Viscosity
5.0
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Content: Our Score:
Speed 2.0 / 10
Servers 2.0 / 10
User Experience 6.0 / 10
Support 6.0 / 10
Pricing 9.0 / 10
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Viscosity Review 2024: Before You Buy, Is It Worth It?

Viscosity Overview

Viscosity is an OpenVPN client for creating connections to VPN services without the need for native clients. It is well known as one of numerous OpenVPN alternatives available for Mac and Windows. So, I decided to test out Viscosity and see how it compares to actual VPN services.

Where Viscosity shines is in allowing users to connect to VPN services that do not offer native applications. On the downside, the company keeps questionable server logs, and it is based in Australia— a country that participated in mass surveillance alliances in the past. Furthermore, your choice of OpenVPN service will significantly affect the quality of speed, video streaming, torrent downloads, and security.

Unfortunately, the service offers a very strict money-back guarantee, so getting a refund is almost impossible. While the low cost of the software somewhat offsets this, getting a refund should be easy if you are dissatisfied with it. The service is free to try out for a full 30-days before deciding whether you want to use it. The need to manually configure servers can be avoided by using top-tier VPN providers who have native clients and offer OpenVPN and other protocols.

Don’t Have Time? Here’s a 1-Minute Summary

Viscosity Does Not Unblock Any Platforms on Its Own

Getting past geoblocks through Viscosity is dependent on the OpenVPN servers available to you. If your VPN provider of choice is capable of unblocking them, Viscosity will not stand in your way.

Screenshot of Viscosity unblocking Netflix

I could access Netflix’s US catalog to watch Army of Thieves through ExpressVPN’s OpenVPN server

I tested the Viscosity client using ExpressVPN’s OpenVPN configuration. While many free VPNs have OpenVPN servers, they don’t have the strongest record of breaking past region locks. By combining ExpressVPN’s server network with OpenVPN’s robust security features, I was able to access Netflix US, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and others.

Speed

- 2.0 / 10

Performance Depends on OpenVPN Server

Understood. Viscosity serves as a third-party client, enabling VPN connections. The speed and performance metrics of Viscosity are solely dependent on the speed of the VPN servers to which the user connects.

As far as VPN speed goes, ExpressVPN scores highly for its incredible speed and impressive performance. Servers located within your country are recommended for optimal results. If you need a distant server, you may need to try several different distant servers until you find the one that works the best, as there will be variances in connection speeds from region to region.

Speed Test Results

Using Viscosity through ExpressVPN’s OpenVPN UDP protocol delivered fast speeds. I started out by testing my base connection where I recorded a 20.93 Mbps download speed, a 19.46 Mbps upload speed, and a ping of 31 ms. Having established a baseline, I proceeded to test the VPN.

Screenshot of speed test results showing speeds for ExpressVPN servers in 4 different countries

The speeds of ExpressVPN are solid internationally

The average download speed on most servers was 18.22 Mbps, which is quite good. It is typical for a VPN to reduce your speed by 10-20%, so I was pleased with the 13% drop. I may have experienced good results due to ExpressVPN’s network of superfast servers. Hence, you might get different results if you use the Viscosity client with a different provider.

Why Most Speed Tests are Pointless & How We Correctly Test VPN Speeds

Speed determines how fast content uploads, so if you're torrenting or streaming, you want the speed to be somewhat identical to your regular internet speed. Since a VPN encrypts your data, it usually takes a bit longer to send your data back and forth, which can slow down your connection. However, if your ISP deliberately slows down your connection (also known as throttling) a VPN might increase your internet speed. Testing a VPN is somewhat pointless because new servers pop up and affect speed. Your speed can also differ according to your location, so your speed test might not match ours. Having said that, we tested the speed in numerous locations to provide you with the average.

Servers

- 2.0 / 10

Server Network — Set Up Your Own or Use a Third-Party Service

Viscosity doesn’t offer servers to connect to, but it can connect to programs that are supported by OpenVPN, including popular and free commercial VPN providers. You can build a custom network of servers from different providers or import servers from a VPN without native software to have a more streamlined experience.

A VPN service provider’s server network size tremendously impacts its overall service capabilities. A larger number of servers means that there will be a wider range of IP addresses to choose from. I particularly recommend Cyberghost because it has 11,730+ servers in 100 countries with a track record of consistent speed and reliability.

Security — Good Encryption but Flawed

The security features in Viscosity are limited, but the encryption is of the highest standard:

  • Military-grade encryption – You can choose from several encryption options, including 128-bit Blowfish and 256-bit AES
  • IPv6 encryption – By running its own IPv6 encryption on the client side while connecting to OpenVPN servers, you’ll benefit from both encryption protocols running simultaneously.
  • OpenVPN protocol – The client only supports OpenVPN, which means you won’t be able to connect with other protocols like L2TP, IPSec, or PPTP.

The user interface also offers many customization options, allowing you to control server properties and encryption settings. While the exact settings will vary depending on your provider, you may be able to increase the encryption level on your connection through these options.

Screenshot showing Viscosity's server properties and encryption options interface

You can enhance your connection’s encryption level with Viscosity’s extra security options

To safeguard your credentials, Viscosity uses the Windows credentials system, while the keychain system is used for Macs. Your browser settings are optimized to increase the layer of privacy and anonymity you receive while using the service.

One major flaw is that Viscosity doesn’t have a kill switch. A lack of this feature poses a significant problem, as your data may leak if your connection drops. The situation is especially risky if you’re torrenting, as it puts your personal information at risk.

Screenshot of a successful IP and DNS leak test while connected to a server in New York

My IP and DNS leak tests didn’t reveal any leaks

OpenVPN offers excellent protection against IP and DNS leaks, but your choice of protocol is not the only factor that determines your security. It is also necessary to have a reliable network that can change your IP address to the desired location and tunnel your data through without leaking any information. Using ExpressVPN’s servers, I tested for IP and DNS leaks and found none.

Privacy — Very Weak Privacy Policy

Viscosity’s privacy policy is a great example of everything you don’t want a VPN provider’s logging policy to be. Even though Viscosity’s policy claims that it doesn’t log any data, the VPN’s location and its data storing policies make it an unsettling choice for privacy-conscious users.

I found that Viscosity records what websites you visit, how long you spend on them, your true IP address, connection timestamps, and your browser type. If you choose to sign up for the VPN, Viscosity has access to even more information, including your name, email address, and phone number.

Screenshot of Viscosity’s Privacy PolicyAlt text: Screenshot of Viscosity’s Privacy Policy

Your IP address, browser type, and the websites you visit are logged by Viscosity

It then follows all of this with “we may also log additional user-entered data when using features of our website that allow for access to customer data.” This approach to the collection of personal data is extremely troubling.

This company claims the extra data is used to help protect against malicious users attempting to gain access by using brute-force attacks. It’s a shame that many VPN services use this justification as an excuse to log data illegitimately.

As Viscosity is headquartered in Australia, the jurisdiction of the company may also pose a risk. The country is one of the members of the notorious 14-Eyes intelligence alliance. This means that the authorities of any of the member states can monitor users’ digital activities. Viscosity is also legally required to provide your data to the governments of these countries upon request — and the company has a lot of data to share.

ExpressVPN is unquestionably the leading VPN for privacy, thanks to its extensive security and privacy features. It employs OpenVPN and its own Lightway protocol with AES-256 encryption to secure your web activity. Beyond that, ExpressVPN is strict about not collecting, storing and sharing your activity logs.

Torrenting — Too unsafe for torrenting

Torrenting depends on the OpenVPN server used, but the logging policy and the lack of a kill switch make Viscosity a poor choice regardless of server choice. The lack of a kill switch can be a problem, especially if your network is frequently disconnected or experiences dropouts. Hopefully, the company will update the software to include this feature in the near future.

Please be advised that my team and I don’t condone illegal torrenting, so be sure to check the rules and regulations in your country. For your own safety, make sure the torrents you download are copyright-free.

Does Viscosity Work in China? No, Not on Its Own!

Viscosity cannot be used in China or anywhere internet censorship is enforced. The service does not come with obfuscation tools to get around web blocks, and it is too dangerous as a service to use in these regions anyway due to its aggressive log-keeping.

Without a doubt, ExpressVPN is the best VPN for China. The obfuscation technology used on its servers ensures your VPN traffic is undetectable. As well as security protocols and encryption, it provides DNS and IP leak protection to prevent leaks, which prevents the government or third-party entities from monitoring your online activities.

Non-government-approved VPNs are illegal in China, but there have been no public cases of tourists being penalized by the Chinese government. The common practice is that China fights VPNs by technologically blocking them and not by chasing after the people who use them.

Server Locations

Australia
Germany
United Kingdom
United States

User Experience

- 6.0 / 10

Simultaneous Device Connections — One Device per License

Viscosity’s free trial and paid versions each work on just one device. To continue using the service, you have to upgrade to the full version once your free trial expires, though upgrading doesn’t come with any additional device connections.

I like to use a variety of devices to access the internet, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Viscosity’s limit of one supported device is restrictive compared to other top options that allow you to connect a whole host of gadgets. So, it can be discouraging if you sign up for a VPN service to protect your data only to be restricted to connecting just a single device. In a move likely to attract gadget collectors like myself who want comprehensive coverage, Cyberghost offers the option of connecting 7 devices with a single account.

Device Compatibility — Very Limited

Viscosity is currently only compatible with Windows (OS versions 7, 8, 8.1, 10 & 11) and macOS (OS versions 10.10 to 10.14). The knowledge base section on Viscosity’s website also contains guides explaining how to configure the program with a range of other devices, including DD-WRT, pfSense, Red Hat Linux, Ubuntu, VyOS, and tomato routers. Unfortunately, the service does not currently offer manual setup guides or native apps for iOS or Android.

Ease of Setup & Installation — Easy and Straightforward

Installing and configuring Viscosity was easy and effortless, as it requires little to no knowledge of OpenVPN setup files or command-line syntax. Nevertheless, Viscosity’s creators know that using a VPN client for the first time can be intimidating, so they have provided a very comprehensive series of guides that are easy to follow.

This service’s main page has such an intuitive interface that I had no problem downloading it. From a technical standpoint, this client can be configured in a wide variety of ways. If you’re a corporate user, you will likely appreciate this feature, which allows you to customize the client to suit your business needs.

Steps to Installing Viscosity on Windows:

  1. Download the Viscosity client. The provider’s homepage provides a link to download the client for Mac or Windows. 
    Screenshot of the download page for Viscosity's compatible setup file
  2. Run the installation file. You can install the client by running the setup file and following the installation wizard’s prompts. 
    Screenshot illustrating the process of installing the Viscosity set-up file
  3. Launch the client and add servers. To add servers, click the “+” in the bottom left corner and either import or manually add new OpenVPN servers. 
    Screenshot showing how to manually import configuration files

Support

- 6.0 / 10

Viscosity offers a very proactive, helpful, and cooperative support system that includes email, a forum, a knowledge base, and social networking. Though it would be nice to have live chat support with Viscosity, there are still numerous ways to get assistance.

You can contact the company via email if you have any inquiries, concerns, or opinions. A support ticket was submitted to ask whether Viscosity logged data when I used the program, and I received a response 40 minutes later. While the representative did not answer my question, he directed me to the privacy policy page. Viscosity is based in Australia, you are more likely to get a quick response if you submit a support ticket during Australian business hours.

Screenshot of Viscosity's customer service response to my email

I did not receive a response to my inquiry regarding the company’s logging operations

Viscosity VPN also offers specialized Windows and Mac forums along with email support. These forums, which have over 6000 posts to date, are an excellent resource for resolving any problems you may encounter when using the software. The forum can also be consulted for IP visibility or general browsing problems.

The self-help is accessible when you click the support tab. On this page, you can access a comprehensive knowledge base for fixing your problems. With topics covering everything you might need, this section provides instructions on how to use the software. I found the guides provided to be helpful for learning the basics of the Viscosity application.

Viscosity also has a strong social media presence. This service has a Twitter page where updates regarding the VPN client are provided. You’ll also be updated on bugs and issues, in addition to receiving exciting new offers.

How We Test Customer Support and Why Should You Care

We personally test the customer support team of every VPN we review. This means asking technical question through the live chat feature (where applicable) and measuring the response time for email questions. Whether you need to connect to a specific server, change your security protocol, or configure a VPN on your router, finding a VPN with quality customer support should be important to you.

Pricing

- 9.0 / 10

Viscosity offered a rather limited selection of prices in comparison with other services I have reviewed. You can use the product for one month without charge or buy a license to continue using the product beyond the trial.

Viscosity offers a wide range of payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Paypal, and the increasingly popular Bitcoin. The IP hiding service and unlimited navigation are the same regardless of the means of payment.

To gain proficiency with the program, it is advisable to utilize the complete potential of the 30-day trial period. This allows you to assess if you are prepared to make a long-term commitment to the service provider. When you are ready to buy, I found that It is a reasonably priced program considering the features that you get.

Refunds are available only in certain situations, and you must contact support to request one. The company reserves the right to reject a request if it’s considered unreasonable. The support team will deny any refund requests if you change your mind, believe the product does something different than what it actually does, and if the company has incurred significant support expenses. This is quite limiting, considering that most VPNs offer some form of unconditional money-back guarantee.

Viscosity offers the following plans

Lifetime plan
 
$14.00
per month
 
View Plan

Final Verdict

Viscosity serves as a mediator between users and VPN providers in cases where native clients are unavailable or prone to failure. You will also find this product to be a good choice if you need a more hands-on approach when setting up VPN connections.

The best part is you can try it for free for one month with no payment of any kind required. After the trial period ends, you’ll be required to pay a one-time registration fee. Viscosity is not mobile-compatible, but the free trial and the one-time registration fee make it an attractive package.

Viscosity puts your data at greater risk than if you didn’t use a VPN at all. The VPN tracks certain personally identifiable information, including your IP address and location. On top of that, the company is based in Australia, a founding member of the 5 Eyes Alliance. In that regard, I have little faith in Viscosity’s ability to provide genuine online anonymity and privacy protection.

It is highly recommended that you try ExpressVPN if you are interested in trying out an actual VPN service. This VPN lives up to its name, delivering high speeds — even on distant servers. On top of all that, ExpressVPN features 24/7 live chat support, making it a great choice for beginners. You can test ExpressVPN out completely risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee — if you don’t like it, you can easily get a full refund.

FAQs About Viscosity

Is Viscosity good?

No, this service logs a lot of user data. Its value comes in a VPN storage pack where you can easily access any of your servers with a stable and secure connection backed by military-grade encryption. So if you have multiple OpenVPN servers for private use, work, and school, then Viscosity is a good option if you’re not concerned about the aggressive log-keeping of this service.

The application places more responsibility on you to find OpenVPN-compliant servers. So, you’re best off finding a VPN provider that has both clients and servers if you’re a beginner looking for a VPN service.

Can I use Viscosity for free?

Yes, Viscosity comes with a 30-day free trial. The trial gives you full access to the application, letting you explore all of its features before deciding whether to commit to a payment. However, Viscosity has a very strict refund policy, so you might want to be sure it would be a good fit before you subscribe to the paid plan.

Is Viscosity really safe?

No! The absence of a kill switch makes Viscosity a less safe VPN client. It’s also not a reliable VPN client when it comes to ensuring your data remains private due to its logging practices. While you can connect to servers that run OpenVPN security protocols, Viscosity adds IPv6 for another layer of security, ensuring you remain safe while browsing the web.
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