In 2025, IPVanish began a major infrastructure shift with the rollout of RAM-only servers, marking a substantial upgrade to how it handles user data and privacy. Rather than relying on traditional hard drives or SSD disks that can persist data, RAM-only servers store session and system data in volatile memory — which is automatically wiped on reboot or shutdown. This move underlines IPVanish’s commitment to privacy, data wiping, and no-logs policies.
What Are RAM-Only Servers and Why They Matter
Data Volatility & No Persistent Storage
Traditional servers often house logs, configurations, or temporary files on disk. Even with disk encryption, there’s some risk of data residue if disks are seized or improperly cleared. IPVanish’s new RAM-only infrastructure replaces this model: all data resides in RAM, meaning power loss or reboot instantly clears the memory, leaving no persistent data behind.
Deployment & Rollout Details
The rollout has begun: IPVanish launched RAM-only servers in 19 cities across 9 countries, as part of the initial deployment.
The company plans to transition its entire server network to RAM-only architecture over time, targeting all 148 server locations for full conversion by 2027.
On platform support: As of the rollout announcement, RAM-only servers are available on certain platforms/apps. IPvansih has indicated platform-specific timing (e.g. support expansion to Windows, Android, etc.).
Privacy Commitments & Audit Background
Previously, IPVanish underwent an independent no-log audit (and has published transparency reports and compliance documentation) which underpins its privacy credentials.
The shift to RAM-only servers aligns with its zero-logs stance and is described as “complementary” to its existing privacy standards rather than a standalone fix. As noted by IPVanish’s Chief Commercial Officer, the move is part of broader initiatives including third-party audits and account anonymization practices.
Benefits & Trade-Offs: Privacy, Performance, and User Experience
Advantages of RAM-Only Deployment
BenefitExplanation / DetailStronger Data ProtectionSession data or any runtime information never persists on disk — reboot = data wipe. Faster Updates & ManagementWithout disk I/O, server re-imaging and patching can be more efficient. )Infrastructure DurabilityOS or server instabilities may be more predictable, and potential for disk-related failures is removed. Transparency & Trust EnhancementsComplements external audits and transparency reporting to reinforce user trust in privacy claims.
Considerations & Limitations
Doesn’t eliminate runtime monitoring: While data isn’t stored long term, the server is still active while in operation so real-time logging or monitoring during that window may remain a factor.
Platform Support Variability: As rollout proceeds, certain apps/platforms may gain access to RAM-only servers before others, which means not all users will immediately benefit until migration is complete.
Reliance on Infrastructure Controls: Trust depends on correct server configuration, secure boot images, transparent audits, and infrastructure controls to ensure memory-only operation.
Comparison to Industry Rivals
IPVanish’s move puts it in alignment with other leading VPN services that emphasize secure server architectures:
Some VPN providers have already adopted entirely diskless or memory-only server models. IPVanish’s rollout targets parity with such competitors.
But adoption pace and transparency matter: IPVanish is publicizing its server tracker for RAM deployments, letting users identify and select suitable servers.
Compared with providers that maintain encrypted disks, RAM-only architecture offers a model with minimal risk of data remnants — this is a distinguishing infrastructure feature for privacy-first users.
What It Means for Users & How to Use It Safely
For users wanting maximum privacy:
Check server list / filters: Use IPVanish’s app or server list to filter/select “RAM-only” labeled servers where available.
Stay updated: Ensure your app version is current to get full support for RAM-only infrastructure access and relevant features.
Use strong protocols and features: Combine infrastructure benefits with robust protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and features such as kill-switch or split tunneling. IPVanish supports multiple protocols and privacy-enhancing features.
Evaluate for your threat model: While RAM-only servers increase safety, organizational or high-risk users should continue using layered security practices (secure endpoints, safe payment methods, privacy hygiene).
For enterprise or high-assurance users:
RAM-only architecture can reduce risk exposure in legal or data-seizure scenarios where physical hardware access is possible.
It strengthens vendor assessments and aligns with standards that demand minimal persistent data storage.
Independent audit history and infrastructure transparency is key for vendor due-diligence checklists.
Learn more than Shift to Zero Trust: VPN’s Death Spiral
Conclusion
IPVanish’s shift to RAM-only servers represents a forward-looking investment in privacy architecture. By eliminating persistent data storage and committing to a phased global rollout, IPVanish balances user security with operational transparency. While no system is perfect, this infrastructure move enhances its no-log promise and positions IPVanish competitively among privacy-focused VPN providers.
For users and organizations seeking to minimize stored session data risk, choosing RAM-only servers in the IPVanish network provides a meaningful upgrade — especially when combined with strong VPN protocols, independent audits, and proactive user security practices.
