With an interface that’s easy to navigate, servers in many countries, and support for many different platforms, @overplaydns has everything you could want from a VPN. It was also one of the first VPN’s to offer a SmartDNS service to users, which allows users to bypass location restrictions.
So how does the service rank in the ever-expanding field of VPNs? We subscribed to find out…
Features
Overplay’s network consists of 650 servers in more than 50 different countries with thousands of IP addresses. This is a competitive number and makes Overplay one of the best SmartDNS options available by ensuring that any content you may want to view will be accessible.
The software features a simple design that is easy to navigate. You can connect two devices simultaneously, including computers, mobile devices, streamers, or even gaming consoles.
The service can also be installed on your router to extend the protection to all your connected devices.
Using the Service
The SmartDNS service is easily installed by changing the DNS address on your computer. One this step is completed, you can log on to the Overplay service and change your location. We did not experience any loss of speed, as is the standard with a DNS. Setting up the VPN was equally simple.
Overplay VPN installs via a typical installation wizard. Once you go through all of the installation steps, the program requests a username and password. Select your VPN server and you’re ready to begin browsing the internet via a secure and encrypted channel.
Privacy
Overplay’s privacy policy claims that they neither collect nor log any information sent or received through the service. They are based in the United Kingdom, however, and although they don’t keep track of the sites you visit, their location means that local authorities have the right to track your traffic. This has never happened to the company, but it is something which many choose to exercise caution.
[box type=”alert”]It is wise to keep in mind that no VPN can completely hide your identity online.[/box]Security
When it comes to security, Overplay doesn’t quite match up the competition. Instead of using a superior 256-bit encryption, Overplay only offers a 128-bit option. It also relies on SSL encryption rather than the newer and better TSL encryption. This could be an advantage for users who don’t want to sacrifice speed for security, however.
Overplay also offers several protocols including L2TP, PPTP and OpenVPN tunneling.
Speed and Performance
Overplay gives users a choice of two different services, SmartDNS and VPN + SmartDNS. With the SmartDNS service, you can access content that is restricted to certain markets or countries without losing any of the speed you would normally enjoy.
If you add the VPN service, you are provided with a different IP address so you can browse the internet with total privacy, but the added encryption will affect your speed slightly. As most of Overplay’s servers are located in Europe, the server speed is reasonable and users won’t notice a significant difference.
Support
The company has included a comprehensive FAQ page and blog which answer the most basic questions and problems. If you need to speak to an agent you can drop them an email or use the live chat feature which is available 24/7. Alternatively, you could post a public question and wait for the staff or other users to answer it.
Pricing Plans
Overplay’s pricing options are based on the two services it offers, SmartDNS and VPN + SmartDNS. Either of these options is available as a one month, three month, or six month subscription. The longer the amount of time you commit to, the more you save.
SmartDNS plans start at $4.95 per month, or $49.95 with a one-year commitment. Adding the VPN service will increase that price to $9.95 per month, or $99.95 with a one-year commitment.
The plans are reasonably priced considering what Overplay has to offer. You won’t be able to test it for free, but if you are unhappy the service you can request a refund within five days of signing up. Overplay offers credit, debit, and PayPal as payment methods.
Summary
Overplay manages to balance the need for security without compromising speed. It may not offer as much protection as some of the other VPNs on the market, but it’s enough to give you a reasonable level of privacy online. The software is innovative, easy to use, and reliable and should serve as a considerable candidate for your VPN and DNS needs.
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