Hola VPN (often searched as "hola vpn" or "hola vpn скачать" [download]) is an unusual VPN platform with a peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture, where the users themselves act as the network nodes. Thanks to this service, you can safely connect to public Wi-Fi, change your IP address for remote work, and maintain privacy when shopping online. However, Hola has serious limitations and risks that are important to know before installation.
What is Hola VPN and who is it for?
Hola VPN was launched in Israel in 2012 and today unites up to 150 million active nodes worldwide — their IP addresses are assigned to other participants instead of traditional servers. This scheme is suitable for those who value high speed for streaming traffic and access from multiple devices without extra configuration: Windows PCs, macOS, Chrome/Firefox/Edge browser extensions, Android, and iOS. However, corporate users and those who value maximum privacy should consider the risks of IP sale through the subsidiary service Bright Data and the lack of a Kill Switch.
Key features
- P2P network without its own servers: traffic passes through other clients' devices.
- Multi-platform: applications for PC, mobile OS, and browser hola vpn extension.
- Free plan — 100 MB per day (desktop) or ~30 minutes per hour in the extension.
- Premium account with no traffic or device limits, claimed 256-bit AES encryption via IKEv2/L2TP.
- Smart DNS for smart TVs and consoles, which is convenient for traveling.
- 30-day money-back guarantee on paid plans.
Advantages and disadvantages
Pros
- VPN without restrictions by the number of devices in Premium.
- High speeds due to the geographical proximity of P2P nodes.
- Simple installation and intuitive interface in Russian.
- Ability to change IP address for protection on public Wi-Fi networks.
Minuses
- In the free version there is no encryption; your data is transmitted in plain text.
- IP addresses of free users are sold through Bright Data; premium customers are not at risk of this.
- No Kill Switch, potential for DNS/WebRTC leaks.
- Logging and collection of personal data on the free plan.
- Israel's jurisdiction complies with requests for civil disputes.
Free vs Premium tariffs
| Parameter | Free | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 0 ₽ | from $7.5 per month or $54 per year |
| Limits | 100 MB/day (PC) 30 min/hour (extension) | No restrictions |
| Encryption | None | IKEv2/L2TP + 256-bit AES encryption |
| Devices | Not limited, but used as network nodes | Not limited, IP is not shared with others |
| Sale of IP through Bright Data | Yes | No |
| Kill Switch | No | No |
Prices and limitations are current as of July 2025.
How to install Hola VPN on different devices
Download the client from the official website or app store:
- Windows / macOS: download the installer, run it, log in via email or social network, click "Connect."
- Android / iOS: search for "Hola VPN" in Google Play or the App Store, install it, allow the VPN profile.
- Browser: add the hola vpn extension extension for Chrome/Firefox, select a country, and toggle the switch on.
- hola vpn on PC with Linux or a router — use the official guides in the knowledge base.
Comparison with nearest competitors
Unlike classic services like Windscribe Free or ProtonVPN Free, Hola VPN offers a P2P model, which maintains high speed but sacrifices anonymity. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN, mentioned in competitor reviews, use dedicated servers with full encryption, an automatic Kill Switch, and a "no-logs" policy, making them safer but more expensive and requiring separate installation on each device.
Legal aspects of VPN use in Russia
According to Articles 15.1 and 15.3 of Federal Law No. 149-FZ, VPN technology itself is not prohibited; however, its use to access resources listed in the prohibited registry contradicts the law. It is recommended to use Hola VPN exclusively for legal purposes — protecting public Wi-Fi, remote work in corporate systems, online banking, and travel services. The user bears personal responsibility for their actions online.
FAQ — Answers to Popular Questions
Is it legal to use a VPN in Russia?
Yes, provided that Federal Law No. 149-FZ is complied with and there are no attempts to bypass blocks on prohibited resources. Use the service only within the legal framework.
Is Hola VPN free?
There is a free plan with a limit of 100 MB/day or 30 min/hour; the full version is paid.
Does Hola VPN support 256-bit AES encryption?
Only in Premium plans; free traffic is not encrypted.
Are there any hola vpn reviews about speed?
Tests show minimal speed loss on nearby nodes and the ability to stream HD video.
Conclusions
Hola VPN offers a unique P2P concept and a generous free limit, but you pay for the savings with privacy risks: lack of encryption, sale of IP addresses, and no Kill Switch. If you need a fast way to temporarily change your IP address and connect to unsecured Wi-Fi, the service is suitable, especially in the extension format. Those looking for reliable data protection and a strict "no-logs" policy should consider the paid Premium plan or alternative VPNs that don't route traffic through other users.
This material is for informational purposes only. Before using VPN services, ensure their legality in your region and follow the requirements of local legislation.
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