If you’re a regular user of uTorrent, you may be aware that the protocol requires an IP address from each user. This can leave your privacy at risk, which is why using a VPN for uTorrent is recommended. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, preventing your ISP and other entities from snooping on your online activity. It also routes all that traffic through a server in a location of your choosing, giving you a new IP address from which you can connect to the BitTorrent network.
However, not all VPNs are created equal when it comes to torrenting. Some are too slow or not secure enough. In this article, we reveal the best VPNs for uTorrent based on speed, security, and more. We also explain how to bind your IP address so files are only downloaded when your VPN is on. So, if you want to download torrents safely without bandwidth throttling, keep reading.
The Best VPNs for uTorrent: At a Glance
If you’re a fan of uTorrent, you know that using a VPN is crucial to protect your privacy and security while torrenting. But with so many VPNs on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best VPNs for uTorrent, ranked by their performance and features.
Here’s a quick overview of the top VPNs for uTorrent:
| VPN | Ranking for uTorrent | Popular Sites Unblocked | Avg Speed (Mbps) | Activity Logs | Devices Supported | Simultaneous Connections | Best Deal (per month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 1 | 95% | 100+ Mbps | None | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | 6 | $3.39 |
| Surfshark | 2 | 86% | 100+ Mbps | No identifying data | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Unlimited | $1.99 |
| ExpressVPN | 3 | 70% | 100+ Mbps | No logs stored | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | 8 | $6.67 |
| CyberGhost | 4 | 85% | 100+ Mbps | No identifying data | Windows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Routers | 7 | $2.19 |
| IPVanish | 5 | 70% | 100+ Mbps | No logs stored | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Unlimited | $2.99 |
| PrivateVPN | 6 | 85% | 39 Mbps | None | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | 10 | $2.00 |
| AtlasVPN | 7 | 93% | 100+ Mbps | No logs stored | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV | Unlimited | $1.64 |
As you can see, NordVPN is our top choice for uTorrent due to its fast speeds, strong security features, and ability to unblock popular torrenting sites. However, Surfshark is also a great option with unlimited simultaneous connections and a budget-friendly price. ExpressVPN and CyberGhost are also strong contenders with their no-logs policies and high speeds.
No matter which VPN you choose, make sure it has features like a kill switch, strong encryption, and a no-logs policy to ensure your safety and privacy while torrenting.
The Best VPNs for uTorrent
If you’re a uTorrent user, you’ll want to make sure you’re using a VPN that meets certain criteria. After careful consideration and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best VPNs for uTorrent users. These VPNs have strong encryption on the OpenVPN protocol, don’t store activity logs, have servers in the Netherlands where torrenting is still legal, and offer good download speeds with unlimited bandwidth. Additionally, they have Windows, Mac, and Android apps, as well as a built-in VPN kill switch to prevent IP leaks. Here are the top VPNs for uTorrent:
| VPN | Features |
|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | Fast speeds, easy to use, 24/7 customer support |
| NordVPN | Strong security, large server network, affordable pricing |
| CyberGhost VPN | User-friendly interface, great for beginners, no-logs policy |
| Private Internet Access | Affordable pricing, no-logs policy, fast speeds |
| Surfshark | Unlimited simultaneous connections, strong security, affordable pricing |
Remember to always use a reputable VPN when torrenting to protect your privacy and avoid any legal issues.
1. NordVPN
Pros:
- NordVPN is an excellent VPN for torrenting and streaming, with incredible speeds that work well with uTorrent.
- It can easily bypass restrictions on major geo-locked platforms, making it a great choice for accessing content from around the world.
- NordVPN boasts strong security and privacy features, including a kill switch that can be enabled in the settings.
- With apps available for every device, including Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, NordVPN is a versatile VPN that can be used on any device.
- Personal data is protected as NordVPN keeps no logs.
- NordVPN offers 24/7 support, and their staff are knowledgeable and helpful.
Cons:
- Some users may find the desktop app difficult to get used to.
NordVPN is our top pick for a uTorrent VPN, outperforming almost every competitor in speed tests and offering one of the most powerful VPNs available when it comes to security. With over 5,500 servers in over 60 countries, including two “double-hop” servers, NordVPN provides fast and reliable service. While the double-hop servers may slow down downloads slightly, they make it next to impossible to track you down.
Overall, NordVPN is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and secure VPN for torrenting and streaming. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s also a risk-free option for those who want to try it out.
2. Surfshark
Pros:
- Surfshark is a VPN service that offers robust security and privacy protection to its users.
- It uses 256-bit encryption, protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks, and a kill switch to secure your traffic.
- Surfshark is based in the British Virgin Islands, which has no mandatory data retention laws, and it doesn’t log any information that could identify you.
- You can pay in one of three different cryptocurrencies for an additional layer of anonymity.
- Surfshark offers apps for MacOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux.
- It allows an unlimited number of connections.
Cons:
- The customer support of Surfshark could be better.
Surfshark is a low-cost VPN provider that delivers top-notch security and privacy features. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable VPN service that doesn’t break the bank. With Surfshark, you can enjoy solid speeds and unblock streaming platforms with ease. Its user-friendly apps make it easy to set up and use, and you can connect as many devices as you like.
If you’re on a tight budget, Surfshark is the best VPN for you. It offers unlimited connections and doesn’t restrict bandwidth, so you can torrent on as many devices as you like. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
3. ExpressVPN
Pros:
- ExpressVPN is a great solution for bypassing torrent tracker sites blocks without compromising privacy.
- The service offers fast servers and reliable speeds, ensuring a smooth browsing experience.
- ExpressVPN is known for its best-in-class encryption, providing users with top-notch security.
- The company does not keep any logs, ensuring complete privacy for its users.
- ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live customer support, helping users with any issues they may face.
Cons:
- ExpressVPN is more expensive than some of its rivals.
- The service allows fewer simultaneous connections than some of its competitors.
ExpressVPN is a good all-rounder VPN that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The VPN service has a vast server network, optimized for fast connections. Additionally, the service offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it a risk-free option for users.
ExpressVPN supports the OpenVPN protocol and has its own superfast Lightway protocol. Both of these use 256-bit encryption, which is extremely strong. While the company does keep some metadata logs, no user activity is recorded. The VPN service has several server locations in the Netherlands, and bandwidth is unlimited. The company’s software also boasts a network lock, which prevents any traffic from leaking over your default IP address if the connection drops.
Overall, ExpressVPN is a reliable and secure VPN service that is worth considering for users who prioritize privacy and security.
4. CyberGhost
Pros:
- CyberGhost VPN works well with uTorrent, making it a great choice for torrenting.
- The VPN offers impressive streaming speeds, making it a good choice for streaming HD videos with most streaming services.
- Minimal configuration is required to use CyberGhost VPN.
- CyberGhost offers a large network of reliable servers in over 90 countries, including over 300 in the Netherlands.
- The VPN comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to test the service.
Cons:
- CyberGhost VPN has fewer advanced settings than some other VPNs.
- The VPN doesn’t work in China.
CyberGhost VPN is a great choice for beginners. It offers robust encryption standards, including 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols, along with 2,048-bit RSA keys and MD5 HMAC authentication. The VPN also includes an internet kill switch, which halts web traffic if the connection drops unexpectedly.
While CyberGhost VPN doesn’t have as many advanced settings as some other VPNs, it’s still a reliable and easy-to-use service. It’s a good choice for users who want a VPN that’s simple to set up and use, with a large network of servers in many countries.
5. IPVanish
Pros:
- IPVanish is a popular choice among torrents due to its sizable network and lack of connection limit.
- The VPN designates certain countries as P2P-friendly, such as the Netherlands, where it has several servers to choose from.
- The traffic is encrypted with 256-bit AES, and no activity logs are stored.
- IPVanish offers impressive speeds and reliable connections.
- You can have unlimited simultaneous connections.
Cons:
- IPVanish does not work in China.
- Some servers take a while to connect.
IPVanish is a VPN service that offers apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. The OSX and Windows clients have kill switches, but not the Android version. The VPN keeps no internet traffic logs, and it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Overall, IPVanish is a solid choice for torrents, Kodi users, and folks who need the highest standard of privacy. While not all the servers are as reliable as NordVPN, you’re sure to find a quick one with a bit of trial and error.
6. PrivateVPN
Pros:
- PrivateVPN offers a fast connection speed, making it a great option for torrenting, P2P, and general-purpose use.
- The service provider does not store any logs and uses strong encryption to secure your online activities.
- PrivateVPN allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously on a single account.
Cons:
- PrivateVPN has a smaller network of servers compared to other VPN providers on this list.
- The service provider does not offer 24/7 customer support, which can be inconvenient for users who need immediate assistance.
PrivateVPN is a relatively new VPN service provider, but it has quickly gained popularity due to its fast connection speeds and strong security features. The service provider uses 256-bit encryption with perfect forward secrecy on the OpenVPN protocol, ensuring that your online activities are secure and private. PrivateVPN also offers a kill switch feature, which can automatically disconnect your internet connection if the VPN connection drops.
PrivateVPN has apps available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. The service provider allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously on a single account, making it a great option for families or small businesses.
Overall, PrivateVPN is a solid performer for those looking for a fast and secure VPN service. Although it has a smaller network of servers and lacks 24/7 customer support, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service risk-free.
7. Atlas VPN
Pros:
- With Atlas VPN, you can stay anonymous while browsing the internet thanks to its encryption and no-logs policy.
- You can connect all of your devices at the same time, as the VPN allows unlimited simultaneous connections per account.
- For an extra layer of encryption, Atlas VPN also provides MultiHop servers.
Cons:
- Atlas VPN doesn’t provide support for routers.
- The network of servers is relatively small with just 750 servers.
Atlas VPN is one of the fastest VPNs available, with unlimited bandwidth, making it highly suitable for use with uTorrent. You can expect good, consistent download speeds. Atlas VPN also provides top-notch security with 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. The VPN also doesn’t keep any identifying logs.
If you need an extra layer of protection, Atlas VPN allows you to connect to MultiHop servers where internet traffic is routed via multiple locations. Additionally, 24/7 support is included.
Atlas VPN offers apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. The VPN also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
In summary, Atlas VPN provides impressive speed, top-notch security, and unlimited simultaneous connections. However, the VPN doesn’t support routers and has a relatively small network of servers.
Methodology: Choosing the Best VPNs for uTorrent
When it comes to torrenting, choosing the right VPN is crucial for both speed and security. At Comparitech, we have researched and tested various VPNs to determine which ones are the best for uTorrent. Here are the key factors we considered during our testing process:
- Performance: To ensure fast download speeds, we conducted regular speed tests to determine which VPNs are the fastest. We also looked at reliability, as maintaining high speeds over long periods is crucial.
- Server Locations: The more countries a VPN supports, the more likely it is that there will be a server near your location. This helps keep latency low and improves speeds. We also looked for VPNs with servers in the Netherlands, where torrenting is still largely legal.
- Security Tools: VPNs enhance security, so we require at least 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. Additional security tools, such as stealth modes and support for newer protocols like WireGuard, are also preferred.
- Privacy Features: To protect your identity, we looked for VPNs with a no-logs policy and the ability to pay anonymously. We also preferred VPNs with specific P2P servers and support for newer protocols.
Our testing process is intensive and ongoing. For more information on our methodology, please refer to our full VPN testing methodology post.
How to Bind Your VPN IP to uTorrent
To ensure that your torrent traffic is always routed through your VPN server, you can use the IP bind feature in uTorrent. This feature allows you to set uTorrent to only download torrents while connected to a specific VPN server. Here’s how you can bind your VPN IP to uTorrent:
- Connect to your preferred VPN server for torrenting.
- Go to Google and search for “What’s my IP?” Copy the numbers and decimals that appear in the info graph to your clipboard.
- Open uTorrent and go to Options > Preferences > Advanced.
- In the Filter field, type “ip”.
- Click on net.bind_ip in the search results. In the Value field, paste your IP address and click Set.
- Repeat step 5 for net.outgoing_ip.
- Press OK and restart the uTorrent client.
It’s important to note that the IP bind feature is not currently available in the Mac and Android versions of uTorrent. However, some Mac users have reported success using a workaround with either Tunnelblick or Viscosity, which replace the VPN provider’s app. Azureus Vuze, an alternative to uTorrent, also supports this function for Mac.
If you don’t want to switch to a different app or BitTorrent client, make sure to turn on the VPN kill switch (sometimes called a “network lock”) included in your provider’s app. This will ensure that your torrent traffic is always routed through your VPN server, even if the VPN connection drops.
Port Forwarding
Port forwarding is a feature that some uTorrent users believe can improve their download speeds by allowing their torrent client to connect to more peers outside the normal range of the VPN. However, others argue that it is unnecessary and can even degrade user privacy when using a VPN. This is because all users sharing the same VPN IP address will all be limited to the same ports except for the one who chooses to port forward, making P2P activity easier to trace back to a single user.
Most commercial VPN clients do not support port forwarding, and they work fine without it. If your VPN client does support port forwarding, you can enter the forwarded port into the uTorrent settings by following these steps:
- In uTorrent, go to Options > Preferences > Connections.
- Enter the port number set in your VPN client.
- Uncheck Randomize port each time uTorrent[Bittorrent] starts.
- Disable Enable UPnP port mapping.
- Uncheck Enable NAT-PMP port mapping.
It is important to note that port forwarding in a VPN does not require forwarding ports in your router. However, you may need to disable NAT-PMP and/or uPNP mapping in the torrent client. Overall, port forwarding may or may not improve your download speeds, and it is up to you to decide whether to use it or not.
VPNs uTorrent Users Should Avoid
When it comes to using uTorrent, selecting the right VPN can make all the difference. However, not all VPNs are created equal. In fact, some VPNs should be avoided altogether. Here are three VPNs that you should steer clear of:
- Hola VPN: Despite its unique approach to bandwidth sharing, Hola VPN has a history of selling users’ bandwidth for botnets, which can lead to malicious activities like DDoS attacks and content piracy. As a uTorrent user, it’s best to avoid this VPN altogether.
- Betternet: Betternet VPN was caught installing adware, malware, and trackers on devices, which can compromise your privacy rather than protect it. With questionable logging policies and potential data selling, it’s another VPN to avoid.
- Thunder VPN: Although designed for Android, Thunder VPN comes with significant security risks. It uses an insecure connection protocol, leaving your activities vulnerable to exposure. Despite claiming to be a no-logs VPN, it has been found to collect substantial amounts of personal data, putting your information at risk.
As a uTorrent user, it’s important to prioritize VPNs with solid security features, robust encryption, and strict no-log policies. Avoiding the wrong VPN is just as important as selecting the right one for your torrenting needs.
Can You Use a Free VPN with uTorrent?
Using a free VPN with uTorrent is not recommended because of the limitations and risks involved. Most free VPNs have strict bandwidth limits that could prevent you from using P2P networks as much as you would like. This could result in you having to wait until the following month to finish downloading something securely.
In addition, free VPNs are usually slow, even if you find one with no data limits at all. Your downloads will likely take far longer than if you had signed up for a paid VPN. It’s worth noting that some free VPNs expressly forbid torrenting, and using them for this purpose could result in legal consequences.
To ensure a secure and reliable torrenting experience, it’s recommended to use a paid VPN that offers unlimited bandwidth and fast speeds. Most major VPNs offer a free trial or a money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service before committing to a subscription.
Consider investing in a reputable VPN to protect your privacy and ensure a seamless torrenting experience.
Is Using uTorrent Illegal?
No, using uTorrent is not illegal. The uTorrent software is legal to install on your device, and downloading torrents is also legitimate in most countries. However, if the torrents contain copyrighted material such as movies, TV shows, music, or software without permission, it becomes illegal to use the application. It is essential to ensure that you only download and share legal content to avoid any legal consequences.
Why You Need a VPN for Torrenting?
When you use a torrent client to download files, your IP address becomes visible to other users in the same swarm. This means that anyone monitoring the swarm can see your location and internet service provider. Copyright holders often monitor torrents to catch pirates and take legal action against them.
By using a VPN, you can protect your anonymity by masking your real IP address with one provided by the VPN service. This makes it much harder for anyone to track your online activities. Additionally, a VPN with a no-logs policy ensures that your online activities remain private, even if someone tries to investigate.
Here are some key benefits of using a VPN for torrenting:
- Protects your anonymity by masking your IP address
- Helps you avoid legal issues related to copyright infringement
- Prevents your internet service provider from throttling your connection
- Provides an extra layer of security to your online activities
Overall, using a VPN for torrenting is a smart choice that can help you stay safe and secure while downloading files.
Will a VPN slow down my downloads?
When you connect to a VPN, your internet speeds are likely to be slower due to the extra steps involved in encrypting data. However, recent advancements have made this impact almost unnoticeable, unless you are used to browsing with an extremely quick connection. If your internet speed is over 500 Mbps, you may experience a slight decrease in speed. It is important to note that VPNs do not condone or encourage any violation of copyright restrictions. Before downloading any copyrighted material without permission, consider the law, victims, and risks of piracy. For more information on how to torrent safely, follow these 5 simple steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top VPN services recommended for uTorrent users?
When it comes to choosing a VPN for uTorrent, it’s important to choose a reliable and trustworthy provider. Some of the top VPN services recommended for uTorrent users include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Surfshark. These providers offer fast speeds, strong security features, and a no-logs policy to protect your privacy.
Is it necessary to use a VPN while torrenting with uTorrent?
Using a VPN while torrenting with uTorrent is highly recommended. It not only protects your privacy and anonymity but also helps you bypass ISP throttling and geo-restrictions. Additionally, a VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it impossible for anyone to monitor or track your online activities.
How do you determine the safest VPN for torrenting purposes?
When choosing a VPN for torrenting purposes, it’s important to look for certain features such as a no-logs policy, strong encryption, and a kill switch. Additionally, you should choose a VPN provider that has a good reputation in the industry and has been audited by third-party security firms.
Can you trust free VPNs when using them for torrenting with uTorrent?
It’s generally not recommended to use free VPNs for torrenting with uTorrent. Most free VPNs have limited bandwidth, slow speeds, and weak security features. Additionally, some free VPNs may even sell your data to third-party advertisers, compromising your privacy and security.
What are the optimal server locations to choose on a VPN for uTorrent activities?
When using a VPN for uTorrent activities, it’s recommended to choose servers that are located in countries where torrenting is legal. Additionally, you should choose servers that are located close to your physical location to minimize latency and maximize speeds.
What do Reddit users suggest as the best VPN for torrenting with uTorrent?
According to Reddit users, some of the best VPNs for torrenting with uTorrent include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Surfshark. These providers offer fast speeds, strong security features, and a no-logs policy to protect your privacy.
