CactusVPN Smart DNS Review
CactusVPN is a relatively small Virtual Network Provider, based in Moldova, which was established in 2012. Despite their size and youth, they have been able to attract positive attention with their pricing strategy and unique features.
As well as offering a traditional VPN service, CactusVPN offer a Smart DNS product, designed to bypass geographical restrictions on websites and online video content. At the current time, Smart DNS support is offered for various services based in the United Kingdom, United States and Poland.
How It Works
In order to get around the blocking of geo-restricted content, CactusVPN Smart DNS re-routes a device’s DNS queries through its own servers, which are based in the country a user chooses. So, as an example, if a customer wishes to access streaming video content restricted to people in the United States, their DNS queries are re-routed through a US server.
Unlike with VPN services, the CactusVPN Smart DNS service does not require the installation of specialist software. However, optional software is available to download on a number of devices, in order to make the setup process easier. It also does not offer the encryption or level of anonymity provided by VPN services, but a benefit over VPNs is that Smart DNS does not negatively affect internet speeds.
Pricing and Payment Methods
The CactusVPN Smart DNS service is available at a cost of $4.99 per month, which is a very competitive price. However, the company have a pricing plan which rewards long term use and significant savings can be made if customers commit to either a 3 month, 6 month or 12 month subscription. For instance, a 12 month subscription can be purchased for $38.99, saving more than $20 over the course of the year.
For those who wish to make use of a VPN service as well, a combined Smart DNS + VPN package is available for $6.99 per month. Payment methods available to customers include credit or debit card, PayPal, Alipay, CashU and Qiwi. This is a fairly diverse range of options when compared to competitors on the Smart DNS market.
The basic Smart DNS package offers a free 7 day trial, allowing users to try the service before buying it, with no obligation to subscribe and no credit card required. In addition, CactusVPN offer a 30 day money back guarantee. All of these facts combine to ensure that the service has one of the best all-round pricing strategies around.
Compatibility
CactusVPN’s Smart DNS service is compatible with a large number of devices, including PCs, Macs, iPhones, iPads, iPods, multiple games consoles, Smart TVs and Apple TV routers. Tutorials for setting up some of the most popular devices can be found below:
Windows 8: https://www.cactusvpn.com/setup/windows-8-smart-dns-setup-tutorial/
Mac OSX: https://www.cactusvpn.com/setup/mac-os-smart-dns-setup-tutorial/
iPhone/iPod: https://www.cactusvpn.com/setup/iphone-ipod-smart-dns-setup-tutorial/
PlayStation 3: https://www.cactusvpn.com/setup/play-station-3-smart-dns-setup-tutorial/
XBox 360: https://www.cactusvpn.com/setup/xbox-smart-dns-setup-tutorial/
A full list of setup tutorials can be found here: https://www.cactusvpn.com/support/
Customer Support
Overall, customer support for the service is solid, with both a live chat and ticket-based help system available, meaning that issues can be resolved easily. The live chat function, in particular, also ensures that questions can be answered swiftly.
Furthermore, there are tutorial and FAQ sections on the website, which cover the most common issues, questions and concerns people will have regarding the product.
Streaming Services Supported
At present, more than 100 different websites and online streaming video services are supported, including:
- Netflix
- Hulu Plus
- Amazon Instant Video
- BBC iPlayer
- HBO GO
- Sky Go
- Pandora
- NFL GamePass
- WWE Network
A complete list of all of the supported websites and services can be found here:
Go to cactusvpn.com