Do you want to change your network based on the country you travel to using the best free VPNs? A free VPN for Windows can help and provide you with surface-level security.
Looking for VPN Software? Check out SoftwareSuggest’s list of the best VPN Software solutions.
Do you know 77% of people use VPN for personal use and 50% for business use? Yes, because a Virtual Private Network (VPN) has advanced security features that protect your data from being tracked by unwanted trackers/hackers via IP address encryption.
Choosing a highly functional VPN is necessary to access blocked content and browse anonymously without being tracked. You must first equip yourself with the right knowledge of different VPNs for Windows and then decide upon the one that best matches your data privacy and overall requirements.
However, choosing a free VPN app can be tricky. Why? Because a substandard free VPN for Windows often sells users’ personal information, private IP addresses, and their own web traffic to third parties to earn a profit. Still, some best free VPNs in the market work well without tracking your online activity.
In this guide, we have incorporated the challenges of using free VPNs for Windows so you can overcome them and the 10 best free VPN apps. Let’s dive right in!
Our selection of these Free VPN Tool for Windows is based on thorough research and analysis. We have listed these softwares based on usability and satisfaction score that include features, ease of use, customer support, ratings, and number of reviews from SoftwareSuggest. Our goal is to help businesses select the right softwares that can help them optimize their business processes.
13 Best Free VPNs for Windows PC
Although free VPNs usually come with challenges, some best free VPNs can fulfill your requirements and protect your data securely. So let us go ahead and check the 10 best free VPNs for PCs:
| VPN Name | Number of servers | Torrent Allows | Free trial Period | Number of Devices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProtonVPN | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | Yes | 7-day free trial | 1 device (unlimited installations) |
| NordVPN | 6000+ servers in 111 countries | Yes | 7-day free trial | Up to 6 devices |
| Surfshark | 800+ servers in 49+ countries | Yes | 15-day free trial | Unlimited devices |
| ExpressVPN | 11500+ servers in 100 countries | Yes | 24-hour free trial | Up to 5 devices |
| FastestVpn | 1,000+ servers in 42 countries | Yes | 7-day free trial | Up to 10 devices |
| CyberGhost | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | Yes | 7-day free trial | Up to 7 devices |
| Atlas VPN | 5500+ servers in 90 countries | Yes | 7-day free trial | Unlimited devices |
| Private Internet Access | 35,000+ servers in 91 countries | Yes | 7-day free trial | Up to 10 devices |
| Opera | 3000+ servers in 30 countries | No | Built-in free VPN | Unlimited devices |
| Turbo VPN | 21,000+ servers in 47 countries | No | 7-day free trial | 5 devices |
| Tunnelbear | Servers in 47 countries | Yes | 10 GB monthly data limit | Unlimited devices |
| Hide.me | 75 locations across 47 countries | No | 10 GB monthly data limit | 1 devices |
| Privado VPN | Servers in 45 countries | Yes | 10 GB monthly data limit | Up to 10 devices |
1. ProtonVPN
Proton VPN, another free best VPN for Windows, has a high-speed Swiss VPN that empowers you to protect yourself online. Virtual Private Network (VPN) breaks down internet censorship, maintains your browsing history privacy, and has a high bandwidth server.
Features
- Swiss privacy standards
- DNS and IPv6 leak protection
- Proton VPN uses strong VPN protocols
Best for: Privacy-focused users and access to secure servers.
Server: 5500+ servers in 90 countries
Pricing:
- 1-month Plan: $9.99/month
- 1-year Plan: $4.99/month
- 2-year Plan: $4.49/month
- Visit onion sites and access hidden services by connecting to Proton VPN Tor anonymity network
- Allows you to unblock popular streaming services and watch the desired show
- Improve speed performance while connecting to distant VPN servers with VPN Accelerator
- Proton VPN experiences service downtime on select servers
- Proton VPN has a glitchy ad-blocking system
2. NordVPN
NordVPN, a VPN software, aims to keep all your communications, internet connection, and network secure. It truly encrypts your incoming and outgoing traffic, ensuring that no third party gets access to your personal information or confidential data.
Features
- Split tunneling
- Private Domain Name System (DNS)
- Double VPN server
Best for: Strong security features and vast server network.
Server: 6000+ servers in 111 countries
Pricing:
- Basic: $3.39/month
- Plus: $4.39/month
- Complete: $5.39/month
- Enables user to browse from different IP addresses and access data not available in your location
- Access and share your files on other devices securely using the Meshnet feature
- Get enhanced privacy with the NordVPN ads and malicious website blocking feature
- Unstable connectivity with certain servers
- Un-responsive customer support
3. Surfshark
Surfshark, a free VPN software, safeguards your digital life with its highly functional VPN services. From encrypting your data activity to increasing your privacy while keeping your digital freedom intact, Surfshark does it all.
Features
- Personal data leakage alert
- Unlimited server switches
- CleanWeb to block ads and malware
Best for: Affordability and strong privacy protection.
Server: 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
Pricing:
- Surfshark Starter: $2.19/month
- Surfshark One: $2.69/month
- Surfshark One+: $4.29/month
- Manually select the apps you want your VPN to be active on with Bypasser
- Filter out malware websites and malicious ads with CleanWeb
- Boost data security and privacy by parallelly connecting to two servers with MultiHop
- Limited country servers
- Windows app does not notify for updates at times
Also Check Full Comparison: Surfshark vs NordVPN
4. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN, one of the best VPN software, provides risk-free VPN for Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7. Apart from a hassle-free setup, ExpressVPN allows you to browse privately and securely with high-speed server locations in 94 countries.
Features
- Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)-256-bit encryption
- Unlimited bandwidth
- Private DNS
Best for: High-speed connections and reliable access to geo-restricted content.
Server: 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
Pricing:
- 1 Month: $12.95/month
- 6 Months: $9.99/month
- 12 Months: $6.67/month
- Easy-to-use app for Windows
- Users get the fastest and most secure servers with Lightway protocol
- Enhance security by keeping your IP address and location private with IP address masking
- VPN connection takes quite long to start working
- Limited encryption mechanism
5. FastestVpn
FastestVpn
FastestVPN is a leading VPN provider known for its exceptional speed and performance. With servers in 94 countries, it offers users secure and private browsing experiences. Featuring advanced encryption and unlimited bandwidth, FastestVPN provides a seamless and protected online experience for its users.
Features
- Advanced encryption
- High-Speed server network
- DNS leak protection
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic VPN services.
Server: 800+ servers in 49+ countries
Pricing:
- 1 Month Plan: $5
- Lifetime Plan: $40
- 1-Year Plan: $19.95
- The platform offers advanced features at a blazing-fast speed
- It offers users strong security options
- The platform provides extensive server network options
- It has limited payment options which may prove to be difficult
Also Check Full Comparison: Fastestvpn vs NordVPN
6. CyberGhost
CyberGhost
CyberGhost, an outstanding VPN service provider, has ultra-fast servers in 91 countries with unlimited bandwidth. Encrypt your internet traffic, experience powerful digital security, get a dedicated IP to bypass blocklists, and more with CyberGhost.
Features
- Automatic kill switch
- Domain Name System(DNS) and IP
- Incorporates the best VPN protocols–WireGuard and IKEv2
Best for: Streaming and bypassing geo-restrictions.
Server: 11500+ servers in 100 countries
Pricing:
- 1 Month Plan: $12.99/month
- 6 Months Plan: $6.99/month
- 2 Years Plan: $2.19/month
- Access the desired content with CyberGhost’s global server fleet
- Seamlessly download large files/play online games/stream live sports with the fastest VPN speed
- Get the best deals on hotels, rentals, and flights by masking your IP address and location
- Has a slow running speed at times
- Customer support response time is long
7. Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN, a free VPN software, keeps your devices and data safe regardless of location changes. It protects your right to privacy and controls your digital presence. Also, Atlas VPN allows you to pick from 750+ premium servers in 49 locations worldwide.
Features
- SafeSwap server
- No log policy
- SafeBrowse to prevent the leakage of online activity
Best for: Unlimited device connections and user-friendly interface.
Server: 1,000+ servers in 42 countries
Pricing:
- 1 Month: $11.99/month
- 1 Year: $4.08/month
- 3 Years: $11.99/month
- Protect important data while maintaining access to local networks and services with Split tunneling
- Keep your online accounts safe from data breaches with Data Breach Monitor
- Clean and minimal web dashboard
- Might have VPN connection issues at times
- Doesn’t dedicate different IP addresses
8. Private Internet Access
PIA provides a top-notch VPN service that uses the tools necessary to protect your PC with Windows 8.1 or higher. It allows you to leverage the latest encryption standards–WireGuard, so you don’t have to worry about being monitored at every step.
Features
- Peer-Peer traffic management
- High-speed global server network
- Configurable automation
Best for: Users needing a vast server selection and robust security.
Server: 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
Pricing:
- 1 Month: $11.95/month
- 1 Year: $3.33/month
- 3 Years: $2.03/month
- Quick installation and one-click usage to toggle on and off the VPN connections
- Experience no lags or buffering with PIA’s NextGen servers and 10 Gbps networking technology
- Save time with automatic start and connection with each PC reboot
- Getting a dedicated IP is paid with PIA
- No live customer support
9. Opera
Opera is a faster, smarter, and more secure way to browse confidently. This best free VPN service provider gives you system-wide VPN services with access to 3000+ VPN servers in over 30 countries.
Features
- No activity logs feature
- Ad blocker to browse with no distractions and fast website loading speeds
- Uses NextGen VPN encryption
Best for: Users seeking an integrated VPN with their browser.
Server: 3000+ servers in 30 countries
Pricing:
- One Month VPN PRO: $8/month
- Six Month VPN PRO: $5/month
- One Year VPN PRO: $4/month
- Save time as no additional extension or app is needed to use Opera’s completely free VPN
- Browse endlessly as Opera offers unlimited data usage
- Enhance your privacy and security, as Opera doesn’t track your online activity
- Doesn’t allow multiple user account creation in the browser
- Slower downloads as it doesn’t integrate with Internet Download Manager
10. Turbo VPN
Turbo VPN, the best free VPN service provider, empowers you to unblock the world without moving countries. How? By letting you change your online location via IP address. It also provides bank-level encryption with a kill switch and protocols–OpenVPN and IPSec.
Features
- Anonymous Browsing
- Internet Service Provider throttling detector
- Turbo internet speed
Best for: Users looking for a large server network and budget plans.
Server: 21,000+ servers in 47 countries
Pricing:
- 1 Month: $11.99/month
- 6 Months: $6.67/month
- 12 Months: $5/month
- 24 Months: $4.17/month
- Unblock all websites and content as it easily bypasses geo-blocking restriction
- Restrict public access to your browsing history with private tunneling
- Protect your passwords with end-to-end encryption
- Doesn’t support torrenting and P2P connections
- Cannot unblock streaming sites like Netflix
You May Also Read: 12 Best VPN Extensions For Chrome
11. Tunnelbear
TunnelBear offers a reliable and fast VPN service with servers in 47 locations. Its free plan provides stable connections and speeds and supports the WireGuard protocol for optimal performance. While ideal for streaming, its 2GB monthly data limit may restrict usage, making the paid plans better for frequent use.
Best for: Reliable connections and fast speeds with easy-to-use interface.
Features
- Largest network for free VPN
- Fast speeds
- Streaming support
Server: 47 servers in 23 countries (for free plan).
Pricing
Custom pricing
- The platform provides access servers in 47 locations for reliable connections.
- With the WireGuard protocol, there is a minimal speed drop (17%), which is ideal for browsing and streaming.
- The tool works with platforms like Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Disney+.
- The free plan only allows access to 47 locations.
- The free plan offers 2GB/month, which may not be enough for extended streaming or heavy usage.
12. Hide.me
Hide.me’s free VPN offers unlimited data, customizable security with five protocols, and ad-free browsing. It includes servers in eight locations, ideal for streaming, gaming, and bypassing firewalls. Perfect for advanced users seeking flexibility and privacy.
Best for: Advanced customization and secure browsing with unlimited data.
Features
- Ad-free experience
- Unlimited data
- 5 VPN protocols
Server: Free servers are available in 8 locations, including the Netherlands, Canada, and the US.
Pricing
- 1 Month: $9.95/month
- 12 Months: $ 4.49/month
- 27 Months: $2.39/month
- The platform supports 5 different VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard, for secure and flexible browsing.
- It has no data cap, making it ideal for extended browsing, streaming, or gaming.
- The tool does not have any intrusive ads or pop-ups, ensuring privacy and smooth usage.
- Free servers in 8 locations may get overcrowded during peak times, causing slowdowns.
- The free plan offers fewer locations compared to some competitors.
13. Privado VPN
PrivadoVPN is a secure and user-friendly VPN service offering fast connections, unlimited data on premium plans, and robust encryption. With servers in 50+ locations, it ensures online privacy, bypasses geo-restrictions, and effortlessly supports streaming and torrenting.
Best for: Secure streaming and fast torrenting with robust privacy features.
Features
- 50+ server locations
- Torrenting support
- Secure online activity
Servers: 50+ locations worldwide for reliable and fast connections.
Pricing
- 1 Month: $10.99/month
- 12 Month: $1.33/month
- 24 Month: $1.11/month
- The platform ensures privacy with a strict no-logs policy.
- The tool allows up to 10GB of free data per month with its free plan.
- It supports multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
- Limited data on the free plan (10GB/month).
- It has a smaller server network compared to some competitors.
Free vs. Paid VPNs for Windows PC
Free VPNs for Windows PC offer limited features, slower speeds, and data caps, while paid VPNs provide faster speeds, unlimited data, advanced security, and access to a wider range of servers with better privacy protections.
| Feature | Free VPNs | Paid VPNs |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free, no subscription required | Monthly or yearly subscription required |
| Server Locations | Limited number of servers, often fewer options | Access to a wide range of global servers |
| Speed | Slower speeds due to limited resources and high demand | Faster speeds with premium servers and dedicated resources |
| Data Limit | Data caps (e.g., 2GB/month) | Unlimited data usage |
| Security | Basic encryption may have weak privacy policies | Advanced encryption (e.g., AES-256), robust security measures |
| Privacy | May log user data, less reliable for privacy | No-logs policy ensures complete anonymity |
| Streaming | Limited or blocked access to streaming services | Works well with Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming platforms |
| Ads | Ads may appear to generate revenue | No ads, providing an ad-free experience |
How to Choose the Best VPN for Windows?
To choose the best VPN for Windows, consider factors like speed, security, and server availability. Look for features such as strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and compatibility with popular protocols.
Ensure the VPN has servers in multiple locations, offers reliable performance, and supports your specific needs like streaming or gaming. Evaluate pricing and free trial options.
Challenges with Free VPN Services: What Should You Be Aware Of?
Are you considering opting for a free yet reliable VPN? Well, you must be aware that they can threaten your online privacy. Let’s learn about the challenges with free VPNs:
1. Malware Infection
Do you know that free VPNs are often infected with malware? Yes, that’s true. Free VPNs rely on advertisements to make profits. Some of these ads might contain links that, if clicked, can install malicious software in the user’s computer, leading to privacy breaches.
2. Failure to Unblock Content
Free VPNs aren’t your best bet if you’re looking to unblock content from reputed websites. Unlike paid VPNs, free VPNs often fail to unblock content and are insufficient to bypass the geo-restrictions of big streaming sites like Netflix due to their limited servers. Big websites catch free VPN IP addresses and block them immediately due to lagging encryption/security levels.
3. Slower Internet Connection
Free service providers slow down the internet connection. Why? A free VPN comes with
- Limited servers that can easily be overcrowded with free users, lowering the internet speed
- Data usage limits so the internet slows when the data limit is exhausted
- Basic low-quality encryption and fewer resources push down internet speed
- A grueling intention to shift users to premium VPN plans because of which it slows down its internet speed
4. Free Access to Browser
With free VPNs, you lose control over your browser as the VPN might frequently redirect you to different unknown websites. This is done to install malware, push ads and earn ad revenue, or even access your browsing history, leading to cyberattacks. However, there are some safe VPN extensions for Chrome to help you browse anonymously.
5. Threat to Privacy
Free VPNs often track and collect your online activities to show targeted ads and earn money from brands. This can slow down your connection speed. Not just that, VPN for Windows also sells your personal data to third parties to make a few bucks, hindering your privacy.
Conclusion
Now that you know the challenges of using a free VPN, we hope you’ll choose your best free VPN for Windows wisely.
Before signing up for a free trial, ensure the VPN software features are highly functional and match your requirements well. Also, check that the VPN software doesn’t slow down your speed, encrypts web traffic, has reliable customer support, and works well on Windows PC.
Now you’re fully armed with the knowledge to choose from the best free VPN providers list. So, make the most of the best free VPN software!
VPN for Windows app routes the internet through a private service line (VPN tunnel) rather than letting it pass through a general internet service provider (ISP). This keeps your online activity private when connected to public WiFi and lets you access blocked content in your region.
The best free VPN for Windows PCs are Nord VPN, CyberGhost, Express VPN, and Private Internet Access VPN.
Yes, a free VPN for Windows is dangerous as it can hijack your browser, steal and sell your data, and install malware on your computer. But if you choose wisely, even a free VPN for Windows can work well without hindering your privacy.
Open Source VPN is software that can be modified to fit your needs. Its secure connection allows users to access all online resources without worrying about being monitored at every click.
Rohit Rajpal is an accomplished writer with a deep understanding of technology, digital marketing, and customer service. He brings extensive expertise in ERP and CRM systems, blending technical insight with clear, engaging content. Rohit’s work bridges the gap between complex concepts and accessible communication for diverse audiences.
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