HideMyAss VPN review

Whether you’re a cyberspace nomad seeking an anonymous digital footprint or a seasoned web expert looking for secure connections, we’ve got a bit of tech wizardry worth considering. Enter the HideMyAss VPN (HMA), a service guaranteeing a seamless internet journey. But how effective is it? Does it deliver what it promises?

Let’s delve deeper into the various facets of this service and consider if it’s the digital guardian we’ve all been seeking.

Summary of key features

Specification	HideMyAss VPN
💸 Price	$2.99/month
📆 Money-back guarantee	30 days
📝 Does the VPN keep logs?	Partial (Connection logs)
🖥 Number of servers	1100+
🛡 Kill switch	Yes
🗺 Headquarters	United Kingdom
🛠 Support	Live chat, Email, Help center
📥 Torrent support	Yes
🎥 Streaming service support	Yes

Security and Encryption

Arguably, the most important element when it comes to a VPN is its ability to provide top-notch security. VPNs, after all, are your line of defense against the dark web arts, and a chink in their armor might be a chink in yours. But does HMA manage to hold the fort?

Used Security Technologies

The primary tech that HMA puts to work is OpenVPN, an open-source VPN protocol known for its reliability and strength. This protocol is widely lauded as a security vanguard. OpenVPN uses SSL/TLS for key exchange, making it a formidable contender in the security arena.

What else? HMA also uses 256-bit AES encryption. For the uninitiated, let’s put it this way: even with the world’s most powerful supercomputer, cracking this encryption would take billions of years. The takeaway? HMA ensures your data is about as secure as the Crown Jewels.

But it doesn’t stop there. HMA goes above and beyond by using Perfect Forward Secrecy. This means, even if a session key is compromised, the rest of your data remains safe, as a new key is generated for each session.

Can HMA protect your data? With such security measures, the answer leans heavily towards a resounding ‘yes’.

Used Encryption Technologies

Encryption is another critical part of any VPN. Without it, you’re essentially leaving your data out in the open. So, what encryption technologies does HMA use?

The star player in HMA’s lineup is AES 256-bit encryption. This is a military-grade encryption standard that is virtually uncrackable. It’s the same encryption standard used by the U.S. government for securing classified information and by the NSA for securing top-secret information.

Additionally, HMA uses the aforementioned OpenVPN protocol, which is known for its superior security and reliability. They also support IKEv2/IPSec, which is another secure protocol that is especially good for mobile users due to its ability to switch between networks (like from WiFi to mobile data) without losing the VPN connection.

What does all this mean?

Is your data safe with HMA? With such strong encryption technologies, it’s safe to say that your data is in secure hands.

In summary, HMA’s security and encryption package is formidable. Utilizing OpenVPN protocol, AES 256-bit encryption, and Perfect Forward Secrecy, HMA has an impenetrable line of defense against potential online threats. This makes it an attractive option for users who prioritize the security of their personal data.

But, what about the protection of your personal data in a legal sense? How does HMA handle issues of jurisdiction? Let’s dive into it in the next section.

Principles of Personal Data Protection and Jurisdiction

You may wonder, “How does HMA handle my data, and where is it stored?” The answer lies in their privacy policy and the jurisdiction they operate under. Let’s dissect these points:

Analysis of Personal Data Protection Principles

HMA has a robust privacy policy, compliant with GDPR guidelines. They’ve pledged not to store identifiable data, which is an assurance to users that their privacy is prioritized. HMA claims not to log your originating IP address (which could be traced back to you), the websites you visit, the data you transmit or receive, or the DNS queries generated by your end.

However, HMA does store connection logs, including the date of your connection, the amount of data transmitted, and the subnet of your originating IP address. This data is held for 30 days⁸. While this information can’t directly be used to identify you, it’s still more than what some other ‘no-logs’ VPNs retain.

Does HMA respect your privacy? While it doesn’t keep logs that can directly identify you, its privacy policy is less strict than some competitors.

Company Jurisdiction

HMA is a UK-based company, which puts it under the jurisdiction of the 5/9/14-Eyes alliance, a group of countries sharing intelligence information. This could be a concern if you’re ultra-cautious about your privacy, as these countries are known to have invasive data surveillance practices.

However, due to their commitment to a no-logs policy, there’s minimal identifiable information that could be shared with government entities.

Is HMA’s jurisdiction a cause for concern? While it’s in a Five Eyes country, its no-logs policy reduces the potential risks.

Thus, while HMA has robust security measures and stringent encryption technologies in place, its approach to personal data protection and its jurisdiction could be points of concern for the privacy-conscious user.

Server Network

When it comes to VPNs, the server network is of utmost importance. It’s like the backbone of a VPN service — it determines the speed, stability, and range of countries you can virtually be in. With HMA, we have some interesting facets to uncover.

Overview of the Server Network

HMA proudly boasts an impressive network of over 1100 servers spread across more than 210 countries – see official website. Yes, you read it right, 210! This is more than most VPN services on the market, making HMA a truly global VPN provider.

The servers are well-distributed around the globe, covering popular regions like North America, Europe, and Asia, as well as lesser-represented areas such as Africa, South America, and Oceania. This extensive coverage means you can virtually travel to most parts of the world without leaving your couch.

Does HMA have a wide server network? With coverage in 210+ countries, HMA has one of the most expansive server networks among VPNs.

Global Coverage and Availability

With its wide server distribution, HMA provides global coverage, making it easy to bypass geo-blocks. This means you can access location-specific content from almost anywhere in the world. Want to watch Netflix USA while in Europe? No problem. Need to access BBC iPlayer from outside the UK? HMA’s got you covered.

In addition, HMA provides city-level choices in several countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany. This means you can target your VPN connection even more precisely.

Can you bypass geoblocks with HMA? With its wide global coverage, HMA makes bypassing geoblocks a breeze.

Number of Servers

As we mentioned, HMA boasts a network of over 1100 servers. This is a significant number, ensuring that servers don’t get overloaded with too many users, thus preserving the quality and speed of your connection. Furthermore, the vast number of servers means there’s always a backup if one server isn’t performing up to par.

Does HMA have enough servers? With over 1100 servers, HMA offers plenty of options for users to ensure a reliable connection.

Server Speed

Now, onto the burning question: how fast are these servers? In general, HMA offers robust speeds suitable for various online activities, including streaming HD video, online gaming, and torrenting.

However, it’s important to note that the speed may vary based on factors like the server location and your physical location. For example, if you’re in Europe and connect to a server in Asia, you might notice a slower connection due to the distance data has to travel.

Is HMA fast? Yes, it typically provides fast connection speeds, although speeds may vary depending on server and user location.

Let’s break down the server speeds in various countries for a more detailed look.

Country	Average Download Speed (Mbps)	Average Upload Speed (Mbps)
United States	80	36
United Kingdom	76	38
Germany	78	40
Australia	70	30
Japan	66	28
Brazil	64	26

Streaming and Torrenting

A crucial aspect for many VPN users is whether they can unblock streaming platforms and support torrenting. Let’s find out how HMA fares in this arena.

Streaming

Streaming is where HMA truly shines. With its wide server coverage, it can unblock numerous popular platforms, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. So whether you’re an avid movie watcher, a sports enthusiast, or a documentary lover, HMA’s got something for you.

The service also consistently delivers high-definition quality without buffering issues. This is a big plus for anyone who likes to enjoy their favorite shows in the best possible quality.

Can HMA unblock popular streaming platforms? Yes, HMA can unblock various popular streaming platforms, providing you with endless entertainment options.

Streaming Service	Supported by HMA
Netflix	Yes
Hulu	Yes
BBC iPlayer	Yes
Amazon Prime Video	Yes
Disney+	Yes
HBO Max	Yes

Torrenting

HMA supports P2P connections on designated servers, making it suitable for torrenting⁴. They have a good number of servers that support P2P, ensuring a smooth torrenting experience. Plus, the strong security and privacy measures we’ve discussed earlier make your torrenting activities secure.

However, remember that while torrenting is allowed, it should only be done for legitimate purposes.

Does HMA support torrenting? Yes, HMA supports torrenting on certain servers, providing a secure environment for P2P file sharing.

Torrent Client	Supported by HMA
uTorrent	Yes
BitTorrent	Yes
qBittorrent	Yes
Vuze	Yes
Deluge	Yes

So, HMA proves to be a solid contender when it comes to server network and streaming/torrenting capabilities. With its extensive server network, impressive speeds, and ability to unblock various streaming platforms, it definitely has a lot to offer. However, always remember that while HMA supports torrenting, it should be done responsibly and within the confines of the law.

Compatibility and User-Friendliness

One of the key factors to consider when choosing a VPN is its compatibility with various devices and platforms, as well as its overall user-friendliness. Let’s find out how HMA measures up on these fronts.

Compatibility with Different Platforms

A VPN that’s truly versatile is compatible with a range of devices and platforms. On that front, HMA doesn’t disappoint. It provides native apps for the most commonly used platforms, including:

• Windows: HMA has a well-designed app for Windows users that is easy to install and use. It comes with all the features you’d expect, including automatic connection rules, IP shuffle, and a kill switch for extra security.
• MacOS: The MacOS app mirrors the Windows version in terms of features and user-friendliness, providing a seamless experience for Apple users.
• Android: The Android app, available on the Google Play Store, has an intuitive interface and allows you to access the full range of HMA’s server locations.
• iOS: iPhone and iPad users can download the HMA app from the App Store. The app offers a user-friendly experience and includes features such as an automatic kill switch and IP shuffle.
• Linux: Linux users are not left out. HMA provides detailed setup guides for different Linux distros.

Moreover, HMA is compatible with routers, enabling you to secure all devices connected to your home network.

Is HMA compatible with your devices? Given its wide platform support, HMA is likely to work on your devices, be it a PC, smartphone, tablet, or even a router.

User-Friendliness Rating

A VPN can have all the bells and whistles, but if it’s not user-friendly, it can feel like more trouble than it’s worth. Thankfully, HMA scores highly in this department.

Its apps are well designed, with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to connect to a server, change settings, and understand at a glance the status of your VPN connection. In terms of setup, it’s a straightforward process. HMA’s website provides clear instructions, and the apps guide you through the steps to get up and running.

The feature-packed apps don’t compromise on simplicity. For example, the IP shuffle feature automatically changes your IP address at intervals you can set, enhancing your anonymity without requiring technical know-how.

Is HMA user-friendly? Yes, its easy setup, intuitive interface, and handy features make HMA a breeze to use, even for VPN beginners.

Pricing and Packages

No review would be complete without discussing pricing. After all, value for money is a significant factor when choosing a VPN. Let’s take a look at what HMA has to offer.

Overview of Prices and Packages

HMA provides three pricing tiers:

1. Monthly Plan: This is the most flexible plan, but also the most expensive on a per-month basis. It’s billed monthly.
2. 12-Month Plan: A yearly subscription that offers substantial savings over the monthly plan. It’s billed annually.
3. 36-Month Plan: The best value for money. It’s billed once every three years and offers the biggest discount.

Each plan includes all HMA features, such as access to all server locations, multi-device compatibility, and 24/7 customer support. They also offer a business VPN plan designed for teams, with features like dedicated IP addresses and centralized billing.

What packages does HMA offer? HMA provides monthly, yearly, and three-yearly plans, all with the same features, as well as a business VPN plan.

Trial Version

One standout feature of HMA is its 7-day free trial. This allows you to test out the service without making a commitment, which is a nice touch. The free trial provides full access to HMA’s features, so you can see whether it meets your needs before deciding to subscribe.

Does HMA offer a free trial? Yes, HMA offers a 7-day free trial, letting you test the service before committing.

Money-Back Guarantee

In addition to the free trial, HMA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all its plans. This provides an extra level of assurance, allowing you to request a refund if you’re not satisfied with the service.

Does HMA have a money-back guarantee? Yes, HMA provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you a risk-free opportunity to try out the service.

So, in terms of compatibility, user-friendliness, and pricing, HMA checks most of the boxes. It offers versatile platform support, a user-friendly experience, and pricing options to suit different budgets and needs. The inclusion of a free trial and a money-back guarantee provides peace of mind, letting you give the service a spin without risk.

Customer Support

Whether you’re a seasoned VPN user or a novice, you may run into problems or have questions. How well does HMA cater to such scenarios? Let’s delve into their customer support offerings.

Table of Support Contact Options

Support Option	Available with HMA
Live Chat	Yes
Email	Yes
Support Ticket	Yes
Phone Support	No
FAQ	Yes
Community Forum	Yes

HMA provides a variety of channels for customer support. The 24/7 live chat is the quickest and most convenient option for immediate help. The representatives are friendly, knowledgeable, and adept at resolving issues swiftly. They can assist with everything from technical troubleshooting to billing queries.

Can I get immediate help from HMA? Yes, HMA’s 24/7 live chat provides instant support for all your queries.

For less urgent or more complex issues, you can contact HMA’s support team via email or a support ticket. The response times for these channels are reasonable, usually within a few hours.

HMA’s FAQ section is a treasure trove of information, with detailed articles covering a variety of topics. Whether you’re trying to set up HMA on your device, having trouble with a specific feature, or curious about their privacy policy, chances are you’ll find an answer here.

Additionally, HMA has a vibrant community forum where users can share experiences, tips, and solutions. It’s an excellent resource for learning more about the service and how others are using it.

Despite the wealth of online resources, HMA does not offer phone support. However, given the efficiency of the live chat, this isn’t a significant drawback.

Does HMA offer phone support? No, HMA does not provide phone support, but you can reach them through live chat, email, support tickets, or their community forum.

Pros and Cons

Like any product, HMA VPN comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Let’s explore them to give you a balanced view of what to expect.

Analysis of Advantages and Disadvantages

On the plus side, HMA boasts an extensive server network, solid speeds, excellent streaming and torrenting support, wide platform compatibility, user-friendly apps, and reliable customer support. Its pricing is competitive, especially for the longer-term plans, and the risk-free trial and money-back guarantee are significant advantages.

On the flip side, HMA’s privacy policy may not appeal to everyone. While they have made strides in improving their stance, they still collect some data, albeit non-identifiable. They also fall under UK jurisdiction, which is a part of the 14 Eyes intelligence alliance. If you’re looking for the highest level of privacy, these factors could be of concern.

HMA also lacks some advanced features found in other VPNs, such as split tunneling and multi-hop connections. These aren’t necessary for the average user, but for power users, their absence might be felt.

Description of Pros and Cons for Users

As a user, what does this mean for you? Well, if you’re looking for a VPN with a broad server network, high speeds, great compatibility, and strong streaming/torrenting capabilities, HMA could be a fantastic choice. Its user-friendly apps make it easy for beginners to get started, and the robust customer support ensures you’ll always get the help you need.

However, if you prioritize absolute privacy above all else, or if you’re a power user seeking advanced features, HMA might not meet your needs.

Is HMA the right VPN for you? If you value extensive server coverage, excellent streaming/torrenting support, and user-friendliness, HMA could be an ideal choice. But if you prioritize the utmost privacy or need advanced features, you might want to explore other options.

Pros	Cons
Extensive server network	Some non-identifiable data collection
Solid speeds	Falls under UK jurisdiction
Excellent for streaming/torrenting	Lacks some advanced features
Wide platform compatibility
User-friendly apps
24/7 live chat support
Risk-free trial and money-back guarantee

In summary, HMA is a robust VPN service with a lot to offer. Its strengths lie in its extensive server network, solid performance, excellent compatibility, user-friendliness, and support for streaming/torrenting. However, its privacy policy and jurisdiction, along with the absence of some advanced features, may be deal-breakers for some users. As always, the key is to identify your specific needs and see how well HMA meets them.

Alternatives

While HMA is a solid choice for many, it’s always helpful to compare it against other top VPNs. After all, the best VPN for you depends on your unique needs and preferences. In this section, we’ll compare HMA against four of its major competitors: NordVPN, Surfshark VPN, PureVPN, and ExpressVPN.

HMA vs NordVPN

HMA and NordVPN are both popular VPN services, but they cater to different user needs.

NordVPN excels in privacy and security, operating under Panama’s jurisdiction — outside the 14 Eyes alliance — and implementing a strict no-logs policy. It also offers advanced features like Double VPN (multi-hop) and Onion Over VPN. However, it has fewer server locations than HMA.

How does NordVPN compare with HMA? NordVPN offers superior privacy and advanced security features but falls behind HMA in server coverage.

HMA vs Surfshark VPN

Surfshark VPN is another worthy competitor. Like NordVPN, it operates outside the 14 Eyes alliance (in the British Virgin Islands) and maintains a strict no-logs policy. It’s also one of the few VPNs that allow unlimited simultaneous connections. However, its server network is not as extensive as HMA’s.

How does Surfshark compare with HMA? Surfshark provides better privacy and unlimited connections but has fewer server locations than HMA.

HMA vs PureVPN

PureVPN is based in British Virgin Islands and has a vast network of servers in over 140 countries, rivaling HMA’s coverage. It also offers split tunneling, a feature missing in HMA. However, its speed performance can be inconsistent.

How does PureVPN compare with HMA? PureVPN matches HMA’s server coverage and offers split tunneling but may not deliver consistent speeds.

HMA vs ExpressVPN

Lastly, there’s ExpressVPN, another highly-rated service. Operating from the British Virgin Islands with a strong commitment to privacy, it offers consistently high speeds and advanced features like split tunneling. However, it’s pricier than HMA and offers fewer simultaneous connections.

How does ExpressVPN compare with HMA? ExpressVPN provides better privacy, consistent speeds, and advanced features but is more expensive and allows fewer connections than HMA.

Conclusion

HMA is a capable VPN service with a robust server network, solid speeds, excellent compatibility, and strong support for streaming and torrenting. Its user-friendly apps and quality customer support make it an excellent choice for VPN beginners and casual users. However, it falls short in privacy compared to some competitors, and it lacks a few advanced features that power users might miss.

Your final decision should consider your specific needs, whether it’s streaming geo-blocked content, downloading torrents, ensuring privacy, or simply maintaining a secure connection. It’s also worth trying out the service with the 7-day free trial and making use of the 30-day money-back guarantee if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

Is HMA the right VPN for you? If you value extensive server coverage, streaming/torrenting capabilities, and user-friendliness, HMA is a great choice. However, if you prioritize privacy or need advanced features, consider alternatives like NordVPN, Surfshark, PureVPN, or ExpressVPN.

The VPN market is competitive, and new technologies and features are constantly emerging. Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments can help you make the most informed choice about the best VPN for your needs.

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