Overview
Hey everyone 👋
Today I want to talk about something that's been on my mind lately: online privacy. More specifically, I want to share why I recently switched to Mullvad VPN and why I think it's one of the most important decisions I've made for my digital security this year.
In a world where every click, every search, every website visit is tracked, logged, and sold to the highest bidder, taking control of your privacy isn't just smart, it's necessary. And after doing my research and testing several VPN services, I landed on Mullvad. Spoiler alert: I'm really happy with this choice.
So let's dive into what makes Mullvad special, why VPNs matter in the first place, and what you should know before making the switch yourself.
Let's get started! 🤙
First Things First: Why Do You Even Need a VPN? 🤔
Before we get into Mullvad specifically, let's talk about why VPNs are important. If you're already privacy-conscious, feel free to skip ahead, but for everyone else, here's the deal.
Your ISP Is Watching Everything
Every time you connect to the internet, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can see everything you do. Every website you visit, every video you watch, every file you download, it's all visible to them. And in many countries, ISPs are legally required to log this data and keep it for months or even years.
Worse yet? In some places, ISPs sell this browsing data to advertisers and data brokers. Your online behavior becomes a commodity, bought and sold without your explicit consent.
Your IP Address Is Your Digital Fingerprint
Your IP address is like your home address for the internet. It identifies you, tracks you across websites, and can be used to build a detailed profile of your online life. Websites, advertisers, and even malicious actors can use your IP to:
- Track your location
- Build behavioral profiles
- Target you with ads
- Potentially identify you personally
- Launch targeted attacks
Public Wi-Fi Is a Security Nightmare
Coffee shops, airports, hotels, public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but incredibly insecure. Without encryption, anyone on the same network can potentially intercept your traffic, steal passwords, or inject malware. A VPN encrypts your connection, making it much harder for attackers to compromise your data.
Censorship and Geo-Restrictions
In many countries, governments block access to certain websites and services. Even in free countries, streaming services and websites restrict content based on your location. A VPN can help you access the free and open internet regardless of where you are.
Bottom line: if you care about privacy, security, and internet freedom, a VPN isn't optional anymore, it's essential.
Enter Mullvad: The Privacy-First VPN 🛡️
So why Mullvad specifically? There are dozens of VPN providers out there, many with flashy marketing and promises of "military-grade encryption" (whatever that means). What makes Mullvad different?
The Philosophy Behind Mullvad
Mullvad is a Swedish company that's been around since 2009, and their entire philosophy can be summed up in one sentence: privacy is a universal right. This isn't just marketing speak, it's reflected in every design decision they make.
From the moment you sign up, it's clear Mullvad operates differently from other VPN providers. No name required. No phone number. You get a randomly generated 16-digit account number, and that's it. That number is your username, your password, your entire identity with Mullvad.
This isn't just convenient, it's fundamentally more private. If Mullvad doesn't have your personal information, they can't leak it, lose it, or be forced to hand it over to authorities.
The Famous Police Raid Incident
Speaking of authorities, here's a story that perfectly illustrates Mullvad's commitment to privacy: in April 2023, Swedish police showed up at Mullvad's office in Gothenburg with a search warrant. They were looking to seize computers containing customer data.
The result? The police left empty-handed. Why? Because Mullvad literally doesn't store any customer data to seize. There were no logs to hand over, no user information to provide, nothing. This wasn't just Mullvad claiming to have a no-logs policy, this was real-world proof that they actually practice what they preach.
Think about that for a second. When push came to shove and authorities demanded data, Mullvad had nothing to give them. That's the kind of privacy guarantee you want in a VPN.
The Features That Make Mullvad Stand Out ✨
Let's get into the technical stuff. What exactly do you get with Mullvad?
Anonymous Account System
As I mentioned, you sign up with just an account number. No email, no personal info, nothing that can tie the account back to you. You can even pay with cash if you want, Mullvad will give you a mailing address, you send cash in an envelope, and they credit your account. They also accept cryptocurrency (Bitcoin and Monero) for additional anonymity.
Audited No-Logs Policy
Mullvad's no-logs policy isn't just words on a website, it's been independently audited by cybersecurity firm Cure53. They don't log your IP address, browsing activity, DNS requests, bandwidth usage, connection timestamps, or session duration. The only data they keep is aggregate network statistics like total bandwidth across all servers.
This means that even if someone broke into Mullvad's servers, there would be no individual user data to steal. And as the 2023 police raid proved, even legal authorities can't get data that doesn't exist.
RAM-Only Servers
All of Mullvad's servers run on RAM (diskless servers). This means that when a server reboots, all data is wiped. Nothing is written to permanent storage, so there's no way for data to persist after shutdown. This is standard practice for top-tier VPNs now, but Mullvad was an early adopter of this approach.
DAITA: Defense Against AI-Guided Traffic Analysis
This is where things get really interesting. Even with VPN encryption, sophisticated AI-powered systems can potentially analyze patterns in your traffic, things like packet timing, size, and frequency, to identify your activities.
Mullvad developed DAITA (Defense Against AI-guided Traffic Analysis) to counter this. It works by:
- Padding all packets to uniform sizes to eliminate identifying patterns
- Injecting fake "dummy" traffic to mask real activity
- Using randomized, dynamic configurations that change with each connection
Very few VPNs offer this level of protection. It's cutting-edge stuff that addresses threats most people don't even know exist yet.
Quantum-Resistant Encryption
Here's something wild: Mullvad uses quantum-resistant encryption on all WireGuard connections. Why does this matter? Because quantum computers, once they become powerful enough, could theoretically break today's encryption standards.
Is this a threat right now? No. But Mullvad is preparing for the future. When quantum computers do become a real threat, Mullvad users will already be protected. It's the kind of forward-thinking approach that gives me confidence in the service.
Multihop (Double VPN)
Mullvad's Multihop feature routes your traffic through two VPN servers in different locations and jurisdictions instead of just one. This adds an extra layer of encryption and makes it even harder to track your traffic. Even if one server were somehow compromised, your data would still be protected by the second hop.
DNS Content Filtering
Mullvad includes DNS-level blocking for ads, trackers, malware, gambling sites, and adult content. You can toggle these categories on or off depending on what you want to block. It's not as comprehensive as a dedicated ad blocker, but it's a nice built-in feature that improves your browsing experience.
Kill Switch and Lockdown Mode
The kill switch is standard VPN fare, if your VPN connection drops, all internet traffic is automatically blocked until the connection is reestablished. This prevents accidental data leaks.
But Mullvad takes it further with "Lockdown Mode". When enabled, your device can only connect to the internet when connected to a Mullvad server. Period. It's an extreme measure, but if you need maximum security, it's there.
Open Source and Audited
All of Mullvad's apps are open source (licensed under GPLv3). This means anyone can inspect the code, verify what it does, and ensure there are no backdoors or vulnerabilities. The apps have been independently audited multiple times, most recently in 2023.
Open source isn't just about transparency, it's about accountability. When code is public, the entire security community can review it and report issues.
WireGuard and OpenVPN Protocols
Mullvad supports both WireGuard and OpenVPN, the two most secure and widely trusted VPN protocols. WireGuard is newer, faster, and more efficient, while OpenVPN is battle-tested and reliable. You can choose based on your needs.
Mullvad Browser
Mullvad even developed their own browser in partnership with the Tor Project. Mullvad Browser is based on Firefox and includes privacy-focused settings similar to Tor Browser, but designed to work with VPNs instead of the Tor network. It's free and open source, and you don't even need to be a Mullvad VPN customer to use it.
The Pricing: Simple and Fair 💰
Here's where Mullvad really stands out: €5 per month, flat rate. That's it. No yearly discounts, no special promotions, no complicated pricing tiers. One price for everyone, always.
At current exchange rates, that's about $5.50 USD per month. Compared to other premium VPNs that can cost $10-15 per month, Mullvad is incredibly affordable.
And here's the crazy part: Mullvad has never raised their price since launching in 2009. While other companies keep increasing their rates, Mullvad has kept the same €5 price point for over 15 years.
You can pay month-to-month, or prepay for multiple months if you want (though the per-month price stays the same). They also offer a 14-day money-back guarantee if you pay with regular payment methods, though cash and crypto payments are naturally non-refundable.
Payment Options: credit card, PayPal, bank wire, Swish (Swedish mobile payments), cash by mail, Bitcoin, and Monero. The variety of anonymous payment options is unmatched in the VPN industry.
The Downsides: Let's Be Honest 😬
No service is perfect, and Mullvad has some legitimate weaknesses you should know about:
Not Great for Streaming
If your main reason for wanting a VPN is to access Netflix, Disney+, or other streaming services from different regions, Mullvad probably isn't for you. The company explicitly doesn't prioritize unblocking streaming services, their focus is privacy, not entertainment.
Sometimes it works with streaming sites, sometimes it doesn't. But it's not reliable for this purpose. If streaming is your priority, services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN are better choices.
Smaller Server Network
Mullvad has around 700+ servers in 49 countries. That's decent, but it pales in comparison to services like NordVPN (6000+ servers in 100+ countries) or Proton VPN (thousands of servers in 120+ countries).
That said, I haven't had any issues connecting to Mullvad's servers, even during peak times. Quality matters more than quantity, and Mullvad's servers are well-maintained and fast.
No Live Chat Support
Mullvad doesn't offer 24/7 live chat support like many competitors. Support is handled via email and their website. Response times are reasonable, but if you're the type who needs instant help, this could be frustrating.
However, their documentation is excellent, and most common issues are well-covered in their help articles.
The Interface Is Minimalist
Some people find Mullvad's apps too simple or "boring." There aren't flashy features, animated maps showing your connection, or hand-holding wizards. The interface is clean and functional, prioritizing usability over aesthetics.
Personally, I appreciate the minimalism, it means there's less bloat and the app focuses on what matters. But if you prefer polished, feature-rich interfaces, this might feel spartan.
Limited to 5 Devices
You can connect up to 5 devices simultaneously with one Mullvad account. This is pretty standard for VPNs, but some competitors allow more (or even unlimited) connections. For most individuals or small families, 5 is plenty, but larger households might find it limiting.
Speed Can Vary
VPNs inherently slow down your connection because of the encryption overhead and the extra distance your traffic travels. Mullvad is generally fast, but your experience will vary based on server location, distance, and network conditions.
In my testing, I've seen anywhere from a 10-30% speed decrease depending on which server I connect to. That's actually pretty good for a VPN, but it's still something to be aware of.
My Personal Experience: Why I Made the Switch 💪
So here's my story. I've used various VPNs over the years, some free (terrible idea, by the way), some paid. I was previously using a popular commercial VPN that shall remain nameless, and while it worked fine, I started questioning their logging practices and business model.
The more I learned about digital privacy and the surveillance economy, the more uncomfortable I became with my VPN provider. When their parent company got acquired by a data analytics firm, that was the final straw. I needed to find a service I could actually trust.
Enter Mullvad. After researching privacy-focused VPNs, Mullvad kept coming up as the gold standard. The no-logs policy, the anonymous account system, the 2023 police raid incident, everything pointed to a company that genuinely walks the walk on privacy.
The Switch Was Surprisingly Easy
Setting up Mullvad was dead simple. I went to their website, clicked "Get Mullvad VPN," and received my 16-digit account number instantly. No forms to fill out, no email verification, nothing. I downloaded the app, entered my account number, and I was connected in under two minutes.
The App Experience
The Mullvad app is clean and straightforward. When you open it, you see a map with server locations and a big connect button. That's basically it. You can select specific servers or let Mullvad choose automatically based on speed and distance.
The settings menu is where the magic happens, this is where you enable features like DAITA, Multihop, DNS filtering, and obfuscation. There's a lot of power under the hood for advanced users, but casual users can just hit connect and go.
Performance in Real-World Use
For my day-to-day use, web browsing, development work, using SSH, watching YouTube, downloading files, Mullvad has been great. The connection is stable, speeds are good, and I haven't experienced any frustrating disconnects or timeouts.
I work with remote servers constantly, and having a reliable VPN that doesn't interfere with SSH connections or add excessive latency is crucial. Mullvad handles this perfectly.
The Privacy Peace of Mind
The biggest benefit isn't technical, it's psychological. Knowing that my ISP can't see what I'm doing, that my traffic is encrypted end-to-end, that no one is logging my activity, it's genuinely freeing. I no longer worry about being tracked or having my browsing data sold.
And when I'm working on sensitive open source projects or communicating about security issues, having that extra layer of protection is invaluable.
Traveling with Mullvad
I recently traveled to a country with more restrictive internet policies, and Mullvad's obfuscation features worked perfectly to bypass the censorship. I was able to access all the websites and services I normally use without any issues. This is exactly why VPNs are so important, they preserve internet freedom regardless of where you are.
Why Mullvad Aligns with My Values 🌍
Beyond the technical features, Mullvad represents something important: a company that prioritizes user rights over profits.
They Could Make More Money
Let's be real, Mullvad could easily charge $10/month and most people would pay it. They could offer tiered pricing with "premium" features. They could bundle in unnecessary services and upsell constantly. But they don't.
They charge a fair price and treat all users equally. There are no "elite" plans or artificial limitations designed to push you toward more expensive tiers.
They're Transparent
Mullvad doesn't hide behind vague marketing claims. Their privacy policy is clear and detailed. Their technology is open source. Their infrastructure is documented. When Swedish police showed up, they published a blog post about it.
This level of transparency is rare in the VPN industry, where many providers make big claims about privacy while operating under murky business structures.
They Contribute to the Ecosystem
Mullvad was an early adopter and financial supporter of WireGuard, helping to develop and promote what's now the gold standard VPN protocol. They developed DAITA and made it available to users at no extra cost. They partnered with the Tor Project to create Mullvad Browser.
They're not just selling a service, they're actively improving the privacy ecosystem for everyone.
They Practice What They Preach
The 2023 police raid wasn't just good PR, it was validation that Mullvad actually follows their own policies. When authorities came knocking, there was nothing to give them. That's the difference between marketing talk and operational reality.
Who Should Use Mullvad? 🎯
Mullvad isn't for everyone, and that's okay. Here's who will love it:
Privacy-Conscious Users
If protecting your privacy is your top priority, Mullvad is probably your best option. The anonymous account system, proven no-logs policy, and advanced privacy features like DAITA make it the gold standard.
Tech-Savvy Users
Mullvad's minimalist interface and advanced features appeal to users who understand VPN technology and want granular control. If terms like "WireGuard," "split tunneling," and "obfuscation" make sense to you, you'll appreciate Mullvad.
Journalists and Activists
If you work with sensitive information or in regions with internet censorship, Mullvad's strong encryption, obfuscation features, and proven resistance to legal pressure make it an excellent choice.
Developers and Open-Source Enthusiasts
As someone who maintains open-source projects, I appreciate that Mullvad's entire software stack is open source. You can audit the code, verify security claims, and contribute improvements if you want.
Budget-Conscious Users
At €5/month with no long-term commitment required, Mullvad is one of the most affordable premium VPNs. You're not locked into a yearly plan, and the price never increases.
Who Shouldn't Use Mullvad?
- Streaming enthusiasts: If your main goal is accessing geo-restricted content, look elsewhere
- Non-technical users wanting hand-holding: Mullvad assumes you know what you're doing
- People needing lots of simultaneous connections: The 5-device limit might be restrictive
- Users requiring instant customer support: No live chat means waiting for email responses
Final Thoughts: Privacy Matters 🌟
Switching to Mullvad VPN has been one of the best decisions I've made for my digital privacy this year. It's not perfect, no VPN is but it represents a rare thing in today's internet: a company that genuinely prioritizes user privacy over everything else.
In an age where every company wants to track you, profile you, and monetize your data, Mullvad stands as a refreshing alternative. They don't need to know who you are. They don't want to collect your data. They just want to provide a secure, private internet connection, and they do it exceptionally well.
The Bigger Picture
Using a VPN isn't just about hiding your browsing history from your ISP, it's about taking a stand for digital rights. It's about saying that your online life belongs to you, not to corporations or governments. It's about preserving the open, free internet that many of us grew up with.
Every time you connect to Mullvad, you're voting with your wallet for a privacy-first internet. You're supporting a company that refuses to compromise on user rights, even when it would be more profitable to do so.
Is It Worth It?
For me, absolutely. The peace of mind alone is worth €5 per month. Knowing that my ISP can't build a profile of my online activities, that my traffic is encrypted, that there are no logs to leak or hand over to authorities, it's invaluable.
If you care about privacy, if you're tired of being tracked and monitored, if you want to support a company that actually practices what it preaches, give Mullvad a try. The switch is easy, the price is fair, and the privacy benefits are real.
Conclusion 🚀
If this article has convinced you to take your privacy seriously, here's what you can do:
- Go to mullvad.net and sign up, it takes less than a minute
- Choose your payment method, cryptocurrency for maximum privacy, or regular payment for convenience
- Download the app for your platform
- Connect and start browsing privately
It really is that simple. No complicated setup, no technical knowledge required, just instant privacy protection.
And remember: a VPN is just one part of a privacy-focused approach to the internet. Combine it with privacy-respecting browsers, encrypted messaging apps, and good security practices for maximum protection.
Privacy is a right, not a privilege. Tools like Mullvad help us exercise that right in an increasingly surveilled world.
Happy browsing! ✨
Hi 👋🏻
My name is Domenico, software developer passionate of Open Source, I write article about it for share my knowledge and experience.
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