Does ExpressVPN Block Ads? Should You Use It for Browsing & Torrenting?

Published on January 31, 2022
Written by:
Srijani Ghosh

No, ExpressVPN doesn't block ads directly. Since ad-blocking is not a standard feature of a VPN, ExpressVPN doesn't come with a built-in ad blocker. But, it already provides enough security measures that restrict malicious websites from tracking you back or storing any personal details regarding your likes and dislikes. Hence, you stay protected from making any purchase or downloading malware accidentally while putting your online security in jeopardy.

However, that doesn't mean the importance of an ad-blocker is devalued. In fact, with ExpressVPN, you may still see those ad pop-ups on a few websites you visit, but that can't do any harm to your personal details because ExpressVPN hides your IP address to help you stay completely anonymous while using the internet. 

Alongside that, ExpressVPN also encrypts your traffic to boost your online privacy and security. There are more security measures that make this VPN one of the best services available on the market. We've discussed every point in detail to help you understand why ExpressVPN is even better than the ones offering an ad-blocker. Have a look.

How Does Ad Blocking Work?

Ad blockers detect ad servers and prevent them from showing you ads on a website you're visiting or the application you're using. It does not offer you any added security or safeguard your personal details unless coupled with a VPN. 

These days different creators leave space for ad panels on their websites. So, an ad blocker will leave these spaces blank, and the website UI may look awful when the ad panels are hidden. 

However, it decreases the chance of going into a malicious website and landing on a click-bait article only to tap those gigantic ad pop-ups accidentally. But an ad blocker never restricts the websites from tracking you back. It only shields you against malicious advertisements. 

That's why using a complete VPN solution is considered the best possible way to keep your online security on point.

Why Doesn't ExpressVPN Come with an Ad Blocker?

There are 2 main reasons why ExpressVPN doesn't include an ad blocker. Here we've mentioned both. Have a look. 

1. Your Connection is Already Secured

ExpressVPN doesn't include an ad blocker because it already encrypts your online traffic and renders all the security measures required for browsing, gaming, and torrenting. Alongside encryption, it also uses a proprietary protocol Lightway that offers total obfuscation and helps you access blocked content from any region, even from China. 

So, you can easily understand how strict ExpressVPN security measures are. With that said, no website, in fact, no third party can ever recognize your online traffic or get your real identity while using the web. That's why there is no chance you'll ever become a victim of phishing attacks or get into a malicious website to lose your personal details. And the best part is you get this concrete protection on all ExpressVPN supported devices. 

2. Ad Blocker Requires Frequent Updates

This is an important reason that has kept ExpressVPN from integrating an ad blocker till now. Well, ad blocking technology is not evergreen, and it requires frequent updates and patches to make sure it can exactly do the work it's meant to do. Yes, different websites are constantly upgrading their tracker and finding new ways to lure you into clicking the wrong link. 

So, if you use an outdated ad blocker, it won't serve any purpose. Yes, an ad blocker needs proper up-gradation if it really has to block the ad panels or save you from downloading malicious attachments. Whether you're choosing a VPN with an ad blocker or just adding an ad blocker extension to your browser, it applies to all. ExpressVPN didn't want to add a service just for the sake of the name. That's why it doesn't come with an ad blocker.

Is ExpressVPN Safe?

Yes, ExpressVPN is one of the safest VPN services available at present. It uses AES-256 bit encryption to make your traffic data unreadable to third parties and some of the most secure tunneling protocols to make sure your online traffic gets a safe passage before it reaches the VPN servers.

Alongside that, it has a network lock kill switch and VPN leak protection feature that help you perform different tasks safely on public Wi-Fi while keeping you completely anonymous to the network admin. You can check its further security features in our ExpressVPN review. 

However, using a VPN never enables you to break your country's laws. Especially if you're from countries like ​​Iraq, Russia, or China, which follow strict network surveillance practices, you need to be more cautious while using a VPN. 

What VPNs Offer Ad Blocker?

Many premium VPN providers are available on the market that has integrated ad blockers the right way and keep updating their technology as required to bypass even the cleverest modern-day phishing attempts. Such VPN services are-

  1. NordVPN
  2. Private Internet Access VPN
  3. Surfshark VPN
  4. CyberGhost VPN
  5. HMA VPN

That's all! Now you know why ExpressVPN doesn't provide ad blocking services directly. You've also got options if you only want a VPN with ad blocker. For further queries, drop us a comment through the below button. Stay updated and know about all the new features and developments in ExpressVPN. Lastly, thanks for reading!



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