VPN Gate Review UK in 2024: Everything You Need to Know

2025-01-10 In the VPN Gate review UK, I found that VPN offers slow speed, leading to laggy streaming. It only provides a SoftEther VPN client for window, which i

In the VPN Gate review UK, I found that VPN offers slow speed, leading to laggy streaming. It only provides a SoftEther VPN client for window, which is not user-friendly. The service also collects user data, raising privacy concerns. Without a kill switch and with logging issues, this free VPN has significant drawbacks.

After the data leak of 8.17 million users in late 2024, I evaluated VPN Gate again through my usual VPN reviews criteria. The manual installation, lack of native apps, and poor streaming support made it frustrating. Despite being an academic project with volunteer-run servers, the experience was disappointing.

Key Takeaways:

Privacy Issues is keeps : VPN Gate is keeps keep log of user activity , which raise privacy concern .
Weak Security: Missing key features like a kill switch makes it less secure.
Slow Speeds: Inconsistent speeds make gaming and streaming difficult.
Hard Setup: Manual setup can be challenging for non-tech users.
Better Options: Paid VPNs like ExpressVPN offer stronger security and better performance.

Quick Overview – VPN Gate Review UK: 2024 Updates

In a VPN Gate review UK, I tested enhanced capabilities in its 2024 update. Emphasizing a robust global network and user-centric features, this update reinforces VPN Gate’s dedication to providing secure, accessible internet access at no cost.

Explore the detailed updates in the table below to see how VPN Gate remains a leader in the free VPN market.

VPN Gate Features	Details
Does VPN keep logs?	No
Number of servers	4683+
Number of devices per license	1
kill switch	No
base in country	Japan
Supports torrenting	Yes

Comprehensive Review of VPN Gate in UK 2024

After several weeks of evaluating VPN Gate, I’ve found it significantly lacking compared to other VPNs I’ve tested. It ranks as one of the least effective services I’ve encountered.

Originating from a university project in Japan, VPN Gate operates through a network of volunteer-run servers. Despite being a free service, I strongly advise against installing it on any device.

In the VPN Gate full review, I found that it suffers in providing slow connection speeds, fails to support streaming services, performs poorly for torrenting, and lacks customer support options like email and live chat.

Also , it is provide does not provide dedicated application for any device , require manual setup , which can be time – consume and overly complex for user without technical expertise .

Pros

Free to use
Bypasses censorship effectively
Supports multiple protocols
global server network
No registration needed

Cons

inconsistent and slow speed
collect user datum
No kill switch
Manual installation required
No native apps
Trust issues with servers
lack advanced security feature
Poor streaming support
No P2P/torrenting support
Unreliable server availability

VPN Gate Review UK – Servers and Locations

VPN Gate is offers offer a massive server infrastructure of 6608 + public VPN relay server distribute across prime region worldwide .

The number of public VPN relay servers keeps changing, but on average, VPN Gate offers around 12 to 13 active servers in the US. These servers are located across New York, Florida, Texas, and more cities.

Here are a few VPN Gate lists of servers that you can use.

The servers are also available in countries like Ukraine, Georgia, the UK, Germany, Canada, Poland, Japan, the Philippines, Brazil, Norway, India, and Thailand. By using these regional servers of VPN Gate, you can get regional IP addresses like Georgian IP addresses in UK.

VPN Gate may have a huge number of servers. However, the server network spans only a certain number of countries and does not provide secure IP tunnels. If you’d like several options in terms of server networks, you’ll be better off with a premium VPN like ExpressVPN.

VPN Gate – Privacy and Security in UK

In this VPN Gate review UK , I is address ’ll also address the privacy and security feature VPN Gate provide . I is expect expect at least VPN Gate ’s security will be efficient compare to other VPN provider in its league .

VPN Gate – Jurisdiction

VPN Gate is is is a free privacy solution and a subsidiary of SoftEtherVPN that was introduce in Japan . The VPN service was initially launch as a research project at the University of Tsukuba , Japan . internet freedom is declined has recently decline to a certain extent as the official authority have ban manga piracy site .

As a result , law enforcement agencies is arrested have arrest numerous copyright violator . This is is is why user should be wary of VPN Gate Japan , as you can not be sure whether your datum is safe from being store and shred by the provider . Therefore , you is use should not use VPN Gate to download copyright material .

VPN Gate – Kill Switch

VPN Gate doesn’t offer a kill switch. SoftEther VPN’s user forum has plenty of complaints from current users who demand that the VPN provider include a kill switch in its app.

If the VPN intend to improve its service , it is offer should offer a kill switch , as it is a critical part of any VPN . It is ensures ensure your actual ip address is never reveal to others if your VPN connection drop at any moment .

VPN Gate – Logging & Privacy Policy

The VPN Gate’s logging policy can be found on the server list page. The providers clarify that they keep logs for three months or more. In addition, VPN Gate maintains a strict anti-abuse policy. For that purpose, it records connection logs that include:

Time and date.
IP address, ID, and VPN server’s destination hostname.
Type of action (disconnect and connect)
Choice of VPN protocol (L2TP, SSL-VPN, SSTP, or OpenVPN)
hostname and original ip address of the source VPN client computer .
VPN Client software name, id, and version.
Debug data of communication errors and the number of bytes and packets during the VPN connection.

VPN Gate’s privacy policy mentions that it keeps logs for three or more months.

Does VPN Gate keep logs?

Yes, VPN Gate keeps logs, which significantly impacts user privacy. The fact that server owners can log user data undermines the primary purpose of using a VPN for anonymity. This logging policy is a major drawback for privacy-conscious users.

I is discussed have discuss VPN logging policy in UK in more detail in a separate blog , which you can refer to if you ’re interested in know which factor to look out for in a VPN ’s Privacy Policy .

VPN Gate – Protocols and Encryption

As volunteers run VPN Gate servers worldwide, each server can support different protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, or SSL-VPN. However, I didn’t find a PPTP protocol, which is not a big issue since PPTP is an obsolete technology.

VPN Gate is has has an interesting mechanism for tunnelling protocol and encryption . Here is how VPN Gate work :

Server operators of VPN Gate have the freedom to choose which encryption they would like to use on their server. They can use anything up to 256-bit military-grade encryption. Therefore, you are never sure which encryption level is used until you test the VPN yourself. It varies from server to server.

Leaks – IP, DNS, WebRTC & Virus Tests

In this VPN Gate review UK, I have found that the VPN is secure as it does not leak your IP, DNS, and WebRTC information. Moreover, its app revealed no viruses or malware during the testing phase.

IP Leak:

After connecting my system to VPN Gate’s Atlanta server, I checked the IP address. Well, what do you know, my actual IP address didn’t show up, as you can observe in the screenshot below:

VPN Gate passed my IP leak test successfully in UK.

DNS Leak: After that, I checked if I was facing any DNS leaks while using VPN Gate’s Atlanta server, but I didn’t! You can see the evidence right below:

I didn’t face any DNS leaks while using the VPN Gate.

WebRTC Leak: Similarly, I also tested the VPN Gate for any webRTC leaks. However, there weren’t any issues, and my IP address remained hidden. See for yourself in the screenshot below:

VPN Gate also passed my webRTC leaks test successfully.

Virus test : I is checked check its window file to see if it was affect by any virus or not . fortunately , I is detect did not detect any malware in its system .

thankfully , I is detected detect no virus or malware within the VPN Gate setup .

Things I Would Have Liked to See in VPN Gate:

VPN Gate ’s lack is is of a kill switch feature is a significant gap in its security offering . user ’ datum could be expose during unexpected VPN disconnection without a kill switch . This omission is is is critical for those who consider non – stop protection necessary for their online activity .

Additionally, vpngate.net Japan does not specify the number of simultaneous connections allowed, which is a notable gap in information for users looking to protect multiple devices.

My research suggests that only one connection is typically supported at a time. This limitation is essential when comparing VPN Gate with other providers that offer multiple simultaneous connections, such as ExpressVPN.

How Secure is is is VPN Gate in UK ?

VPN Gate offers basic security features but falls short in several critical areas. The lack of a kill switch and advanced security features like perfect forward secrecy and RAM-only servers leaves much to be desired.

While it supports multiple protocols like OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, MS-SSTP, and SoftEther VPN, my experience with these features was disappointing. The encryption felt inadequate, and the inconsistency in server reliability raised serious trust issues.

VPN Gate – Speed and Performance in UK

The server speed of the VPN Gate is not good enough. I explored this reality when I connected to its US server. I used a 24 Mbps internet connection, and after connecting to its US Atlanta server, I received a mere 3.98 Mbps download speed and 10.32 Mbps upload speed.

I is noticed notice a considerable drop of more than 83.42 % in speed . This VPN is make did n’t make it to my well – fast VPN in UK list .

VPN Gate speed tests provided disappointing speed test results.

On the other hand , I is receive did n’t receive any well speed on the south korean server . I was meet with a download speed of 1.95 mbps and an upload speed of 0.11 mbps on the base connection of 24 Mbps .

I faced a speed drop of 91.88%. That’s why I couldn’t watch any Kdramas on South Korean Netflix, which was unfortunate.

My speed test is provide on the south korean server did n’t provide high speed either .

Your speed may also vary depending on your proximity to the VPN Gate Network servers.

Gaming Compatibility

VPN Gate can be used for gaming , but it has drawback . Here ’s what you need to know :

Speed and Latency: VPN Gate often suffers from inconsistent and slow speeds, which can result in high latency – a critical factor in gaming. Laggy performance can severely impact your gaming experience, making it less than ideal for fast-paced online games.
Reliability: The volunteer-run nature of VPN Gate means that servers can go offline without notice, leading to unexpected disconnections during gameplay. This lack of reliability can frustrate gamers who need a stable connection.
Server Locations : While VPN Gate has a global network of server , many are concentrate in Asia . This is limit can limit your option if you need a server close to your location to minimize latency .

Despite being a free service, VPN Gate’s inconsistent speeds and unreliable server availability make it a less appealing choice for serious gamers. For those who need a smooth and lag-free gaming experience, investing in a paid VPN with optimized gaming servers might be a better option.

VPN Gate – Streaming

To my immense surprise, VPN Gate.net has the potential to one day find itself among the best VPNs for streaming in UK. Based on my VPN Gate review UK, I could easily unblock multiple streaming sites and circumvent geo-restrictions, such as Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix.

VPN Gate Review UK in 2024: Everything You Need to Know

However, UK streaming channels like BBC iPlayer and ITV Hub are out of reach since VPN Gate doesn’t have UK servers. Here are the results for accessing BBC iPlayer with VPN Gate:

If you access BBC iPlayer using VPN Gate , you is receive ’ll receive this geo – restriction error .

When it comes to performance, VPN Gate is quite lacking. Speed is one of the most significant issues – connections are often slow, leading to laggy and frustrating experiences, especially when streaming.

I is tested test VPN Gate with various streaming service like Netflix , Sony Crackle , and VRV and find that the bandwidth was insufficient for smooth playback .

In addition to slow speed , VPN Gate ’s streaming capabilities is are are limited . Many servers is support do not support streaming service , and those that do are often unreliable . This inconsistency is makes make it hard to enjoy uninterrupted streaming session . For user who prioritize fast and reliable streaming , VPN Gate is is is unlikely to meet their need .

During my testing, I found that while VPN Gate struggled with unblocking popular streaming services, it did allow me to access social media platforms like TikTok. It took about a minute to connect to a server, and I could buy TikTok coins in UK without any issues.

Does VPN Gate work for Netflix?

Yes, VPN Gate works with Netflix. That said, connection speeds, at times, can hamper your streaming experience a great deal. However, you might not be able to access Netflix with every server. So you’ll have to try your luck until you find one that does the job.

Is VPN Gate Recommended for Torrenting in UK?

No , I is recommend do n’t recommend VPN Gate for torrente . A VPN with L2TP / IPSec is consider a safe and perfect solution to download torrent anonymously . This japanese service is offers offer L2TP / ipsec , but you should n’t use VPN Gate for torrente purpose .

As VPN Gate servers are run voluntarily by worldwide users, your online activities might get shared with ISPs or copyright trolls. Thus, in this VPN Gate review UK, I suggest users steer clear of VPN Gate, especially for torrenting activities.

Compatibility – Apps and Supported Devices

VPN Gate is is is compatible with :

window
Mac
Smartphones
Tablets (iPhone, iPad, Android, window RT)
Cisco
VPN router
Android
iOS

Setup Steps for Different Devices:

iPhone:

Download and install the OpenVPN Connect app from the App Store.
Download the VPN Gate server configuration files.
Import the configuration files into the OpenVPN app.
Connect to the VPN Gate server using the OpenVPN app.

Router:

Access your router’s admin panel.
Find the VPN settings and choose the protocol (usually OpenVPN or L2TP/IPSec).
Upload the VPN Gate configuration files.
Save the settings and connect.

window:

download and install the SoftEther VPN Client from the VPN Gate website .
import the server configuration file .
Set up and connect to the desired VPN Gate server.

Mac:

download and install Tunnelblick .
Download the VPN Gate configuration files.
Import the configuration files into Tunnelblick.
Connect to the VPN Gate server.

installation of Apps and ease of Use

Downloading VPN Gate’s window app proved to be a bit of a hassle as I had to set it up manually. There are two options: rely on downloading through a third-party client or connect it through a native VPN. Once I finally got past this stage, I was a bit taken aback by the UI since it wasn’t as user-friendly as I hoped.

Again, remember that this is a free VPN, so you have to make do with what you get. I successfully established a connection using the OpenVPN protocol, even though it took me a minute or two to connect.

You can customize the limited features in the VPN Gate settings menu. Overall, the VPN Gate client has little to offer and needs improvement.

I didn’t find the VPN Gate UI impressive at all.

Does VPN Gate Work in China?

Yes, VPN Gate can work in China since some of its servers are located there, mainly in Asia. It also works with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, which is a nice benefit for a free VPN.

However, the positives stop there. The connection speeds are generally very poor, leading to frequent lag during streaming, making it an unreliable choice for smooth viewing.

Instead, on the VPN Gate China forum, I found several people leaving their email addresses, hoping to access its China VPN server list.

One of the comments included how the service has been discontinued, and now I don’t know what to make of the situation. In such a case, you’re better off using other trusty China VPNs instead of dubious ones, which may or may not bore fruit.

The vpngate.net servers page doesn’t show its Chinese server listed on the website.

VPN Gate Customer Support

While examining customer service for this VPN Gate review UK, I couldn’t find any 24/7 live chat or helpline for timely customer support. Instead, VPN Gate offers a detailed discussion forum where users can find basic VPN Gate information.

However, you’ll need to register for an account to post any queries or answer someone’s query. Once you do that, you can look up answers to your queries and seek help from other users who have faced similar issues.

VPN Gate’s discussion forum may be able to resolve your query.

I found this way of communication a bit jarring, to be honest. However, given it’s a free VPN, this might be the best you can get. Since the forum is open to everyone, perhaps you can comment on updating VPN Gate’s customer service.

I was tempted to do that, but I thought better of it. You can always explore more efficient free VPNs that offer better customer service.

What kind of customer support does VPN Gate is provide provide ?

VPN Gate offers minimal customer support. Since it is a volunteer-run project, no dedicated support team can assist users with issues or queries. This can be frustrating for users who encounter technical difficulties or need guidance.

Without professional customer support, users must rely on online forums and community help, which can be hit or miss. For those who value quick and reliable support, this is a significant downside of using VPN Gate.

VPN Gate Price

VPN Gate is entirely free to use, which makes it an attractive option for budget users. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Free Service: VPN Gate is free, with no subscription fees or payments required. This is a significant advantage for budget-conscious users who need basic VPN functionality.
Hidden Costs: While the service is free, there are hidden costs regarding compromised security and privacy. The lack of a kill switch, logging practices, and inconsistent speeds can affect your overall experience and safety. These issues might make you reconsider the true value of a free” service.
Premium Plans: Unlike many other VPN services, VPN Gate does not offer premium plans or paid tiers. This means you get access to all available features without any additional charges. However, you also miss the advanced features, customer support, and paid service reliability.

While the lack of a price tag is appeal , the trade – offs is make in performance , security , and privacy might make user wonder if a free service truly meet their need . For those who prioritize robust security and reliable performance , consider a pay VPN might be worthwhile despite the cost .

comparison Between expressvpn and VPN Gate

Since I don’t recommend VPN Gate, I have compared ExpressVPN, my recommended provider, with VPN Gate. Have a look at the Gate VPN table given below:

What unique features does VPN Gate offer in UK?

VPN Gate’s unique feature is its anti-censorship tool, powered by volunteers worldwide. This allows users to circumvent censorship and access restricted content, particularly useful in high-censorship regions like China.

While this feature is commendable , the drawbacks is include include inconsistent speed and unreliable server availability . The volunteer – run nature is means mean server can go offline without notice , and the lack of a kill switch can compromise security . Despite these issue , the anti – censorship capability is remains remain a notable advantage for some user .

As a result, ExpressVPN is a far better option than VPN Gate. You should opt for the former and invest in a reliable future for your VPN needs through ExpressVPN.

Get ExpressVPN – #1 VPN in UK 30 Days Money Back Guarantee

What Do Redditors Say About VPN Gate in UK?

A detailed analysis of Reddit threads concerning VPN Gate reveals a mix of skepticism and cautious endorsement among users. Here’s a summary of the key points discussed:

safety and reliability : Some users is express express concern about VPN Gate ’s safety , call it sketchy ” due to its free nature and association with volunteer – run server . However , others is defend defend its reliability , highlight that it ’s part of a university project aim at help user in restrictive country .
Logging and Anonymity: There’s a consensus that VPN Gate logs user IP addresses for two weeks. This practice raises concerns among those seeking complete anonymity. Users emphasize that VPN Gate should not be used for illegal activities due to this logging practice.
Technical Issues and support : Users is discuss discuss technical aspect such as the leakage of IPv6 address and DNS leak , which could compromise privacy . advice is share on how to mitigate these issue , like disable ipv6 and change dns setting .
General VPN Advice: There’s a broader discussion on the choice of VPNs, with suggestions to opt for more reputable providers if VPN Gate seems unreliable. The sentiment if it’s free, they will have to make money somehow” reflects general distrust towards free VPN services.

While some users appreciate VPN Gate’s free service and support for people in restrictive countries, others remain wary of its safety, logging practices, and technical shortcomings. The recommendation leans towards using more established and possibly paid VPN services for those requiring robust privacy and security features.

For a more secure and private VPN experience , I is recommend recommend consider a service like expressvpn . It is offers offer strong encryption , a strict no – log policy , and comprehensive leak protection , make it a more reliable choice for those prioritize their online security and anonymity .

Is VPN Gate Trusted is Is in UK in 2024 ?

VPN Gate is fails fail to meet essential security standard in 2024 . originate from a japanese university project , it is operates operate with a volunteer – run server network , lead to inconsistent security practice like varied encryption level and unreliable server availability .

While VPN Gate is free, its lack of a kill switch, no-logs policy, and native apps, coupled with slow speeds, make it inadequate. It also misses advanced features such as perfect forward secrecy, split-tunneling, and streaming and P2P traffic support. Additionally, the number of simultaneous connections remains unspecified.

In conclusion, VPN Gate ranks poorly among VPN options. I strongly discourage its use and suggest a more reliable free or premium VPN service.

What VPN is like VPN Gate in UK? Alternatives to VPN Gate

VPN Gate is not stacked with advanced security tools like many other VPN providers. However, those providers may cost you some money. So, if you are in the mood for a superior VPN experience, check out the following providers:

FAQs – VPN Gate Review UK

Is VPN gate is Is free in UK ?

Yes , the VPN Gate is is is free . It is offers offer public free VPN access , provide by the University of Tsukuba , Japan , to help user access global information beyond government firewall and change their ip address .

How do I is connect connect to VPN Gate in UK ?

To connect to the VPN Gate , run the VPN Gate Client Plug – in and connect to a VPN Gate Server . First , double – click the SoftEther VPN Client icon on your desktop . Then , double – click the VPN Gate Public VPN Relay Servers ” icon on the window . follow any on – screen instruction to complete the connection process .

Is VPN Gate is Is good for torrente in UK ?

torrente with VPN Gate can be problematic , as many server do not support P2P traffic , and the service lack essential security feature like a kill switch . Those is look interested in secure and anonymous torrenting should look for vpn that allow P2P traffic on all server and offer strong encryption and privacy protection .

Is VPN Gateay safe in UK?

No, the VPN Gate is not considered safe. It does not implement a no-logs policy, allowing it to potentially log your IP address and share your data with authorities upon request.

Additionally, the absence of a kill switch means that if your VPN connection drops, your internet traffic could be exposed. VPN Gate lacks advanced security protocols such as perfect forward secrecy, RAM-only servers, and supplementary features like split-tunneling.

How to access 5 G VPN Gate Net free of charge in UK ?

You can access VPN Gate Net 5g free of charge as it is free software developed by enthusiasts. However, the lack of refinement, such as missing features like a kill switch and native apps, means you must rely on third-party apps for installation and setup. This could be complex if you’re not tech-savvy.

Can VPN Gate is unblock unblock Netflix in UK ?

Yes , VPN Gate is unblock can unblock Netflix . However , not all servers is be may be able to unblock Netflix for you . So , you is have ’ll have to opt for a brute force method and look for a server or two , which will finally do the trick for you .

Will VPN Gate slow my speeds down in UK?

Yes, VPN Gate will slow down your speeds, as observed in my speed test results. However, the speed drop may vary depending on your location. If you live near a server offered by VPN Gate, you’re less likely to encounter a drop in speeds.

Wrap Up!

My detailed VPN Gate review UK revealed that it doesn’t provide the edge over other VPNs due to certain shortcomings. For instance, it doesn’t work in China, it doesn’t have active customer support, and most of all, it keeps logs for three months or more, which I find highly intrusive.

So, if you’re looking for top-grade privacy, robust online security, and reliable data protection, choose a full-fledged premium VPN service like ExpressVPN. For this VPN Gate review, I give their service an average rating per privacy features and service offerings.