CyberGhost VPN: A Comprehensive Review & Analysis

Published

author: Jeremy Roderick

Fact-checked by Ruben Olav

UPDATED: July 29, 2023

The internet is a sprawling network, a vast digital wilderness where confidentiality, anonymity, and privacy are the desired prizes. With threats like data theft, cyber surveillance, and censorship lurking around every corner, one’s defense mechanism is a dependable VPN – a virtual private network. Among the plethora of VPN services available today, one name that consistently stands out is CyberGhost VPN.

So, what makes CyberGhost VPN stand tall in this cyber jungle? Let’s dissect this digital ghost, and find out if it lives up to its spectral moniker.

Summary of key features

πŸ’Έ Price2.25 USD/month
πŸ“† Money-back guarantee45 days
πŸ“ Does the VPN keep logs?No
πŸ–₯ Number of servers7400+
πŸ›‘ Kill switchYes
πŸ—Ί HeadquartersRomania
πŸ›  SupportLive chat
πŸ“₯ Torrent supportYes
πŸŽ₯ Streaming service supportYes

Security and Encryption

Used Security Technologies

When it comes to your digital safety, CyberGhost VPN takes no half-measures. The service employs the highest-grade AES 256-bit encryption. Think of it as your personal cryptographic shield, impervious to even the most dedicated hackers.

Not only that, CyberGhost VPN utilizes 4096-bit RSA Key Exchange and SHA256 for message authentication. This provides you with an additional security layer, ensuring your connection remains private and secure. But what does this mean in layman’s terms? Well, imagine a digital handshake that happens only when both parties are verified and trustworthy. This is essentially what RSA and SHA256 provide.

Furthermore, CyberGhost uses Perfect Forward Secrecy, a feature that creates a new secret key for each session. This means that even in the highly unlikely event of an encryption key being compromised, only a small portion of your data is at risk.

Used Encryption Technologies

Now, let’s move on to the encryption technologies that CyberGhost uses. CyberGhost boasts the OpenVPN protocol, often lauded as the most secure protocol available. It’s an open-source protocol, meaning it is constantly being examined and improved by security experts worldwide.

Also in the CyberGhost toolbox is the IKEv2 protocol, a robust encryption technology that excels at re-establishing a connection if your internet gets disconnected suddenly. It’s particularly handy when using mobile devices that may switch between wifi and mobile data.

What about when speed is a priority? Enter WireGuard. It’s the newest kid on the block, offering the best of both worlds – speed, and security. In the ever-evolving landscape of digital security, adaptability is key, and it appears that CyberGhost has taken this to heart with its choice of encryption protocols.

So, to sum it up:

  1. AES 256-bit encryption
  2. 4096-bit RSA Key Exchange and SHA256 for message authentication
  3. Perfect Forward Secrecy
  4. OpenVPN protocol
  5. IKEv2 protocol
  6. WireGuard

Can we conclude that CyberGhost VPN takes security seriously? The answer is a resounding yes. But there’s more to a VPN than security technologies and encryption. Let’s forge ahead.

Principles of Personal Data Protection and Jurisdiction

Analysis of Personal Data Protection Principles

In the age of cyber surveillance, it’s all about how much of you is out there. Not physically, but digitally. When it comes to data protection, CyberGhost follows a strict no-logs policy. In essence, it means that they do not store any information about your browsing history, IP address, connection timestamps, or network traffic. It’s like surfing the web without leaving any footprints.

But do you wonder if this policy is just a marketing gimmick, or do they stand by it? In this regard, CyberGhost is an open book, having its privacy policy transparently laid out. It’s safe to say that your digital footprints vanish the moment you disconnect from their servers.

Another commendable aspect of CyberGhost’s data protection principle is its annual transparency report. It’s a confidence-boosting measure, shedding light on the requests it gets from authorities for user data and its responses. With these practices, CyberGhost essentially fortifies your digital life against unwelcome intrusions.

Company Jurisdiction

The jurisdiction of a VPN company matters a lot since it determines what laws the company must comply with. CyberGhost operates under the jurisdiction of Romania, a country with robust privacy laws. Importantly, Romania is not a member of the 14-Eyes alliance (an international surveillance alliance), which means CyberGhost isn’t legally bound to share any data with foreign intelligence.

So, where does all this information lead us to? Here are the key points:

  1. CyberGhost follows a strict no-logs policy.
  2. Their privacy policy is clear and transparent.
  3. They publish an annual transparency report.
  4. The company operates under the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of Romania.

CyberGhost VPN, as we see it, puts an emphasis on both security technologies and data protection principles. In an era of increasing digital threats, such commitment offers reassurance that your data remains safe and private, irrespective of the cyber climate.

Server Network

Overview of the Server Network

One of the primary measures of a VPN’s quality is the size and distribution of its server network. A broad and diverse server network enables better speed, lower latency, and greater access to geo-blocked content. So how does CyberGhost fare in this regard?

With over 7400 servers spread across 91 countries, CyberGhost boasts one of the largest networks in the industry. This vast network ensures that users across the globe can find a local server, a critical factor in reducing lag and improving browsing speed. This is like having multiple digital highways at your disposal, allowing you to pick the least crowded one.

Global Coverage and Availability

CyberGhost’s server distribution is impressively global, spanning continents and including servers in regions often ignored by other VPN providers. From the populated landscapes of Europe and North America to the less-trodden digital paths in Africa and the Middle East, CyberGhost provides coverage that’s as close to global as one can get. This means you get unrestricted access to content, irrespective of geographic boundaries.

Number of Servers

As of this writing, CyberGhost’s server count stands at a whopping 7400+. This immense number offers you a variety of pathways for your data, minimizing the risk of congested servers. More servers also mean you’re less likely to encounter a server that’s down for maintenance or experiencing technical issues.

Server Speed

Fast, reliable connections are a hallmark of any top-tier VPN, and CyberGhost doesn’t disappoint. With a network this extensive, users can count on consistently high speeds, ensuring smooth browsing, streaming, and downloading experiences.

Server Speed Table in Different Countries

CountryDownload Speed (Mbps)Upload Speed (Mbps)Ping (ms)
USA93.584.5122
UK98.692.1112
Germany96.389.896
Australia87.578.2202
Brazil85.379.5264

Please note that these speeds may vary based on factors such as the user’s original internet speed, the time of the day, and the specific server used. However, in most cases, CyberGhost VPN should provide fast, reliable connections.

Streaming and Torrenting

Streaming

Supported Services

One of the major reasons people turn to VPNs is to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming content. So, does CyberGhost VPN make the cut for streamers?

Absolutely! CyberGhost has specific servers optimized for streaming. These servers provide quick, reliable access to a multitude of streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and many more. With such a lineup, you get unrestricted access to your favorite shows and movies, no matter where in the world you might be.

Supported Services Table

Streaming ServiceSupported?
NetflixYes
BBC iPlayerYes
Amazon Prime VideoYes
Disney+Yes
HuluYes
HBO MaxYes
ESPN+Yes

Torrenting

Supported Clients

P2P sharing or torrenting is another area where VPNs come in handy, providing a shield of anonymity for those who participate in file sharing.

With CyberGhost, torrenting is a breeze. It provides specialized, high-speed P2P servers that make the process smooth and anonymous. CyberGhost supports all major torrent clients like BitTorrent, uTorrent, Deluge, and qBittorrent.

Torrent ClientSupported?
BitTorrentYes
uTorrentYes
DelugeYes
qBittorrentYes

In the end, whether you’re seeking global content access or blazing-fast torrenting, CyberGhost VPN checks all the boxes. But how user-friendly is it? And how does it stack up against other VPN giants? Stay tuned as we explore these aspects and more in our comprehensive review.

Compatibility and User-Friendliness

Compatibility with Different Platforms

Whether you’re a Windows enthusiast, a Mac loyalist, or an Android or iOS user, CyberGhost VPN has you covered. It’s compatible with a broad array of platforms and even extends support to lesser-used ones like Linux. It’s also available on Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, and offers browser extensions for Google Chrome and Firefox. The breadth of platform compatibility is truly remarkable.

Here’s a quick glance at the platforms supported by CyberGhost:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android
  • iOS
  • Amazon Fire TV
  • Android TV
  • Google Chrome (extension)
  • Mozilla Firefox (extension)

Do you use more than one device? Well, CyberGhost has your back there too! With a single subscription, you can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously. So whether you’re on your desktop at home, or using your smartphone on the go, your data remains secure and your internet unrestricted.

User-Friendliness Rating

User experience is paramount in any software, and VPNs are no exception. On this front, CyberGhost shines with its intuitive, user-friendly interface. Whether you’re a VPN veteran or a newcomer to the world of virtual private networks, navigating CyberGhost is a breeze.

From the moment you install the CyberGhost app, the process is smooth and straightforward. You are greeted with a clean interface, free from clutter. Connecting to a server is as simple as clicking the power button, and selecting a specific server or setting is just as easy.

Moreover, CyberGhost provides advanced features like ad-blocking, automated HTTPS redirection, and data compression. These features are neatly tucked away under the connection features tab, accessible but not intrusive. This attention to user experience speaks volumes about CyberGhost’s commitment to making their service accessible to all.

Pricing and Packages

Overview of Prices and Packages

One might wonder, with all these features, how much does CyberGhost cost?

Well, CyberGhost offers a variety of plans to cater to different user needs. You can opt for a one-month, one-year, two-year, or three-year plan. As is typical with many services, the longer your subscription, the less you pay per month.

CyberGhost review: Pricing & Plans

As of now, the pricing stands as follows:

  • Monthly plan: $12.99/month
  • 1-year plan: $3.99/month (billed $47.88 annually)
  • 2-year plan: $2.11/month (billed $56.97 biennially)
  • 3-year plan: $2.25/month (billed $87.75 triennially)

Trial Version

Not sure if CyberGhost is the right VPN for you? No problem! CyberGhost offers a one-day free trial for desktop users and a generous 7-day free trial for mobile users. This gives you ample time to test out the service and see if it meets your needs.

Money-Back Guarantee

Furthermore, CyberGhost provides a 45-day money-back guarantee for its 6-months (or more) subscription plans, and a 14-day money-back guarantee for its monthly plan. This no-questions-asked policy assures you that your investment in the service is risk-free.

Customer Support

Any digital service is only as good as its support system. When you encounter issues or uncertainties, it’s comforting to know there’s a competent team ready to assist. So, how does CyberGhost VPN perform on this front?

CyberGhost offers a multifaceted support system, providing quick and efficient solutions to your queries. They have a comprehensive online guide and FAQ section, addressing common questions and providing detailed tutorials.

For more complex or individual queries, CyberGhost has a 24/7 live chat feature. This real-time support tool ensures that your VPN experience remains uninterrupted. Users have reported the live chat as being helpful, with customer service representatives providing clear and detailed responses.

And for those who prefer old-school methods, there’s the option of email support. While not as immediate as live chat, email queries are typically answered in detail within a day. Here’s a quick table summarizing the contact options:

Contact MethodAvailability
Live chat24/7
EmailYes
Online GuidesYes

From their diverse customer support options, it’s clear that CyberGhost aims to make your VPN experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

Pros and Cons

It’s easy to get swayed by impressive features and numbers, but it’s essential to take a balanced look at any service. So, what are the strengths and weaknesses of CyberGhost VPN?

Like every service, CyberGhost has its share of pros and cons. However, the advantages far outweigh the downsides, making it a robust choice for a VPN.

Pros

  • Extensive Server Network: With over 7400 servers in 91 countries, CyberGhost ensures that you’re never far from a quick connection.
  • Robust Security and Privacy: High-level encryption, varied protocols, and a strict no-logs policy make CyberGhost a fortress of digital security.
  • Streaming and Torrenting: CyberGhost’s dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting make it a top choice for entertainment and P2P sharing.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The app’s easy navigation ensures a pleasant user experience, irrespective of your tech prowess.
  • Excellent Customer Support: The 24/7 live chat support, combined with detailed online guides, ensure your queries never go unanswered.

Cons

  • Variable Speeds: While CyberGhost generally offers fast connections, speeds can sometimes dip when connected to certain servers.
  • One-Day Desktop Trial: The one-day trial period for desktop users might not be sufficient to fully evaluate the service.

Here’s a summary of the pros and cons for a quick look:

ProsCons
Extensive server networkVariable speeds
Robust security and privacyOne-day desktop trial
Specialized servers for streaming and torrenting
User-friendly interface
Excellent customer support

With its impressive features and strong commitment to privacy and security, CyberGhost VPN undoubtedly brings a lot to the table. But how does it stack up against other top VPN providers? Stay tuned for our in-depth comparison.

Alternatives

When considering a VPN, it’s essential to compare it with other top-tier services. Let’s see how CyberGhost stacks up against its competitors like NordVPN, Surfshark VPN, PureVPN, and ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost VPN vs NordVPN

NordVPN is another industry titan, known for its robust security and extensive server network. While both offer a similar level of service, there are key differences.

NordVPN has slightly more servers (5500+), though CyberGhost’s 7400+ servers are spread across more countries. Both support major platforms, but NordVPN allows up to 6 devices simultaneously compared to CyberGhost’s 7.

In terms of security, both use AES-256 encryption and offer a no-logs policy. However, NordVPN is based in Panama, a non-member of the 14-Eyes alliance like Romania.

CyberGhost VPN vs Surfshark VPN

Surfshark VPN is known for its unlimited simultaneous connections, a feature CyberGhost doesn’t offer. However, with 7 connections allowed, CyberGhost should cover most users’ needs.

Surfshark has fewer servers (3200+), but they’re spread across a similar number of countries. Both have robust security features and a no-logs policy. Surfshark is based in the British Virgin Islands, another privacy-friendly jurisdiction.

CyberGhost VPN vs PureVPN

PureVPN stands out with its server coverage, available in 140+ countries, but has fewer servers overall (6500+). While PureVPN supports up to 10 devices, CyberGhost’s interface is generally seen as more user-friendly.

Both VPNs offer robust security, but PureVPN is based in Panama, which has relaxed privacy laws.

CyberGhost VPN vs ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a popular service praised for its speed and security. However, with only 3000+ servers in 94 countries, it falls behind CyberGhost in network size.

ExpressVPN allows 5 simultaneous connections and offers a similar level of encryption and security. Notably, ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.

Each of these alternatives has its strengths, but CyberGhost holds its own in this competitive field. With its extensive server network, robust security, and user-friendly approach, it stands as a strong contender in the VPN market.

Conclusion

With its impressive array of features and dedicated focus on user privacy and security, CyberGhost has proven itself to be more than just another VPN service. It’s a comprehensive solution for anyone looking to safeguard their online activities and bypass internet restrictions.

Whether you’re a seasoned VPN user or someone looking for their first VPN, CyberGhost offers a balanced blend of complexity and simplicity. It provides an array of advanced features for the tech-savvy, while its intuitive interface ensures that even beginners can navigate the software with ease.

CyberGhost’s extensive server network, coupled with its specialized servers for streaming and torrenting, make it a versatile choice for users with varied needs. While there might be areas for improvement, the overall package is undeniably robust.

In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of VPN services, CyberGhost stands tall as a reliable, comprehensive, and user-friendly service. It’s not just a VPN – it’s a complete toolkit for internet freedom and security.

FAQ

Does CyberGhost VPN keep logs?

No, CyberGhost adheres to a strict no-logs policy. This means it does not keep any record of your online activities, assuring total privacy.

Can I use CyberGhost VPN for streaming services?

Absolutely! CyberGhost VPN has dedicated servers for various streaming services including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and many more.

How many devices can I use with CyberGhost VPN?

You can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously with a single CyberGhost VPN subscription.

Does CyberGhost VPN support torrenting?

Yes, CyberGhost VPN supports torrenting and even offers dedicated high-speed P2P servers for a smooth torrenting experience.

Is there a free trial for CyberGhost VPN?

Yes, CyberGhost VPN offers a one-day free trial for desktop users and a seven-day free trial for mobile users, giving you plenty of time to try out the service.

How good is CyberGhost VPN’s customer support?

CyberGhost VPN provides excellent customer support with a 24/7 live chat feature, email support, and a comprehensive online guide and FAQ section.

Does CyberGhost VPN work in China?

CyberGhost VPN is not consistently reliable in China. However, the situation may have changed, and it’s best to check CyberGhost’s official resources or contact their customer support for the latest information.

Is CyberGhost VPN worth the money?

Yes, considering its robust features, large server network, and a strong commitment to user privacy and security, CyberGhost VPN offers excellent value for its price.

About the author

Jeremy is a cybersecurity author specializing in VPNs and privacy apps. With a passion for digital security, he educates individuals and organizations on safeguarding their online presence. Jeremy shares his expertise through conferences and workshops, making significant strides in raising awareness and fostering a safer digital environment.