Browsec
"Browsec VPN» is a popular cloud extension and mobile application that encrypts traffic, helps change IP address and protects data on open Wi-Fi networks. Below you will find a breakdown of features, prices, legal nuances, and installation instructions, based on open sources and user reviews.
What is Browsec VPN and who is it for
Browsec is a service from 2012, already used by more than eight million people. The platform offers 400+ servers in 43+ countries, four of which (USA, UK, Netherlands, Singapore) are available for free. Formally, it is not a "full-fledged" VPN client, but a proxy add-on: on PC it works via the PPTP protocol directly in the browser, and in mobile applications it uses IPsec and L2TP. The solution is suitable for those who need basic connection protection, secure remote access to corporate email, and risk minimization when working on public networks.
Key features
- 256-bit AES encryption — military-grade traffic protection.
- DNS and WebRTC blocking (enabled manually) to prevent leaks.
- Unlimited traffic even in the Free version; speed up to 1 Mbps for free and up to 100 Mbps on Premium.
- Support for up to 5 devices on one subscription.
- Smart settings: choosing different locations for specific sites, a "Whitelist" of domains.
- 7-day money-back guarantee.
Advantages and disadvantages
Pros
- Quick installation as a browsec extension in Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Edge, and Yandex Browser.
- No limits on the amount of data transferred.
- Adequate prices: from 2.99 $/month with a two-year payment.
- Support for Russian cards and PayPal, interface in Russian.
- Good browsec reviews: average rating of 4.3–4.7 out of 5 in major app stores.
Minuses
- No Kill Switch — if the connection drops, the real IP may be exposed.
- Minimal logs are kept; absolute anonymity is not guaranteed.
- Speed on free nodes drops in the evening; only four locations are available.
- Outdated PPTP protocol in the browser version, no OpenVPN/WireGuard.
- The service does not work stably in China and other countries with strict censorship.
Free vs Premium tariffs
| Specification | Free | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Countries / Servers | 4 / shared pool | 43+ / 400+ dedicated |
| Speed | up to 1 Mbps | up to 100 Mbps |
| Traffic | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Devices | 1 browser | 5 devices |
| Price | 0 $ | 4.99 $/month · 3.33 $/month — year · 2.99 $/month — 2 years |
| Return Guarantee | - | 7 days |
How to install Browsec VPN on different devices
browsec download is easiest from official stores. For PC, open the extension page in the Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons catalog, click "Add to..." → "Install". In mobile applications (Android / iOS), find "Browsec VPN proxy" in Google Play or the App Store, install it, and activate the "ON" slider. After installation, click on the globe icon and select a country. In the free version, USA, UK, NL, SG are available; the rest are unlocked after an upgrade.
Comparison with nearest competitors
Unlike TunnelBear (500 MB / month) and Windscribe (10 GB / month), Browsec offers unlimited vpn unlimited traffic. ZenMate offers more protocols (OpenVPN/IKEv2) but costs more. Hola VPN uses p2p traffic and does not encrypt data, whereas Browsec uses AES-256. For demanding tasks (4K streaming, torrents), NordVPN with WireGuard is suitable, but for everyday web surfing, Browsec remains one of the most affordable and simple alternatives.
Legal aspects of VPN use in Russia
According to Article 15.3 of Federal Law No. 149-FZ, Roskomnadzor has the right to restrict access to information deemed prohibited. The use of VPN services is not a crime in itself, however, the user is obliged to ensure that their actions do not violate local prohibitions. Browsec is positioned as a means of encrypting traffic and remote work — not for bypassing blocks on prohibited resources. The service does not store content, but only transmits it, so the legality of access is the responsibility of the specific user.
Disclaimer: The article is for informational purposes only. Before connecting, ensure the legality of using VPN technologies in your region.
FAQ - answers to popular questions
Is it legal to use a VPN in Russia?
Yes, provided that the requirements of Federal Law No. 149-FZ are met and there are no calls to violate existing blocks.
How to disable WebRTC leak logic?
After installing the extension, go to settings → Advanced → Disable WebRTC.
Does Browsec have a Kill Switch?
No, if the connection is lost, traffic returns to the provider without automatic blocking.
Can Browsec be set up on a PC without a browser?
Not yet: there is no desktop client, the service works as a plugin.
browsec download free — is it a trial version?
The Free mode is permanent, but speed and country selection are limited.
Conclusions
Browsec VPN is a convenient and inexpensive solution for encrypting traffic, protecting data on public networks, and flexible work with geo-dependent online services. The free version is sufficient for reading mail and surfing, while Premium unlocks over 400 high-speed servers and support for five devices. If you need simple installation, browsec on PC or smartphone connects in a minute. For those looking for a full set of protocols and a Kill Switch, it's worth considering more advanced clients, but for most, Browsec remains a practical choice.
