NymVPN: A Decentralized VPN for Privacy and Security
If you’re concerned about hackers, scammers, and government spies intruding on your privacy, a distributed network can help keep your online activities anonymous. However, the fastest and most popular VPNs use server networks controlled by private companies.
NymVPN is different, using blockchain technology in a mixed network of independently operated servers with strong encryption to maintain security and multi-server connections to ensure privacy. It’s not the only decentralized VPN available, but it might be one of the easiest to use.
Specs
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Devices: 10
- Support: Email
- Free version: No
Tiers and Pricing
NymVPN offers three subscription options, and the two-year plan offers the most savings. The average monthly price for a $132 two-year plan is $5, while an annual subscription is $84, which works out to $7 per month.
Design
NymVPN has a clean and simple user interface. The installation was fast, and the Windows app was open and ready to use in less than a minute. It defaults to Fast mode, which uses WireGuard to speed up browsing and streaming.
Features
- Decentralized VPN improves privacy
- Five-hop mode increases security
- Encryption with noise obfuscates traffic
- Live chat support on weekdays
Cons
- Fast mode is a bit slow
- Lacks split-tunneling, advanced features
- Server selection is limited
Performance
I found performance to be somewhat slow even in Fast mode. However, a speed tradeoff becomes acceptable when privacy and anonymity are my primary considerations.
Speed Test
I measured 317 Mbps down and 5 Mbps up with NymVPN’s Fast mode. Download speed was reduced by 65%. Upload speed was 94 Mbps down and 23 Mbps up. That’s still quite slow, making it clear I shouldn’t choose NymVPN for speed.
Support
NymVPN’s live chat was friendly and shared links and images to help explain. The response came within a few minutes, and I found the agent to be friendly and helpful.
Conclusion
NymVPN won’t appeal to everyone, and if you can’t bear any slowdowns, it’s not the right choice. The best VPNs balance speed and privacy with a single-hop encrypted tunnel that will work better for most people. If you’re on a tight budget or suffering from subscription fatigue, NymVPN might be too expensive. However, if you’re concerned about hackers, scammers, and government spies intruding on your privacy, NymVPN might be a worthy choice when privacy and anonymity is essential.
