Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become a popular tool to enhance online security and privacy. With the ever-growing surveillance and censorship concerns, VPNs have become essential for internet users who want to keep their online activities private and secure. VPNs can encrypt internet traffic, hide IP addresses, and allow access to geo-restricted content. However, not all VPNs are created equal. Some offer better privacy and security features than others. In this article, we’ll compare two popular VPNs, ExpressVPN and Windscribe, to determine which one offers better stealth and obfuscation features.
ExpressVPN Overview
ExpressVPN is a well-known VPN provider that offers fast and reliable service. It is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is a privacy-friendly jurisdiction. ExpressVPN has a vast server network of over 3000 servers in 94 countries. It supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec. ExpressVPN also offers several advanced security features, such as split tunneling, kill switch, and DNS leak protection. It has dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux, as well as browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Windscribe Overview
Windscribe is a relatively new VPN provider that has gained a lot of popularity due to its free plan and excellent privacy features. It is based in Canada, which is not the most privacy-friendly jurisdiction but has a strong commitment to privacy. Windscribe has a smaller server network of over 480 servers in 63 countries. It supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and SOCKS5. Windscribe also offers several advanced security features, such as a firewall, ad-blocker, and malware protection. It has dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux, as well as browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.
Stealth and Obfuscation Features Comparison
Stealth and obfuscation features are essential for VPNs because they can help bypass internet censorship and prevent VPN detection. Internet censorship is prevalent in many countries, where governments block access to websites and services they deem inappropriate or threatening. VPN detection is a technique used by some websites and services to block users who are using VPNs. VPNs that can bypass both internet censorship and VPN detection are highly desirable.
ExpressVPN Stealth and Obfuscation Features
ExpressVPN offers several stealth and obfuscation features that can help bypass internet censorship and prevent VPN detection. These features include:
- TrustedServer Technology: ExpressVPN uses a unique technology called TrustedServer, which ensures that all their servers run on RAM instead of hard drives. This means that every time a server is rebooted, all data is wiped, making it virtually impossible for anyone to extract any information. TrustedServer technology ensures that ExpressVPN servers are always up to date and secure.
- Network Lock (Kill Switch): Network Lock is a feature that automatically cuts off internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. This ensures that your online activities remain private, even if the VPN connection is lost.
- Stealth Servers: ExpressVPN has a feature called Stealth Servers that can help bypass internet censorship. Stealth Servers are specially configured servers that use obfuscated protocols, making it difficult for anyone to detect VPN traffic. These servers are available in several countries, including Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore.
- Split Tunneling: ExpressVPN has a split tunneling feature that allows users to choose which apps and websites use the VPN connection and which don’t. This can be useful when accessing local services that are not available outside of your country.
Windscribe Stealth and Obfuscation Features
Windscribe also offers several stealth and obfuscation features that can help bypass internet censorship and prevent VPN detection. These features include:
1.Stealth Mode:
Windscribe offers a feature called “Stealth Mode,” which is designed to bypass VPN detection. When this feature is activated, Windscribe encrypts traffic using TCP port 443, which is the same port used by HTTPS traffic. This makes it difficult for network administrators to distinguish VPN traffic from regular HTTPS traffic, thus preventing VPN detection.
2.Firewall:
Windscribe also comes with a built-in firewall that can help protect your device from malware and prevent IP leaks. This firewall feature blocks all incoming and outgoing traffic that is not explicitly allowed by the user. This can help prevent your device from sending out data that could reveal your IP address.
3.Wstunnel Protocol:
The Wstunnel protocol is another obfuscation technique that Windscribe uses to prevent VPN detection. This protocol can be used on TCP port 443, which is the same port used by HTTPS traffic. Wstunnel is an open-source protocol that is designed to be fast, reliable, and secure.
4.Split Personality:
Windscribe offers a feature called “Split Personality,” which allows users to switch between different obfuscation techniques. This feature is designed to be used in situations where one technique may not work. For example, if one country is blocking VPN traffic using the OpenVPN protocol, you can switch to another obfuscation technique, such as the Wstunnel protocol.
Which VPN Offers Better Stealth and Obfuscation Features?
Both ExpressVPN and Windscribe offer excellent stealth and obfuscation features that can help bypass internet censorship and prevent VPN detection. However, there are some differences between the two that are worth noting.
ExpressVPN has a larger server network, which means that they have more options for using their stealth servers. Additionally, their TrustedServer technology is a unique feature that adds an extra layer of security. ExpressVPN also offers split tunneling, which is a useful feature that Windscribe does not have.
On the other hand, Windscribe offers a free plan, which is a significant advantage for users who want to try out a VPN before committing to a paid subscription. Windscribe’s “Stealth Mode” feature is also an effective way to bypass VPN detection, and their “Split Personality” feature allows users to switch between different obfuscation techniques easily.
In conclusion, both ExpressVPN and Windscribe offer excellent stealth and obfuscation features that can help bypass internet censorship and prevent VPN detection. Which VPN is better for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you want a larger server network and more advanced security features, ExpressVPN is the better choice. If you want to try out a VPN for free or prefer a VPN with a unique obfuscation technique, Windscribe is the better choice. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which VPN is the best fit for your needs.
