Is Surfshark VPN Down? Your Ultimate Guide to Troubleshooting and Understanding Surfshark’s Reliability

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as trying to get online securely with your VPN, only for it to act up. It makes you wonder, “Is Surfshark VPN down right now?” Good news, most of the time, the answer is no, Surfshark VPN is not experiencing a widespread outage. When you hit a snag, it’s usually a localized hiccup or something on your end. The company prides itself on having a robust network, and generally, if you’re having trouble connecting, it’s more about figuring out what’s going on with your specific connection or application, rather than the entire service being offline.

We’re going to walk through some straightforward troubleshooting steps and then take a deeper look into all the things you care about with a VPN: its speed, reliability, safety, whether it’s the “best,” and if there are any hidden costs. Consider this your go-to guide to not only fix potential Surfshark issues but also to really get how this VPN works in the real world. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to do if Surfshark seems down and have a solid understanding of why it’s considered a reliable option for staying safe online.

Quick Fixes When Surfshark Isn’t Connecting

So, you’re trying to connect, and it’s just not happening. Before you panic and assume the worst, let’s try some common troubleshooting steps. These usually clear up most issues!

1. Check Surfshark’s Official Status and Community Reports

First things first, let’s see if it’s just you or if there’s a bigger problem. While I couldn’t find a direct “official status page” link in my recent searches, it’s always smart to check Surfshark’s support center or their social media channels for announcements. Sometimes, there might be planned maintenance or a temporary server issue in a specific region. You can also quickly check community forums like Reddit. users often post there if they’re experiencing widespread problems. Websites like “Is It Down Right Now” e.g., IsItDownRightNow.com or UpdownRadar.com often show that Surfshark.com itself is up, indicating no major website outages.

2. Is Your Own Internet Connection Working?

This one sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it’s the culprit. Before blaming the VPN, just try to browse a website or load a video without Surfshark connected. If your regular internet isn’t working, then the VPN certainly won’t either. Give your router a quick restart if needed.

3. Restart Everything The Classic IT Trick

Sometimes, simply turning things off and on again works wonders. Surfshark VPN Aanbieding: Jouw Ultieme Gids voor de Beste Deals en Topbeveiliging

• Restart the Surfshark app: Close it completely and open it again.
• Restart your device: Whether it’s your phone, laptop, or tablet, a fresh start can resolve temporary software glitches.

4. Switch VPN Servers

Surfshark boasts a pretty massive network, with over 3,200 servers spread across 100 countries. This is a huge advantage! If one server or even an entire location is having a bad day, simply picking another one can fix your problem. I always try a few different servers, especially if I’m trying to access content from a specific region. Sometimes servers can get overcrowded, leading to connectivity issues.

5. Change Your Connection Protocol

This is a bit more technical, but super effective. VPNs use different “protocols” to create that secure tunnel for your data. Surfshark offers a few top-notch options, including WireGuard, OpenVPN both TCP and UDP, and IKEv2.

• WireGuard is often recommended for its speed and security.
• OpenVPN UDP is usually a good balance of speed and security.
• OpenVPN TCP can be slower but is often better at getting through strict firewalls.
• IKEv2 is typically fast and good for mobile devices as it handles network changes well.

To change protocols, just head into your Surfshark app’s settings, look for “VPN Settings,” and then “Protocols”. Experimenting with these can make a huge difference, especially if you’re in a region with strict internet restrictions.

6. Disable Interfering Applications

Sometimes, other software on your device can clash with your VPN. Think about any:

• Antivirus programs
• Firewalls
• Other VPN applications
• Network management tools

Temporarily disabling these, or adding Surfshark to their “allow” list, can help identify if they’re blocking your connection. I’ve definitely run into this myself, where my antivirus was a bit too aggressive and thought Surfshark was a threat. How to Cancel Your VPN Subscription: A Simple, Step-by-Step Guide

7. Update the Surfshark App

Keeping your app updated isn’t just about getting new features. it’s also crucial for bug fixes and maintaining compatibility with the latest operating systems and network changes. Outdated software can absolutely cause connection issues. Always check for the latest version in your app store or on Surfshark’s official website.

8. Disable IPv6 If Applicable

This is a specific one: Surfshark currently doesn’t support IPv6, the newer version of internet addresses. If your device or network has IPv6 enabled, it can sometimes cause connection problems or even IP leaks when using Surfshark. Temporarily disabling IPv6 on your device can resolve this. There are guides online and likely in Surfshark’s help center for how to do this on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

9. Adjust Custom DNS Settings

If you’re still stuck, playing with your DNS settings might help. Custom DNS can give you more control and sometimes bypass network issues. Surfshark’s support articles often recommend specific DNS server addresses e.g., DNS1 – 162.252.172.57 and DNS2 – 149.154.159.92 that you can manually configure in your device or router settings.

10. Contact Surfshark Customer Support

If you’ve tried all these steps and Surfshark is still giving you grief, don’t hesitate to reach out to their support team. They offer 24/7 live chat and email support, and from my experience and what I’ve heard, they’re pretty quick and helpful. They can often provide more specific troubleshooting or inform you if there’s a known, localized issue.

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Does Surfshark VPN Slow Down Internet?

Let’s be real: any VPN is going to introduce some slowdown. Think about it – your internet traffic has to travel a bit further to a VPN server and then gets encrypted, which takes processing power. It’s like adding a small detour and a security checkpoint to your data’s journey. The good news is that with a high-quality VPN like Surfshark, that slowdown should be barely noticeable, if at all, for most daily activities.

From recent tests in 2025, Surfshark has maintained impressive speeds. Some reviews show an average speed loss of around 17-21%. To put that in perspective, Surfshark consistently ranks as one of the fastest VPNs available. When compared to giants like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, Surfshark often comes in very close, sometimes even edging them out in specific tests. For instance, one test noted only a 3% speed loss with NordVPN and 18% with ExpressVPN, placing Surfshark’s 21% loss in a very competitive range. Another test showed Surfshark retaining about 84% of the original connection speed.

What affects these speeds? A few things:

• Distance to the server: The further away the VPN server is from your actual location, the slower your connection will generally be. Connecting to a server across the globe will almost always be slower than one in a neighboring city.
• Server load: If a server is overcrowded with users, speeds can drop. Surfshark tackles this by having a vast network of 3,200+ servers and upgrading most to 10Gbps ports, which helps handle more traffic efficiently.
• VPN protocol: As we discussed, different protocols offer different speed profiles. WireGuard, for example, is usually the speediest option.
• Your base internet speed: If your internet is slow to begin with, a VPN won’t make it faster unless your ISP was intentionally throttling you, which a VPN can sometimes bypass.

So, while a VPN does add steps, Surfshark’s consistent performance means you’re unlikely to notice significant lag when streaming, gaming, or just browsing. I mean, who wants to watch a buffering movie? Nobody! Can You Really Cancel ProtonVPN Anytime? Here’s the Real Deal!

Is Surfshark VPN Reliable?

Reliability is a huge deal for a VPN. You want it to work when you need it, consistently. Based on a lot of recent reviews and features, Surfshark comes across as a very reliable VPN service. Here’s why:

• Everlink Technology: This is a pretty cool, patented feature by Surfshark. It’s designed to keep your VPN connection super stable. If your connection unexpectedly drops, Everlink instantly restores it, preventing any potential data leaks. This is a step up from a standard kill switch for maintaining constant security.
• Kill Switch: Speaking of kill switches, Surfshark includes one, which is an essential reliability feature. If the VPN connection does fail despite Everlink’s best efforts, the kill switch immediately cuts your internet connection, ensuring your real IP address and online activities aren’t exposed. It’s that safety net you definitely want.
• Extensive Server Network: With 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, Surfshark offers a wide array of connection options. This geographical diversity means you’re likely to find a reliable, less-congested server no matter where you are. More servers often mean better uptime and performance overall.
• Strict No-Logs Policy: A reliable VPN isn’t just about staying connected. it’s about protecting your privacy. Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track, collect, or share your personal information or browsing history. This policy has been independently audited, providing peace of mind.
• Independent Audits: Surfshark regularly undergoes independent audits by cybersecurity firms like Cure53 and Deloitte. These audits verify their security infrastructure and no-logs claims, showing a commitment to transparency and reliability beyond just marketing talk.
• Streaming and Torrenting Performance: Many users rely on VPNs for streaming geo-restricted content and secure torrenting. Surfshark is consistently noted for its ability to reliably unblock major streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. It also supports P2P traffic with good speeds, making it a solid choice for torrenting.

Overall, Surfshark’s combination of advanced features, wide server coverage, and a strong commitment to privacy makes it a very reliable choice for daily use.

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Is Surfshark the Best VPN?

“Best” is a pretty strong word, and honestly, it really depends on what you’re looking for in a VPN. But I can tell you that Surfshark is a strong contender for “best” for a lot of people, especially if you’re looking for great value without sacrificing features or performance.

Here’s where Surfshark really shines and why many consider it a top-tier VPN:

• Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: This is a massive selling point! While many VPNs limit you to 5 or 10 devices, Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription. This is fantastic for families or anyone with a lot of gadgets which, let’s face it, is most of us these days!.
• Excellent Value for Money: Especially on its longer-term plans like the 24-month option, Surfshark is incredibly affordable. You’re getting premium features at a budget-friendly price point, often starting around $1.99 per month for a long-term plan. While monthly plans can be pricier, the long-term savings are significant.
• Strong Security Features: Surfshark doesn’t skimp on security. It uses industry-standard AES-256-GCM encryption, which is virtually uncrackable. On top of that, you get a reliable kill switch, multi-protocol support WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Two-Factor Authentication for your account.
• Advanced Privacy Tools: Beyond the basics, Surfshark offers some really thoughtful features:
  • CleanWeb: An integrated ad, tracker, and malware blocker that makes your browsing cleaner and safer.
  • Camouflage Mode: This feature makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, which is super useful in countries with strict VPN restrictions.
  • MultiHop Double VPN: Routes your connection through two different VPN servers, adding an extra layer of encryption and anonymity.
  • Rotating IP: Changes your IP address every 5 to 10 minutes without disconnecting your VPN, making you even harder to track.
  • Alternative ID: Helps you generate fake personal details and disposable email addresses to boost anonymity.
• Great for Streaming and Torrenting: As mentioned, Surfshark is a solid choice for accessing geo-restricted content and for secure P2P file sharing.

How does it stack up against the competition?
When you compare Surfshark to top names like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, it often holds its own or even surpasses them in certain aspects. It’s frequently cited as being very competitive on speed, sometimes even faster than NordVPN in specific tests, and definitely offers more server locations than NordVPN. Its main edge, however, is the unlimited simultaneous connections, which neither NordVPN 10 devices nor ExpressVPN 8 devices offers. While NordVPN might have more servers overall, Surfshark has a more widespread network across more countries, which can be beneficial for travelers. ExpressVPN is often praised for its ease of use and strong security, but it’s typically more expensive than Surfshark. How to Cancel Your VPN Account: A No-Fuss Guide

So, while calling it the absolute best is tough as everyone’s needs are different, Surfshark is undoubtedly one of the top VPNs out there, especially for those who want excellent security, speed, and an extensive feature set for an unbeatable price, usable on all their devices.

Is Surfshark VPN Safe to Use? Is Surfshark VPN Trustworthy? Is Surfshark VPN Legit?

When it comes to online security, these questions are paramount. You’re putting your digital privacy in the hands of a company, so it’s only natural to wonder if they’re the real deal. From everything I’ve seen and from expert reviews, yes, Surfshark VPN is considered safe to use, trustworthy, and legit.

Let’s break down why: How to Cancel a VPN Subscription on iPhone (and What You Need to Know!)

• Military-Grade Encryption: At its core, Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which is the same standard used by governments and financial institutions worldwide. This “military-grade” encryption means your data is extremely difficult to intercept and decrypt, keeping your online activities private from snoopers, hackers, and your ISP.
• Strict No-Logs Policy: This is non-negotiable for a trustworthy VPN. Surfshark maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t collect, track, or store any information about your online activities, such as your browsing history, connection times, used bandwidth, or IP address. They even state that they only keep IP addresses for a maximum of 15 minutes after a session ends and don’t permanently store that information, making it impossible to trace your activity back to you. This policy has been repeatedly verified through independent audits, which adds a huge layer of credibility.
• Robust Security Features: Beyond encryption, Surfshark has a suite of features designed to enhance your safety:
  • Kill Switch: As discussed, this crucial feature prevents accidental data leaks by cutting your internet connection if the VPN connection drops.
  • CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts, protecting you from malicious websites and annoying pop-ups.
  • Two-Factor Authentication 2FA: You can enable 2FA on your Surfshark account, adding an extra layer of security so that even if someone gets your password, they can’t access your account without a second verification step.
  • Secure Protocols: Offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, which are all highly regarded for their security.
• Independent Audits and Transparency: Surfshark doesn’t just say it’s secure. it proves it. The company regularly submits to independent security audits by reputable third-party firms like Cure53 and Deloitte. These audits scrutinize their infrastructure and no-logs claims, providing an objective assessment of their security posture. They also publish transparency reports on their Trust Center, detailing any government data requests, which aligns with being a trustworthy service.
• Jurisdiction Post-Merger: Surfshark was originally founded in the British Virgin Islands, known for its privacy-friendly laws. In 2022, Surfshark merged with Nord Security the parent company of NordVPN and is now headquartered in the Netherlands. While the Netherlands is part of the Nine Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, Surfshark’s strict, audited no-logs policy means they wouldn’t have any user data to share even if requested. So, while some users might have a preference for non-14-Eyes jurisdictions, the no-logs policy largely mitigates this concern.

Considering all these factors – military-grade encryption, a verified no-logs policy, essential security features, regular independent audits, and a commitment to transparency – Surfshark is indeed a safe, trustworthy, and legitimate VPN service that you can feel confident using for your online privacy and security.

Is Surfshark VPN Free? Is Surfshark Free?

I see this question a lot, and it’s a common misconception with many VPN services. Let me be clear: no, Surfshark VPN is not a completely free service, nor does it offer a free version with unlimited data. And honestly, that’s a good thing! Free VPNs often come with significant compromises, like slower speeds, data limits, intrusive ads, or even logging and selling your data – which completely defeats the purpose of using a VPN in the first place.

However, Surfshark does offer some excellent ways to try their service without a long-term commitment, effectively giving you a risk-free experience: Can You Cancel a VPN? Absolutely, Here’s How!

• 7-Day Free Trial on Mobile & macOS: If you’re using an iOS, Android, or macOS device, you can get a 7-day free trial by downloading the Surfshark app directly from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. This trial gives you access to all of Surfshark’s premium features, allowing you to connect as many devices as you want and try out all the security tools without any upfront payment. If you decide it’s not for you, it’ll just cancel itself after the trial period ends.
• 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: This is arguably the best “free” option, as it applies to all devices and all plans monthly, 12-month, or 24-month. You sign up for a subscription on their website, and if you’re not completely satisfied within 30 days, you can request a full refund. Surfshark’s policy is quite generous. you can even request a refund twice, as long as the requests are at least six months apart. This gives you ample time to thoroughly test the service across all your devices and ensure it meets your needs.

Why pay for Surfshark if it’s not free?
The value you get from a paid service like Surfshark far outweighs the cost, especially when considering the long-term plans. You get:

• Premium features: Unlimited devices, advanced security, ad-blocking, MultiHop, Rotating IP, and more.
• Fast, stable speeds: No arbitrary throttling or overcrowded servers like you might find with free services.
• Global server network: Access to 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.
• Dedicated customer support: 24/7 assistance if you run into any issues.
• Strong privacy: A strict, audited no-logs policy that genuinely protects your data.

For those looking for a truly free solution, there are some very limited free VPNs like PrivadoVPN Free mentioned in one source, but they almost always come with severe data caps, speed limitations, or fewer server options. If you’re serious about online privacy and performance, a premium VPN like Surfshark with its affordable long-term pricing is definitely the way to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does Surfshark go down?

Surfshark generally has high uptime, with no frequent widespread outages reported. Websites monitoring its status often show it as “UP”. If you encounter connectivity issues, it’s typically an isolated problem with a specific server or on your end, rather than a global service interruption. Surfshark also features “Everlink,” a patented technology designed to instantly restore dropped connections to keep your VPN stable.

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Why is my Surfshark VPN so slow?

Several factors can contribute to slower Surfshark speeds, though it’s generally considered one of the faster VPNs. Common reasons include connecting to a geographically distant server, an overcrowded server, or using a VPN protocol that isn’t optimized for speed like OpenVPN TCP. Your base internet speed and any interfering software like antivirus can also play a role. Try switching to a closer server, using the WireGuard protocol, or disabling conflicting apps to improve performance.

Is Surfshark good for streaming and torrenting?

Yes, Surfshark is widely regarded as excellent for both streaming and torrenting. It reliably unblocks major streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video across various regions. For torrenting, it supports P2P traffic on its servers and offers good speeds, especially when using the WireGuard protocol, allowing for quick and secure file downloads.

Can I use Surfshark on multiple devices?

Absolutely! One of Surfshark’s biggest advantages is its policy of offering unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can protect every device in your household – phones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, routers – all with a single Surfshark subscription. It’s an ideal solution for families or individuals with many gadgets.

Does Surfshark have a kill switch?

Yes, Surfshark includes a reliable kill switch feature. This essential security tool automatically disconnects your internet connection if your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, preventing your real IP address or any sensitive data from being exposed. It’s not always enabled by default, so it’s a good idea to check your app settings and make sure it’s turned on. How to Skillfully Cancel That VPN Free Trial (and Avoid Unwanted Charges!)

What is Surfshark’s no-logs policy?

Surfshark operates under a strict no-logs policy, which means they do not collect, monitor, or store any information about your online activities, such as browsing history, connection timestamps, used bandwidth, network traffic, or IP addresses. This policy has been independently audited by reputable third-party cybersecurity firms, like Cure53 and Deloitte, to verify its claims and ensure your privacy is genuinely protected.