emerge:

Server Network and Locations:

• IPVanish: Operates over 2,400 servers across 90+ countries, providing users with a broad range of global connection options.
• NordVPN: Boasts a more extensive network with over 6,700 servers in 111 countries, facilitating high-speed connections and access to geographically diverse content.
• ExpressVPN: Hosts more than 2,000 servers in 105 countries, ensuring reliable and fast connections worldwide.

Pricing and Plans:

• IPVanish: Offers competitive pricing, with a two-year plan at $79.99 (approximately $3.33 per month), a yearly plan at $41.88 for the first year, and a monthly option at $11.99. Notably, IPVanish allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, adding significant value for users with multiple devices.
• NordVPN: Provides a two-year plan at $99.63 (around $3.69 per month), a one-year plan at $68.85 ($4.59 per month), and a monthly plan at $12.99. NordVPN permits up to 10 simultaneous connections per account.
• ExpressVPN: Prices its services higher, with a yearly plan at $99.84 ($8.32 per month), a six-month plan at $59.94 ($9.99 per month), and a monthly plan at $12.95. ExpressVPN allows up to eight simultaneous connections.

Security and Privacy Features:

• IPVanish: Employs AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. It maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user activity is not recorded.
• NordVPN: Utilizes AES-256 encryption and offers proprietary features like NordLynx, based on the WireGuard protocol, enhancing speed and security. It also provides specialty servers, including Double VPN and Onion Over VPN, for added privacy layers.
• ExpressVPN: Implements AES-256 encryption and has developed its own protocol called Lightway, designed for speed and security. It operates with a strict no-logs policy and uses RAM-only servers, ensuring data is wiped with every reboot.
  

Performance and Speed:

• IPVanish: Delivers reliable speeds suitable for streaming and downloading, with performance varying based on server location and user proximity.
• NordVPN: Known for high-speed connections in Australia, making it ideal for data-intensive activities like streaming and gaming.
• ExpressVPN: Offers consistently fast speeds across its server network, attributed to its Lightway protocol and optimized server infrastructure.

Streaming and Content Access:

• IPVanish: Supports access to various streaming services, though it may encounter limitations with certain platforms due to regional restrictions.
• NordVPN: Excels in unblocking a wide range of streaming services, providing access to content libraries across different regions.
  
• ExpressVPN: Highly effective at bypassing geo-restrictions, allowing seamless access to numerous streaming platforms worldwide.
  

Customer Support:

• IPVanish: Offers 24/7 customer support through live chat and email, ensuring assistance is readily available.
• NordVPN: Provides 24/7 support with responsive live chat and comprehensive online resources.
• ExpressVPN: Delivers 24/7 customer support via live chat, known for prompt and helpful responses.
  

In summary, while IPVanish offers competitive pricing in Australia, unlimited device connections, and a robust server network, NordVPN and ExpressVPN provide more extensive server networks, advanced security features, and superior capabilities in accessing geo-restricted content. The optimal choice among these VPNs should align with individual user needs, preferences, and specific use cases.

IPVanish is a reputable VPN service that offers robust security features, reliable performance, and user-friendly applications. Below are answers to frequently asked questions about IPVanish:

FAQs

Is IPVanish safe and trustworthy?

Yes, IPVanish is considered safe and trustworthy in Australia. It employs AES-256 encryption, one of the strongest encryption standards available, to protect user data. Additionally, it offers features like a kill switch and IP/DNS leak protection to enhance user security. IPVanish adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not store any information about your online activities. This policy was independently audited in 2022, confirming that IPVanish does not retain personally identifiable information.

It’s worth noting that IPVanish is based in the United States, a member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. In 2016, under previous ownership, IPVanish complied with a legal request to provide user data to law enforcement, which raised concerns about its logging practices at the time. However, since then, the company has changed ownership and updated its privacy policies to reinforce its commitment to user privacy.

Does IPVanish work with Netflix?

Yes, IPVanish is capable of accessing Netflix. It allows users to stream content from various Netflix libraries, including those in the US, UK, Japan, and others. Users have reported successful access to over 30 different Netflix libraries using IPVanish.

However, it’s important to note that Netflix actively works to block VPN services, and the effectiveness of IPVanish in accessing Netflix can vary. Some users in Australia have reported occasional issues with certain servers being blocked. If you encounter difficulties, switching to a different server or contacting IPVanish’s customer support for assistance can often resolve the issue.

How does IPVanish compare to other VPNs?

IPVanish offers a competitive suite of features, including:

• Server Network: Over 2,400 servers in more than 100 countries, providing a wide range of options for users. Security Protocols: Supports multiple VPN protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec, allowing users to choose based on their needs.
• Device Compatibility: Compatible with major operating systems such as Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. It also allows unlimited simultaneous connections, which is a significant advantage over many competitors that limit the number of devices.
• Customer Support: Provides 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and phone, ensuring users can get assistance when needed.

In terms of pricing, IPVanish is considered affordable, with plans starting at $2.19 per month. This is competitive compared to other VPN services offering similar features.

Is there a free version of IPVanish?

No, IPVanish does not offer a free version. However, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on its yearly and 2-year plans, allowing users to try the service risk-free. This enables potential users to test the VPN’s features and performance before making a long-term commitment.

Additionally, IPVanish offers a 7-day free trial exclusively for iOS and Android devices, which includes all premium features. To access the free trial, users can download the IPVanish app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and sign up through the app.

IPVanish is a reputable VPN service that offers a robust set of features tailored to enhance online privacy and security in Australia. With over 2,400 servers across 50+ countries, it provides users with extensive global coverage.

Key Features:

• Security and Encryption: IPVanish employs AES-256 encryption, ensuring that user data remains confidential. It supports multiple VPN protocols, including WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN, allowing users to choose based on their needs. 
• No-Logs Policy: Operating under a strict no-logs policy, IPVanish does not monitor or record user activity. This commitment to privacy has been independently audited, reinforcing its reliability. 
• Unlimited Device Connections: A standout feature of IPVanish is its allowance for unlimited simultaneous connections, enabling users to protect all their devices under a single subscription. 
• Streaming and Torrenting: IPVanish effectively unblocks various streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, facilitating access to geo-restricted content. Additionally, it supports P2P file sharing, making it suitable for torrenting activities. 
• Speed and Performance: With the integration of the WireGuard protocol, IPVanish delivers impressive connection speeds, maintaining approximately 80% of baseline speeds, which is beneficial for activities like streaming and gaming. 

Pricing:

IPVanish offers competitive pricing with various subscription plans:

• Monthly Plan: $12.99 per month.
• Annual Plan: $3.99 per month for the first year.
• Two-Year Plan: $2.99 per month for the first two years.

All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service risk-free.

Overall Assessment:

IPVanish stands out as a solid VPN choice in Australia, particularly for users seeking robust security features, high-speed connections, and the flexibility to connect multiple devices simultaneously. Its commitment to user privacy, evidenced by its strict no-logs policy and independent audits, adds to its credibility. While based in the United States—a member of the Five Eyes alliance—its adherence to a no-logs policy means user data remains private.

Recommendations for Potential Users:

• Streaming Enthusiasts: If accessing geo-restricted content is a priority, IPVanish’s ability to unblock major streaming platforms makes it a viable option. 
• Multi-Device Users: Those with multiple devices will benefit from IPVanish’s unlimited simultaneous connections, ensuring all gadgets are protected under one account. 
• Privacy-Conscious Individuals: Users concerned about online privacy will appreciate IPVanish’s strong encryption standards and verified no-logs policy.
  In conclusion, IPVanish offers a comprehensive VPN service that balances performance, security, and user-friendliness, making it a noteworthy consideration for a wide range of users in Australia.