Best free VPN services in 2024
With extensive analysis and hands-on VPN testing, our cybersecurity experts collaborated with the research team to craft 750+ articles over the years.
Using first-hand expertise, our main goal is to help our readers make the most informed purchasing decisions.
Learn more
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, safeguarding sensitive information and shielding your online activities from hackers, advertisers, and other prying eyes.
Most devices, including desktops, laptops, and mobile phones, don’t come with built-in VPNs capable of providing full protection. While operating systems may include basic privacy tools, they lack the advanced encryption and security features that third-party VPNs deliver.
Even free VPNs, despite some limitations like reduced speeds or data caps, are a significant step up from no protection at all. They provide a secure way to browse, making your internet activity more private and less vulnerable to interception. For anyone who values their online safety, a VPN is no longer a luxury but an essential tool in today’s connected world.
Best free VPNs without a subscription
Here’s a quick look at the best no-subscription VPNs for protecting privacy, accessing streaming, and browsing securely:
| Brand | Rating | Description |
| NordVPN | The best free-trial VPN offers excellent speeds, access to over 6900 server locations, and a strict no-logs policy. It’s perfect for unblocking streaming services like Netflix or Hulu and securing your online privacy with market-leading encryption. | |
| ProtonVPN | Known as a great free VPN service with unlimited data, it offers servers in key global locations and prioritizes privacy with a no-logs policy. While free users experience medium speeds, its security features are top-tier for protecting sensitive data. | |
| Hotspot Shield | A solid free VPN with fast speeds, access to servers in over 85 locations, and strong encryption. It’s ideal for streaming services and everyday browsing. However, the free plan includes ads and a limited server selection. | |
| Hide.me | An intuitive and user-friendly VPN service with access to servers in strategic locations and strong privacy protection. It allows multiple simultaneous connections and ensures reliable speeds, making it a strong choice for both beginners and advanced users. | |
| TunnelBear | This beginner-friendly VPN offers easy setup and solid privacy policies. Its free plan is limited to 1GB per month and a handful of server locations but is a great starting point for those exploring VPN services for online privacy or simple browsing needs. |
These free VPNs enhance your online security and provide access to global content without requiring a subscription. Despite some limits, like data caps or fewer servers, they offer key features like encryption, no-logs policies, and streaming access. Options like NordVPN’s free trial or ProtonVPN’s unlimited data ensure privacy and a better browsing experience at no cost.
Is there a good free VPN?
Free VPNs can be useful for basic online security and accessing restricted content, but they come with certain limitations. Here are some key insights into free VPNs and their capabilities:
- Limited performance. Free VPNs often have slower speeds, smaller server networks, and data caps, which can impact tasks like streaming Netflix or Hulu. However, they can still offer a basic level of security for everyday browsing.
- Safety concerns. Not all free VPNs are created equal. While reputable providers follow strict no-logs policies and ensure user privacy, others may collect and sell your data, compromising online security.
- Restricted streaming access. Many free VPNs struggle to unblock popular streaming platforms. This makes them less suitable for users looking for seamless streaming experiences.
While free VPNs serve as a decent starting point, they don’t match the performance or reliability of premium services. Premium VPNs offer faster speeds, broader server options, and advanced features like guaranteed access to streaming services. Many also provide free trials or money-back guarantees, letting you experience full functionality risk-free.
Ultimately, for a balance of performance, security, and versatility, opting for a premium VPN is the better choice.
Best free trial VPNs
Free trials offer a risk-free way to explore premium VPNs with trustworthy speeds, strong privacy, and streaming access, helping you find the best fit.
- NordVPN – free trial VPN that offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing access to premium features like excellent speeds and vast server locations
- Surfshark – provides unlimited simultaneous connections and top-notch security features with a 7-day free trial on mobile devices
- Norton VPN – comes with a 7-day free trial, offering strong encryption and access to servers worldwide
For a deeper dive into free trial VPNs and to explore more options, check out our full guide on the best VPNs of 2024.
How we tested free VPN services
Our VPN testing process focused on evaluating free VPNs to ensure they provide secure, reliable, and functional options for basic online privacy. Combining hands-on testing from a user’s perspective and in-depth technical analysis, we assessed how well these free VPNs performed against our criteria. Below is a breakdown of our methodology and insights.
I conducted most of the testing on my Lenovo T14S ThinkPad with Windows 11, while the research team used a mix of devices, including a MacBook Air and personal smartphones, to cover multiple platforms. We prioritized aspects critical to free VPN users:
- Privacy (20%). We reviewed privacy policies for strict no-logs compliance and checked for third-party audits to ensure user data stays private. This step was critical to verify claims of online privacy.
- Security (20%). Each VPN underwent tests for AES-256 encryption, modern tunneling protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2, and DNS leak protection. We also confirmed the presence of kill switches for added security.
- Bandwidth and connection speeds (20%). Using the Ookla Speed Test, we measured upload and download speeds. Particular attention was paid to speed limits or data caps, which can impact free VPN performance.
- Server availability (10%). We assessed the number of available servers and their locations, ensuring coverage in key countries like the US, the UK, and Canada for accessing global content.
- Use cases (10%). Compatibility with streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer was a priority. We also evaluated performance for gaming and torrenting.
- User reviews (5%). Ratings from platforms like the Apple App Store and Google Play provided insight into real-world experiences, including common issues like connection drops or excessive data collection.
- Device compatibility and multiple device usage (5%). We tested VPN apps on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux, checking for seamless performance across platforms and simultaneous connections on multiple devices.
- Premium features and services (5%). Free VPNs often limit features compared to premium plans. We noted these differences to help users understand what they’re getting.
- Personal experience (5%). Throughout testing, we documented our insights on usability, functionality, and any notable challenges or advantages.
This approach allowed us to identify the best free VPNs for casual use, balancing their limitations with the value they bring to users seeking enhanced online security without cost.
Best free VPNs – detailed list
If you’re looking to try premium VPNs without commitment, free trials offer the perfect way to explore advanced features like excellent speeds, online privacy, and streaming access.
My final list includes 5 VPNs with different strengths and weaknesses, making it easier for you to determine which one best suits you.
1. NordVPN – the best free trial VPN overall
| Server network: | 6900+ servers in 113 countries |
| Jurisdiction: | Panama (outside 14-Eyes) |
| Compatible with: | Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get 74% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
NordVPN is one of the top premium VPNs in 2024, offering market-leading speeds, online privacy protections, and a massive network of server locations. While free VPNs may work for basic needs, NordVPN stands out with its advanced security features, reliable performance, and versatility, making it a better choice for users looking for more than just minimal online protection.
Security and privacy – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption, follows a strict no-logs policy, and undergoes regular third-party audits, including the most recent assessments by Deloitte. It also provides advanced features like Double VPN, which encrypts data twice, Onion Over VPN for Tor compatibility, and Threat Protection Pro to block ads and malware.
Here’s the updated three-column comparison table:
| Feature | NordVPN | ProtonVPN | Hide.me |
| Encryption | AES-256 encryption | AES-256 encryption | AES-256 encryption |
| No-logs policy | ✅ Independently audited 4 times | ✅ Audited once | ❌ Not recently audited |
| Extra security tools | Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Threat Protection Pro | Limited tools | Split tunneling, Obfuscation |
| Bandwidth | Unlimited | Unlimited | 2GB/month |
| Server availability | 6900+ servers in 113 countries | Servers in 112+ countries | Servers in 91+ countries |
Bandwidth and connection speeds – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
NordVPN is among the fastest VPNs I’ve tested, retaining up to 90% of initial speeds on average. This ensures smooth browsing, streaming, and downloading, largely due to its proprietary NordLynx protocol, an optimized version of WireGuard.
In streaming tests, NordVPN effortlessly unblocked major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Max. I also tested it on devices without native VPN support, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles.
Using Smart DNS technology, I could easily access geo-restricted content by configuring the device to use NordVPN’s DNS address – bringing seamless streaming to otherwise unsupported devices.
| Metric | NordVPN | ProtonVPN | Hide.me |
| Speed retention | 90% | 85% | - |
| Bandwidth | Unlimited | Unlimited | 2GB/month |
Server availability – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
NordVPN offers access to over 6900 servers in 113 countries, ensuring smooth streaming, gaming, and torrenting experiences. In contrast, free VPNs usually have limited servers, resulting in overcrowding and slower speeds.
Use cases – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
NordVPN is tailored for all your digital needs:
- Streaming. Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, and more, with consistent high-quality streaming.
- Gaming. Low latency and high speeds ensure a smooth gaming experience.
- Torrenting. P2P servers offer secure and fast file sharing.
Device compatibility and multiple device usage – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
NordVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections across a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and even smart TVs. Free VPNs often restrict simultaneous connections or compatibility.
Premium features
NordVPN includes a range of advanced tools, such as a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and options for a dedicated IP address. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try it risk-free.
Free VPNs are a decent option for minimal online privacy and basic browsing, but they fall short in speed, server availability, and security. NordVPN, with its premium features, excellent speeds, and versatile use cases, provides a much more comprehensive experience. For anyone serious about protecting their online privacy and enjoying unrestricted internet access, NordVPN is worth the investment.
2. ProtonVPN – Best free VPN for unlimited data
| Server network: | 9200+ servers in 112 countries |
| Jurisdiction: | Switzerland (outside fourteen-Eyes) |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get up to 70% OFF ProtonVPN |
ProtonVPN is another amazing free VPN service in 2024, offering unlimited data, excellent online privacy protections, and strong security features. Unlike many free VPNs, ProtonVPN stands out by not imposing data caps, making it ideal for users who need a reliable VPN for basic browsing or occasional streaming without worrying about running out of bandwidth.
Bandwidth and connection speeds – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐
ProtonVPN offers unlimited bandwidth in its free plan, a rarity among free VPN services. During our tests using Ookla Speed Test, the VPN showed the best download and upload retention rates in Australia. In the UK, the US, and Canada, Proton VPN download and upload speeds were slower but never fell lower than 40%. While this is slower than premium VPNs like NordVPN, it’s sufficient for general browsing and light streaming.
Key insights:
- No data caps ensure consistent usage without interruptions
- Speeds may vary depending on server load, but the free plan maintains stable performance for most tasks
Privacy – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
ProtonVPN excels in online privacy, implementing AES-256 encryption and adhering to a strict no-logs policy. Based in Switzerland, a country known for strong privacy laws, it provides robust protection against data leaks and surveillance.
Privacy features include:
- DNS leak protection
- A kill switch to prevent accidental data exposure
- Secure Core servers for extra protection by routing traffic through privacy-friendly countries
Server availability – good ⭐⭐⭐
ProtonVPN’s free version provides access to servers in three countries: the US, the Netherlands, and Japan. While limited compared to its premium plan, these servers are strategically placed for decent coverage.
| Metric | Free Plan | Premium Plan |
| Server locations | 5 | 9200 |
| Countries | The Netherlands, Japan, Romania, Poland, and the US | Global |
Use cases – fair ⭐⭐
ProtonVPN’s free plan works for light streaming, but it doesn’t reliably unblock popular platforms like Netflix or Hulu. However, it performed better for secure browsing and light gaming.
- Streaming. Limited functionality. Some users reported difficulty accessing geo-restricted content
- Gaming. Low latency on US servers but occasional lag on distant locations
User reviews – good ⭐⭐⭐
ProtonVPN has a solid reputation on platforms like Trustpilot and Google Play. Users appreciate the unlimited data and strong privacy measures but often complain about slower speeds during peak times.
Key user insights:
- Positive feedback on privacy and ease of use
- Common issues: congested servers and limited locations
Device compatibility and multiple device usage – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The free plan supports all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. However, simultaneous connections are limited to one device, unlike the premium plan, which supports up to 10.
Premium features and services – fair ⭐⭐
ProtonVPN’s free plan lacks advanced features like Secure Core or Tor over VPN, which are exclusive to the premium tiers. These limitations make upgrading necessary for heavy users or those needing streaming support.
Personal experience – good ⭐⭐⭐
During testing, ProtonVPN impressed me with its unlimited data and straightforward interface. However, the limited server locations meant occasional slowdowns, particularly during peak usage. It’s a reliable free VPN for general tasks but feels restrictive for more demanding activities like streaming or gaming.
| Feature | Free plan details |
| Based in: | Switzerland |
| Unlimited data: | Yes |
| Is an account required? | Yes |
| Available protocols: | OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
ProtonVPN is an excellent free VPN that prioritizes unlimited data and robust privacy. However, it’s not ideal for heavy streaming or gaming. If you’re looking for a VPN with better speeds, more server locations, and advanced features, consider upgrading to its premium plan.
3. Hide.me – free VPN with great speeds
| Server network: | 2000+ servers in 91 countries |
| Jurisdiction: | Malaysia (outside fourteen-Eyes) |
| Compatible with: | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS |
| Current deal: | Now up to 77% OFF + 3 months FREE |
Hide.me offers a reliable free VPN experience, prioritizing privacy and functionality with decent speeds and multi-device compatibility. However, its free plan comes with constraints like limited server locations and minimal support for streaming or gaming.
Bandwidth and connection speeds – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hide.me provides unlimited bandwidth for free users but limits connection speeds compared to premium plans. During peak times or when servers are heavily loaded, free users may experience noticeable slowdowns.
While premium users enjoy unrestricted speeds, free users might encounter lags, especially during high-traffic periods. Despite this, for browsing or light tasks, speeds remain manageable.
Privacy – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One of Hide.me’s standout features is its commitment to privacy, ensuring that free users enjoy the same level of security as premium subscribers. Key features include:
- AES-256 encryption to protect your data
- A built-in kill switch to prevent IP leaks if the connection drops
- A strict no-logs policy, ensuring no data is tracked or stored
Hide.me is ad-free and has undergone independent audits to verify its privacy claims. Certifications like the VPN Trust Initiative Trust Seal further confirm its dedication to user privacy.
Server availability – good ⭐⭐⭐
Free users can access servers in eight countries, including the US, the UK, Germany, France, Canada, the Netherlands, Spain, and Singapore. While the specific server count isn’t disclosed, this coverage is sufficient for bypassing many geo-restrictions.
However, free users may struggle with server congestion, which can impact performance. For comparison, premium users gain access to 2000+ servers across 91 countries, offering far greater flexibility.
Use cases – fair ⭐⭐
Unfortunately, Hide.me is pretty limited in gaming, streaming, or torrenting. You can use the provider’s free version for gaming, but you might experience lag or slower speeds compared to premium users, especially if you’re connected to a distant server. Hide.me’s performance will vary depending on the server load and geographical distance.
Streaming and torrenting are not supported on Hide.me’s free version. Streaming is only available with paid subscription plans and the free servers typically fail to unblock popular streaming platforms such as Netflix or Disney+. The same goes for torrenting as it’s only available with the premium plan.
Device compatibility – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hide.me works on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. The app’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to set up on any device. However, free users are limited to one simultaneous connection, while premium subscribers can connect up to 10 devices.
Premium features and services – good ⭐⭐⭐
The free plan lacks advanced features like split tunneling, unlimited speeds, and streaming support. Upgrading to the premium version unlocks:
- Streaming capabilities
- Unlimited speeds
- Access to all servers
- Up to 10 device connections
| Feature | Free plan details |
| Based in: | Malaysia |
| Unlimited data: | Yes |
| Is an account required? | No |
| Available protocols: | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard |
Personal experience – good ⭐⭐⭐
I found Hide.me easy to use, especially for basic browsing and secure transactions. However, its limitations became evident during streaming tests, as it couldn’t unblock Netflix or Hulu. Speeds were reliable for casual use, but gaming performance suffered when connected to distant servers.
Hide.me VPN is a reliable free option for users prioritizing privacy and basic internet security. While its encryption and no-logs policy make it an excellent choice for safeguarding online activities, its limitations in streaming, gaming, and server variety may push power users toward a premium plan. For those seeking better speeds and features, upgrading is worth considering.
4. Hotspot Shield – free VPN for mobile devices
| Server network: | 3200+ servers in 85 countries |
| Jurisdiction: | United States (part of the Five Eyes Alliance) |
| Compatible with: | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and Chrome |
| Current deal: | Now up to 77% OFF! |
Hotspot Shield is a solid free VPN option for casual users in 2024. While it doesn’t match the unlimited bandwidth or server diversity of ProtonVPN, it still provides decent speeds, robust encryption, and a simple interface. Best suited for light browsing, it has notable limitations for streaming or torrenting.
Bandwidth and connection speeds – fair ⭐⭐
Hotspot Shield offers free users 500MB of data daily, equating to 15GB per month. This is fine for occasional browsing but insufficient for data-heavy activities like streaming or downloading. Speeds retain around 74% of the original baseline, as measured using Ookla Speed Test. However, free users may experience slower speeds due to server congestion, especially during peak hours.
Privacy – good ⭐⭐⭐
Hotspot Shield uses its proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol combined with AES-128 encryption, ensuring adequate online security. While not as strong as the AES-256 standard used by ProtonVPN, it effectively protects user data and maintains a strict no-logs policy. Transparency Reports further demonstrate the provider’s commitment to online privacy. However, the ad-supported free version might slightly impact user anonymity.
Server availability – poor ⭐
The free plan restricts users to one server in the US. This limited access can result in congestion and inconsistent connection quality. Additionally, the lack of global server options means users cannot bypass geo-restrictions effectively or access diverse server locations.
Use cases – fair ⭐⭐
Hotspot Shield's free plan is not suitable for streaming, gaming, or torrenting due to its 2Mbps speed cap and 500MB daily data limit. While streaming is technically allowed, the single US server struggles to bypass geo-restrictions, and lag is common. Torrenting is outright unavailable for free users, limiting the VPN’s versatility.
User reviews – good ⭐⭐⭐
Users frequently praise Hotspot Shield for its intuitive interface and stable connections for light browsing. However, they often note dissatisfaction with the data cap and limitations on server access. Many reviews highlight its simplicity but advise upgrading to premium for more robust features.
Device compatibility and multiple device usage – good ⭐⭐⭐
Hotspot Shield supports most major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, but it lacks Linux compatibility. Free users can only connect one device at a time, which can be limiting compared to premium VPNs that allow multiple simultaneous connections.
Premium features and services – fair ⭐⭐
Hotspot Shield’s free plan lacks many premium features, such as streaming-optimized servers, malware protection, and unlimited speeds. The premium plan significantly enhances the experience by removing restrictions and offering better performance.
| Feature | Details |
| Based in: | United States |
| Unlimited data: | No |
| Is an account required? | Yes |
| Available protocols: | Catapult Hydra, AES-128 |
Personal experience – good ⭐⭐⭐
Using Hotspot Shield for casual browsing was smooth, with no major interruptions. However, the daily data cap became a noticeable barrier during testing. The single US server also made bypassing geo-restrictions a challenge. It’s a decent choice for light online activities but falls short for anyone needing a more versatile VPN solution.
5. TunnelBear – free VPN service with great security features
| Server network: | 5000+ servers in 48 countries |
| Jurisdiction: | Canada (part of the Five Eyes Alliance) |
| Compatible with: | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and Chrome |
| Current deal: | Now up to 67% OFF! |
TunnelBear stands out as a beginner-friendly free VPN service in 2024, offering servers in 48 countries and excellent privacy features. However, it’s held back by its strict 2GB monthly data limit and slower speeds for free users. Here's a closer look at its performance and features.
Bandwidth and connection speeds – fair ⭐⭐
TunnelBear’s free plan caps bandwidth at 2GB per month, making it suitable only for casual browsing or light use. Unlike ProtonVPN and Hide.me, TunnelBear does not offer unlimited bandwidth for free users. Speed is also limited due to fewer server options, with premium plans providing faster, city-specific servers.While free users can optimize speeds by connecting to the nearest server, this can be inconvenient if bypassing geo-restrictions is a priority.
Privacy – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐
TunnelBear’s free plan provides the same robust privacy features as its premium version. These include:
- Kill switch (VigilantBear) – protects your data during connection drops
- Obfuscation (GhostBear) – helps bypass censorship and prevents detection by ISPs
- Split tunneling (SplitBear) – lets users control which apps route through the VPN
TunnelBear uses AES-256 encryption for secure data protection. While based in Canada (a member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance), TunnelBear adheres to a strict no-logs policy. However, its last transparency report was published in 2020, which may concern privacy-focused users.
Server availability – good ⭐⭐⭐
TunnelBear offers free access to servers in 20 countries, more than many free VPNs. These locations include the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Japan. Premium users benefit from additional high-speed servers, but free users still have decent access to bypass basic geo-restrictions. However, heavy server loads may impact performance.
Use cases – fair ⭐⭐
TunnelBear’s free version is adequate for light streaming or gaming, but its 2GB monthly data cap limits usability.
- Streaming. While it works on some platforms, the data limit makes it impractical for extended streaming
- Gaming. Local servers provide stable connections, but the data cap hampers long sessions
- Torrenting. Only available with premium plans, leaving free users out
User reviews – good ⭐⭐⭐
TunnelBear is often praised for its beginner-friendly interface and playful design. However, users frequently cite the data cap and slower speeds as drawbacks. Reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and app stores highlight ease of use but note frustrations with the limited functionality of the free plan.
Device compatibility and multiple device usage – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐
TunnelBear supports all major platforms, including macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux. Browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox are also available. However, free users are restricted to one device connection at a time, making it less convenient for households with multiple devices.
Premium features and services – fair ⭐⭐
While free users enjoy strong privacy features, the premium plan unlocks additional perks:
- Unlimited data and faster speeds
- Access to premium servers and city-level selection
- Support for multiple simultaneous connections
These features make the paid version a much better choice for more demanding tasks.
| Feature | Details |
| Based in: | Canada |
| Unlimited data: | No |
| Is an account required? | Yes |
| Available protocols: | AES-256, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
Personal experience – good ⭐⭐⭐
Using TunnelBear’s free version was straightforward and smooth for basic tasks. I appreciated its whimsical interface and robust security features, like the kill switch and split tunneling. However, the 2GB data limit quickly became a hurdle, especially when streaming or gaming. It’s ideal for occasional use but not viable for intensive tasks.
Is it safe to use a free VPN?
Yes and no. Using a free VPN can protect your internet activity in some cases, but there are risks and limitations you should know. Not all free VPN providers offer the same level of security as paid options, and some may compromise your privacy.
Some free VPNs track your internet usage, including the websites you visit or the data you share. This information is often sold to advertisers to cover costs. However, free VPNs like ProtonVPN or Hide.me have strict no-logs policies and won’t track your activity. It’s important to check a provider’s privacy policy before using their app.
Trusted free VPNs use encryption to protect your data and keep your internet activity private. However, some free apps use outdated security or even include malware. Research the provider to ensure it has good reviews and a history of protecting user data.
How does a free VPN compare to a paid VPN?
Free VPNs can be useful, but they often have limits:
- Servers. Free VPNs usually have fewer servers, making connections slower or less stable. Paid services offer many servers worldwide for better speeds and reliability.
- Data limits. Most free VPNs cap data usage, making them unsuitable for streaming or gaming. Paid VPNs offer unlimited data.
- Devices. Free VPNs typically allow only one device per account. Paid VPNs let you connect multiple devices at the same time.
- Features. Paid VPNs come with extras like ad blockers, malware protection, and servers optimized for streaming or gaming – free VPNs rarely include these.
A free VPN is fine for light browsing or securing one device, but it’s not the best choice for streaming, gaming, or heavy internet use. Paid VPNs offer better security, more servers, and no data caps, making them a safer and more reliable option. Always choose a provider with strong encryption and a no-logs policy to keep your data safe.
Free VPNs to avoid
While free VPNs may seem appealing, many come with significant risks to your online privacy and security. Some have been involved in scandals, data breaches, or unethical practices. Below are examples of free VPNs to avoid, along with the reasons why:
1. Hola VPN
Hola VPN operates as a peer-to-peer network, meaning your internet connection can be used by other users, which could expose you to legal or security risks. In 2015, it was discovered that Hola sold its users' bandwidth to a botnet without their knowledge, raising serious ethical and privacy concerns.
2. SuperVPN
SuperVPN has been flagged for severe security vulnerabilities. Researchers found that its app lacked proper encryption, exposing user data to potential hackers. Additionally, its privacy policy allows for extensive logging, directly undermining online privacy.
3. Turbo VPN
Turbo VPN has a history of privacy violations, including selling user data to advertisers. Its privacy policy lacks transparency, and the app has been accused of injecting ads into user devices, which undermines trust in the service.
Many free VPNs keep logs of your online activity, such as your browsing history, IP address, and even the devices you use. This data is often sold to advertisers or third parties as a way for the provider to generate revenue, which is a common business model for free services.
Additionally, some free VPNs inject ads into their apps or offer limited functionality to encourage users to upgrade to a paid version. However, the risks of using unverified free VPNs are significant. These include weak encryption or none at all, leaving your internet traffic vulnerable to hackers and surveillance.
Some free VPNs have also been found to contain malware or use your device as part of a larger network without your consent. To protect your privacy and security, it’s crucial to research a VPN's reputation and policies before using it.
Even though I appreciate the full set of features on paid VPNs, I find certain free VPN services just as good. In my opinion, while it largely depends on the provider, you can definitely find some trustworthy options, such as ProtonVPN. If you’re still skeptical, I would advise choosing a top provider and going for the free trial. I suggest opting for NordVPN – a renowned VPN provider that offers a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. This way, you can try the service risk-free and assess whether you like what NordVPN offers its users.
Video review: free VPNs
Check out the Cybernews YouTube channel to see the best free VPNs in action and dive deeper into their features.
Conclusion
Free VPNs are a decent option for casual users who need basic online privacy and security. They provide essential protection but often come with limitations like data caps, slower speeds, and restricted server access, which can balk more demanding tasks like streaming or gaming.
For those looking for a seamless experience, NordVPN stands out as the superior choice. It offers faster speeds, thousands of servers worldwide, and advanced features like Threat Protection and SmartPlay for smooth streaming and robust online security. NordVPN also ensures top-notch privacy with a strict no-logs policy and reliable encryption.
While free VPNs are a helpful introduction, NordVPN provides the premium experience you need for reliable privacy, unrestricted access, and worry-free internet use. If online safety and performance matter to you, NordVPN is the smarter investment.
FAQ
Do free VPNs actually work?
Yes, free VPNs can work for basic tasks like browsing and securing your connection, but they often have limitations like slower speeds, data caps, and fewer servers.
What are the best free VPNs without ads?
ProtonVPN and Hide.me are excellent ad-free VPN options that prioritize user privacy.
Which free VPNs do not require registration?
Hide.me allows you to use free services without registering an account.
What is the fastest free VPN available?
NordVPN and ProtonVPN are often considered the fastest free VPNs due to their unlimited bandwidth and efficient server network.
Can I use a free VPN for streaming Netflix or Hulu?
Yes, but free VPNs that stream Netflix and Hulu successfully are rare. Some free VPNs like ProtonVPN may work for streaming. However, limitations like data caps make them impractical for consistent streaming.
Which free VPN offers the fastest speeds?
ProtonVPN offers fast speeds for a free VPN, with no data caps affecting its performance.
Can I use a free VPN for torrenting safely?
Most free VPNs don’t support torrenting, and those that do may lack the speed, security, or privacy necessary for safe P2P sharing.
Are there any truly free VPNs without data limits?
Yes, ProtonVPN provides unlimited data on its free plan, making it a unique choice among free VPNs.
How do free VPN services make money if they don’t charge users?
Free VPNs often make money by displaying ads, offering premium subscriptions, or, in some cases, selling user data to third parties.
Do free VPNs keep logs of my online activity?
Yes, some free VPNs keep logs. Reputable providers like NordVPN and ProtonVPN have strict no-logs policies, but unverified free VPNs may log and sell your data.
Comments
ProtonVPN is a good choice!
As for Kaspersky VPN, it's part of the Kaspersky Internet Security and Kaspersky Total Security suites, so it's not free and doesn't have a free version. It also has fewer server locations than ProtonVPN. Besides, Kaspersky has been involved in some scandals - you can read more about it in our Kaspersky antivirus review: https://cybernews.com/best-antivirus-software/kaspersky-antivirus-review/
We hope this helps!
I tried several vpn. I checked the network info on the taskbar for each. For some, the vpn connection flag is active and the original ISP is not active (hide.me). For others, it indicates both as active (Protonvpn). I ask, does this affect encryption or not? Is this a mistake or not? The leak test shows no flow anywhere.
Another question: is vpn software enough or vpn router is important for encryption? The ISP router not secure?
Thanks
As for your second question – no, you don’t need to set up your VPN on your router for extra encryption. You can do this only if you want to cover a wider range of devices. In other words, using VPN software is enough to stay safe.
Just looking to read more about this topic.
Do any vpn can be used directly into a router ?
I read it would hide netbios devices connected to router from your isp.
Is it so ?
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are markedmarked