What We Like
What Could Be Better
Introduction to Brave Firewall + VPN
Brave Firewall + VPN is a premium, privacy-focused service from the makers of the Brave browser, taking a fundamentally different approach. It is a true system-wide VPN for iOS that also includes an always-on, on-device firewall called Guardian. For 2026, it represents a niche but powerful option for privacy maximalists, particularly iOS users, who want deep, device-level protection that blocks trackers and malware before they even reach the VPN tunnel. It's not a streaming tool; it's a comprehensive privacy shield designed for users who prioritize security over entertainment access and are willing to pay a premium per device.
Speed and Performance Analysis
Brave Firewall + VPN provides solid, reliable speeds for all device traffic. Because it's a system VPN, it encrypts everything from your email app to your games. The performance impact is noticeable but reasonable, similar to other quality VPNs. The Guardian firewall operates locally on the device, adding no latency. The service is optimized for privacy and security, not for raw speed, but it performs well enough for everyday tasks, video calls, and browsing. Its goal is to provide a consistently secure connection without drops, which it achieves. However, users seeking the fastest possible connection for gaming or streaming may find the overhead slightly higher than some competitors.
Privacy and Security Features
This is where Brave Firewall + VPN excels. It is built from the ground up with a privacy-first philosophy. The VPN has an independently audited no-logs policy. The killer feature is the Guardian firewall, which uses on-device rule sets to block trackers, malware, and potentially unwanted programs before they establish a connection, operating even when the VPN is off. This creates a powerful two-layer defense: a firewall that filters traffic at the source and a VPN that encrypts what gets through. Owned by Brave Software, which has a strong track record of defending user privacy, this service is designed for users with high threat models who value technical privacy measures above all else.
Streaming and Capability
Brave Firewall + VPN does not support streaming unblocking and is not intended for this purpose. Its design as a strict privacy tool means it does not attempt to circumvent geo-restrictions on entertainment platforms. Using it will likely prevent access to services like Netflix or Hulu because they will detect the VPN IP. The company is transparent about this, positioning the product solely as a security solution. If your primary goal is to watch international content, this is the wrong product. If your goal is to have one of the most private and secure device configurations possible, especially on iOS, Brave Firewall + VPN is a unique and compelling offering.