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 by Jack Cator and now part of Gen Digital, HMA 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, preventing data leaks.
- Split Tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN and which connect directly (Android).
- 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 your 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%.