DuckDuckGo, the renowned privacy-focused search engine and open access to users from almost all over the world, has launched a new subscription service called Privacy Pro, or as you may hear—DuckDuckGo VPN, early this year in April, just as Google did before with Google One. This comprehensive package offers three essential tools to safeguard your online privacy: a dedicated VPN service, Personal Information Removal, and Identity Theft Restoration.
In this in-depth review, we’ll delve into the features and benefits of DuckDuckGo VPN and explore its alternative so that you can access DuckDuckGo Privacy Pro when you are outside of the United States.
Pros and Cons of DuckDuckGo VPN
DuckDuckGo VPN is one of the benefits offered by DuckDuckGo Privacy Pro subscription service for direct use in the DuckDuckGo Private Browser. See a direct overview of the advantages and disadvantages of DuckDuckGo VPN:
- Encrypt your Internet connection across browsers.
- Protect Internet connections and apps across your full device.
- Hide your location and IP address from the sites you visit.
- Automatic internet block if the VPN experiences an interruption, until reconnection or you turn off the VPN.
- Private with a strict no-logging policy
- No need to install a separate VPN app by integrated with the DuckDuckGo browser
- One click to connect and disconnect with user-friendly interface
- full device compatibility including Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android
- Up to 5 connections simultaneously.
- Servers in 71 countries including Canada, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Spain, The UK, and US.
- No speed or bandwidth limits or caps unless abusement
- Jurisdiction concerns with establishment in the United States, subject to U.S. laws and its international intelligence-sharing agreements, such as the Five Eyes alliance.
- Only available to U.S. residents
- Monthly subscription fee is $9.99 a month, which is more expensive than most VPNs out there.
- No application of any AES-256 encryption technology.
- Split tunneling is only available on Android, but not MacOS, Windows or iOS/iPadOS.
Why Use DuckDuckGo with VPN Not Google Incognito?
When it comes to online privacy, many users wonder why they should use DuckDuckGo in conjunction with a VPN instead of relying solely on Google Incognito mode. Here’s a comprehensive look at the reasons why DuckDuckGo with a VPN offers superior privacy and security compared to Google Incognito mode.
1. Google Incognito Mode
Google Incognito mode, also known as private browsing, is a Free feature that prevents your browser from saving your browsing history, cookies, site data, and information entered in forms. However, it’s important to note what Incognito mode does NOT do:
- It does not hide your IP address: Websites can still see your IP address and track your activity across different sites.
- It does not encrypt your traffic: Your internet service provider (ISP), employer, or anyone with access to your network can still see your online activities.
- It does not prevent tracking by third parties: Websites and advertisers can still track you using other methods, such as fingerprinting and IP tracking.
- It does not delete downloaded files or bookmarks: Anything you download or bookmark in Incognito mode remains on your device.
2. Access DuckDuckGo.com using VPN
- No Tracking: DuckDuckGo is a search engine that does not track your search history or collect personal data. This is in stark contrast to Google, which uses your search history and personal information to serve targeted ads.
- Masked IP Address: A VPN masks your real IP address, making it harder for websites, advertisers, and even your ISP to track your online activities. This adds an extra layer of anonymity compared to Incognito mode.
- Encryption: VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, protecting your data from being intercepted by hackers, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks. Incognito mode does not offer this level of protection.
- Protection on Public Wi-Fi: VPNs are essential when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, as they protect your data from potential eavesdroppers and hackers. Incognito mode does not provide this security.
- Bypassing Geo-Restrictions: VPNs allow you to access content that may be restricted in your region by masking your IP address and making it appear as though you are browsing from a different location. Incognito mode does not change your IP address, so it cannot help with geo-restricted content.
In conclusion, although required paid subscription, DuckDuckGo VPN provides a comprehensive solution for enhancing your online privacy and security. While Google Incognito mode offers some level of privacy by not saving your browsing history locally, it falls short in protecting your data from websites, advertisers, and network monitoring.
How to Install DuckDuckGo VPN on Your Device?
To start protecting your privacy with DuckDuckGo VPN when using DuckDuckGo or other search engines on DuckDuckGo browser, please follow these steps:
- Install the DuckDuckGo browser on your iPhone, iPad, Android mobile phone, Mac, and Windows computer and launch it.
- Access the Settings menu > Privacy Pro > VPN.
- Choose the best plan for yourself and subscribe to it.
- In Settings of your DuckDuckGo browser (usually at the top right), tap VPN to turn on or turn off.
- Start browsing and get secured with DuckDuckGo VPN.
How to Access DuckDuckGo Outside of the U.S.?
DuckDuckGo makes it clear that their Privacy Pro features (including DuckDuckGo VPN) are currently only available to U.S. residents, meaning if you are an American subscriber to the Privacy Pro, you can use the VPN for free from any location of the world as long as it is legal to do so.
Best Alternative to DuckDuckGo VPN in 2024
After reading the pros and cons of DuckDuckGo VPN, you may know if it’s the best VPN for you now. If you want to find an alternative to it to access DuckDuckGo.com, Yandex.com, or other search engine restricted because of reasons like:
- Cost: DuckDuckGo Privacy Pro is a paid subscription service and it’s a little more expensive than most VPN products, while you’re looking for a free or more affordable option.
- Features: While DuckDuckGo Privacy Pro offers a comprehensive suite of privacy tools, you may prioritize specific features or have different requirements on advanced features.
- Server Network: You prefer a VPN with a larger or more diverse network.
- Privacy Policies: While DuckDuckGo is known for its commitment to privacy, users may have concerns about its specific privacy practices or data collection policies since it’s a U.S. company.
- Customer Support: The quality of customer support can be a deciding factor for some users. If you encounter issues or need assistance, a responsive and helpful support team can be invaluable.
In any case above, Bear VPN stands out as an excellent alternative to DuckDuckGo VPN for several reasons:
- Cost: More affordable options starting from $2.99 per month, including a 100% free tier.
- Features: Advanced and user-friendly features that cater to a wide range of needs, such as Split tunneling, Kill Switch, AES-256 military encryption, auto routing, double VPN, and more.
- Server Network: Bear VPN offers a larger and more diverse server network in 120 locations for better performance.
- Privacy Policies: Strong privacy commitments to No log policy with a potentially more favorable jurisdiction in Singapore.
- Customer Support: Reliable and 24/7 responsive customer support.
Both DuckDuckGo VPN and Bear VPN are exceptional choices for enhancing online privacy and security. DuckDuckGo VPN stands out for its seamless integration with the DuckDuckGo ecosystem and strong privacy features. On the other hand, Bear VPN offers a wider server network and excellent performance, making it a versatile option for various online activities. Ultimately, the choice between DuckDuckGo VPN and Bear VPN depends on your specific needs and preferences.
