Shadowsocks
Shadowsocks is a proxy-based tunneling tool that is often used to get around network blocks and censorship. It is usually set up with your own server, so it appeals to people who want control over how traffic is routed.
Updated:December 22, 2025
Overview
Shadowsocks is commonly used in places where normal VPN traffic gets blocked or slowed. It works as an encrypted proxy tunnel, so it can blend in better on strict networks.
Many users run it on a rented server or a home server. That setup is popular with people who want a private endpoint they manage themselves.
In day-to-day use, it is often paired with apps that support rules and split routing. You can send only certain sites or apps through the tunnel and keep the rest on your normal connection.
Privacy depends on how you deploy it and who controls the server. The software is open source, and the focus is on reliable tunneling and flexible encryption rather than a full VPN service bundle.
Features
Device & Platform Support
- Mac
- Windows
- iPhone / iOS
- Linux
- Android
VPN Protocols
- ShadowsocksAn encrypted proxy protocol specifically designed to help users bypass the Great Firewall and other forms of strict internet censorship. It is lightweight, fast, and highly effective at making VPN traffic look like ordinary web activity.
- OpenVPNThe industry’s most trusted and versatile protocol, known for its incredible security and ability to bypass even the toughest firewalls. Because it is open-source, it is constantly being audited and improved by security experts worldwide.
Pricing & Payments
- Free
Privacy & Security
- Open SourceThe software’s code is public and can be inspected by anyone for security flaws. This transparency ensures there are no hidden "backdoors" or malicious features.
Network & Advanced Features
- Proxy supportAllows you to configure a proxy (like SOCKS5 or HTTP) directly within the app, either as an alternative to the VPN or as an additional layer. It is perfect for users who need a lightweight way to change their IP for a specific app or task without the encryption overhead of a full VPN, offering faster speeds for data gathering, location testing, and high-speed streaming.
- Obfuscation / Stealth ModeAdvanced technology that disguises VPN traffic as regular HTTPS web browsing to bypass deep packet inspection. This is the best way to use a VPN in highly censored countries like China or on restrictive networks like schools and workplaces.
Shadowsocks Alternatives
Windscribe
Windscribe is used a lot as a mix of VPN app and browser extension, with a strong focus on blocking ads and trackers. It suits people who want privacy tools that work during normal browsing, not just when they remember to connect.
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access is a privacy-focused VPN with a long-running reputation among power users. It stands out for open-source apps and lots of connection controls, like split tunneling and a kill switch.
VPN 360
VPN 360 is a mobile-first VPN that keeps setup simple and adds a built-in proxy option for quick routing changes. People often use it to reach blocked apps and sites on school, work, or travel networks.
gizlenVPN
gizlenVPN is a simple, location-based VPN service tied to the Gizlen.net site. It is mainly used when you need a quick server choice across many countries on desktop or mobile.
Shadowsocks Reviews
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