Betternet VPN is a popular free and premium service from the Aura ecosystem, combining simple "one-click" connection and Catapult Hydra technology. In this article, we will look at how betternet vpn differs from competitors, how to install it, and which use cases remain completely legal.
What is Betternet VPN and who is it for
Betternet is a cloud VPN platform with 1800+ proprietary servers in 80+ countries. It is designed for users who need basic protection on public Wi-Fi networks, bypassing geo-restrictions for streaming, or stable mobile traffic without complex setup. The free mode provides 500 MB per day and one location (USA), while Premium unlocks the entire server pool and removes limits, even when connecting up to 10 devices simultaneously.
Key features
- Proprietary implementation of Catapult Hydra (TCP/UDP) — accelerates connections over long distances.
- 256-bit AES encryption and dynamic IP address changes.
- Kill Switch (Windows, macOS) and Split Tunneling (Android).
- No-logs policy: the service stores only technical session metadata without activity logs.
- Automatic selection of the fastest node, Premium speeds up to 2 Gbps on nearby servers.
- Chrome and Firefox browser extensions with built-in tracker blocking.
- Support for up to 10 devices: PCs, smartphones, tablets.
Advantages and disadvantages
Pros
- Simple "one-tap" connection, the application is localized in Russian.
- Free traffic without registration — 500 MB daily.
- High-speed Catapult Hydra provides low latency for streaming video.
- Compatible with Netflix US, Hulu, and YouTube Premium on some premium nodes.
- Has Kill Switch and DNS leak protection for desktops.
Minuses
- In free mode, there are ads and only one location.
- US jurisdiction — law enforcement requests are possible.
- No ability to manually select a protocol or port.
- No clients for Linux and smart TVs.
Free vs Premium tariffs
| Plan | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Free | 500 MB per day, 1 server (USA), ads, 1 device | 0 ₽ |
| Premium 1 Month | Unlimited, 80+ locations, up to 10 devices | ≈ $12.99/month |
| Premium 6 Months | Same options, 30% discount | ≈ $7.99/month |
| Premium 1 Year | Maximum savings up to 38% | ≈ $6.99/month |
How to install Betternet VPN on different devices
On a PC, go to the Microsoft Store or the official Betternet website, download the installer, run it, and log in (for Premium). On mobile OS, open the App Store/Google Play, search for "betternet vpn download", install it, and allow the creation of a VPN profile. For browsers, go to the Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons catalog, click "Add", and log into your Premium account if necessary.
Comparison with nearest competitors
In the "freemium" segment, Betternet competes with TouchVPN and hide.me. The first two services also offer limited free traffic, but Betternet has higher speeds thanks to Catapult Hydra. Unlike Planet VPN or TunnelBear, there is no OpenVPN support, but Betternet wins with its simple interface and official Chrome extension. However, in terms of the number of servers (1800+), it is inferior to larger networks like PureVPN.
Legal aspects of VPN use in Russia
Russian legislation does not inherently prohibit the use of VPNs. However, it is prohibited to use the service to access resources listed in the registry of banned sites and to distribute instructions for bypassing blocks. The user is personally responsible for complying with Federal Law No. 149-FZ, Art. 15.1 and 15.3. Betternet is positioned as a cybersecurity tool: it encrypts traffic on open networks and helps maintain the confidentiality of online payments.
FAQ - popular questions
Is it legal to use a VPN in Russia?
Yes, provided you do not violate Federal Law No. 149-FZ and do not attempt to access resources blocked by Roskomnadzor.
How many devices can be connected?
A premium account supports up to 10 devices simultaneously.
Is there Betternet for PC?
Yes, clients are available for Windows 7+ and macOS 10.12+, as well as browser extensions.
How to disable ads?
Switch to Premium — paid plans have no ads and remove limits.
Are P2P networks supported?
Yes, but speed and stream stability are higher on premium servers.
Conclusions
Betternet VPN combines a minimalist interface with sufficient functionality for daily Wi-Fi protection and viewing content beyond geo-restrictions. The free traffic is useful for those who need a one-time backup, while the Premium plan unlocks the full potential of Catapult Hydra and 80+ locations. The service is not suitable for professional users requiring fine-tuned protocol settings but will be useful for beginners who value speed and simple startup without registration.
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