Description
HMA VPN is a well-established VPN service with over 20 years of experience in online privacy and security. Originally founded as Hide My Ass and now operated by HMA, it offers a robust and user-friendly VPN solution for everyday internet users.
Key Features
- Global Server Network: 3,400+ servers in 100+ locations across 65+ countries, optimized for streaming and P2P.
- Military-Grade Encryption: AES-256-GCM encryption with 4096-bit RSA keys and SHA256 authentication via OpenVPN.
- No-Log Policy: HMA does not log your IP address, DNS queries, browsing activity, or online behavior.
- Kill Switch: Automatically cuts internet access if the VPN connection drops to prevent data leaks.
- Split Tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN and which connect directly.
- Lightning Connect: One-click feature that finds the fastest available server.
- Leak Shield: Protects against IPv4, IPv6, and DNS leaks.
- DDoS Protection: Helps maintain stable connection integrity.
Supported Platforms
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Android TV. One subscription covers unlimited installs with up to 5 devices connected simultaneously (10 with the Family Plan).
Main Use Cases
- Streaming: Unblock and stream content from global libraries with servers optimized for streaming.
- Privacy & Security: Protect online activity from ISPs, hackers, and third parties on public Wi-Fi.
- P2P & File Sharing: Dedicated P2P-optimized servers for faster file transfers.
- Gaming: Reduce DDoS risks and access geo-restricted game content.
- Bypassing Censorship: Access blocked websites and services from restricted regions.
All plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Highlights
Pros
- Massive global server network covering 210+ countries with 3,400+ servers for broad geographical access.
- P2P-optimized servers in the US, UK, Germany, and Netherlands dedicated to faster and more secure file sharing.
- Unique IP Shuffle feature that automatically rotates your IP address at set intervals to thwart online tracking.
- Over 20 years of VPN industry experience backed by the infrastructure of parent company Gen Digital (Norton, Avast).
- AES-256-GCM encryption with 4096-bit RSA keys and a clearly documented no-log policy transparently explained on the website.
Cons
- Collects and stores connection timestamps and data usage volume for up to 35 days, falling short of a strict zero-log standard.
- Previously handed over user connection data to law enforcement (FBI LulzSec case 2011), demonstrating a track record of cooperation with authorities.
- Based in the United Kingdom, a Five Eyes intelligence-sharing member with intrusive data retention laws.
- Key features are platform-locked — WireGuard and Mimic protocols are exclusive to Windows and split tunneling is only available on Android.
- Inconsistent server speeds across locations — independent tests show some servers drop download speed by 96% while others drop only 12%.