ExpressVPN

Overview

ExpressVPN launched in 2009 and is operated by Express VPN International Ltd., headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, a jurisdiction chosen partly for its lack of mandatory data-retention laws. It built its reputation on consistently fast connection speeds and reliable access to geo-restricted streaming services, backed by heavy marketing through sponsorships and affiliate programs that made it one of the most recognized consumer VPN brands. In 2021, ExpressVPN was acquired by Kape Technologies, a company that also owns several other VPN brands and previously drew scrutiny over its earlier history as a maker of browser-hijacking adware, a history critics point to when evaluating the brand today.

ExpressVPN runs its own “Lightway” protocol, a proprietary connection protocol whose core code has been published for public review though the full application remains closed source. The company operates a RAM-only server network, meaning servers run entirely in volatile memory with no persistent storage, which is intended to ensure server data is wiped on every reboot. Independent audits of its apps and no-logs claims have been published, but as with any closed source VPN, users cannot directly inspect the full client code and must rely on the company’s published audits and policies.

Key Features

• Lightway protocol — A proprietary connection protocol built for speed, with its core source published for public review
• RAM-only servers — Server infrastructure that runs entirely in volatile memory, wiped on every reboot
• Broad streaming access — Consistently reliable at accessing geo-restricted streaming platforms
• Network Lock (kill switch) — Blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops
• MediaStreamer — Smart DNS feature for streaming on devices that don’t support VPN apps directly, like some smart TVs

Use Cases

• Streaming and geo-unblocking — Reliable access to region-locked video platforms
• General privacy browsing — Encrypting traffic and masking IP address on public Wi-Fi
• Router and smart-device coverage — VPN or DNS-based coverage for devices that can’t run a native VPN client

Who It’s For

ExpressVPN is aimed at consumers who prioritize speed and streaming reliability and are willing to pay a premium price for a heavily marketed, established brand. It’s subscription-based, with per-month pricing dropping on longer-term plans, and does not offer a free tier.