Surfshark VPN’s Parent Company: Everything You Need to Know

Ever wondered who pulls the strings behind your favorite VPN, Surfshark? Well, I know when I first started using VPNs, figuring out who owned what felt like a puzzle, but here’s the straightforward answer: Surfshark VPN is part of Nord Security, a major cybersecurity company that also owns popular names like NordVPN and Atlas VPN. This setup means Surfshark gets to share some serious tech know-how and resources, but it still runs its own show with its unique features and separate operations.

When you’re choosing a VPN, it’s super important to know who’s behind the scenes. It’s not just about the features you see on the surface. it’s about trust, privacy policies, and where the company is based. We’re going to break down everything about Surfshark’s ownership, where it’s located, how it handles your data, and what all of this means for you as a user. We’ll also clear up some common questions, like its status in India and how it stacks up against other big players.

Who’s Behind Surfshark VPN?

Let’s get right into it. You might know Surfshark as a powerful, feature-rich VPN that often gets recommended. But what you might not realize is that it’s part of a much bigger family. Back in early 2022, Surfshark officially merged with Nord Security. This move brought two of the biggest names in the VPN world – Surfshark and NordVPN – under the same roof, so to speak. Nord Security now acts as the parent holding company for both, along with other cybersecurity tools like Atlas VPN.

Now, you might be thinking, “Wait, does that mean they’re the same company now?” Not exactly. The cool thing is that even though they share a parent company, Surfshark and NordVPN still operate independently. They keep their separate infrastructures, their own product roadmaps, and their distinct identities. Think of it like a family of brands, where each one has its own personality and strengths. This setup allows them to share technical knowledge and insights, which can lead to better security and innovation across the board, without losing what makes each VPN special.

The Origins of Surfshark

Surfshark first popped onto the scene in 2018, launching its initial VPN product that same year. The founder, Vytautas Kaziukonis, had a vision for making online privacy accessible to everyone. Right from the start, Surfshark was all about privacy and robust security features, which quickly helped it gain traction in a crowded market. It wasn’t long before they started expanding beyond just a VPN, adding other tools like Surfshark Alert for data leak detection and Surfshark Search a private search engine.

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Where is Surfshark VPN Located?

This is a really important detail when you’re picking a VPN, because a company’s legal jurisdiction can tell you a lot about its commitment to user privacy. Surfshark’s journey in terms of location has seen a bit of evolution.

Originally, Surfshark was registered in the British Virgin Islands BVI. But on October 1, 2021, they made a strategic move and relocated their headquarters to the Netherlands. You can find their business registration address at Kabelweg 57, 1014 BA Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Now, why does this matter? Well, the Netherlands is a country that has strong data protection laws, specifically it serves no legal obligation for companies to log or retain user data and abides by GDPR requirements. This is a huge plus for privacy-conscious users, as it means Surfshark isn’t legally forced to collect information about your online activities. While the Netherlands is part of the “Nine Eyes” intelligence alliance, Surfshark’s strict no-logs policy and independent audits aim to reassure users that their data isn’t being recorded, regardless of jurisdiction. We’ll talk more about their no-logs policy in a bit, but for now, know that their base in the Netherlands is a solid choice for privacy. Beyond their main headquarters, Surfshark also has offices in other European cities, including Lithuania, Poland, and Germany.

Is Surfshark a Chinese Company? Clearing Up Misconceptions

This is a question that pops up sometimes, and it’s definitely worth addressing head-on: no, Surfshark is not a Chinese company. As we just covered, Surfshark was founded in 2018 and has its headquarters in the Netherlands. The team behind Surfshark is globally distributed, with offices across Europe. Unlocking Paramount Plus Anywhere: Your Guide to Using Surfshark VPN

Concerns about VPNs with ties to certain regions, especially those with strict internet censorship or data retention laws, are totally valid. It’s a smart move to check a VPN’s background. In Surfshark’s case, its European base and transparent operations make it clear that it has no connections to Chinese ownership or data surveillance demands. This is crucial for maintaining trust, especially when some free VPN apps have indeed been found to have ties with China, which can pose privacy risks.

Surfshark’s Independent Operations

Even though Surfshark is under the umbrella of Nord Security, it’s really important to highlight that it maintains distinct operations and infrastructure. What does this mean for you?

• Separate User Bases: Your Surfshark account and data are distinct from NordVPN or Atlas VPN. They don’t just dump all user information into one big pool.
• Independent Product Roadmaps: Surfshark’s development team works on its own features and improvements. While there might be shared insights on general cybersecurity trends, the specific functionalities and updates you see in Surfshark are crafted by their dedicated team.
• Distinct Server Networks: Surfshark doesn’t share its VPN servers directly with NordVPN. Each service maintains its own network, ensuring performance and security aren’t compromised by shared resources in that specific way.
• Brand Identity: Surfshark keeps its own branding, marketing, and overall mission. It’s still “Surfshark,” with its own unique approach to privacy and user experience.

This independent approach means users can still choose Surfshark for its specific strengths – like its unlimited device connections – without worrying that it’s just a rebranded version of another VPN. Getting Surfshark VPN’s OpenVPN Up and Running: Your Complete Guide

Security and Privacy Policies: Trusting Your VPN

When you’re entrusting your online privacy to a VPN, security and a solid privacy policy are non-negotiable. Surfshark has put a lot of effort into building a trustworthy service.

No-Logs Policy and Audits

One of the most critical aspects of any VPN is its no-logs policy. This means the company promises not to collect, track, or store any information about what you do online – your browsing history, connection times, IP addresses, or the amount of data you use.

Surfshark takes this seriously. They’ve had their no-logs policy independently verified multiple times by respected auditing firms. The latest audits, including one in June 2025, were carried out by Deloitte, one of the “Big Four” auditing firms. Deloitte thoroughly examined Surfshark’s systems, internal processes, server configurations, deployment procedures, and even interviewed staff to ensure that the company truly adheres to its no-logs claims. The great news? Deloitte confirmed that Surfshark does not log or track user activity and that its systems are in line with its privacy policy. This kind of independent verification is super important because it provides real proof, not just promises, that your data is safe. If you’re a Surfshark user, you can even access the detailed ISAE 3000 report through your account. Surfshark Saying “Another VPN Detected”? Here’s How to Fix It!

Encryption Standards and Protocols

Behind the scenes, Surfshark uses industry-leading encryption to protect your data. Your internet traffic is scrambled using military-grade AES-256-GCM encryption. This is the same standard used by governments and financial institutions, making it incredibly difficult for anyone to decipher your information even if they somehow intercepted it.

They also support a range of robust VPN protocols:

• WireGuard: Known for its speed and strong security, it’s a popular choice for many users.
• OpenVPN: A long-standing, open-source protocol that offers excellent security and flexibility.
• IKEv2/IPsec: Often preferred for mobile devices because it can quickly reconnect when you switch between networks, ensuring a stable connection.

Key Features for Enhanced Privacy and Security

Beyond the core encryption, Surfshark packs a ton of features designed to boost your online safety:

• Kill Switch: This is a lifesaver. If your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, the Kill Switch immediately cuts off your internet access. This prevents any sensitive data from leaking and ensures you don’t accidentally go online unprotected.
• CleanWeb: An integrated feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. It makes your browsing experience much smoother and helps protect you from potential security threats.
• Bypasser Split Tunneling: This lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN tunnel and which connect directly to the internet. It’s super handy for things like accessing local network devices while keeping your streaming traffic encrypted. Surfshark even offers this on iOS and macOS, which is a big deal since many VPNs don’t.
• MultiHop Double VPN: For an extra layer of security, MultiHop routes your internet traffic through two different VPN servers in different countries. This means double encryption and makes it even harder to trace your online activities.
• Camouflage Mode Obfuscation: This clever feature hides the fact that you’re even using a VPN. It helps you bypass strict internet restrictions and ensures that even your Internet Service Provider ISP can’t tell you’re connected to a VPN.
• Rotating IP: This automatically changes your IP address every few minutes without disconnecting you from the VPN. It’s a fantastic feature for enhancing anonymity and making you harder to track online.
• Alternative ID: A newer feature that can generate a brand-new online identity and email, helping you keep your real details private.
• Antivirus: Surfshark also offers an antivirus as part of its bundled security solutions, providing real-time protection against malware.

Performance and Speed: What to Expect

Nobody wants a VPN that slows down their internet to a crawl. Surfshark generally offers solid performance. It supports the WireGuard protocol, which is known for its speed and efficiency. While some comparisons show NordVPN having a slight edge in raw speed, Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which can actually provide faster encryption and decryption speeds compared to some other AES variants. Both VPNs also support ChaCha20 encryption, which is optimized for mobile devices and provides fast, secure connections for Android and iOS users.

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In real-world use, you can expect Surfshark to handle streaming, torrenting, and general browsing without significant slowdowns. It’s continuously working to improve its app performance and connection stability across all platforms.

Server Network and Global Reach

A large server network is key for a VPN, as it gives you more options for connecting to different regions and helps ensure better speeds by spreading out user load. Surfshark has a pretty impressive global footprint.

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As of recent data, Surfshark boasts over 3,200 servers spread across 100 countries worldwide. This extensive network means you’ll likely find a server near you for optimal performance, or one in a specific country if you need to access geo-restricted content.

Is Surfshark VPN Available in India? And the Nuances of Indian Servers

This is a really important point, especially for users in India or those looking to connect to Indian servers. Yes, Surfshark VPN is available in India, and using a VPN there is completely legal.

However, there’s a significant “but” here. In April 2022, the Indian government introduced new data retention laws that require VPN providers to collect and store extensive user data for at least five years. This includes things like usernames, phone numbers, IP addresses, and activity logs.

Since Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy that it is unwilling to compromise, it along with other major VPN providers like ExpressVPN and NordVPN shut down its physical servers in India in June 2022. Why? Because complying with those new laws would directly go against their core ethos of protecting user privacy.

So, if you need an Indian IP address, how does it work now? Surfshark and others introduced virtual Indian server locations. These virtual servers allow you to get an Indian IP address, but they are physically located in privacy-friendly countries like Singapore, the Netherlands, and London. This way, Surfshark can still offer connectivity to India without having to compromise its no-logs policy or collect your data under Indian law. Surfshark or vpn

So, you can use Surfshark VPN in India to protect your privacy, but for true anonymity and adherence to their no-logs policy, you should avoid any VPN provider that does keep physical servers in India, as they would be legally compelled to log your data. Surfshark’s approach ensures your online activity remains private.

Is Surfshark the Best VPN? Comparisons and What Makes it Stand Out

When it comes to VPNs, “best” often depends on your specific needs. Surfshark is definitely a top contender, but let’s see how it measures up, especially against its “sibling” NordVPN and other big names like ExpressVPN.

Surfshark vs. NordVPN

Since both are under Nord Security, it’s natural to compare them. Which is Better: NordVPN or Surfshark VPN? (2025 Ultimate Showdown)

• Pricing: Surfshark is often seen as the more budget-friendly option, especially for longer-term plans. Its two-year subscription can be significantly more affordable than NordVPN’s, though NordVPN might have a cheaper monthly option.
• Device Connections: This is where Surfshark really shines! It offers unlimited simultaneous device connections, meaning you can install and use it on as many devices as you own – phones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs – all at the same time. NordVPN typically limits you to 6 or 10 devices. This alone makes Surfshark a fantastic value for households or individuals with lots of gadgets.
• Server Network: NordVPN generally has a larger server network, with over 8,000 servers in 126+ countries compared to Surfshark’s 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. More servers can sometimes mean less congestion and potentially better speeds, but Surfshark’s network is still very robust.
• Speed: NordVPN, with its proprietary NordLynx protocol, often shows a slight edge in speed tests. However, Surfshark’s use of AES-256-GCM encryption can offer faster encryption/decryption. Both are fast enough for most users.
• Jurisdiction: NordVPN is based in Panama, known for its privacy-friendly laws. Surfshark is in the Netherlands. While both are good for privacy, some users prefer Panama’s complete independence from major surveillance alliances.
• Features: Both offer top-tier security. Surfshark’s unique features like Dynamic MultiHop double VPN, Bypasser split tunneling on iOS/macOS, CleanWeb, and Rotating IP are compelling. NordVPN has its own advanced features like Threat Protection Pro and a more established network. Surfshark also bundles an Antivirus solution in its Surfshark One package.

The takeaway? If you need to cover many devices and want a great value VPN without sacrificing security, Surfshark is an excellent choice. If raw speed and an even larger server count are your absolute top priorities, NordVPN might nudge ahead, but often at a higher price point.

Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is another highly respected name in the VPN industry.

• Price: Surfshark is generally much more affordable than ExpressVPN, especially for longer subscriptions. ExpressVPN tends to be on the pricier side.
• Devices: Again, Surfshark wins with unlimited connections, while ExpressVPN usually offers 5-8 simultaneous connections.
• Audits: Both are leaders in independent audits. ExpressVPN has a long history of numerous audits over 23 to date to verify its no-logs policy and security, and Surfshark has successfully passed multiple Deloitte audits.
• Speed & Servers: Both offer excellent speeds and extensive global server networks. ExpressVPN is often lauded for its consistently high speeds, but Surfshark is very competitive.

In essence, Surfshark offers premium features and excellent security at a more accessible price point, particularly for users who need to protect many devices.

Surfshark Sponsorship and Marketing

You’ve probably seen Surfshark pop up in various places online, from YouTube channels to tech blogs. Like many modern tech companies, Surfshark actively engages in sponsorships and marketing efforts to reach a broad audience. This includes sponsoring content creators, online events, and collaborating with digital privacy advocates. This outreach helps them explain their features and benefits to potential users, much like what you’re reading now!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Surfshark VPN safe to use?

Yes, absolutely! Surfshark VPN is considered very safe to use. It employs military-grade AES-256-GCM encryption, supports secure VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec, and operates a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited and verified by Deloitte multiple times, most recently in June 2025. It also includes crucial security features like a Kill Switch, CleanWeb, and MultiHop.

Who owns Surfshark and NordVPN?

Surfshark and NordVPN are both owned by the same parent company, Nord Security. They merged in early 2022 to form a larger cybersecurity entity. However, it’s important to remember that both brands continue to operate independently, maintaining separate infrastructures, privacy policies, and product roadmaps.

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Is Surfshark VPN available/legal in India?

Yes, Surfshark VPN is available and legal to use in India. However, due to new Indian data retention laws introduced in April 2022, Surfshark along with other major VPNs shut down its physical servers in India. To maintain its strict no-logs policy and protect user privacy, Surfshark now offers virtual Indian server locations that are physically hosted in privacy-friendly countries like Singapore, the Netherlands, and London. This allows users to get an Indian IP address without compromising their data.

Where is Surfshark’s headquarters?

Surfshark’s headquarters are located in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. While it was initially registered in the British Virgin Islands, it moved its official base to the Netherlands on October 1, 2021. The Netherlands is known for its strong data protection laws and GDPR compliance, which is a good sign for user privacy.

Is Surfshark better than NordVPN?

Whether Surfshark is “better” than NordVPN really depends on what you need. Surfshark stands out for its affordability, especially on longer plans, and its unlimited simultaneous device connections, which is a huge advantage for many users. NordVPN generally has a larger server network and sometimes shows slightly faster speeds. Both offer excellent security, strong no-logs policies, and a rich set of features. If you have many devices to protect and are looking for great value, Surfshark is often the winner.

What is Surfshark VPN company?

Surfshark B.V. is a cybersecurity company that was established in 2018. It started by offering a virtual private network VPN service and has since expanded its offerings to include a suite of cybersecurity tools. This includes Surfshark Antivirus, Surfshark Alert for data breach monitoring, Surfshark Search a private search engine, Alternative ID, Incogni a data removal service, and Dedicated IP services. In 2022, it merged with Nord Security, becoming part of a larger cybersecurity holding company, but continues to operate as an independent brand. How to Get Surfshark VPN on Your Samsung TV: Your Ultimate Guide

Does Surfshark have Indian servers?

Yes, Surfshark offers Indian server locations, but they are virtual servers, not physical ones. As a response to India’s 2022 data retention laws that would require VPNs to log user data, Surfshark removed its physical servers from the country. To uphold its no-logs policy, the “Indian” servers you connect to through Surfshark are physically located in other privacy-friendly jurisdictions like Singapore, the Netherlands, and London. This allows you to get an Indian IP address without compromising your privacy.