A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an important safeguard for your online privacy. It works by routing your internet traffic through a different server around the world, effectively hiding your actions from tracking and phishing websites. As a Linux user, you’re presumably already concerned about your privacy, thus VPNs are a must. This guide will show you the top five Linux VPNs in 2023.
NordVPN: A Reliable Linux VPN Option
NordVPN stands out among the best VPN options for Linux. Although it is a subscription service, it is reasonably priced at $4.5/month over a two-year term. NordVPN has approximately 5,000 servers in important regions throughout the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
The NordVPN client for Linux may not be as user-friendly as its Windows equivalent, as it requires interaction via the Terminal. Nonetheless, if you’re familiar with terminal operations, setting up this VPN is simple. NordVPN is well-known for its outstanding speed, outperforming many competitors in streaming and downloading chores. It is, certainly, one of the top VPN choices for Linux users.
Pros: Over 5000 servers globally, fast upload and download speeds, reasonable pricing Available on a variety of platforms
Cons: There is no completely functional Linux client.
Proton VPN: A Favorite among Linux Users
Apart from Proton Mail, the Proton suite is well-liked in the Linux community, with Proton VPN being the most popular option. Proton VPN is basically free, albeit it is limited to three countries and has fewer capabilities. A two-year membership, however, at an effective $5/month, grants access to Proton’s full VPN features. You may subscribe to Proton Unlimited for an extra $3/month, which includes Proton VPN, Mail, Calendar, and Drive with 500GB storage.
ProtonVPN has over 3,000 servers in 60 different locations. The free version matches NordVPN’s speed in the US, Japan, and the Netherlands, while the paid version includes an ad-blocker, Tor over VPN, no data logging, router support, and split tunneling.
Pros: Over 3000 servers globally, fast upload and download speeds Tor over VPN, as well as router support All platforms are supported. Strong Linux client, Free version is appealing.
There are none.
Surfshark: Affordably priced and widely available
Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPN providers, having a global presence in over 100 countries and over 3,200 servers. The service offers a money-back guarantee, unlimited device connections, does not log your data, and a variety of security features.
Surfshark is a deal for $2.49 per month for a two-year plan. The only drawback is that its client is only available for Debian and Ubuntu-based Linux versions. Fedora users will have to utilize OpenVPN with Surfshark’s one-time credentials, which can be confusing for newcomers.
Pros: Over 3000 servers globally, fast upload and download speeds One of the most affordable VPNs, No-log policy on several platforms
Cons: Linux client is confined to Ubuntu and Debian, there are compatibility concerns with streaming providers, and customer care is mediocre. There is no free version.
Private Internet Access: A Low-Cost Option
Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out as a low-cost VPN provider with an easy-to-use Linux software. PIA is a steal at $2.11 per month, with first-time users receiving an additional three months free. PIA maintains a no-logs policy and provides unlimited bandwidth with high-speed access from servers in over 84 countries.
PIA is accessible on several platforms and offers limitless device connections and split tunneling. It also protects against Ads, Trackers, and Malware, as well as Secure Protocols, a Kill Switch, Multi-hop, and DNS leaks.
Pros: Servers in more than 84 countries, fast upload and download speeds Very affordable, Multi-platform support, no-log policy Effective Linux client
Cons: Performance and latency could be improved. There is no free version. Ineffective user interface
Look into Private Internet Access.
The ExpressVPN Old Guard
ExpressVPN, one of the oldest VPNs available, provides a wealth of services at a premium pricing. It advertises a no-log policy, servers in over 90 countries, and fast speeds appropriate for surfing, streaming, and gaming. While it does support Linux, it lacks a native GUI client, which can be surprising given the higher price point.
Pros: Over 90 nations’ servers, fast upload and download speeds; ideal for streaming and gaming No-log policy on several platforms
Cons: Expensive, no free version, no graphical Linux client
