ExpressVPN launches EventVPN: a free, ad‑supported VPN built on its premium network
ExpressVPN this week rolled out EventVPN, a free VPN service that promises unlimited bandwidth, a strict no-logs policy, and premium-grade infrastructure—funded by a privacy-first ad model. Early coverage highlights that the launch targets the risky state of “free VPNs” by offering a no-cost alternative with security guarantees.
What’s new
- Built on ExpressVPN’s audited, RAM-only network with a 10 Gbps backbone and ChaCha20‑Poly1305 encryption.
- Free tier supports one device across 35+ locations; Premium lifts ads, expands to 125+ locations and up to 8 devices for $69.99/year.
- Uses Apple’s ATT/IDFA for ad delivery, keeping advertising isolated from VPN infrastructure.
- Available now on iOS and macOS; broader platform support may follow.
Under the hood
- Anonymous access via Apple account validation and receipt checks—no backend user database; sessions issued with connection tokens.
- Security stack includes a Kill Switch, no‑logs policy, and RAM‑only servers that wipe on reboot.
- Network protocol leverages ExpressVPN’s post‑quantum WireGuard implementation.
Why it matters
- The free VPN market is crowded with data‑harvesting or low‑quality apps; EventVPN’s model aims to deliver a safer no‑cost option without data caps.
- For privacy-conscious users on Apple devices, this offers a no‑fee on‑ramp to stronger protection compared to typical freemium caps or throttles.
What’s next
- ExpressVPN signaled possible expansion beyond Apple; Android and Linux builds are “on the table.” Watch for regional rollouts and independent audits confirming claims around ads/data separation.
- Competitive pressure may push rival providers to revisit free tiers and adopt similar privacy‑preserving ad models.
Closing thought: EventVPN won’t replace a full-featured paid VPN for power users, but blending a free tier with verifiable privacy engineering could raise the bar for no‑cost security tools—especially if third‑party audits corroborate ExpressVPN’s architecture and policies over the coming months.