Service Overview
Signing up for Smart DNS Proxy automatically includes both their DNS and VPN services, no longer available separately.
This dual offering prompts questions about its performance against industry giants like ExpressVPN.
Speed tests revealed surprisingly capable connection rates for such a young provider.
Unblocking streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime works effectively through both its DNS and VPN tools.
Native applications cover major platforms (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) with Linux and router support - features typically seen in veteran services.
Dedicated servers for streaming and P2P enhance performance, offered at a competitive price point.
However, privacy-focused users should note significant drawbacks.
The service collects substantial user data and provides minimal security tools beyond basic encryption and a kill switch.
Despite the bundled VPN, Smart DNS Proxy prioritizes media access over robust security.
Its identity is clear: a solution primarily designed for bypassing geo-restrictions, not safeguarding anonymity.
For streaming enthusiasts, it delivers; for privacy advocates, alternatives likely serve better.
Smart DNS Proxy offers a mixed bag of features that potential users should carefully consider.
Performance and Accessibility
The service delivers consistent speeds across its global server network, making it suitable for streaming and general browsing activities. Its ability to unblock streaming platforms effectively is noteworthy, offering both Smart DNS functionality and VPN capabilities.
Cost and Platform Support
Pricing is competitive within the market, providing good value especially for budget-conscious users. The service extends support to Linux systems and router installations, which expands its versatility beyond standard platforms. Additionally, it functions in regions with heavy internet restrictions like China, making it viable for travelers or residents in such areas.
Risk-Free Evaluation
A significant advantage is the 14-day free trial that doesn't require credit card information, allowing users to test the service without financial commitment.
Privacy Concerns
Unfortunately, the service's privacy policy indicates collection of user data, which may be problematic for privacy-focused individuals. The security architecture shows considerable weaknesses, with substandard encryption implementations that fall below industry standards.
Security Vulnerabilities
Technical assessments reveal the VPN component is susceptible to IP and DNS leaks, potentially exposing user activities. Critical security features like a kill switch and split tunneling are absent from the service offering.
Technical Limitations
The service relies on outdated VPN protocols that security experts no longer recommend. This technical approach raises questions about the service's commitment to security best practices.
Transparency Issues
The official website provides minimal information about the VPN service specifics, creating a transparency gap that informed users might find concerning.
When evaluating VPN performance, connection speed remains a critical factor regardless of your primary reason for using such services.
My comprehensive testing of Smart DNS Proxy revealed impressive velocity metrics across global regions. The consolidated average from all test scenarios measured approximately 28.6 Mbps, demonstrating reliable performance that should satisfy most users' needs.
Testing methodology included multiple geographic locations spanning three continents. The regional breakdown showed:
North America (my testing location): 33 Mbps average
European servers: 29 Mbps average
Asian connections: 24 Mbps average
These results suggest that for standard internet usage, Smart DNS Proxy will likely maintain your connection quality without noticeable degradation unless you operate on extremely high-speed networks.
For protocol testing, I primarily utilized OpenVPN via UDP, which comes as the default configuration on Windows systems. While the service offers PPTP and L2TP alternatives, I recommend avoiding PPTP due to security concerns. Between the remaining options, OpenVPN generally provides better overall performance than L2TP.
The service's router compatibility allowed me to extend testing to gaming scenarios on PlayStation. By connecting through a geographically proximate server to minimize latency, I experienced seamless gaming sessions without experiencing lag, disconnections or performance issues - demonstrating the service's versatility beyond basic browsing applications.
Smart DNS Proxy is compatible with a wide array of devices and operating systems. It offers native applications for:
MacOS
Windows
iOS
Android
In addition to these, it supports ChromeOS, Linux, and numerous router models. By configuring Smart DNS Proxy on your router, you can overcome the restriction of having only five simultaneous device connections. The service provides comprehensive setup guides for all supported platforms, making the process straightforward even if there isn't a dedicated app available.
The user interface of the Smart DNS Proxy app is both minimalistic and efficient, ensuring a seamless experience.
Smart DNS Proxy offers a basic settings panel with limited configuration options. The security measures are minimal, with the primary feature being a DNS leak blocker. This function ensures that your device uses Smart DNS Proxy's in-tunnel DNS servers. Ideally, this should be activated by default; however, it is not. Apart from the encryption, there are no additional security features provided.
The platform offers dual-purpose filtering capabilities for server selection.
Users can specifically choose optimized nodes for streaming media or torrent downloads.
For those prioritizing access to streaming libraries over advanced security features, Smart DNS Proxy's minimalist approach feels deliberate and appropriate.
The application deliberately avoids unnecessary complexity, favoring a clean and focused interface.
This design philosophy democratizes geo-unblocking, welcoming users regardless of their prior technical experience with VPNs or proxies.
The resulting interface is highly approachable, ensuring effortless navigation for its core audience focused on entertainment access.
Smart DNS Proxy is compatible with a variety of routers, making it a versatile choice for users. It works seamlessly with:
DD-WRT
Asus
Mikrotik
pfSense
Tomato
For each of these router types, detailed, step-by-step setup guides are provided, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free configuration process. However, it's important to note that Smart DNS Proxy includes instructions for setting up PPTP on Mikrotik, which is not considered a secure protocol.
For those looking for more secure options, it might be beneficial to explore the best VPNs designed specifically for routers.
Streaming and Security Analysis
Unlocking Streaming Potential: Exploring the Power of Smart DNS Proxy
When it comes to streaming capabilities, Smart DNS Proxy truly excels. This service was fundamentally designed with streaming in mind, and it delivers impressively on that promise.
During my comprehensive evaluation, I thoroughly tested both components of the service: the core Smart DNS functionality and the supplementary VPN option. I'm pleased to report that both performed exceptionally well without any interruptions or access issues.
The Smart DNS service implementation is refreshingly straightforward. Users simply need to modify their device's DNS server settings to utilize Smart DNS Proxy's dedicated servers. The company provides detailed, user-friendly configuration instructions for virtually any device you might want to use with their service.
Once configured, the magic happens behind the scenes - your DNS requests are routed through Smart DNS Proxy's specialized servers, effectively unlocking access to streaming platforms and their content libraries regardless of geographical restrictions.
For those interested in the technical details, Smart DNS Proxy maintains country-specific DNS servers across multiple regions to optimize your streaming experience based on your needs.
I evaluated Smart DNS Proxy's performance with major streaming platforms and was thoroughly impressed by its capabilities. Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ all loaded seamlessly without any access restrictions. For BBC iPlayer, I simply needed to connect to a UK server, which is expected for region-specific content.
The service maintained its reliability when I switched to their VPN option. All streaming platforms remained accessible, and more importantly, the video quality was exceptional with no buffering issues or playback interruptions. This level of performance puts Smart DNS Proxy in the same league as premium streaming services.
For those interested in P2P file sharing, Smart DNS Proxy offers specialized servers optimized for torrenting activities. Accessing these servers is straightforward - simply filter the server list for P2P options, connect to your preferred server, and begin your download process through your torrent client.
The VPN functionality provides an additional layer of security for torrenting, which I would strongly recommend utilizing. Overall, Smart DNS Proxy delivers impressive performance across both streaming and torrenting applications, making it a versatile choice for various online activities.
I found Smart DNS Proxy's torrenting performance to be excellent during testing. Connection stability was impressive with zero drops throughout my sessions.
One notable limitation is the absence of split tunneling functionality in the current version. This feature, available in many competing services, would allow users to route specific applications through the VPN while maintaining direct connections for others.
For example, without split tunneling, you can't simultaneously:
Route torrenting traffic through the VPN while browsing normally
Protect most traffic while allowing streaming services to use your regular connection
Customize which applications use which connection paths
The service's privacy documentation was surprisingly difficult to locate. The footer's privacy policy link misleadingly directs to the website policy rather than VPN service terms. After extensive searching, I discovered their privacy practices page, though it lacks the comprehensive detail of a formal privacy policy.
This approach to privacy documentation raises questions, especially considering the service began as a Smart DNS provider before expanding into VPN offerings. Users concerned with privacy should carefully evaluate whether this level of transparency meets their needs.
While privacy-conscious users appreciate Smart DNS Proxy's explicit promise
to avoid tracking browsing history, traffic data, and DNS requests,
what surfaces next raises significant questions.
A contrasting element emerges in their documentation,
casting doubt on the initial assurance
and demanding further scrutiny.
Smart DNS Proxy maintains a record of connection dates for their service users. The company explicitly states that they track dates only, not specific times when users connect. Additionally, they monitor which VPN server IP addresses users connect to and keep track of daily data usage volumes.
While their data collection approach is not excessive compared to some competitors in the industry, there is certainly room for improvement. Some VPN providers manage to operate effectively with fewer data collection points. That said, Smart DNS Proxy deserves recognition for their transparency regarding what information they do collect from users.
Regarding encryption standards, finding specific details required extensive searching through router configuration documentation. The website could benefit from providing more readily accessible information about their security protocols and encryption methods for potential customers seeking this technical information.
Smart DNS Proxy's security posture reveals concerning gaps
that could undermine user privacy expectations
On the positive front
no WebRTC leaks were detected during testing
which prevents browser-based exposure of actual IP addresses
However
critical vulnerabilities emerged in multiple areas
The encryption implementation employs outdated Blowfish-CBC at 128-bit
despite its known limitations in block length and modern processor optimization
The algorithm's creator himself recommends transitioning to Twofish
Compounding this weakness
the SHA1 hash authentication (160-bit) remains actively used
despite being compromised and deprecated industry-wide
Modern alternatives like SHA-256 or SHA-3 exist for stronger protection
Protocol support includes dangerously obsolete options
like the fully compromised PPTP and fading L2TP
While OpenVPN and IKEv2 remain viable
maintaining vulnerable protocols creates unnecessary risk vectors
Most alarmingly
testing confirmed persistent IPv6 address leakage
The native IPv6 address remained visible during connections
completely negating the anonymizing purpose of the service
These cumulative flaws in encryption fundamentals
and persistent leak vulnerabilities
make this solution unsuitable for privacy-sensitive activities
DNS Security Concerns
During our comprehensive evaluation, we observed concerning issues with DNS security. Despite activating the dedicated "prevent DNS leaks" feature within the application interface, our testing revealed persistent vulnerabilities.
When conducting specialized DNS leak tests while connected to the Smart DNS Proxy service, our original DNS server information remained fully visible and detectable. This indicates a significant failure in the privacy protection mechanism.
Further investigation showed additional exposure, with multiple ISP DNS servers appearing in detection results. This comprehensive security breakdown occurred even with the protective features explicitly enabled.
Such findings raise serious questions about the effectiveness of the service's privacy safeguards and its ability to properly mask user connectivity information.
The primary goal of a VPN is to ensure the privacy and security of its users. However, this particular service falls short in a critical way. It fails to protect user privacy due to significant leaks, making it easy for adversaries to link the user’s real IP address with the one provided by the VPN. This vulnerability not only undermines the intended privacy benefits but also creates a false sense of security, which can be more dangerous than being aware of the lack of protection.
Smart DNS Proxy distinguishes itself by offering two separate services: Smart DNS and a traditional VPN. As a result, the company maintains two distinct lists of servers tailored to each service.
For the
Smart DNS
service, users have access to
38
servers spread across
24
countries.
In contrast, the
VPN
service includes
38
servers located in
26
different countries.
While some prioritize extensive server lists,
quality often matters more than sheer quantity.
Smart DNS Proxy's selective network demonstrates thoughtful curation.
China accessibility details proved elusive initially—
marketing materials offered no clear guidance.
Reaching out via their email support became necessary.
No live chat exists, only ticket-based assistance.
Yet response time shattered expectations:
a thorough reply arrived within sixty minutes.
The support agent provided confirmed functionality in China
alongside practical technical advice:
using VPN mode rather than DNS alone,
preferring TCP connections over UDP.
Though not every server may connect consistently,
viable options exist for Chinese access.
For enhanced reliability in restrictive regions,
dedicated China-optimized VPNs remain recommended.
Smart DNS Proxy Service: A Comprehensive Pricing and Feature Analysis
Smart DNS Proxy offers dual functionality through its subscription plans, providing both Smart DNS and VPN services under a single payment structure. The pricing tiers are designed to reward longer commitments with significant discounts.
The most economical option is the two-year plan at just $2.48 per month, while the monthly subscription costs $5.90. For those seeking medium-term options, the quarterly plan runs $5.19 monthly, and the annual subscription averages $4 per month. A lifetime option is available for a one-time $200 payment.
New users benefit from a generous 14-day free trial that doesn't require credit card information—a customer-friendly approach that sets Smart DNS Proxy apart from many competitors. Additionally, all paid plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
While the service excels as a streaming content unblocker with impressive reliability for accessing geo-restricted platforms, its VPN capabilities require further development. The current implementation suffers from several technical limitations including outdated protocols, inadequate encryption standards, and concerning IP/DNS leaks.
Security-conscious users should note the absence of essential VPN features such as kill switch functionality and split tunneling. The service also lacks transparency regarding its privacy practices and technical specifications on its website.
For those primarily interested in streaming access with minimal privacy concerns, Smart DNS Proxy delivers excellent value. However, users seeking comprehensive VPN protection for privacy and security would be better served by established providers like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or the budget-friendly Surfshark, which offer stronger encryption, strict no-logging policies, and advanced security features.
Smart DNS Proxy offers a versatile solution for accessing geo-restricted content across various devices. This service effectively bypasses regional limitations on streaming platforms and websites without compromising your connection speed.
Unlike traditional VPNs, Smart DNS Proxy doesn't encrypt your traffic, resulting in faster performance for streaming high-definition content. The service supports an impressive range of devices including smart TVs, gaming consoles, smartphones, and computers.
Setting up Smart DNS Proxy is straightforward with comprehensive guides available for different operating systems and devices. Their network spans multiple countries, providing access to content from regions like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
The service comes with a 14-day free trial period, allowing users to test its capabilities before committing to a subscription. Their pricing plans are competitive, with options for monthly, yearly, or two-year subscriptions.
Customer support is responsive through email and live chat, though the availability isn't 24/7. While Smart DNS Proxy excels at unblocking content, users seeking enhanced privacy protection might need to consider additional security measures.
What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One
A
Netflix VPN
is a virtual private network service specifically utilized to bypass geographic restrictions imposed on streaming content libraries. Its primary function enables users to connect to servers in various countries, thereby unlocking and accessing region-specific Netflix content unavailable in their own location. Using a Netflix VPN effectively grants subscribers the ability to watch a significantly broader range of movies and shows globally.
Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?
If you're looking to access region-restricted content on Netflix but find your
Netflix vpn not working
, you may want to consider the
SafeShell VPN
as your go-to solution for streaming without borders. SafeShell VPN offers several impressive benefits that make it stand out from other streaming VPN services:
High-speed servers specifically optimized for Netflix streaming, ensuring buffer-free playback and high-definition viewing experience
Multi-device compatibility allowing simultaneous connections on up to five devices across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and various smart TV platforms
Innovative App Mode feature that lets you access content from multiple Netflix regions simultaneously, expanding your entertainment options
Unlimited bandwidth with lightning-fast connection speeds that eliminate frustrating buffering issues common with other VPNs
Advanced security through the proprietary "ShellGuard" protocol that keeps your streaming activities private and secure
Risk-free testing with a flexible free trial plan to verify SafeShell VPN's performance before committing
A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN
Accessing Netflix content from around the world is now simpler than ever with
SafeShell Netflix VPN
. To begin, visit the SafeShell VPN website and select a subscription plan that aligns with your streaming needs and budget. After completing your purchase, download the appropriate application for your device—whether you're using Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android. Once installed, launch the app and log into your account. For the optimal Netflix streaming experience, select the APP mode within the SafeShell interface, then browse through the available server locations.
After selecting a server in your desired region (such as the US for American content or the UK for British shows), simply click the "Connect" button to establish your secure connection. With SafeShell Netflix VPN now running, open the Netflix application or website and sign in with your existing credentials. You'll immediately notice that the content library has changed to reflect what's available in your selected region. This seamless process allows you to explore and enjoy thousands of region-specific movies and TV shows that would otherwise be unavailable in your location.