How We Test VPNs at SecureGuides
Tested by: Amar Ghafir | Last updated: April 2026 | Contact: [email protected]
Every VPN on SecureGuides is tested hands-on — not based on vendor claims. Here is exactly how we evaluate each service before publishing any ranking or review.
Testing Hardware
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i7-13700K |
| RAM | 32 GB DDR5 |
| OS | Windows 11 Pro |
| Connection | 1 Gbps symmetric fiber |
| Other devices | macOS 14, Android 14, iOS 17 |
| Testing duration | Minimum 30 days per VPN |
Speed Testing
We run 10 speed tests per server location (Speedtest CLI + fast.com) across 50+ servers at different times of day. Metrics: Download (Mbps), Upload (Mbps), Ping (ms), Jitter (ms). Baseline without VPN: 940 Mbps average.
Privacy & Security Tests
- DNS leak: dnsleaktest.com, ipleak.net
- WebRTC leak: browserleaks.com (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
- IPv6 leak: ipv6leak.com
- Kill switch: Force-terminated VPN process — verified immediate internet cut
- Encryption: Verified via Wireshark packet capture
No-Logs Verification
- Independent third-party audit (Deloitte, KPMG, Cure53, SEC Consult)
- Legal track record — court subpoenas and responses
- Jurisdiction — outside 5/9/14-Eyes alliances
Streaming Tests
Each VPN tested against: Netflix US/UK/JP, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Max.
Rating Criteria
| Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Speed Performance | 25% |
| Privacy & Security | 25% |
| Streaming | 20% |
| Ease of Use | 15% |
| Value for Money | 15% |
Editorial Independence
SecureGuides earns affiliate commissions when readers purchase through our links. No VPN pays for placement. Rankings are determined solely by test scores. Questions: [email protected]