Windscribe is a powerful VPN service. It combines a desktop application and a browser extension. This combination enhances online privacy and security. Windscribe provides users with a secure, encrypted tunnel for internet traffic, helping to bypass censorship and unblock geo-restricted content. This freemium tool is known for its generous free tier and advanced features like a customizable ad blocker and firewall.
In This Article
Quick Start Guide
Quick Connect for Instant Protection
- Launch the Windscribe application.
- Click the large ‘On’ button in the center of the interface.
- The app will automatically connect to the fastest available server location.
Why this matters: This is the fastest way to encrypt your connection. It hides your IP address. It provides immediate data security when connecting to public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks.
Activating the R.O.B.E.R.T. Ad Blocker
- Log into your Windscribe account on the website.
- Navigate to the R.O.B.E.R.T. settings page.
- Select the categories you wish to block (e.g., Ads, Malware, Social Media).
- The changes are applied network-wide to all your connected devices.
Why this matters: R.O.B.E.R.T. is a DNS-level filter that blocks unwanted content before it reaches your device, significantly speeding up page load times and reducing tracking.
Download
Extensions – Chrome | Firefox | Edge
Minimum Specs
- Os: Windows 10 or later; macOS 12 or later
Technical Specifications
| Software Name | Windscribe |
|---|---|
| Version | 2.18.8 |
| License | Freemium |
| File Size | 71.4 MB |
| OS Support | Windows 10+, macOS 12+, Linux, Android, iOS, FireTV, Routers |
| Language | Multi-language (Korean, Slovak, English, etc.) |
| Developer | Windscribe Limited |
| Homepage | https://windscribe.com |
| Last Updated | 2025-11-24 |
Key Features
- R.O.B.E.R.T. Ad and Malware Blocker: A customizable DNS-level tool that blocks ads, trackers, and malware, improving browsing speed and security.
- Firewall (Kill Switch): A network-level firewall that blocks all connectivity outside the encrypted tunnel, preventing IP leaks if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops.
- Split Tunneling and Double Hop: Split Tunneling allows users to choose which apps use the VPN and which do not. Double Hop routes traffic through two separate VPN servers for enhanced anonymity.
- Multiple Protocols and Post-Quantum Encryption: Supports 6 secure protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, and includes a notice for WireGuard post-quantum encryption in the readme.
New in This Version in Version 2.18.8
- Added IP rotation and favourite functionality.
- Added ‘Control D’ option to Connected DNS.
- Added DNS state manager to automatically detect and set DNS servers for WSNet.
- Improved locations UI design.
- Fixed AirDrop not working when using split tunneling (macOS).
For complete changelog, visit the official release notes.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Generous free plan with 10GB/month data limit (with email verification) | Free plan is limited to 10 server locations |
| Strict, independently verified no-logs policy | Speeds can be slower than some premium-only competitors |
| Advanced features like R.O.B.E.R.T. (ad/tracker blocker) and Double Hop | |
| Unlimited simultaneous connections on the Pro plan | |
| Built-in Firewall acts as a reliable kill switch |
Getting Started
Common Issues & Fixes
Video Tutorial
FAQ
Is the Windscribe download truly free to use?
Yes, Windscribe offers a free tier that includes 10GB of data per month if you confirm your email address, and access to servers in 10 countries. The free version includes the same core security features as the paid plan.
What is the ‘Firewall’ feature in Windscribe?
The Firewall is Windscribe’s term for a kill switch. It is a security feature that blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops, ensuring your real IP address is never exposed.
Does Windscribe log user activity?
No, Windscribe operates under a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not store browsing history, connection timestamps, or IP addresses. This policy has been backed by transparency reports.
Other VPN Options
| Feature | Windscribe | NordVPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Monthly) | $9.00/month (Pro Plan) | $12.99/month (Basic Plan) | €9.99/month (Plus Plan) |
| Platform (OS Support) | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Routers | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Routers | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Routers |
| No-Logs Policy | Strict No-Logs (Self-Audited) | Strict No-Logs (Audited) | Strict No-Logs (Audited) |
| Server Count | Servers in 69+ countries | 8,400+ servers in 129 countries | 12,000+ servers in 110+ countries |
| Kill Switch / Firewall | Firewall (Built-in Kill Switch) | Kill Switch (Standard) | Kill Switch / Always-On VPN |
| Free Tier Data Limit | 10GB/month (with email) | None (30-day money-back guarantee) | Unlimited (limited to 5 countries) |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited (Pro Plan) | Up to 10 devices | Up to 10 devices (Plus Plan) |
| Our Pick | Best overall | Best for high server count and advanced security bundles. | Best for privacy-focused users with an unlimited-data free tier. |
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