Best VPN for Windows
VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) are becoming an essential part of online activities due to the increase in various online threats. However, finding the best VPN for Windows remains a challenge. A suitable VPN service can provide online security, privacy, and freedom for Windows users through anonymous browsing, access to geo-restricted content, and protection of sensitive user data.
In this article, we’ll cover all the best VPN services for Windows users, provide insight into finding the best VPN for your needs, and guide you through the steps of using a VPN.
- NordVPN – Best Windows VPN – NordVPN is a top-tier VPN, thanks to top-notch features like Double VPN and Onion Over VPN.
- Surfshark – If you’re looking for a budget-friendly VPN with advanced security features, this is the one.
- ExpressVPN – ExpressVPN is all about speed, and it doesn’t disappoint on Windows.
- VyprVPN– Chameleon Protocol helps you access blocked content, and VyprDNS keeps your data safe while you browse.
- CyberGhost – One of the best VPNs for streaming and gaming on Windows, with servers that make everything run smoothly.
What to Look for in a VPN for Windows
A reliable VPN service for online activities and browsing is expected to have many qualities that can elevate the online experience and won’t get in the way of Windows users. Here are the most important qualities that you should look for in a suitable VPN service:
- Security Features: A great VPN service is always equipped with advanced encryption protocols such as WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN, and other useful features such as a kill switch and DNS leak protection.
- Privacy Policy: Make sure that your VPN provider has a strict no-logs policy and that the servers won’t keep any unnecessary information, such as your IP address. Moreover, take note of the jurisdictions in which the VPN providers operate. European Union, the UK, the USA, and Canada usually have a strict stance on privacy policies and keep the providers in check in terms of data protection.
- Ease of Use: Offering a user-friendly interface may at first seem like a secondary priority, but using a service that unnecessarily complicates the online experience will make you not want to use a VPN anymore. So, always pay attention to how easy to set up and use the VPN service is. You can take advantage of a free trial to test out the user interface.
- Compatibility: To ensure optimal performance, make sure that the VPN service is compatible with all modern versions of Windows, including Windows 10 and 11. Some of the features of a service that is focused on mobile devices or one that only supports one version of Windows, may not work properly on your Windows.
- Speed and Performance: Choose a VPN service that minimizes impact on your system’s performance and offers a fast and reliable connection. Try some free trials and measure how much your internet speed slows down when the VPN is on and how much of your system’s CPU and memory is occupied by the service.
- Server Network: A VPN service with a wide range of global servers can ensure that the Windows user can access content from various countries without limitation. Furthermore, more servers can ultimately increase the speed of connection by switching to the ones that are better suited to the specific web servers you choose to connect.
- Additional Features: If you utilize multiple Windows devices, make sure to find a VPN service that supports more than one device at a time. This can significantly enhance the convenience and functionality of the VPN. In addition, features such as dedicated IPs, split tunneling, double VPN, and more are welcome additions that are nice to have access to.
The Best VPNs for Windows: Tested and Reviewed
In this section, we have gathered the most respected VPN providers that can offer the best VPN for Windows 10 or 11. Go through the features and pros and cons of each VPN provider to find the one that suits you best.
NordVPN
- Optimized servers for unblocking Netflix
- Mind-boggling number of servers
- No IP/DNS leaks found
- Extra-secure Double VPN for data encryption
- Money back guarantee policy
- Not much
- Can’t specify City or Province in App
As one of the biggest names in the VPN industry, NordVPN is highly trusted among VPN users and offers excellent features, some can’t be found anywhere else. Double VPN provides an extra layer of protection by routing your traffic through two servers, enhancing your online security. Additionally, Onion Over VPN merges the privacy of the Tor Browser with the security of a VPN, offering added anonymity for sensitive browsing.
Dedicated IP allows you to access restricted networks and bypass IP bans, making online tasks like banking more convenient. Also, Threat Protection Pro shields you from malware, web trackers, and ads, ensuring a safer online experience. With Split Tunneling, you can control which apps use the VPN and which connect directly, optimizing your internet usage.
ExpressVPN
- SPECIAL OFFER: 3 months free (49% off – link below)
- Fastest servers we have tested
- Torrenting/P2P allowed
- Keeps no logs of personal data
- Great support (24/7 chat)
- Priced slightly higher
ExpressVPN is another highly respected VPN provider that checks all of the security and privacy boxes. On top of that, this VPN is known for its incredible connection speed, making it hard to tell the difference between when the VPN is on or when it is off. ExpressVPN takes your security seriously with AES-256 encryption, a standard trusted by experts to keep your data safe from prying eyes. Their TrustedServer technology ensures none of your data is ever stored on hard drives, adding an extra layer of privacy.
The Lightway protocol is all about speed and efficiency, giving you fast connections without sacrificing security or privacy. ExpressVPN also has a built-in tracker blocker. Thanks to this feature, malicious sites and trackers will not be able to invade your online space. If your PC, internet connection, or ExpressVPN servers behave strangely and you get disconnected from ExpressVPN, the Network Lock Kill Switch will step in to block all internet traffic, ensuring your data remains secure.
Surfshark
- Unblock 15 international Netflix libraries, including the US and Japan
- Every server is a speciality server
- Clean, dead-simple app interface makes constant security a no-brainer
- Absolutely no logging of connection data, IP addresses, bandwidth used, or traffic
- Get help any time of day via email, phone, or live chat
- Overall, not much to complain about
- Young VPN still has plenty of room to grow in terms of advanced functionality
If you’re looking for the best VPN for Windows 11 or 10, Surfshark is one of the strong candidates. It’s a budget-friendly option for people who prefer affordable VPN services for all their devices as Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections in all devices. Split tunneling lets you decide which apps use the VPN connection and which ones don’t, giving you more control over your online activity.
With Double VPN, your internet traffic is routed through two servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of protection to your browsing. Obfuscated servers and camouflage mode make it possible to hide the fact that you’re using a VPN, helping you bypass restrictions on more websites. Surfshak’s Kill Switch feature steps in to protect your data if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly, keeping everything secure. This VPN service also offers dedicated IP, which is a handy option if you need to access sites that are sensitive to frequent IP changes.
CyberGhost
- Unblocking Netflix USA, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, YouTube
- Torrenting allowed
- Robust encryption standards
- Private: Strong no logs policy
- Money-back guarantee
- Doesn’t work well in China
In search of the best VPN for Windows, you can come across CyberGhost which is a reliable VPN service with optimized services for different use cases such as streaming, gaming, and torrenting. This VPN stands out with its specialized servers tailored to specific needs. Whether you’re streaming without buffering, torrenting on P2P-optimized servers, or gaming with reduced ping and lag, there’s a server for you.
To keep your online data private, CyberGhost uses private DNS servers, ensuring no leaks to your ISP. Your digital footprint is kept secure with AES 256-bit encryption, one of the most robust encryption standards available. Last but not least, with its Content Blocker feature, CyberGhost adds an extra layer of convenience by automatically blocking malicious ads and trackers.
VyprVPN
- 950 servers
- Intuitive, easy to use interface that’s good for VPN beginners
- Up to 12 simultaneous connections
- WireGuard protocol for performance, security, and speed boosts
- Servers are currently only in 30 countries
VyprVPN is an interesting VPN provider that offers a property protocol and other innovative solutions on top of many of the expected VPN features. It is one of the best options for bypassing restrictions and accessing content around the world. The Chameleon Protocol is fantastic for bypassing restrictions and censorship, especially in heavily restricted regions like Russia, China, or Iran. By masking VPN traffic, it helps users maintain access to open internet without detection.
Adding to this, VyprDNS takes on DNS censorship with its encrypted connection, making it easier to avoid DNS filtering and attacks. This ensures a seamless and secure browsing experience, even in the most controlled environments. This VPN provider also offers Split Tunneling, which allows you to manage your internet traffic effortlessly.
You can decide which apps should use the VPN connection and which ones can bypass it, offering flexibility and control over your online activities. Finally, VyprVPN’s DNS leak protection ties it all together by ensuring that your DNS activity remains completely hidden, even from your ISP, so your privacy is never compromised.
How to Set Up a VPN on Windows
Setting up a VPN on Windows doesn’t require any technical knowledge, and these days, it’s as easy as downloading and installing an app. Here are the steps for setting up a VPN service on your Windows device:
- Choose your VPN provider and opt into one of its plans. You will be required to create an account by choosing a username and password.
- From the official website of the VPN provider, download the app and install it on your Windows. If there is a Terms and Conditions window, read and accept it.
- After installation, the app will ask you to enter your username and password to log in.
- After logging in, you can simply click on the dedicated button to turn on the VPN, and it will automatically connect your Windows device to a VPN server. Then, you can proceed to change the server and configure the service further.
If somehow the VPN service doesn’t work the way it should, you can try these tips to troubleshoot and fix the issue:
- First, make sure that your internet connection doesn’t have any problems.
- Try changing the VPN server and switching to another protocol like WireGuard.
- Restart the app and your Windows devices, and see if the issue is fixed.
- If the problem persists, try contacting your VPN provider’s customer support.
Why You Should Use a VPN on a Windows PC?
Users take advantage of VPNs for different use cases, including:
- Privacy and Anonymity: The main benefits of VPNs are the anonymity and privacy of online activities. A reliable VPN can keep your browsing data safe and away from online threats and provide a stress-free online experience.
- Streaming and Gaming: Many gamers are constantly looking for the best VPN for Windows in order to connect to an optimal server and get smooth gaming with reduced lag. Moreover, people utilize VPNs to access geo-restricted content on streaming services like Netflix that are not available in their country.
- Public Wi-Fi Security: VPNs can safeguard your public Wi-Fi connection by adding a protective layer that encrypts your data while it’s connected to public internet in airports, cafes, and more.
- Bypassing Restrictions: Since VPN providers offer VPN servers in different countries, users can take advantage of them to access blocked websites and platforms in their country and remove the barriers of the internet.
Free or Paid VPNs for Windows: Which One Should You Choose?
Alongside the paid VPN services, you can easily find free options that, in many cases, work and can come in handy. However, you should be aware of their limitations and risks. With free VPNs, there are no guarantees that it won’t log your online data, compromising your privacy and security. Also, many of the free VPN apps are full of ads that can contain malware.
Moreover, if you find a reliable free VPN for Windows, don’t expect any advanced features. These free options often provide servers with slower speeds and data caps. In comparison, due to the direct revenue from customers, paid VPN providers can take advantage of a team of experts to offer advanced features and fast connection speeds. Not to mention the modern encryption technologies and 24/7 customer support that you can usually expect from paid VPN providers.
Conclusion: Your Windows Computer Deserves the Best VPN
Overall, the best VPNs for Windows are the ones that offer the most advanced safety and privacy features alongside fast connections and a wide range of VPN servers around the world. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are among the best providers that offer all the qualities in one place.
Surfshark and CyberGhost are more affordable options that provide the most necessary features and VyprVPN is a unique option perfect for accessing restricted content. So choose a VPN service that fits your needs but always pay attention to the security and privacy capabilities to stay away from online threats.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it safe to use a VPN on Windows?
Yes, if you take advantage of a reliable VPN service, not only it’s safe to use, but the VPN will improve your online security and privacy.
- Can I use a single VPN account on multiple devices?
Yes, most well-known VPN providers will let you use a single VPN account on multiple devices, and some even offer unlimited simultaneous connections on all your devices.
- Do VPNs slow down my internet connection?
Since using a VPN adds a new layer to your connection for encryption and connecting to the VPN server, it will impact your internet connection’s speed. However, the best VPN services manage to minimize the impact and provide a smooth experience.
- Which VPN protocol is best for Windows?
It depends on your use cases and needs. If you want a highly secure connection, OpenVPN protocol is a great option, and if your priority is faster performance, WireGuard can satisfy you.
If you need a VPN for a short while when traveling for example, you can get our top ranked VPN free of charge. NordVPN includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. You will need to pay for the subscription, that’s a fact, but it allows full access for 30 days and then you cancel for a full refund. Their no-questions-asked cancellation policy lives up to its name.
