Best VPN for Linux 5/5 (7)

6 Best VPNs for Linux – Use a VPN Service for More Privacy

best-linux-vpns

The importance of the Virtual Private Network (VPN) cannot be overemphasized. Once again, it is a web-based tool that allows Internet users to know that they are safe and anonymous. All of these things would probably make more sense to you if you lived in a country with draconian laws. Of course, classic examples are China, Turkey, Russia and Iran. In these countries, access to the Internet is restricted by local authorities, so residents are not allowed to visit certain websites. 

However, with a VPN, you can change this. Essentially, when you subscribe to a VPN service, it hides your IP address by encrypting your messages.  In addition, it will assign you another IP address that will cause your location to change.

Depending on what you want to achieve, anyone who views your current location and IP address will only see the one assigned by the VPN service. Basically, this is the method the VPN service uses to bypass geoblocks. In addition to bypassing Internet filters, your data is already encrypted, which means that anyone who intercepts it cannot decrypt its contents. 

As a result, your online activities are private and secure while your identity is anonymous. In an effort to improve it, a series of innovative research projects have been launched on VPN technology. Today, VPNs are compatible with a wide range of operating systems. In other words, VPN service providers are now developing client software that allows the service to work seamlessly with many different platforms. So before you decide on a particular VPN, make sure it works on your device. In this article, we will focus on the Linux operating system. 

Linux OS and VPN

Since they launched it in 1991, Linus Torvalds and his team have consistently praised the Linux operating system as the world’s safest and most secure platform. Today, hundreds of IT experts couldn’t agree more.

Although a large majority of users have accepted Linux’s popular promotional gimmick, there is nothing to stop them from adding a layer of security to their online activities. After all, we live in a world where cybercriminals are losing sleep just to develop sophisticated tools.

Then these criminals go on a rampage against the accounts of unsuspecting Internet users in the hope of stealing important or classified information. There is no doubt that online security is never good enough. To this end, there are VPNs specifically designed to work on both the Linux operating system and other platforms.

In fact, if you have Linux VPN software installed on your system, your online footprint is secure. Therefore, at this point, we will take you through some of these VPNs that are compatible with the Linux operating system.

6 Best Linux VPN – Comparison Table

VPN Provider

Main features

Torrenting / Netflix availability

Visit site

ExpressVPN
3000+ servers, 160 server locations, 30000 IPs
5 simultaneous devices
24/7 live chat support
/
CyberGhost
5700+ servers, 112 server locations
7 simultaneous devices
24 hours free trial period
24/7 live chat support
Block ads
/
IPVanish
1500+ servers, 75+ server locations, 40000+ IPs
Unlimited simultaneous devices
24/7 live chat support
/
TorGuard
3000+ servers, 50+ server locations, 3000+ IPs
8 simultaneous devices
24/7 live chat support
Block ads
/
PrivateVPN
100+ servers, 150+ server locations
6 simultaneous devices
7 days free trial period
Live chat but not 24/7, ticket system and FAQ page
/
NordVPN
5100+ servers, 60+ server locations, 5000 IPs
6 simultaneous devices
24/7 live chat support
Block ads
/

Top 6 Most Suitable VPN for Linux

6. ExpressVPN – All Round Linux VPN

expressvpn

Website: expressvpn.com

Money-back guarantee: 30-day

Do you use these Linux distributions (such as Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS and Fedora)? If so, ExpressVPN provides seamless support for all these Linux kernel packages. So if you use one of them, you have absolutely nothing to worry about, because this Linux VPN provides them with all the features. With it, you can be sure to get a high level of security and superb performance. For more information, see below.

Supported Client Software:  

macos

macOS

iOS

iOS

windows

Windows

android

Android

linux

Linux

chrome

Chrome

mozilla

Mozilla

opera

Opera

xbox

Xbox

routers

Routers

androidtv

AndroidTV

playstation

Playstation

amazontv

AmazonTV

Features:

  • It allows 5 devices to connect at the same time
  • There is support for OpenVPN protocol
  • ExpressVPN has no fewer than 3000 servers scattered in over 94 countries
  • It has no logs
  • There is a DNS/IPV6 leak protection
  • There is a 256-bit encryption

Pros:

  • Apart from Linux OS, ExpressVPN also runs on Windows, Android, MacOS, and iOS
  • 30,000 IP addresses are readily available
  • There is support for P2P file sharing
  • Its connection is superfast and reliable
  • The helpdesk team assists users through live chats

Cons:

  • Its monthly subscription fee is high

When ExpressVPN launched its client for Linux, it introduced a command line interface as opposed to the graphical user interface (GUI), which is currently used on Windows and Mac. This makes its configuration files easy to use. Moreover, this VPN service works well on all Linux distros. With a large network well suited for all these distros, ExpressVPN maintains its connection speed and reliability day after day. With DNS leakage protection and SmartDNS, unblocking all regional restrictions is never easier. 

Customer service also plays an important role in ensuring that users never fight using this VPN. Are you having trouble using your ExpressVPN on Linux? If so, simply contact the helpdesk. Through a live chat, they will answer you in no time. The Linux client is basic and easy to use, which is good for any user of the Linux operating system or its distress. Indeed, it is a high-end VPN service that is highly recommended for potential users looking to add a layer of security to their online activities.

Read our detailed review of ExpressVPN.

trustpilot ratings 5

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5. CyberGhost – Fast VPN for Linux

cyberghost

Website: cyberghostvpn.com

Money-back guarantee: 45-day

Although CyberGhost VPN does not have a native Linux client, it is clear that the developer always has Linux in mind. For Linux distributions, the VPN product has detailed configuration guidelines for OpenVPN and PPTP. For the Ubuntu community, they can easily configure OpenVPN with NetworkManager. However, users have the option to skip the OpenVPN/NetworkManager installation. 

Supported Client Software: 

macos

macOS

iOS

iOS

windows

Windows

android

Android

linux

Linux

chrome

Chrome

mozilla

Mozilla

routers

Routers

androidtv

AndroidTV

amazontv

AmazonTV

Features:

  • The VPN runs smoothly on Linux OS and its distros
  • There is support for VPN protocols
  • It has a DNS leak protection
  • 7 devices can connect simultaneously
  • An Internet kill switch is available
  • There is a Wi-Fi Protection
  • This VPN has 5,700 servers scattered across 112 locations
  • CyberGhost streams Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPLayer, etc.
  • This VPN service is relatively fast and reliable
  • It is a user-friendly software
  • Bitcoin payment is accepted

Cons:

  • The customer service merely works during business hours

While many VPN service providers don’t seem to pay attention to Linux and its distributions, CyberGhost gives priority to the platform. Even with the command line interface, the installation of the application is done in a few minutes. Fully customized to run on the platform, you can install CyberGhost’s command line software in 4 steps. It’s simple and easy, and you will have the VPN running on your system in no time. With 5,700 servers deployed in 112 locations around the world, it is easy to bypass and connect to any georeferenced website of your choice from the Linux operating system. 

From Netflix to Hulu, from Amazon Stick to BBC iPlayer, you can bypass them all and broadcast them all from your Linux distros, as well as through this VPN service. You already know that some of the main advantages of the VPN service are security and anonymity. Well, Linux users are not to be outdone since they will enjoy these advantages when they subscribe to CyberGhost for Linux. With all these gains and more, it is useless to emphasize again that CyberGhost is one of the best VPN for Linux OS.

Read our detailed review of CyberGhost.

trustpilot rating - 4,5

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4. IPVanish – Affordable Linux VPN

ipvanish

Website: ipvanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30-day

Well, here’s another VPN that’s cool for its seamless compatibility with the Linux operating system. Basically, the IPVanish VPN offers above average download speed on Linux distributions. In addition, it has a decent installation guide and a strict no-log policy. When a VPN has all these advantages, there is no doubt that it deserves a place on our list. You may want to check out more details.

Supported Client Software: 

macos

macOS

iOS

iOS

windows

Windows

android

Android

linux

Linux

chrome

Chrome

routers

Routers

amazontv

AmazonTV

Features:

  • Allows unlimited devices to be connected simultaneously
  • It has a stringent no-log policy and kill switch
  • There are over 40,000 dedicated and shared IPs
  • IPVanish has up to 1,500 servers scattered across 75 locations
  • SOCKS5 Web proxy is available

Pros:

  • It is good for unblocking streaming sites, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu
  • The customer care team responds to questions via live chats
  • Beside Linux, IPVanish runs on other operating systems, including MS Windows, iOS and Android
  • It is affordable
  • It supports many VPN protocols, such as OpenVPN and IKEv2
  • It has unlimited bandwidth
  • This VPN service has a reliable and fast connection speed

Cons:

  • It doesn’t have a graphical client
  • Sometimes, its uploads are slow

There are many things that work for IPVanish for Linux. For example, it has great upload and download speeds. Note that speed is important for every VPN user because when you stream a site, good speed translates into an impressive user experience. On the other hand, this is not the case with a VPN service where the connection speed is slow. In this case, it will continue to buffer, taking away the fun that comes with streaming. On top of that, it is very easy to set up this VPN and run it on a Linux operating system. As mentioned above, according to its simple instruction guide, anyone can install it in the blink of an eye. 

In addition, Linux users enjoy rock-solid security with IPVanish. Security is critical because you don’t want to expose your online activities to deviants, who will keep their eyes on you until they can steal your sensitive information. Nevertheless, it is quite affordable, which means that anyone can afford it. No doubt, there are a number of reasons why many Linux users settle for IPVanish, and we’ve dissected some of them. Thus, IPVanish remains one of the best VPNs for Linux.

Read our detailed review of IPVanish.

trustpilot rating - 5

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3. TorGuard – Anonymous Privacy VPN for Linux

torguard-vpn

Website: torguard.net

Money-back guarantee: 7-day

While many VPNs have a dedicated command-line application for the Linux operating system, TorGuard is making a difference. In this sense, this means that TorGuard uses a graphical user interface for its Linux software. This makes the program easy to install. On top of that, if you like to share files through the BitTorrent file sharing system, you will certainly enjoy doing so from the system supported by TorGuard. The reason for this is that the VPN works well on Linux, making it easy to create a framework where file sharing is smooth and seamless. 

On top of that, TorGuard on Linux means military-grade security for users. Keep in mind that if a VPN service fails to provide good security for its global network of users, the goal is not achieved. So TorGuard is not lagging behind in this respect. But that’s not all. A review of TorGuard for Linux will apparently be incomplete without a mention of its efficient customer service. Without a shadow of a doubt, this team is doing everything possible to make sure you get the most out of it, or even that you are satisfied.

Supported Client Software: 

macos

macOS

iOS

iOS

windows

Windows

android

Android

linux

Linux

chrome

Chrome

mozilla

Mozilla

Features:

  • Its 3,000 servers cut across 50 locations
  • It allows 8 devices to connect at the same time
  • Runs on all operating systems, including Linux
  • It offers high-level encryption
  • Offers unblocking and streaming support
  • It also supports torrenting

Pros:

  • TorGuard is good for unblocking geo-restricted streaming sites, such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer
  • This VPN has a robust security
  • There are DNS leak protection and an ad blocker
  • TorGuard neither collects nor keeps log data
  • With this VPN on Linux, there is support for multiple security VPN protocols, including OpenConnect SSL, AnyConnect, etc.

Cons:

  • Despite its large server coverage, it needs to improve on its network speed

It is extremely difficult to spot a single defect with this VPN because it offers many interesting advantages. Since the native service is readily available, users can consult the installation guide to configure the service on the Linux operating system. This is one of the best VPNs for Linux because it offers military-grade security for your online footprint, improved speed and better user anonymity. The guide makes it easy to configure, making it extremely user-friendly. At this point, you may begin to wonder how a VPN that offers all these many benefits is still affordable. If you don’t consider it the best VPN for the Linux operating system, you should reconsider!

Read our detailed review of TorGuard.

trustpilot rating - 4,5

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2. PrivateVPN – User-Friendly Linux VPN

private vpn

Website: privatevpn.com

Money-back guarantee: 30-day

As we continue to browse the list for you, PrivateVPN is another VPN that deserves a special mention. The client for the Linux operating system runs smoothly, offering all the essential features of the VPN service. Interestingly, it is very affordable. This is very important for a growing number of Linux OS beginners who are looking to improve their online privacy and security. For these people, PrivateVPN also offers military-grade security. There are even more benefits to be gained from this core product.

Supported Client Software: 

macos

macOS

iOS

iOS

windows

Windows

android

Android

kodi

Kodi

Features:

  • Its servers are deployed across 150 locations
  • PrivateVPN allows up to 6 devices to be connected simultaneously
  • It has support to many VPN protocols
  • There is Netflix support
  • Allows torrenting

Pros:

  • It is very affordable
  • PrivateVPN has clients for all the popular operating systems, including Linux OS
  • It can bypass many geo-restricted streaming, sites such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer
  • Widespread server location for effective connection
  • Superb cybersecurity
  • Good upload and download strengths

Cons:

  • The customer service has to be improved
  • Difficult to connect to some servers simultaneously

In addition to establishing itself as a user-friendly VPN for Linux, PrivateVPN also stands out for its good speed and guaranteed security. Running this VPN on Linux is very simple. Just go through the network manager to configure OpenVPN. That being said, it has 100 servers spread over 150 locations. These servers ensure that Linux users can use this VPN to bypass the georeferenced sites of their choice. Since privacy is very important to the global cybersecurity community, PrivateVPN is continually taking steps to improve its system, ensuring rock-solid security for a growing community of its subscribers. 

To enhance the security of its users, it uses standard encryption technology. This means you don’t have to worry about unscrupulous elements that might be monitoring people online in the hope of stealing from them. Finally, this VPN is cost-effective. As a Linux fan, you should consider this VPN service because it has almost all the features of high-end and expensive VPNs. Obviously, it is one of the best VPNs for Linux and its distributions.

Read our detailed review of PrivateVPN.

trustpilot rating - 4,5

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1. NordVPN – Solid Privacy VPN for Linux

nordvpn

Website: nordvpn.com

Money-back guarantee: 30-day

In August 2018, NordVPN launched its client for the Linux operating system, bringing more users into its growing user community. Unfortunately, the client’s command line does not have a graphical user interface. While many potential users may find this very worrisome, the guide and command line appears to be easy to enter for configuration, rather than simply configuring the servers. After successfully configuring this application, you will notice that all the normal features and benefits of this VPN are working on your system. Now we will introduce you to some of its features.

Supported Client Software: 

macos

macOS

iOS

iOS

windows

Windows

android

Android

linux

Linux

chrome

Chrome

mozilla

Mozilla

androidtv

AndroidTV

Features:

  • 6 devices can be connected at the same time
  • It supports torrenting
  • It supports many VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2
  • Over 5,100 servers in 60 locations

Pros:

  • NordVPN enables users to unlock geo-blocked streaming sites, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer
  • This VPN is customizable
  • Apart from compatibility with Linux OS, NordVPN also runs on Windows, Android, iOS and MacOS
  • The connection speed is excellent
  • Its 24/7 helpdesk does a sterling job

Cons:

  • It’s a little bit costly

Did you think this VPN would be part of that list? We do indeed think it’s the best VPN for Linux. Well, the reason is that apart from the GUI, there is not much difference between running the NordVPN client for Linux and the Windows client. Keep in mind that most critics of this VPN service use the Windows OS, which is by far the world’s leading OS for users.

Also, the Panama-based VPN service provider has detailed Linux configuration guides for many popular VPN protocols. The most common are IKEv2, OpenVPN and PPTP. It is one of the best VPNs that has compatible clients for the Linux operating system

Read our detailed review of NordVPN.

trustpilot rating - 2,5

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Why People Should Use VPN for Linux?

Since its arrival in the technology market, Linux has always been the safest operating system. While we don’t dispute that, there are some reasons why people should use the VPN for Linux.

  • Security: Enhanced security remains one of the most important reasons why people use VPN for Linux today. When you use a VPN for Linux, the data exchange between you and the server will be encrypted. With standard encryption technology, no one will be able to track your online activities.
  • Anonymity: Online anonymity is very similar to security because when you browse the web anonymously, the ultimate goal is to keep your identity hidden. All of your online interactions are private. Look at it this way, the VPN allows you to browse the web undetected because your communication will be hidden. This is especially important in jurisdictions where Internet filters are in place and where offenders may be subject to penalties.
  • Bypassing Internet filters: Also, people use VPN for Linux because they need to bypass geo-restricted websites. In many countries, citizens are not allowed to access sites such as Facebook, YouTube, Netflix, etc., because they need to bypass geo-restricted websites.  However, the VPN allows them to unblock the firewalls that prevent them from accessing sites and start enjoying what they have to offer.
  • Change of location: Please note that when you browse the Web with the help of your ISP, your ISP automatically assigns you an IP address. This IP address tells the website administrator that you are browsing your location. But for some reason, you may not want people to know your true location. In that case, all you have to do is subscribe and use a VPN service. The VPN provider will hide your current IP address and assign you a new one. By doing this, the VPN service provider has changed your location to the location of your choice (remember that you have to choose the new location yourself!) When this is done, the administrators of the sites you visit will think you are at the new location.
  • Improved performance: Sometimes your current server will not be fully optimized for a site or for navigation in general because it will lead to a slow network. To meet the challenge, you will quickly switch to a faster server to improve your browsing experience. In the past, many VPNs used to slow down the connection speed. Over time, however, there has been a significant improvement in this aspect, leading to ultra-fast VPN services

What VPNs for Linux You Need to Avoid?

As a big fan of Linux OS or its distributions, you already know why it is essential to arm yourself with a VPN, don’t you? Great! However, just before taking this bold step, you should not be tempted to settle for one of the VPNs below:

  • ExpatSurfer: Like any true VPN for Linux, ExpatSurfer makes a lot of promises. However, we tested it to see if it really delivers on such promises. Surprisingly, it did not pass our test. For example, you could place an order for this VPN. Boom! No one remembers you ever existed before! How funny! No, you don’t get a server address, which suggests it’s just a big scam. When you try to contact the team, no one cares to reply to your email.
  • Betternet VPN: Every VPN for Linux user will tell you that using a VPN service is a great decision. But then you will certainly have a different story if you try Betternet VPN. The fact is that this VPN practically spreads malware in the name of free VPN services. To make matters worse, it allows a plethora of third-party applications to feast on your data, keeping privacy and security miles away from you. So, if you know what’s good for you, stay away.
  • Onavo Protect: Although its name suggests that Onavo Protect seeks to protect you, this presumed purpose remains uncertain at this time. Funnily enough, it promises a lot of free stuff to Linux users. Nevertheless, it rarely keeps any. For example, it religiously accesses and records your online activities, which does all the work of VPN mirrors. Let’s not forget that he’s telling the world that he has a no-log policy.
  • Faceless.me: When this VPN was launched about half a decade ago, users praised it because it offered some pretty cool features, helping them stay faceless as the name suggests. However, times have changed, as this VPN has become the opposite of what its users have always known. For example, its support team doesn’t respond to requests. This is probably bad for business. If you want to have a good experience using VPN for Linux, do yourself a favor and avoid this VPN.
  • Liberty VPN: Well, Liberty VPN will appear to you as a VPN that allows you to have free access to geoblocked sites. The truth is, it used to be, but not anymore. There’s a lot of shady activity going on around the VPN. For example, it doesn’t refund your money, even though it has a very clear refund policy. There are few server locations and this VPN is anything but user-friendly. To put it plainly, choosing this VPN is a bad idea.

Overall Conclusion About Best VPN for Linux

Without question, Linux OS is renowned in the industry for its tamper-proof operating system and distributions. However, there is a need to increase the security, anonymity and privacy of a user every time he or she is connected to the Internet. When you mix VPN and Linux, you don’t have to worry about becoming the next victim of cybercrime.

With its 128-bit and 256-bit AES encryption, the VPN will hide you from eavesdroppers, hackers, government authorities and Internet Service Providers (ISPs). The list goes on and on. But these people are constantly monitoring your online activities. So subscribe and install Linux VPN software from the list above today to keep your browsing activities safe.

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