Urban vpn review: Overview & Features
Urban VPN is a 100% free VPN service available on desktop, mobile, and via browser extensions, with no data limit and unlimited simultaneous connections. It uses OpenVPN with 256-bit encryption, supports 80+ server locations, and even claims DNS/WebRTC leak protection .
Drawbacks & Risks
- P2P-based network: It routes user traffic through other users’ devices, raising potential security and privacy concerns
- Data logging & sharing: The privacy policy indicates logging of ads, browsing, IPs, and usage data—likely shared with third parties
- No independent audit: Their no-logs claim lacks third-party verification
- Speed & stability: Users report slow speeds, frequent disconnects, and poor performance on distant servers
- Missing key security features: No kill switch, split-tunneling, or advanced leak protection
- Support lacking: No live chat or robust customer support; mainly just FAQs and email
Video Guide
Quick tutorial on using the Urban VPN browser extension:
How to Use Urban VPN
1. Install
- Browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Edge): Find “Urban VPN” in your browser marketplace and install—no signup required
- Desktop (Windows/Mac): Download the app, install directly, and launch. No premium option on desktop—fully free
- Mobile (Android/iOS): Free tier is limited to a few servers; premium (subscription-based) unlocks more locations
2. Connect
- Open the app or extension → select a country → press Connect.
- For desktop and browser, there’s no account setup; apps for Windows/Mac, browser, and mobile all support unlimited devices
3. Verify & Use
- Check your IP address before and after connection to confirm it changed
- Remember: browser extension only secures browser traffic. For complete device coverage, use the desktop or mobile app.
Is It Right for You?
Best For:
- Casual users needing free unblock capabilities (e.g. streaming some content)—no payment or signup required .
- One-off connections or bypassing minor geo-blocks occasionally.
Not Recommended For:
- Privacy-focused or secure use, such as torrenting, sensitive data transfers—P2P design and extensive logging pose risks .
- Frequent streaming or file-sharing, due to slow and unstable connections .
- General security-conscious users—lacks essential features, no audits, questionable support.
Comparison Snapshot (Free vs Premium)
| Feature | Free (Desktop/Browser) | Premium (Mobile) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $2–$6/month depending on plan |
| Server Locations | 80+ countries | 80+ with more options |
| Data Limit | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Privacy & Logging | Logs activity | Same |
| Security Features | Basic (OpenVPN) | Same |
| Streaming Support | Basic | Basic |
| Advanced Tools | None | None |
| Customer Support | None | None |
Alternatives to Consider
- Proton VPN – Offers a reputable free plan with strict no-logs, solid security, and sensible free tier limits; faster and more trustworthy
- Mullvad – Privacy-first, audited, supports P2P, doesn’t require email signup.
- Paid VPNs: NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark – full-featured, audited, secure, and reliable .
Final Verdict
Urban VPN is a serviceable free option for non-critical uses like casual streaming or learning about VPNs without commitment. But due to its peer-to-peer design, data logging, lack of audits, and instability, it’s not suitable for privacy-sensitive or serious use.
Step-by-Step Quick-Start Guide
- Install the browser extension or desktop app.
- Choose your desired country.
- Connect with one click.
- Verify your IP has changed via an IP-checker.
- Browse, stream, or access geo-blocked content.
- Disconnect when done or encountering issues.
FAQs
Is Urban VPN really free?
Yes, Urban VPN is 100% free on desktop, browser extensions, and mobile (with a premium mobile version available). There’s no data cap or time limit on most platforms.
Is Urban VPN safe?
Not entirely. While it uses basic encryption (OpenVPN with 256-bit AES), it operates on a P2P-based model, routing your traffic through other users’ devices. This raises privacy and security concerns, especially since:
The company logs user activity (IP address, browser, device type, etc.).
There’s no kill switch or advanced security features.
No independent audit confirms their no-logs claim.
Does Urban VPN log data?
Yes. According to their Privacy Policy, Urban VPN collects data such as:
IP address
Browser and device info
Websites visited through the extension
Ad interactions
This information may be shared with third parties, especially for advertising.
Can Urban VPN unblock streaming services?
Partially. Some users report success with:
Netflix (U.S.)
YouTube
BBC iPlayer
Spotify
However, performance is inconsistent and speeds are often slow, making high-quality streaming unreliable.
Does Urban VPN work with torrenting?
No, and it’s not recommended.
Because of its P2P design and logged data, Urban VPN is a bad choice for torrenting or any activity requiring anonymity.
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Hi, this is Masab, the Founder of PC Building Lab. I’m a PC enthusiast who loves to share the prior knowledge and experience that I have with computers. Well, troubleshooting computers is in my DNA, what else I could say….