Best VPN For Windows
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A virtual private network (VPN) allows you to access your home or office network from any public Wi-Fi hotspot securely. They protect your privacy while browsing the internet and can also bypass geographic restrictions on websites and streaming services.
If you use a Windows PC, there are many VPN services available to you. The Forbes Advisor team researched dozens of options to identify the best Windows VPN for PC. We selected these services based on PC compatibility, pricing, and other key features.
Featured Partners
1
NordVPN
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 329.07 ($3.99) + 3 months free
Money Back Guarantee
30 days
No. of Servers
5,000+
2
Surfshark
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 197.29 + one month free
Money Back Guarantee
30 days
No. of Servers
3,200+
3
Private Internet Access
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 158.89
No. of Devices
Unlimited
No. of Servers
30,000+
- The Best VPN for Windows of 2024
- NordVPN
- TorGuard
- ProtonVPN
- Private Internet Access
- hide.me
- Surfshark
- Comparison of Best VPN for Windows 10 and 11
- How To Choose the Best VPN for Windows
- What Can I Do With a Windows VPN on a PC?
- What Are the Limitations of Windows VPN?
- Methodology
- Next Up In Business
The Best VPN for Windows of 2024
- NordVPN: Best overall
- TorGuard VPN: Best for streaming
- ProtonVPN: Best for privacy
- Private Internet Access: Best for speed
- hide.me: Best kill switch
- Surfshark: Best value
BEST OVERALL
NordVPN
Starting Price
INR 456.29 ($5.99) per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
6,000+ in 60 countries
Number of Devices
Six
Starting Price
INR 456.29 ($5.99) per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
6,000+ in 60 countries
Number of Devices
Six
NordVPN is the best VPN for Windows users who want a lot of privacy benefits. This is because NordVPN offers a wide range of security features, including military-grade encryption, malware blocking, obfuscated servers, multi factor authentication, split tunneling, dedicated IP address, double protection, Onion Over VPN, 24/7 support and private DNS.
It also has a strict no-logs policy, so your data and activities are never stored or monitored. NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, which means it’s not subject to Five Eyes privacy laws.
Learn more: Read our full NordVPN Review.
Who should use it:
NordVPN is best for Windows users who want a ton of security features at an attractive price.
- Headquartered in Panama
- Double VPN
- 24/7 access to support
- Dedicated IP address option
- Renewal price is much higher than introductory rates
Best for streaming
TorGuard
Starting Price
INR 830.31 ($9.99) per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
More than 3,000 in 50 countries
Number of Devices
12
Starting Price
INR 830.31 ($9.99) per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
More than 3,000 in 50 countries
Number of Devices
12
TorGuard excels as a Windows VPN for streaming, offering anonymity and high speed. With three pricing plans, all featuring maximum security, speed and ad blocking, it accommodates various user needs. It employs AES-256 encryption with SHA-512, coupled with secure protocols including Stunnel, OpenVPN, WireGuard and IKEv2. This advanced security setup assures users of a secure, private and virtually untraceable browsing experience.
TorGuard bypasses geo-restrictions, granting unrestricted access to global content. This makes it ideal for those who wish to access content that’s usually blocked in their region. With 24/7 support, users can rely on timely assistance.
Who should use it:
Windows users who want to stream geo-locked content will appreciate TorGuard’s fast speeds.
- It’s fast
- Has a ton of servers
- Blocks advertisements
- Attractive pricing
- It’s headquartered in a country subject to privacy agreements
- Short money-back guarantee period compared to its competition
BEST FOR PRIVACY
ProtonVPN
Starting Price
INR 497.85 ($5.99) per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
3,097 servers in 71 countries
Number of Devices
10
Starting Price
INR 497.85 ($5.99) per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
3,097 servers in 71 countries
Number of Devices
10
ProtonVPN is the ideal choice for privacy-conscious Windows users. As a VPN provider based in Switzerland, it follows rigorous privacy regulations and upholds a no-logs policy. This makes certain that your browsing activity is kept secret and your information is not distributed to anyone else. The Secure Core feature routes your traffic through privacy-friendly countries, adding an extra layer of protection even if a VPN server is compromised.
ProtonVPN’s Perfect Forward Secrecy means your encrypted traffic cannot be captured and decrypted later. Furthermore, its integration with the Tor network allows for easy access to Onion sites. With user-friendly native apps and a free version available, ProtonVPN makes online privacy accessible to all Windows users.
Read more: ProtonVPN Review
Who should use it:
ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, making it ideal for Windows users who value privacy.
- Based in Switzerland
- Routes through privacy-friendly countries
- Access Onion sites
- Offers a free version
- Set up took a few minutes longer compared to the competition
BEST FOR SPEED
Private Internet Access
Starting Price
INR 250.83 per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
Undisclosed; in 91 countries
Number of Devices
Undisclosed
Starting Price
INR 250.83 per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
Undisclosed; in 91 countries
Number of Devices
Undisclosed
Private Internet Access is the best VPN for Windows users who want fast speeds. With its high speeds and low latency, it’s perfect for streaming, video conferencing and gaming. It also has a wide range of security features, including military-grade encryption, malware blocking and a kill switch. Plus, it has open source software, which is perfect for customization.
Private Internet Access is headquartered in the U.S., which means it’s subject to privacy laws thanks to being in a Five Eyes country. However, it keeps a strict no-logs policy.
Learn more: Read our full Private Internet Access review.
Who should use it:
Private Internet Access is best for Windows users who want high speeds and low latency.
- Open source software
- Fast speeds
- Split tunneling
- Antivirus and a dedicated IP address cost extra
- Mobile apps only have a seven-day money-back guarantee
- Headquartered in a Five Eyes country
BEST KILL SWITCH
hide.me
Starting Price
INR 414.74 ($4.99) per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
2,300-plus in 87 locations
Number of Devices
10
Starting Price
INR 414.74 ($4.99) per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
2,300-plus in 87 locations
Number of Devices
10
The hide.me VPN excels in providing a dependable kill switch feature for Windows users, ensuring maximum security and privacy. The kill switch operates by confining internet access strictly to VPN servers, effectively concealing your real IP even if the connection is interrupted. This eliminates the risk of accidental IP exposure and allows for the safe re-establishment of the VPN or regular internet connection.
There are additional security layers offered by hide.me, such as the Stealth Guard, which further restricts apps to use only the VPN connection. Easy to set up and compatible with up to 10 devices, hide.me VPN is the perfect choice for individuals seeking to maintain their online privacy and avoid IP leaks at all costs.
Who should use it:
Windows users who want a kill switch.
- Will mask your real IP if connection is disrupted
- Split tunneling
- Supports multi-hop
- It’s fast
- Can’t access geo-locked streaming content
BEST VALUE
Surfshark
Starting price
Starts from INR 329.87 per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
More than 3,200 in 100 countries
Number of Devices
Unlimited
Starting price
Starts from INR 329.87 per month (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
More than 3,200 in 100 countries
Number of Devices
Unlimited
Surfshark is the best VPN for Windows users who want a lot of bang for their buck. This is because Surfshark offers a low monthly price, unlimited devices and high speeds. It also offers a wide range of security features, including military-grade encryption, DNS and IPv leak protection, a kill switch and a strict no-logs policy.
Plus, Surfshark’s app is easy to use with one-click connections and a user-friendly design. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Surfshark isn’t subject to the privacy laws you’d find in the U.K. or the U.S.
Learn more: Read our full Surfshark Review.
Who should use it:
Surfshark is best for Windows users who want a lot of features at a low price.
- Located in the Netherlands
- Unlimited devices
- AES-256-GCM encryption
- Antivirus costs extra
- No option for a dedicated IP address
Comparison of Best VPN for Windows 10 and 11
How To Choose the Best VPN for Windows
Selecting the ideal Windows VPN for your PC involves evaluating various factors to find the perfect balance between privacy, performance and ease of use. As you explore your options, keep in mind your unique needs and goals, as well as the essential VPN features, device compatibility, versatility, cost and customer service.
Assess Your Needs and Goals
When picking out the best Windows VPN for your PC, ask these questions to figure out your individual needs and goals:
- What are my main security and privacy concerns? Consider VPNs with military-grade encryption, a kill switch and a no-logs policy to ensure your online activities remain secure and private. You should also consider using a VPN located in a country not required to divulge your private information, such as the Netherlands or Switzerland.
- Do I need to unblock content and bypass censorship? Look for VPNs that offer a wide range of server locations and are known for bypassing geo-restrictions to access content from various regions.
- Are fast connection speeds for streaming and gaming a priority? Focus on VPNs that emphasize high-speed connections and have dedicated streaming or gaming servers for an optimal experience.
- How important is ease of setup and use for me? Choose VPNs with user-friendly interfaces, simple installation processes and comprehensive support options if you prefer a hassle-free experience.
Essential VPN Features
You’ll pay a little more for advanced features, though most basic features come standard no matter which VPN provider you choose.
Basic Features:
- Encryption: The foundation of any VPN, encryption ensures that your data is secure and unreadable by third parties. Search for VPNs that have powerful encryption protocols, such as AES-256.
- No logs: A no-logs policy means your VPN provider won’t track the sites you visit.
- Server selection: To get around geo-limits and access content from different countries, you need a good VPN with lots of server choices.
- Device compatibility: The VPN should support multiple devices and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android and iOS.
- Ease of use: A user-friendly interface and easy setup process are essential for a seamless VPN experience.
Premium Features
- Kill switch: This feature will automatically unplug your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing any accidental exposure of your real IP address.
- Split tunneling: This allows you to route specific applications or websites through the VPN connection while leaving others on your regular network, providing flexibility and control over your internet usage.
- DNS leak protection: By routing DNS queries through the VPN, not the ISP’s DNS servers, this protection stops potential leaks of your privacy.
- IPv6 support: IPv6 is the latest version of the Internet Protocol, and full support ensures that your IPv6 traffic is also protected.
- Dedicated streaming and gaming servers: Some VPNs offer servers specifically optimized for streaming and gaming, providing faster speeds and better performance.
- Ad and malware blockers: Additional security features block ads, trackers and malicious websites, enhancing your online privacy and browsing experience.
- Multi-hop (double VPN) connections: This feature routes your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of security and privacy.
Device Compatibility and Versatility
If you need a VPN that can be used on multiple devices, make sure the VPN you choose can be installed on Windows, macOS, iOS and Android. Some even offer router installation. You’ll also want to make sure the VPN has a wide range of servers so you can unblock content from all over the world.
Cost
Typically, VPNs offer subscription-based plans, which can be billed monthly, annually or sometimes even biennially. The longer the subscription plan, the lower the monthly cost. It’s not unusual to see prices ranging from INR 415.12 ($5) to INR 996.30 ($12) per month, depending on the plan, your commitment and the VPN provider.
Getting a VPN for your Windows computer won’t set you back too much compared to other platforms, such as Android or Mac, since many providers offer support for multiple devices with a single subscription. Some providers may offer one-time lifetime subscriptions, but these are less common and may come with certain limitations or restrictions.
To reduce your VPN costs, consider the following:
- Longer subscription plans: Opting for a longer subscription plan often results in a lower monthly cost. However, make sure to choose a reputable VPN provider, as you’ll be committing to their service for an extended period.
- Discounts and promotions: VPN providers frequently run discounts and promotions, especially during holidays or special events. Keep an eye out for these deals to save on your VPN subscription.
- Free trials and money-back guarantees: Some VPN providers offer free trials or money-back guarantees, so you can see how the VPN works for the sites you use before locking into a multi-year plan. Most offer 30-day money-back guarantees, although this isn’t always the case, so check to be sure.
- Referral programs and loyalty rewards: Some VPNs offer referral programs or loyalty rewards, providing discounts or free subscription time for referring new customers or maintaining an active subscription.
Remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best, as it could lack essential features, performance or security. It’s important to balance cost with the quality and functionality of the VPN service.
Customer Service
If you run into any trouble with your VPN, you’ll want to be able to contact customer service. Make sure the VPN you choose has 24/7 customer support via live chat or email (most don’t offer phone support). You should also be able to find helpful guides and FAQs on the VPN’s website.
What Can I Do With a Windows VPN on a PC?
A Windows VPN can do a lot for your PC. It can protect your data and activities from prying eyes, encrypt your traffic so that your ISP can’t see what you’re doing and even improve your speeds. Plus, a Windows VPN can unblock censored and geo-restricted content, letting you watch your favorite shows and movies from anywhere in the world.
What Are the Limitations of Windows VPN?
VPNs, while offering many advantages, do come with certain limitations. It’s important to understand these constraints to manage your expectations and make informed decisions when using a VPN. Some common limitations include:
- Slower internet speeds: VPNs can slow down your internet connection due to the additional encryption and routing of your data through a remote server. This slowdown can be more noticeable with lower-quality VPN providers or during peak usage times.
- Blocked by some websites and networks: Some websites, streaming services or networks may block VPN traffic to prevent users from bypassing geolocation restrictions or to enforce their terms of service. If that’s the situation, a VPN may not bypass the content or connect to the network anyway.
- Not a fix-all: VPNs can provide some data and privacy security, but not against all cyberthreats. For example, they won’t prevent phishing attacks, malware infections or insecure websites. It’s essential to use additional security measures such as antivirus software, firewalls and safe browsing practices alongside a VPN.
- Ineffective for illegal activities: VPNs are not a license to engage in illegal activities. While they can help protect your privacy, they won’t shield you from law enforcement or legal consequences if you’re caught doing something illegal. Reputable VPN providers may also terminate your service if they detect unlawful activities.
- Cost considerations: Quality VPN services often come at a cost, with subscription fees varying between providers. While free VPNs exist, they might lack essential features, performance or security. It’s crucial to strike a balance between cost and the value offered by the VPN service.
Methodology
To create our list of the best VPNs for Windows, Forbes Advisor analyzed various factors to identify the top choices for small businesses. Our evaluation process involved considering 33 criteria and weighting them according to importance, with the most emphasis placed on security features and speed.
Pricing
We looked at the displayed prices for each VPN, comparing their starting and highest prices to assess affordability and value for money. Platforms with money-back guarantees or free trials received bonus points for providing additional value to users. This makes up 15% of a platform’s score.
General and Additional Features
We examined each VPN’s general features, such as anonymous browsing, DNS protection measures, dedicated IP, kill switch, split tunneling and multifactor authentication, as well as additional features including the number of continents with servers, no-logs policy, browser extensions and simultaneous connections. Features contribute 35% of the final score.
Speeds
We considered the average download and upload speeds offered by each VPN to ensure they provided an optimal browsing experience. These speeds are tested by the Forbes Advisor team on a weekly basis and make up 20% of the total score.
App Ratings and Customer Reviews
We assessed the App Store and Play Store ratings for each VPN’s mobile app, along with customer reviews on Trustpilot, Capterra and G2. This helped us determine the overall customer experience and satisfaction levels for each VPN. These reviews make up 13% of each provider’s score.
Service and Support
We evaluated each VPN based on their customer service and support offerings, including live chat, a knowledge base and phone support. We assigned top marks to companies that offered 24/7 customer support across multiple channels, recognizing that users may encounter issues with their VPN connection at any time and require prompt assistance. Access to support accounts for 7% of the score.
Forbes Advisor Expert Score
Lastly, we analyzed the Forbes Advisor Expert Score for each VPN, including details and standout features, value for money, popularity and ease of use. We also considered scores from other experts to compare and validate our rankings. These insights tally up the final 10% of our scoring.
Featured Partners
1
NordVPN
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 329.07 ($3.99) + 3 months free
Money Back Guarantee
30 days
No. of Servers
5,000+
2
Surfshark
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 197.29 + one month free
Money Back Guarantee
30 days
No. of Servers
3,200+
3
Private Internet Access
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 158.89
No. of Devices
Unlimited
No. of Servers
30,000+
Next Up In Business
Forbes Advisor adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.
