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Editors’ Review

Download.com staff

Psiphon is a free, open-source circumvention tool that helps users access the internet without restrictions in regions where websites and services are blocked. Using advanced secure communication and obfuscation technologies, it effectively bypasses censorship. It is a valuable solution for anyone seeking uninterrupted access to essential online content and services.

Developed with research-driven security and modern networking techniques, Psiphon ensures users stay connected to social media, games, and VOIP applications despite restrictions. Its ability to maintain connections where many VPNs fail has earned it widespread use among individuals living in heavily censored areas, making it a trusted connectivity option.

Consistent connectivity in any network

Psiphon stands out because of its ability to connect even when traditional VPNs fail. It employs multiple protocols, including VPN, SSH, and HTTP Proxy, to bypass censorship systems effectively. While its automatic protocol selection ensures users connect using the best method available, it often suffers from noticeably slower speeds compared to traditional VPNs, which can make streaming, gaming, or even general browsing frustrating for users seeking a consistently fast connection.

Another advantage is its ease of use. The application is lightweight, requires no registration, and works immediately after installation. Available across major platforms like desktop, mobile, and tablets, it offers flexibility for users on various devices. However, it may not work in all high-restriction networks, which can be disappointing for users who rely on guaranteed access in the most heavily censored environments.

Despite its strengths, it is not designed as a privacy-focused VPN. While it encrypts data during transit, it does not guarantee anonymity or hide user activity from internet service providers, leaving some privacy concerns unresolved. Users who need stronger security and complete anonymity should consider alternatives such as ProtonVPN, Windscribe, or TunnelBear, which prioritize user privacy and offer more comprehensive protection features.

Enlarged image for Psiphon
Psiphon 0/1
  • Pros

    • Effective in bypassing censorship
    • Easy to use across multiple platforms
  • Cons

    • Can be slower compared to traditional VPNs
    • May not work in all high-restriction networks
    • Not designed for full privacy or anonymity

Bottom Line

Dependable but not fully private

Psiphon is a dependable option for bypassing internet restrictions, particularly in regions with heavy censorship. It is simple, effective, and supported by open-source technology, ensuring transparency and reliability. However, users seeking full privacy protection should look elsewhere, as this program prioritizes access over anonymity. Despite this limitation, it remains a strong solution for maintaining connectivity when other tools fail to deliver consistent access.

What’s new in version 186

  • Retire PsiCash
  • Update to tunnel-core 50a402ab
  • Update Windows Target Version
  • Update translations


Explore More


Full Specifications

GENERAL
Release
Latest update
Version
186
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Platform
Windows
Operating System
  • Windows Vista
  • Windows 10
  • Windows 7
  • Windows 8
  • Windows XP
POPULARITY
Total Downloads
8,028
Downloads Last Week
122

Report Software

Last Updated


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