SurfEasy

SurfEasy, a direct VPN service based in Canada, was initially under Opera Software's ownership but was acquired by NortonLifeLock in 2017.

The platform boasts a network of 500 servers across 28 countries, though the official website sometimes mentions 1000 servers. With dedicated applications for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, along with extensions for Chrome and Opera, the setup process is user-friendly. Users can connect up to five devices simultaneously, benefit from 24/7 support via email and live chat, and enjoy integrated ad and tracker-blocking features.

Additionally, SurfEasy's 'Wi-Fi Security' automatically safeguards users when connecting to unsecured wireless hotspots, enhancing the overall security experience.

Security and privacy

To register for SurfEasy, you'll need to provide an email address, and if you prefer, you can use an alias email. However, for those seeking enhanced anonymity, SurfEasy doesn't offer significant options for anonymous or semi-anonymous payments. Payments can only be made through credit cards or PayPal, with no alternatives like cash or cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin).

As a part of NortonLifeLock, SurfEasy operates under the leadership of CEO Vincent Pilette, with its main headquarters located in Tempe, Arizona.

Being a smaller VPN provider, SurfEasy shares common challenges seen in many other smaller services. Notably, the website lacks comprehensive information. Besides general marketing statements, it doesn't specify that SurfEasy supports only OpenVPN, a secure protocol. The website vaguely mentions "bank-grade encryption" without providing specific details.