⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: TorGuard VPN plans start at $10.99/month. OpenVPN has a Free plan and Growth at $7/month.
- Best for: TorGuard for torrenting and private browsing. OpenVPN for remote access and custom private networks.
- Key difference: TorGuard is a full VPN service with servers. OpenVPN is a protocol and software you run yourself.
- Our pick: TorGuard for most people. It works out of the box with no manual configuration.
Here’s a twist most people miss.
TorGuard actually uses the OpenVPN protocol inside its own apps.
So this isn’t a fight between two similar VPN providers.
TorGuard is a paid VPN service with servers ready to go.
OpenVPN is the open source VPN protocol behind many VPN services.
Your pick depends on one thing: do you want an app or a build kit?
Overview
This TorGuard vs OpenVPN comparison covers pricing, security features, speed, and ease of use.
Our writer spent hands-on time with OpenVPN directly.
Observations on TorGuard come from its documentation, published specs, and G2 reviews.
By the end, you’ll know which one fits your setup.
What is TorGuard?
TorGuard is a virtual private network and proxy service.
VPNetworks LLC owns TorGuard.
That company is a subsidiary of Data Protection Services LLC.
Its official site, torguard.net, lists over 3,000 VPN servers in 50+ countries.
The focus is privacy for browsing, streaming, and P2P file sharing.
Key tools include Stealth VPN, port forwarding, and dedicated IP addresses.
Here is a short video walkthrough of the service.
TorGuard
A privacy-first VPN built for torrenting and power users. Stealth servers, port forwarding, and dedicated IPs come ready. Our TorGuard VPN review covers setup in detail.
TorGuard Pricing
Here’s what TorGuard costs in 2026. It sells four products, not just one VPN.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $10.99/month | Individuals who want a basic VPN |
| Pro | $14.29/month | Heavy torrenters who need more devices |
| Business VPN | $32.99/month | Small teams on business VPN plans |
| Anonymous Email | $3.58/month | Private encrypted email only |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: TorGuard has no free plan. The 7-day refund window acts as your test period.
Money-back guarantee: Seven days, reviewed case by case. Payments made with crypto or gift cards can’t be refunded.
📌 Note: Billing runs monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, yearly, or every two or three years. Longer terms save more. A dedicated streaming IP address adds about $7.99/month to your TorGuard subscription.
⚠️ Warning: TorGuard’s pricing is confusing, with many cycles and add-ons. Price check: some review sites list the three-year Pro plan at about $6.94/month. Confirm the final rate at checkout.
Key Benefits of TorGuard
Here’s where TorGuard earns its keep:
- Built for Torrenting: Every plan supports BitTorrent and uTorrent. Port forwarding helps your client reach more peers.
- Stealth VPN: Stealth Mode makes VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic. That helps on restrictive networks.
- Dedicated IP Options: Pro and Premium include a dedicated IP. Standard doesn’t come with a free dedicated IP address.
- Many Devices: The anonymous VPN plan covers eight simultaneous connections. Pro raises simultaneous device connections to 12, and some tiers reach 30.
- Anonymous Payments: You can pay with Bitcoin or gift cards. No card trail ties the VPN subscription to your name.
- More Than a VPN: TorGuard’s advanced features include proxy services, VPS hosting, and private email.
What Our Team Noticed
Note: We haven’t had extensive hands-on time with TorGuard yet. Everything in this TorGuard review section comes from documentation, published specs, and G2 reviews.
TorGuard Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 3,000+ servers across 50+ countries
- Stealth VPN mode for restrictive networks
- Port forwarding and dedicated IP options
- Up to 12 devices on the Pro plan
- Accepts Bitcoin and gift card payments
❌ Cons
- No independent security audit yet
- US base inside the Five Eyes alliance
- Only a 7-day, case-by-case refund policy
- Streaming often needs a paid add-on
What is OpenVPN?
OpenVPN is an open source VPN protocol and software package.
It launched in 2001 as a building block for virtual private networks.
Most VPN providers still offer it as a connection option.
It uses SSL/TLS to build a secure tunnel between a VPN client and server.
The OpenVPN company, once called OpenVPN Technologies, sells Access Server too.
It also runs hosted business plans.
Teams use it for remote access, site-to-site links, and zero trust.
Surfshark, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access build it into their apps.
This video shows how OpenVPN works in practice.
OpenVPN
An open source VPN you run on your own servers. Great for remote access, office links, and custom setups.
OpenVPN Pricing
Here’s the OpenVPN price list for 2026. The core software can cost nothing.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Home labs and small private networks |
| Growth | $7/month | Small teams needing secure remote access |
| Enterprise | Custom | Larger companies with compliance needs |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: The Free plan and the OpenVPN Community Edition cost nothing. You can test before paying a cent.
Money-back guarantee: The Free plan removes most of the risk. Check refund terms before upgrading to Growth.
📌 Note: Free doesn’t mean zero cost. Self-hosting still needs a VPN server, bandwidth, and your time.
⚠️ Warning: OpenVPN isn’t a consumer VPN service. There’s no ready server list, no streaming unblocking, and no one-click VPN app.
Key Benefits of OpenVPN
Here is why OpenVPN still matters in 2026:
- Open Source Code: Anyone can inspect the OpenVPN software. Public review catches flaws fast and speeds up fixes.
- Flexible Encryption: It supports encryption algorithms like AES and Blowfish through the OpenSSL library. You choose the encryption ciphers and key lengths.
- TCP or UDP: OpenVPN TCP delivers every packet in order. OpenVPN UDP skips those checks for more speed.
- Firewall Friendly: It passes through firewalls and NAT gateways better than most VPN protocols. That keeps secure connections alive on hotel and office networks.
- Perfect Forward Secrecy: Each session gets fresh encryption keys. One stolen key won’t expose past sessions.
- Runs Almost Anywhere: You can install OpenVPN on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Beyond major operating systems, it even runs on Tomato and Solaris.
- IPv4 and IPv6: It carries both address types. Scripts and plugins can extend it further.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer installed OpenVPN Connect and tested a remote access setup. Here’s what stood out from that hands-on time:
OpenVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Open source code anyone can audit
- Free Community Edition with no time limit
- Choice of TCP or UDP transport
- Strong encryption with Perfect Forward Secrecy
- Gets through firewalls and NAT gateways
❌ Cons
- Setup takes real networking know-how
- WireGuard beats it on raw speed
- You must supply your own servers
- Mobile experience lags behind desktop
Feature Comparison
TorGuard and OpenVPN overlap more than you might think. OpenVPN is one of several VPN protocols TorGuard supports.
Here’s how they compare across ten key areas.
| Feature | TorGuard | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $10.99/month (VPN) | $0 (Free plan) |
| Free Plan | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ready-Made VPN Servers | ✅ 3,000+ | ❌ Bring your own |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | Client-dependent |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ Android only | Manual routing |
| Port Forwarding | ✅ | Manual setup |
| Stealth Obfuscation | ✅ | ❌ |
| Open Source | ❌ | ✅ |
| Site-to-Site Networking | ❌ | ✅ |
| Best For | Torrenting and privacy | Remote access and custom networks |
1. Core Service & Apps
TorGuard: TorGuard is a full VPN you download and connect. The TorGuard apps cover Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also listed. Microsoft Edge isn’t named, though Edge runs many Chrome add-ons. TorGuard’s servers are ready the moment you log in.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN is software, not a finished service. You install the OpenVPN client, import a .ovpn file, and connect to an OpenVPN server. OpenVPN Connect and the older OpenVPN GUI are free client software for desktop. Mobile devices work too, but setup feels clunkier.
⚠️ Warning: Review sites call TorGuard’s mobile apps clunky. Some note a login prompt every time you connect TorGuard to a server.
2. VPN Protocols & Encryption
TorGuard: TorGuard supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec with AES-256 encryption. Some review sites report connection errors with its WireGuard setup. The TorGuard app also allows custom scripts and auto-connect rules.
OpenVPN: The OpenVPN protocol runs over TCP transmission control protocol or UDP user datagram protocol. TCP checks each packet, so it is reliable but slower. The UDP protocol is faster but skips delivery checks.
As a tunneling protocol, it works at the transport layer. It wraps each packet in extra layers for routing and encryption. For authentication OpenVPN uses certificates and public key infrastructure. It belongs to the secure sockets layer family.
It supports more encryption protocols and cipher choices than other VPN protocols. Add TLS auth, and every control packet gets a hash message authentication code check. Security writers group it with the safest VPN protocols, well ahead of old PPTP.
💡 Pro Tip: That HMAC firewall drops unsigned packets before the handshake starts. It is a cheap way to harden an exposed server.
3. Proxy Services & Secure App Access
TorGuard: TorGuard’s Premium Anonymous Proxy routes browser or app traffic through proxy servers. Proxy services hide your IP address, but they usually don’t encrypt like a full VPN.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN can lock SaaS apps to known IP addresses. Staff then reach those online services only through the VPN connection. That keeps sensitive data away from open logins.
4. Private Cloud & Site-to-Site
TorGuard: The Private VPN Cloud Server puts a private cloud in a location you choose. Other VPN users don’t share it.
OpenVPN: Site-to-site networking links whole offices into one private network. It scales from one remote worker to large multi-site setups. That makes it strong for creating VPN tunnels between offices. Admins edit OpenVPN connections fast in plain-text .ovpn files.
5. VPS Hosting & IoT
TorGuard: TorGuard also rents VPS hosting. These virtual servers let you host apps or build your own tunnel.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN secures IoT traffic between devices and a central hub. Cameras and sensors get encrypted VPN tunnels instead of open internet access.
6. Privacy & Trust
TorGuard: TorGuard claims a strict no-logs policy for its VPN and proxy services. It hasn’t had an independent audit to prove it. It’s also US-based, inside the Five Eyes alliance.
TorGuard’s privacy policy also mentions some anonymous website data and server logs. It doesn’t explain how that data is used. On the plus side, it offers private encrypted email.
OpenVPN: With OpenVPN, you control the logs because you run the servers. The open source OpenVPN protocol gets constant public scrutiny. Zero trust rules check every user and device before granting access. Keeping OpenVPN safe mostly means patching it often.
7. Kill Switch & DNS Leaks
TorGuard: TorGuard’s kill switch cuts internet access if the VPN connection drops. Built-in guards block DNS leaks, IPv6 leaks, and WebRTC leaks. DNS requests stay inside the tunnel, so your real IP address stays hidden.
The split tunneling feature only works in the Android app. The iOS app and desktop apps skip it.
OpenVPN: Leak protection depends on how you configure the client and server. You can push DNS settings so lookups don’t escape to your internet service provider.
⚠️ Warning: A sloppy OpenVPN config can leak DNS. Run a leak test after every change.
8. Streaming, Torrenting & Speed
TorGuard: All plans allow BitTorrent traffic, with one catch. A legal settlement forced TorGuard to block BitTorrent traffic on US servers. So pick a non-US server for P2P.
For streaming, the basic VPN often fails on major streaming platforms. It can access Netflix and Prime Video in some countries. Hulu and Disney+ are harder. A dedicated streaming IP address or the streaming bundle fixes most gaps.
Connection speeds are average overall, so it isn’t the fastest VPN. Still, review sites praise it for gaming and torrenting.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN has no curated streaming servers. Host it at home, and streaming services see your home IP. That helps when traveling, but only for your home library.
Speed depends on your server, UDP or TCP, and cipher choice. OpenVPN is slower than WireGuard because of its extra packet wrapping. Many guides point to ExpressVPN for fast, pre-configured OpenVPN servers.
9. Business Use & Support
TorGuard: TorGuard Business VPN targets small teams that need a managed business VPN. TorGuard customer support runs through live chat and email. You must log in first, which can slow things down.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN leans hard into business use with SaaS protection and zero trust controls. Free users rely on docs and forums. Paid plans get direct help from the company.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the plans side by side.
| Plan | TorGuard | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ❌ | Free: $0 |
| Entry | Standard: $10.99/month | Growth: $7/month |
| Mid | Pro: $14.29/month | — |
| Business | Business VPN: $32.99/month | Enterprise: Custom |
| Extra | Anonymous Email: $3.58/month | — |
TorGuard: TorGuard costs more up front. Monthly billing is the priciest route, and long terms cut the rate. Add-ons like a streaming IP raise the bill.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN is cheaper on paper. The Community Edition is free, and paid plans scale with your team. Budget for server hosting and setup time too.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget, own hardware | OpenVPN | Free edition costs $0 |
| Torrenting with port forwarding | TorGuard | P2P-ready servers and open ports |
| Remote access to an office | OpenVPN | Built for self-hosted access |
| Bypassing strict firewalls | TorGuard | Stealth VPN hides VPN traffic |
| Custom encryption settings | OpenVPN | Full control over ciphers |
| Beginner-friendly setup | TorGuard | Download, log in, connect |
💰 Your Budget
OpenVPN wins if you already own a server. No server? Use an OpenVPN compatible service instead. TorGuard costs more but includes servers and apps.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Running Linux boxes or VPN routers? OpenVPN slots right in. TorGuard supports routers too and publishes free router setup guides.
📝 Your Use Case
For torrenting and anonymous browsing, pick TorGuard. For remote access to company private networks, pick OpenVPN.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Beginners should start with TorGuard’s apps. Network admins will enjoy OpenVPN’s config-level control.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
OpenVPN lets you test with zero risk on its free tier. TorGuard gives you only seven days to request a refund.
🛟 Support Options
TorGuard offers live chat and email after login. OpenVPN relies on docs and forums unless you pay.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from TorGuard to OpenVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Full control over your OpenVPN servers and logs
- Free Community Edition with no subscription
- Site-to-site links and zero trust access
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 3,000+ ready-made TorGuard servers
- Stealth servers and one-click apps
- Dedicated streaming IP and streaming bundle options
📋 How to switch:
- Save your settings, then cancel your TorGuard plan.
- Install OpenVPN on a VPS or home server.
- Install OpenVPN Connect on each device and import your .ovpn file.
🔄 Switching from OpenVPN to TorGuard?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Worldwide server locations with zero setup
- Kill switch and leak protection built in
- Port forwarding and dedicated IPs on demand
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Self-hosted control over your data traffic
- Open source code you can inspect yourself
- Custom security protocol tuning in config files
📋 How to switch:
- Shut down your OpenVPN servers and revoke client certificates.
- Buy a TorGuard plan and pick a billing cycle.
- Install the TorGuard app and connect to the nearest server.
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users and small teams. We didn’t run our own TorGuard speed test results across every server. We also skipped large OpenVPN Access Server rollouts and enterprise single sign-on. If you manage hundreds of VPN clients, your needs may differ.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | OpenVPN |
| 🚀 Ready-to-Use Service | TorGuard |
| 📥 Torrenting & Streaming | TorGuard |
| 🛡️ Built-in Security Features | TorGuard |
| 🔧 Custom Configuration | OpenVPN |
| 🏢 Remote Access & Business Networks | OpenVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | TorGuard |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | TorGuard |
🏆 WINNER: TORGUARD
TorGuard wins 4 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Torrenting, private browsing, and people who want a VPN without setup.
TorGuard and OpenVPN aren’t really rivals. TorGuard is a full VPN service, and OpenVPN is the engine many services run on.
OpenVPN is excellent for remote access, office links, and custom security. It’s free if you can run your own server.
For most people, TorGuard is the better pick. You get solid security, stealth servers, and a kill switch without touching a config file.
More of TorGuard Compared
Here’s how TorGuard stacks up against other VPN providers:
TorGuard vs NordVPN
TorGuard wins on: Port forwarding, a dedicated IP bundled into Pro, and gift card payments.
NordVPN wins on: An audited no-logs policy, a 30-day refund window, and smoother streaming access.
TorGuard vs PureVPN
TorGuard wins on: Stealth obfuscation, a private VPN cloud, and VPS hosting in one account.
PureVPN wins on: A far lower entry price, a 31-day refund window, and KPMG audits.
TorGuard vs ProtonVPN
TorGuard wins on: Live chat support, dedicated streaming IPs, and more flexible billing cycles.
ProtonVPN wins on: A usable free plan, a Swiss base, and audited open-source apps.
More of OpenVPN Compared
Here’s how OpenVPN compares with popular consumer VPN services:
OpenVPN wins on: Servers you own, a $0 free edition, and site-to-site office links.
NordVPN wins on: Thousands of ready servers, built-in leak protection, and zero config files.
OpenVPN wins on: Zero trust rules, IoT device tunnels, and full cipher control.
ExpressVPN wins on: Its own Lightway protocol, one-tap streaming servers, and a 30-day refund window.
OpenVPN vs Surfshark
OpenVPN wins on: Auditable open code, your own logging rules, and business DNS filtering.
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, built-in ad blocking, and Camouflage Mode for restrictive networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TorGuard controversy?
The main issue was a US lawsuit over copyright claims. After settling, the service blocked torrenting on its US servers. Non-US servers still allow P2P traffic.
How much is TorGuard per month?
Standard costs $10.99/month and Pro costs $14.29/month. Business VPN runs $32.99/month. Longer billing cycles lower the monthly rate.
Is TorGuard a good VPN?
Yes, for torrenting and power users. It offers Stealth VPN, port forwarding, and 3,000+ servers. Streaming and app polish lag behind bigger rivals.
Is OpenVPN free?
Yes. OpenVPN Community Edition is free and open source. The hosted Free plan costs $0 too, while Growth starts at $7/month.
Is it safe to use OpenVPN?
Yes. It uses SSL/TLS, AES encryption, and Perfect Forward Secrecy. Safety still depends on your configuration and keeping the software updated.
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