The Standards

How We Test

At PrivacyStack, we don't just read marketing brochures. Before any software enters our recommended "Security Stack," it must survive our 4-Stage Verification Process.

Phase 1: The Leak Audit

We treat every VPN and security tool as if it is being targeted by a hostile actor. We use industry-standard forensic tools to ensure your real identity never slips through the cracks.

• DNS Leak Test: We run extended queries to ensure your ISP cannot see your web requests.
• WebRTC Vulnerability Check: We verify that your browser isn't leaking your real IP address via video chat protocols.
• Kill Switch Stress Test: We simulate abrupt connection failures to ensure the software cuts internet access immediately.

Phase 2: Speed & Performance

Privacy shouldn't cost you performance. We test VPNs on a gigabit connection using the Ookla Speedtest infrastructure.

• Testing Conditions: We test servers in the US, UK, and Asia to measure latency.
• The Standard: We only recommend VPNs that retain at least 85% of base connection speeds.
• Protocol Checks: We verify the implementation of WireGuard® or NordLynx for maximum throughput.

Phase 3: Privacy & Jurisdiction

Encryption is useless if the company hands your keys to the government. We analyze the legal structure of every tool we list.

• Jurisdiction Analysis: Is the company based in a "14 Eyes" surveillance country? We prioritize providers in privacy-friendly regions.
• Audit Verification: We verify if the provider has undergone independent, third-party security audits (e.g., PwC, Deloitte).

Phase 4: Real-World Usability

Theoretical security is great, but the tool must work in daily life.

• Streaming: We test against Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu to ensure geo-blocks are actually bypassed.
• P2P/Torrenting: We verify that specific servers allow P2P traffic without throttling.

← Return to Homepage