Best VPNs for Chromebook in 2024
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Public Wi-Fi networks at schools can be risky, and some institutions might block access to certain websites. A VPN can be your key to unlocking a more secure and unrestricted online world. A VPN on your Chromebook will encrypt the internet traffic, making it invisible to your school's network administrators and keeping your browsing activity private.
But not all VPNs are created equal, especially when it comes to Chromebook compatibility. Our team of experts and I have meticulously tested and analyzed 41 VPN services, dedicating over 2400 hours to bring you the best options. We've considered factors like security, speed, user-friendliness, and compatibility with Chrome OS to provide you with a curated list of the 5 best VPNs for Chromebook.
5 best VPNs for Chromebook
- NordVPN – best VPN for Chromebook overall
- Surfshark – excellent Chromebook VPN with unlimited connections
- IPVanish – versatile and effective Chromebook VPN
- ExpressVPN – privacy-centered Chromebook VPN
- Proton VPN – best free VPN for Chromebook
What should you know before buying a VPN for Chromebook?
Before purchasing a VPN, there are some things you should know about your Chromebook's capabilities. Many modern Chromebooks released after 2017 support Android apps which allows you to install VPN apps directly from the Google Play Store. This is the most convenient way to use a VPN on your Chromebook.
But if your Chromebook doesn't support Android apps, you have two alternatives:
- Chrome browser extensions. While convenient, browser extensions only encrypt your traffic within the specific browser you're using. They don't protect other apps or system traffic.
- Manual VPN configuration. This method requires some technical expertise and involves configuring the VPN using protocols like L2TP/IPsec or OpenVPN. While it offers more comprehensive protection, it can be complex if you’re not tech-savvy.
If you're using a school-issued Chromebook, you might encounter restrictions that stop you from installing apps or extensions. In such cases, manual VPN configuration is your only option. Fortunately, high-class VPN providers offer detailed instructions for setting up VPNs on Chromebooks, including those with school-imposed limits.
Also, while free VPNs may seem appealing, they often come with drawbacks. Free VPNs may have slower speeds, limited server locations, and data caps. More importantly, some free VPNs have been known to sell user data to third-party advertisers or even engage in malicious activities.
We spare no effort to test the products & their features. All information is gathered by our in-house research team & fact-checked by our team of experts. Discover the ins and outs of our testing procedures.
The best VPNs for Chromebook in 2024 – detailed list
One of the main metrics I used to select potential VPNs for Chromebook is Google Play Store compatibility because ChromeOS is integrated with the app store for the user’s convenience and software variety. In total, together with the research team, I evaluated 41 services before uncovering the 5 best VPN providers for Chromebook devices.
1. NordVPN – best VPN for Chromebook in 2024
| Google Play Store rating: | 4.6 |
| Servers/countries: | 6900+ servers in 111 countries |
| Compatibility: | ChromeOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get 74% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
NordVPN is the best VPN for Chromebook due to its exceptional performance in all the categories I tested. It is the top choice for anyone looking for the most reliable and effective VPN at a reasonable price. With a strong 4.6 rating on the Google Play Store and 963K reviews, it is a top choice for reliability and effectiveness.
Security and privacy. NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been verified by independent auditors multiple times. Based in Panama, it isn’t subject to data retention laws. Its unique Threat Protection feature blocks ads, trackers, and scans downloaded files for malware. It also offers two kill switches and a Dark Web Monitor to alert you if your data is compromised.
Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. This VPN boasts an impressive 6900 server network across 111 countries. It’s worth mentioning that the service expanded its country selection fairly recently to compete with other providers like Surfshark and ExpressVPN.
Besides regular options, NordVPN customers can choose specialized servers, such as Double VPN, Onion over VPN, obfuscated, and P2P. Crucially, the entire fleet utilizes RAM-only hardware to delete any information whenever the servers are restarted or unplugged. Other VPN services with this excellent perk include Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost.
During NordVPN tests, the VPN showed outstanding results. It worked with the majority of popular Netflix libraries I evaluated (US, UK, Canada, Japan) and other streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Max, and Hulu.
Performance. According to our tests, NordVPN is the fastest VPN in 2024. Using its in-house NordLynx protocol, the service easily maintains an impressive 90% speed retention rate, the most significant among the tested Chromebook VPNs. Meanwhile, other providers usually rely on the WireGuard tunneling protocol, which is the foundation upon which NordLynx is built.
How to use NordVPN on Chromebook. If app installation is blocked, manually configure NordVPN using OpenVPN. Get configuration files from NordVPN support. Import these files into your Chromebook's OpenVPN client or use a third-party client. Configure the VPN with server addresses, port numbers, and authentication credentials. Connect to the desired server to establish a secure connection. Refer to NordVPN's documentation or support for detailed instructions.
Pricing. Starting at just $2.99/month, NordVPN offers excellent value with 10 simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Best of all, a 7-day free trial is available on the Google Play Store, making it suitable for Chromebook users.
NordVPN is perfect for users who need a high-performance VPN with robust security features and excellent streaming capabilities. It's ideal for anyone looking to protect their privacy and enjoy seamless online experiences. I recommend it for frequent travelers who need reliable access to geo-restricted content.
2. Surfshark – Chromebook VPN for unlimited devices
| Google Play Store rating: | 4.6 |
| Servers/countries: | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Compatibility: | ChromeOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Now up to 87% OFF Surfshark + 4 months FREE |
Surfshark VPN is a close second to NordVPN as a great Chromebook VPN option. It even surpasses the #1 provider in certain areas by offering unlimited simultaneous connections and more affordable prices, making it perfect for budget-conscious buyers. However, it’s not as strong regarding security and privacy. In any case, Surfshark has a 4.6 rating on the Google Play Store and around 135K reviews.
Security and privacy. Surfshark VPN isn’t ideal in terms of privacy because the provider is based in the Netherlands, which is a member of the Nine Eyes alliance. On the other hand, its zero-logs policy was audited by Cure35 as well as Deloitte, the same company that audited NordVPN.
What’s noteworthy is that Surfshark provides an impressive security feature arsenal despite its affordable price. For starters, it includes CleanWeb for blocking ads, trackers, and malware. There’s also NoBorders mode for bypassing various online censorship and restriction methods, such as the ones in schools. To top it off, the unique IP Rotator will periodically change your IP address without interfering with the VPN connection. If that’s not enough, subsequent Surfshark subscription tiers unlock antivirus and identity protection tools.
Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. Surfshark’s network spans 3200 servers across 100 countries, which is pretty solid but not particularly massive. Like NordVPN, the provider allows routing your connection through multiple servers for added protection via MultiHop specialty servers. Another similarity is the use of RAM-only servers to ensure absolute user privacy.
I was happy that Surfshark fared well in the streaming department. Its country diversity allowed me to unlock a vast array of global Netflix libraries, including British, German, Australian, American, and Indian catalogs. Naturally, other streaming services like YouTube TV and BBC iPlayer were also no match for Surfshark’s geo-bypassing capabilities.
Performance. In-house Surfshark speed tests yielded solid results because the provider employs WireGuard for fast connections. More precisely, I enjoyed 86% speed retention on average, which is more than enough for high-quality streaming, online gaming, and browsing.
How to use Surfshark on Chromebook. To use Surfshark on a Chromebook without the app store (if your school has blocked it), try a manual VPN configuration. Go to Chromebook's settings, select Network, then Add OpenVPN/L2TP. Input your Surfshark VPN details. Alternatively, install Surfshark as a Chrome extension from the Web Store, which may bypass app store restrictions. Make sure permissions are allowed in Chrome settings.
Pricing. Surfshark’s prices are very appealing, starting at just $1.99/month. It’s one of the cheapest premium VPNs you can find, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee included. Moreover, the 7-day free trial is available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store for testing on any device besides Chromebook.
Surfshark is ideal for families or users with many devices, offering unlimited connections and solid security features at an affordable price. Surfshark is great for sharing a VPN with friends during group travels, as it handles multiple connections without issues.
3. IPVanish – well-rounded VPN for Chromebook
| Google Play Store rating: | 4.4 |
| Servers/countries: | 2400+ servers in 100 countries |
| Compatibility: | ChromeOS, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Now up to 83% OFF IPVanish |
IPVanish is a well-priced and effective VPN that should appeal to users looking for an under-the-radar VPN for Chromebook. It is similar to Surfshark, with unlimited device connection support per account, making it a worthwhile alternative for securing massive households. On the Google Play Store, IPVanish boasts a 4.4 rating and around 60K user reviews.
Security and privacy. Continuing with the Surfshark similarities, IPVanish’s jurisdiction choice is questionable but also redeemed with an independent audit of its no-logs policy. More specifically, the service is based in the United States (a founding member of the Five Eyes alliance). However, Leviathan audited its logging policy, and any suspicions of government cooperation can be discarded.
Among IPVanish features, we also have Threat Protection. Unfortunately, unlike NordVPN’s variant, this feature doesn’t scan your downloaded files.
Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. IPVanish offers around 2400 servers across 100 countries, which is lackluster compared to other Chromebook VPNs I overviewed. Another drawback is the absence of RAM-only servers, which would significantly enhance the provider’s reliability.
While the provider doesn’t include specialized streaming servers, I had no issues unblocking my favorite streaming platforms, including Netflix, Max, Disney Plus, Hulu, and many more.
Performance. IPVanish employs the open-source WireGuard protocol to guarantee lightning-fast speeds while streaming or surfing the web. While using the service, it retained roughly 80% of the initial connection speed on average.
How to use IPVanish on Chromebook. To set up IPVanish on a Chromebook, use the manual OpenVPN configuration. First, download IPVanish’s OpenVPN configuration files. Then, import the certificate in Chrome settings, go to Add OpenVPN/L2TP in network settings, and enter your account credentials. This lets you connect without using the Play Store, in case your school admin has blocked it.
Pricing. IPVanish prices start at $2.19/month. Be aware that only the annual subscription includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
IPVanish is great for users looking for a reliable VPN with unlimited device connections, particularly useful for securing multiple devices in a household.
4. ExpressVPN – Chromebook VPN with excellent privacy practices
| Google Play Store rating: | 4.4 |
| Servers/countries: | Servers in 105 countries |
| Compatibility: | ChromeOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Now up to 61% OFF ExpressVPN + 4 months FREE |
Go with ExpressVPN if confidentiality is your main concern while using your Chromebook. The service boasts numerous independent audits that go beyond its no-logs policy. Compared to CyberGhost, ExpressVPN offers better privacy practices but at a higher price point. Overall, users give it a 4.4 rating on the Google Play Store, along with roughly 382K reviews.
Security and privacy. Privacy is arguably ExpressVPN’s greatest advantage. For starters, the service is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is known for its excellent privacy attitude. Most importantly, the service conducted over 15 independent audits of its various technologies, although only one was focused on the no-logs policy.
Despite its high price, ExpressVPN doesn’t include more security features than NordVPN or Surfshark. On the one hand, it includes an ad blocker, a kill switch, and tracker removal using Threat Manager. There’s even a password manager (ExpressVPN Keys) included at no extra cost, which is pretty uncommon among VPNs. However, there’s no option to expand upon the default package like with NordVPN and Surfshark.
Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. Unfortunately, ExpressVPN doesn’t disclose the exact number of servers it operates. The last known number is 3000 which is similar to what Surfshark offers. The server location selection is also on par and covers 105 worldwide countries.
You’ll have no trouble unblocking various streaming platforms using ExpressVPN. In-house tests showed admirable results with numerous Netflix libraries, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and beyond.
Performance. ExpressVPN is similar to NordVPN because it achieves excellent connection speeds with a proprietary tunneling protocol. However, Lightway is built from scratch and doesn’t rely on WireGuard. During our evaluations, ExpressVPN easily retained around 77% of our original speed on average.
How to use ExpressVPN on Chromebook. To use ExpressVPN on a Chromebook, manually configure it using OpenVPN. ExpressVPN provides configuration files for manual setups, accessible by signing in to your account. For setup assistance, see their credentials page.
Pricing. ExpressVPN prices start from $4.99/month. While the price is a bit higher, you can connect 8 devices. And if anything, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee available.
ExpressVPN is perfect for privacy-conscious users willing to pay a premium for top-notch security and global content access. My experience with ExpressVPN has been fantastic for maintaining privacy during sensitive online activities, and it handles geo-blocked content effortlessly.
5. Proton VPN – free VPN that works on Chromebook
| Google Play Store rating: | 4.6 |
| Servers/countries: | 9200+ servers in 112 countries |
| Compatibility: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get up to 70% OFF ProtonVPN |
Proton VPN made the list as a best free VPN for Chromebook users, providing strong security and privacy features. It’s one of the few VPNs that offer a free plan without limiting user privacy or tracking data. For those who need extra features, Proton VPN’s paid plans add faster servers and streaming access, so it’s a well-rounded option for all types of users. On the Google Play Store, this VPN has a rating of 4.6 with a total of 283K reviews.
Security and privacy. Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, which provides strong privacy laws and lies outside surveillance alliances like Fourteen Eyes. The service follows a no-logs policy, is audited independently, and offers AES-256 encryption across both Proton VPN free and paid versions.
While the Proton VPN free plan covers the basics, paid versions add Secure Core servers, advanced protocols, and VPN Accelerator for boosted privacy and security, especially useful in censorship-heavy areas.
Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. The Proton VPN free and paid versions differ significantly in server selection. Free users can connect to servers in only three countries, but paid subscribers gain access to 9200+ servers across 112 countries. This vast network unlocks streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer and includes dedicated Plus servers for HQ streaming and bypassing geo-restrictions on global content.
Performance. Proton VPN’s performance is optimized with the WireGuard protocol, providing reliable speeds even on the free plan. Paid users get priority access to faster Plus servers, reducing slowdowns and allowing smooth HD streaming, online gaming, and uninterrupted browsing. During our in-house tests with Chromebook, it retained around 85% of its original speeds.
How to use Proton VPN on Chromebook. To use Proton VPN on a Chromebook, download the app from the Google Play Store, open it, and log in or create an account. Then, select a server and connect. For devices without Play Store access, download the APK from Proton VPN’s site to install manually. Once connected, you can securely browse with privacy features.
Pricing. Proton VPN offers both free and paid plans, starting at $2.99/month (10 simultaneous connections). The free plan provides a basic but effective VPN service, while premium plans unlock features like Secure Core, Plus servers, and streaming access. Paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Best VPN for Chromebook compared
| VPN | Rating | Compatibility | Security features | Servers | Price |
| NordVPN | Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS | AES-256 encryption, ChaCha20 encryption, NordLynx protocol, RAM-only servers, Kill switch, Threat Protection, Dark Web Monitor | 6900 servers in 111 locations | From $2.99/month | |
| Surfshark | Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS | AES-256 encryption, WireGuard protocol, Kill switch, RAM-only servers, CleanWeb feature, Surfshark Alert | 3200 servers in 100 locations | From $1.99/month | |
| IPVanish | Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS | AES-256 encryption, Kill switch, WireGuard protocol, Threat Protection, Obfuscated servers | 2400 servers in 100 locations | From $2.19/month | |
| ExpressVPN | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | AES-256 encryption, Kill switch, Lightway protocol, IP & DNS leak protection, Threat Manager, Malware protection | Servers in 105 locations | From $4.99/month | |
| Proton VPN | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | AES-256 encryption, WireGuard protocol, kill switch, Secure Core servers | 9200 servers in 112 locations | From $2.99/month |
Our tests revealed that NordVPN is the best overall VPN for Chromebooks. It offers top-tier security, excellent performance, and a vast server network. However, if you're on a budget, Surfshark is a more affordable option. It provides strong security, a good server network, and additional privacy features like CleanWeb. The reason Surfshark ranks second to NordVPN is primarily due to its less extensive server network and slightly slower speeds in certain regions.
How we tested and ranked Chromebook VPNs
Our VPN testing process varies slightly depending on the goal of the article. For this guide, we tested all VPNs on a Chromebook laptop to evaluate their effectiveness and user experience on the ChromeOS device. Here’s a summary of how we tested and ranked these Chromebook VPNs:
- Compatibility. With our research team, I only picked VPNs available on the Google Play Store that provide an app optimized for Chromebooks.
- Speed. Excellent VPN connection speeds are vital for a frustration-free online experience. While testing, I connected to various worldwide servers the VPNs provide and tested their speed retention to ensure their results matched our expectations. You can find more information about their performance on our VPN speed test tool.
- Streaming capabilities. A solid VPN for streaming can easily bypass streaming platform geographical restrictions while keeping excellent connection speeds. Moreover, it must have an immense server fleet across numerous countries to unlock as much foreign content as possible. I tested the VPNs above with popular platforms like Netflix, Max, Hulu, and more.
- Ease of use. With our research team, we paid attention to each provider’s user interface and how easy it was to accomplish various VPN-related tasks. After all, there’s no point in suggesting a VPN service that the average user can’t utilize effectively.
- Price. In this list, I have included some of the cheapest VPNs on the market. The suggested options are light on your wallet yet don’t compromise when it comes to service and quality.
- Security and privacy. Ensuring the included security and privacy features are enough to keep customers safe from various attack vectors was vital.
Naturally, finding a perfect VPN that would accomplish everything without flaws is impossible. However, I used our test findings based on the criteria above to compile a list of VPNs for Chromebooks that offer the perfect balance in the most critical areas. Overall, NordVPN excels on almost all fronts.
Is there a free VPN for Chromebook?
Yes, you can find many proxy server providers on the Google Play Store masquerading as free VPNs for Chromebook. However, I don’t recommend using them for various security and performance reasons.
Firstly, proxies aren’t as secure as actual VPNs because they lack encryption and instead simply reroute your connection through another location. Thus, you’re missing out on the most critical privacy benefit. Moreover, proxies differ from VPNs by usually employing obsolete protocols that are vulnerable to exploitation by threat actors. Plus, these old technologies are inefficient and result in slow connection speeds.
On the other hand, you will also find reliable VPNs with free tiers that are supposedly good enough for everyday use. While this is an acceptable alternative to proxies, you will have to contend with severe limitations, such as fewer server options, slower speeds, and monthly data caps.
To escape freemium VPN limitations, I recommend using free trials of premium VPN services:
- NordVPN – offers a 7-day free trial for Android, as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee
- Surfshark – has a 7-day free trial for mobile devices (Android and iOS) and macOS, as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee
Can I use a VPN on a school Chromebook?
The simple answer is yes. Using a VPN on a school Chromebook is not illegal or forbidden in any shape or form. VPNs are very useful tools that keep your internet connection secure and private while on public networks. They’re also great for accessing content that may be limited on your school Chromebook.
However, in some instances, the school might have an official statement noting that using a VPN on your school Chromebook is not allowed. If that’s the case, check with your school's administration to see if you can use the VPN.
How do you unblock sites on a school Chromebook?
Your school might block third-party downloads or the Google Play Store altogether, so you won’t be able to download a VPN app. However, there is a way to manually get a VPN on a school Chromebook using a CA certificate from your VPN provider:
- Get a CA certificate from your VPN and store it on your Chromebook
- Open Chrome and type in chrome://settings/certificates
- Click on the Authorities button at the top of the page
- Click on Import and select the CA certificate
- Follow the instructions
- Click on your account at the bottom right of the page
- Choose Settings
- Go to Network and select Add a connection
- Click Add OpenVPN/L2TP
- Type in the required information and click Connect
Once a VPN app is installed, you can easily access blocked sites by connecting to any VPN server. Additionally, if the above method doesn’t work, you can try installing a VPN Chrome extension to change your location, as it usually doesn’t require administrator privileges.
How to set up a VPN on a Chromebook
Setting up a VPN on your Chromebook is pretty easy, and there are two main methods of doing so. You can simply download it from the Google Play app store, use the sideloading method, or install the VPN as a browser extension.
Here are simple step-by-step instructions for the installation methods.
Download a VPN for Chromebook
1. Open the Google Play Store
2. Search for your chosen VPN app and install it – I recommend NordVPN, now 74% OFF
3. Open the VPN app and log in
4. Connect to your preferred server
Using a VPN on Chromebook via a browser extension:
- Go to your chosen VPN’s website and find the link for the browser extension of your choice – I recommend NordVPN, now 74% OFF
- Install the extension
- Click on the extension icon and log in
- Connect to your preferred proxy server
Why is my VPN not working on Chromebook?
Running into issues when trying to connect a Chromebook to your VPN is common. There might be several reasons why your VPN is not working on Chromebook. Make sure you rule out the general connection issues that might be hindering the internet connection and its stability.
Since most VPNs have at least an Android app, you’ll find that the majority of VPNs will work on your Chromebook. However, there are some VPNs that are known to offer substandard services as well as bad security practices and may even infect your Chromebook with malware.
Here are some VPNs you should avoid:
- TurboVPN. This VPN is well known and popular, but it‘s also known to log your data. That can include your location, the devices you’re using the VPN on, and your IP address.
- CrossVPN. Many reports suggest CrossVPN carries malware that will infect your Chromebook. I suggest avoiding this provider.
- HolaVPN. HolaVPN should be avoided, as it shares your idle bandwidth with other people. If they’re up to no good online, you could catch the blame.
- Betternet. This is a free VPN, but if you don’t pay in money, you pay in privacy. Betternet stores all sorts of your data, which is a big red flag.
- SuperVPN. This is another VPN that has been reported for hiding malware as well as storing your data.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, if you’re interested in ramping up your online privacy, maximizing your content options no matter where you are, and staying secure online, getting a VPN for Chromebook is a no-brainer.
If you’re using a Chromebook at school, a VPN will help you get around content blocks to stream shows and play games when you’ve got some spare time between classes. If you’re at home downloading torrents, it will make sure your ISP and content owners won’t be able to see your activity.
According to extensive in-house research, the best VPN for Chromebook is NordVPN – it has an excellent Chromebook app, as well as 6900+ servers in 111 countries to connect to. It can also unblock virtually anything online and offers breakneck speeds.
With so much to gain and so little to spend, getting a VPN for your Chromebook is a must if you want to have a safe experience online.
FAQ
Do I need a Chromebook VPN extension?
No, you don’t need a Chromebook VPN extension because VPN extensions use proxies and not VPN connections. You’re better off using your chosen VPN’s Chromebook or Android app, as you’ll get better security, features, and ease of use.
Does Chromebook have a built-in VPN?
No, Chromebooks don't have a built-in VPN service. However, Chrome OS supports VPN connections and allows manual setup using protocols like L2TP/IPsec and OpenVPN. You'll still need a VPN service subscription to connect to a VPN server.
What VPNs work on school Chromebooks?
While you can't directly install VPN apps on Chromebooks due to school network restrictions, you can manually configure a VPN using protocols like L2TP/IPsec or OpenVPN. This requires technical setup and VPN provider details.
How do I get a VPN for my school Chromebook?
Due to school network restrictions, installing VPN apps might be blocked. However, you can manually configure a VPN using protocols like L2TP/IPsec or OpenVPN. This requires technical setup and VPN provider details.
Is NordVPN good for Chromebook?
Yes, NordVPN is an excellent VPN for Chromebook. It has a dedicated Chromebook app that includes features such as ad and tracker blocker and more. NordVPN is also extremely fast thanks to NordLynx and can unblock virtually any online content easily.
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