Best free VPN for Windows

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, creates a secure connection from your device to another network over the Internet. It encrypts data, masks your IP address, and routes your traffic through a private server, enhancing privacy and security.
When you connect to a VPN, it creates a secure, encrypted tunnel to a VPN server, making your online activities private. This encryption means that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be read without the encryption key. Your IP address is replaced with the IP of the VPN server, making it appear that your traffic is coming from the server's location, not yours.

VPNs provide privacy by hiding your IP address and encrypting your traffic, making it difficult for ISPs and others to monitor your activities. They secure connections on public Wi-Fi, protect sensitive data, and allow access to geo-restricted content by masking your location. In regions with Internet censorship, VPNs help users access blocked websites and services.

Benefits of using VPNs on Windows

• Enhanced privacy and security
  Using a VPN on Windows significantly enhances your online privacy and security. By encrypting your Internet traffic, a VPN ensures that your data remains confidential and protected from prying eyes, such as hackers, ISPs, and government agencies. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often targeted by cybercriminals.

• Access to geo-restricted content
  A VPN allows you to bypass geographic restrictions and access content that may not be available in your region. By connecting to servers in different countries, you can enjoy streaming services, websites, and online content that might otherwise be blocked or restricted based on your location.

• Anonymity and data protection
  VPNs mask your real IP address and replace it with the IP address of the VPN server you are connecting to. This helps you remain anonymous online, making it harder for websites, advertisers, and third parties to track your online activities. It also protects your personal information from being collected and misused.

• Improved network performance
  Some VPNs can improve your Internet speed and performance by preventing bandwidth throttling by ISPs. ISPs often slow down your Internet connection when they detect high data usage, such as streaming or gaming. A VPN can help maintain consistent speeds by encrypting your traffic and preventing ISPs from monitoring your data usage.

• Protection against cyber threats
  VPNs may provide an extra layer of protection against various cyber threats, such as malware, phishing attacks, and other malicious activity. Many VPN services include built-in security features such as malware blocking, ad blocking, and anti-phishing to help protect your Windows device from online threats.

• Bypassing censorship
  In regions with strict Internet censorship, a VPN can help you bypass government-imposed restrictions and access a free and open Internet. By connecting to VPN servers located in countries with more lenient Internet regulations, you can access blocked websites, social media platforms, and other online services.

How to choose the best free VPN for Windows

Free VPNs can pose significant risks due to their potential to compromise user privacy and security. Many free VPNs generate revenue by collecting and selling user data to third parties, leading to serious privacy violations. In addition, free VPNs often lack robust security measures, leaving users vulnerable to cyber threats such as malware, phishing, and data breaches. In extreme cases, they may even put your Windows laptop or PC at risk of becoming a part of a botnet and being used for cyberattacks and other illegal activities without your knowledge.

Choosing free plans of reputable VPN brands is a safer choice because these companies are more likely to adhere to strict privacy policies and invest in comprehensive security features. Reputable brands are also more transparent about their data practices and subject to greater scrutiny, ensuring a higher level of trust and reliability.

When choosing the best free VPN for Windows, it's important to consider several key criteria to ensure you get an application that meets your needs and provides reliable performance. Here are the factors to consider:

• Security features
  Look for free VPNs for Windows that offer robust security features such as strong encryption protocols like AES-256, a Kill Switch, and DNS leak protection. These features help protect your data and ensure your privacy while you browse the Internet.

• Server network
  A diverse server network provides greater flexibility, access to geo-restricted content and high connection speed. Consider the number of servers and their geographic locations to ensure the VPN can effectively bypass restrictions.

• Speed and performance
  Free VPNs for Windows can affect your Internet speed and overall performance. It's important to choose a service that offers fast and reliable connections. Look for VPNs with high-speed servers and minimal latency to ensure a smooth browsing and streaming experience.

• User interface
  A user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate and configure VPN settings on your Windows device. Choose free VPNs with intuitive applications and simple setup processes to streamline your user experience.

• Customer support
  Reliable customer support is essential for troubleshooting and resolving issues quickly. Choose VPN providers that offer responsive customer support channels such as live chat, email support, and extensive online resources.

• Privacy policy
  Carefully review the VPN provider’s privacy policy to understand how they handle user data and logging practices. Choose the best free VPN for Windows with strict no-logging policies that prioritize user privacy and transparency.

Top 9 best VPNs for Windows

Choosing the best free VPN for Windows involves evaluating several factors such as security, speed, ease of use, and additional features. Here's a detailed look at the top 10 VPNs for Windows, including their pros and cons:

AdGuard VPN

The free version of AdGuard VPN provides essential features, allowing users to select DNS servers for better security and ad blocking. AdGuard maintains a strict no-logs policy, offers a user-friendly interface, and includes a Kill Switch for privacy protection. In addition, the service supports the QUIC protocol for improved connection quality.

Pros

• No-logs policy: the service maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning that it does not record any of your online activity
• Kill Switch: this feature ensures that your data remains secure by automatically disconnecting you from the Internet if the VPN connection is lost
• High-speed connection: the QUIC protocol provides faster and more reliable connections, especially on mobile and public networks
• Custom DNS server selection: a custom DNS server provides maximum configuration flexibility, ensuring a safer and more secure browsing experience

Cons

• Limited number of servers: AdGuard VPN has a relatively limited number of server locations, offering over 65, which is less than some of its competitors

Surfshark

Surfshark is a VPN known for its robust security features, easy-to-use interface, unlimited device connections, and advanced encryption protocols. While Surfshark does not offer a free plan, it provides a 7-day free trial.

Pros

• No-logs policy: Surfshark strictly adheres to a no-logging policy, ensuring that your online activities are not tracked or stored
• Unlimited device connectivity: you can use Surfshark on an unlimited number of devices at the same time, unlike many competitors
• Bypasses geographic restrictions: Surfshark effectively bypasses geographic restrictions and provides access to a wide range of streaming services and websites worldwide
• Enhanced encryption and protocols: using AES-256 encryption and secure data transfer protocols, Surfshark provides strong protection for online data
• Automatic Kill Switch: the Kill Switch feature automatically disables Internet access to prevent data leakage if the VPN connection fails
• Malware blocking: Surfshark's CleanWeb feature effectively blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts

Cons

• No free plan: the lack of a free plan may be a drawback for users looking for a completely free VPN solution
• Limited P2P support: not all Surfshark servers are optimized for P2P file sharing
• Connection speed: connection speeds may be less than optimal, especially when connecting to servers far from the user’s current location

Windscribe

Windscribe VPN offers a complete solution for online privacy and security, with both free and paid plans. With a generous free plan that includes 10GB of monthly data and strong encryption features, Windscribe ensures a secure browsing experience on your Windows device.

Pros

• Data allowance: Windscribe offers 10GB of data per month in its free plan
• Enhanced ad and tracker blocking: the built-in R.O.B.E.R.T. feature protects users from unwanted ads, trackers, and malicious software
• Streaming support: even with the free plan, Windscribe can bypass geographic restrictions on select streaming services, allowing access to blocked content
• No-logging policy: Windscribe is committed to protecting user privacy by not storing connection logs or browsing history
• User-friendly interface: Windscribe’s VPN for Windows features an intuitive interface that makes installation and configuration quick and easy
• Cross-platform compatibility: Windscribe supports multiple platforms, allowing users to use one account across all devices at no additional cost

Cons

• Limited server selection in free plan: free users have access to a limited number of servers, which may result in decreased connection speeds
• Feature restrictions: some advanced features, such as unblocking certain streaming services, may be limited or unavailable in the free plan

Planet VPN

Planet VPN for Windows emphasizes user privacy and security while providing a seamless online experience. This VPN service offers a variety of features designed to enhance online privacy, protect personal data, and provide unrestricted access to global content.

Pros

• Free plan: Planet VPN offers a free plan with essential features, making it accessible to users looking for free VPN services
• Kill Switch: if your VPN connection is lost, the app blocks all your traffic to prevent unencrypted traffic from your Windows PC or laptop
• No-logs policy: Planet VPN maintains to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your online activities are not tracked or stored
• Unlimited bandwidth: Planet VPN provides unlimited bandwidth, allowing you to browse, stream, and download without worrying about data limits
• User-friendly interface: Planet VPN's intuitive interface makes installation and configuration easy

Cons

• Limited location options in the free plan: the free plan only offers access to five locations, which is fewer compared to some other VPN services
• Geo-restriction circumventing capabilities: the app is not able to unblock some streaming services like ESPN+, Amazon Prime Video, ITV, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer

Betternet

Betternet is a VPN service that focuses on simplicity and ease of use. With its intuitive app, Betternet provides straightforward protection for your online activities.

Pros

• User-friendly interface: Betternet offers easy activation with a single tap, eliminating the need for account creation or complex setups
• Automatic server selection: the app automatically selects the best server based on your location, ensuring optimal speed and reliable connectivity
• Data encryption: Betternet uses AES-256 encryption to safeguard user data from third-party interception

Cons

• Ads: the free version of Betternet includes ads
• Limited transparency: Betternet's privacy policy and data logging practices lack sufficient transparency
• Limited features and settings: Betternet offers fewer features and settings compared to free plans of some other VPNs
• Unstable connection: some users may experience occasional connection speeds drops

Hide.me

Hide.me is a VPN service that prioritizes privacy, setting itself apart from competitors. Its free package provides users with access to five server locations.

Pros

• No-logging policy: Hide.me follows a strict no-logging policy, ensuring that user activity and connection logs are not stored
• Secure encryption: Hide.me uses AES-256 encryption to enhance data protection against interception
• User-friendly interface: Hide.me has an intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate
• Stability with unreliable connections: the app supports the IKEv2 protocol, ensuring stable data encryption even on unstable connections

Cons

• Limited server options in the free plan: the free plan only provides access to five servers, which may impact speed in certain regions
• Limited connection: the free plan allows only one connected device at a time

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is a VPN app with a free plan for Windows known for its strong emphasis on privacy and security. Developed by the team behind ProtonMail, it offers comprehensive features with no data usage limits, setting it apart from the competition.

Pros

• Unlimited traffic: unlike many other free VPN services, ProtonVPN removes data usage limits, providing users with unlimited internet access at no extra cost
• No-logs policy: ProtonVPN ensures that user activity within the network is neither monitored nor recorded
• Strong encryption: ProtonVPN employs advanced AES-256 encryption, guaranteeing a high level of security for data transmission
• DNS leak protection: the VPN includes DNS leak protection, keeping users' IP addresses secure even if the VPN connection drops
• Secure protocol: the app uses its own VPN protocol, ensuring fast and secure connections
• Swiss jurisdiction: based in Switzerland, ProtonVPN benefits from strict data protection laws, offering users enhanced protection

Cons

• Limited locations: the free plan provides access to servers only in 5 countries, which may result in slower connection speeds
• Device limitation: free users can only connect one device at a time. Multi-device connections available only in paid plans
• Access restrictions: the free plan may limit access to certain high-speed servers or streaming services like Netflix

Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is a VPN service, boasting more than 800 servers.

Pros

• User-friendly interface: Hotspot Shield VPN features a sleek and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to connect to a VPN server and customize their settings
• Large server network: with a vast network of servers in many countries, Hotspot Shield allows users to bypass geo-restrictions and access region-locked content from virtually anywhere
• No-logs policy: Hotspot Shield does not log personal information or track individual user activity on the network
• Privacy: Hotspot Shield uses AES-256 encryption to protect user data from interception and unauthorized monitoring

Cons

• Ads: the free plan of Hotspot Shield includes ads
• Limited server locations: the free plan provides access to a limited number of server locations compared to the paid version
• Restrictions: the free plan restricts access to popular streaming and gaming platforms and limits usage to a single device
• Connection issues: users may occasionally experience connection problems, such as slow speeds or difficulties when connecting to servers

TunnelBear

TunnelBear VPN is an app designed for Windows users looking to enhance their online security and privacy.

Pros

• User-friendly interface: TunnelBear VPN features an intuitive and easy-to-use interface that is accessible to users of all technical levels. Its simple design allows you to connect to a VPN server with just a few clicks, ensuring a hassle-free experience
• Strong encryption: TunnelBear VPN uses strong encryption protocols, including AES-256-bit encryption, to secure Internet traffic and protect data from prying eyes. This ensures that users can browse the Internet with confidence, knowing that their online activities are private and secure
• No-logs policy: TunnelBear VPN adheres to a strict no-logging policy, meaning it does not track, store, or share users' browsing data or personal information. This commitment to privacy enhances user confidence and ensures their online activities remain private
• Extensive server network: TunnelBear VPN has a diverse server network with servers in multiple countries worldwide. This allows users to bypass geo-restrictions and access regionally restricted content, providing greater flexibility and access to various online resources

Cons

• Limited free plan: while TunnelBear VPN offers a free plan, it has limitations, such as a 2GB monthly data cap. This may not be enough for users with high data needs, who will need to upgrade to a paid plan for unlimited data
• Connection issues: some users have reported occasional connection drops or problems with TunnelBear VPN. While these incidents are rare, they can be frustrating for those who require a stable and consistent VPN connection

Advantages of paid VPNs on Windows over free ones

Privacy

Free VPNs for Windows often monetize their service by collecting user data and selling it to third parties, which compromises your privacy and security. Paid VPNs prioritize user privacy and refrain from such practices, making them a better choice for protecting your online privacy. Choosing a paid VPN ensures that your sensitive information remains secure and inaccessible to unauthorized parties.

Advanced security features

Paid VPNs typically offer advanced security features that are not available in free plans. These include stronger encryption protocols, secure VPN protocols, and additional security measures such as Kill Switches and malware protection. With paid VPNs, Windows users can enjoy enhanced security and privacy for a safer online experience.

Faster connection speeds

Paid VPNs often allocate more resources to maintaining their servers, resulting in faster connection speeds compared to free VPNs for Windows. This is particularly important for activities such as streaming, gaming, and downloading large files, where speed is crucial for a seamless experience.

Larger server network

Paid VPN services typically have a larger and more diverse network of servers than free VPNs. This means Windows users have access to more server locations around the world, allowing them to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions with ease.

Reliable customer support

Paid VPN providers typically offer dedicated customer support, including live chat, email support, and extensive online resources. This ensures that Windows users can get help quickly if they encounter problems or have questions about the service.

No data caps or bandwidth limits

Unlike many free VPNs for Windows that impose data caps or bandwidth limitations, paid VPNs often offer unlimited data usage. This allows Windows users to browse, stream, and download without worrying about hitting their data limit or experiencing throttled speeds.

Ad-free experience

Free VPNs for Windows often rely on advertisements to generate revenue, which can be intrusive and detract from the user experience. Paid VPNs, on the other hand, offer an ad-free experience, allowing Windows users to enjoy uninterrupted browsing and streaming sessions.

Access to premium features

Paid VPN services typically include premium features such as dedicated IP addresses, dedicated servers for streaming or gaming, and advanced customization options. These features are typically not available with free VPNs for Windows and can significantly improve the overall user experience on Windows devices.

Advantages of AdGuard VPN unlimited version compared to the free one

• Unrestricted speed: the paid version of AdGuard VPN provides unlimited speed, unlike the free version, which is limited to 20 Mbps
• Larger server network: paid users have access to over 65 servers worldwide, while the free version is limited to 10 locations
• Unlimited data usage: the paid version offers unlimited traffic, while the free version limits usage to 3 GB per month
• More device connections: the paid version supports simultaneous connections to up to 10 devices, while the free version supports only two devices

FAQ

1. What is a VPN and why do I need one on my Windows device?

A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your Internet connection so that your online activities remain private and secure. It's important for Windows users to protect themselves from potential cyber threats, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks.

2. Are free VPNs safe to use on Windows?

It's important to choose a reputable VPN provider with a clear privacy policy and strong encryption to keep your Windows device safe. Be wary of free VPNs that may compromise your privacy or security.

3. What features should I look for in the best free VPN for Windows?

Look for VPNs with features such as AES-256 encryption, Kill Switch, DNS leak protection, and a wide range of server locations. Compatibility with Windows operating systems and user-friendly apps are also essential considerations.

4. Do free VPNs for Windows slow down Internet speed?

Free VPNs may impose speed limits or have congested servers, leading to slower connection speeds. Choose VPNs with optimized server networks to minimize latency and ensure faster performance.

5. Can I access geo-restricted content with a free VPN for Windows?

Yes, many free VPNs for Windows allow you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from anywhere in the world. However, some may have limited server locations, which may affect your ability to access certain websites or streaming platforms.

6. How many devices can I connect with a free VPN for Windows?

The number of simultaneous connections varies among free VPN providers. Some allow multiple device connections, while others may limit use to a single device. Check your provider's terms and conditions to determine the number of devices allowed.

7. Paid VPN or free one? Which VPN should I choose?

The choice between a free and a paid VPN depends on your needs. Free VPNs for Windows are suitable for basic privacy needs but come with limitations. Paid VPNs offer more features and enhanced security. Make a decision based on your usage requirements and budget.