1. Top 3 at a glance
2. Best Linux VPN overall
3. Fastest Linux VPN with a GUI
4. Best of the rest
5. How to pick a VPN
6. Our VPN testers
7. Linux VPN FAQs
With so many Linux distros out there, not just any virtual private network (VPN) will do. If you're looking for the best Linux VPN, you need one that combines world-class privacy and security with robust content unblocking. However, not all VPNs for Linux are created equally, and most of them don't even offer a dedicated graphical user interface (GUI), opting to run on a command-line interface (CLI) instead.
In TechRadar's 15-year history, we've tested hundreds of VPNs, and are always putting the best VPN services through the ringer—and that includes putting them through their paces on Linux.
I've spent the past four years researching, analyzing, and challenging VPN services to improve their practices. I've pulled together this list of the five best Linux VPNs by comparing features, speeds, pricing, ease-of-use, distro support, and whether or not the service has a GUI.
Andreas is a digital privacy advocate and expert, he's spent the past four years leveraging his master's degree to research VPNs, cryptography, and other cybersecurity topics.
The three best Linux VPNs at a glance
In a hurry? Check out my top three Linux VPNs below.
Recent updates
PIA recently reclaimed the top spot of the best Linux VPN, pushing Surfshark back into second place. With more distros supported and a more configurable and proven battle-tested app, it was a no-brainer.
The best Linux VPN services in 2024
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Check out my top VPN picks for Linux, and see how each provider compares in terms of features, what I liked best, my test results, and any reasons you might be better off avoiding.
The best Linux VPN overall
✔️ You want a VPN that champions privacy: PIA is an open source provider that has proven its no-logs policy in court—on two occasions.
✔️ You like to customize your apps: PIA's apps are jam-packed with opportunities to customize and configure settings, down to the last detail.
✔️ You plan on torrenting: with P2P-friendly servers and port-forwarding support, PIA is a great (and secure) torrenting VPN.
❌ You're new to the world of VPNs: because PIA has a wealth of technical tools and features, it might be intimidating to absolute beginners.
❌ You want the fastest VPN: PIA's speeds are decent, but can't keep up with the likes of NordVPN and Surfshark.
🔒 Private Internet Access has been a favorite among the Linux community for a long time, and used by techies and VPN veterans around the world. Check out its roster of features, including an ad-blocker, with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Visit our detailed Private Internet Access review for a closer look at its security suite.
While some VPN providers pay little attention to their Linux apps, Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out for all the right reasons. It has an easy-to-use GUI app rather than a command-line interface (CLI), with advanced features like ad-blocking and split tunneling. PIA also has wider distro support than most, running on Ubuntu, Mint, Debian, Fedora, and Arch.
All of PIA's apps are open source, so you can take a peek at the code and confirm that it's just as secure as the service claims it is. PIA took another big transparency step by having its no-logging policy, network, and management systems independently audited by Deloitte. The results were positive, showing that the provider's servers are carefully set up to leave no trace of your activities—which is exactly what I like to see from the industry's top players.
▶ Try Private Internet Access on unlimited devices.
With your PIA plan, you'll also get access to a free email breach scanner and Boxcryptor license, which you can use to keep your cloud storage safe and secure. Most providers would charge you an extra arm and a leg for these add-ons, so it's great to see that PIA offering them at no extra cost.
I was also impressed by PIA's dedicated streaming servers. During my tests, I put them to good use and had no trouble unblocking Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime. PIA has an absolutely staggering network of servers, too, giving you all the tools you need to check out content from overseas and get around those pesky geo-restrictions.
The service isn't perfect in every area, of course. PIA's peak speeds are fairly average for the industry, but that doesn't mean they're slow. At 360 Mbps, PIA is more than fast enough to handle streaming, torrenting, and gaming with ease. The sheer amount of techy features and tools might also be overwhelming to new users, but if you're looking for total control and in-depth customization, then there's none better than PIA.
I'm pleased to see that PIA introduced unlimited simultaneous connections. It's great value for money and means you'll be able to keep every device in the house secure. See for yourself with w 30-day money-back guarantee.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Plenty to customize, but apps need a little polish | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | VPN newbies might feel overwhelmed by an array of techy tools | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Average speeds, but still capable of HD streaming | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Handy streaming servers make it easy to unblock content | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | An audited no-logs service packed with privacy features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Tons of support articles and expert advice | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Fair prices, and plans come with some handy extras | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The fastest Linux VPN with a GUI
✔️ You're on a budget: Surfshark is a low-cost provider that's jam-packed with features, ideal for bargain hunters.
✔️ You have a lot of devices: with unlimited simultaneous connections, you'll be able to secure every device in the house and then some.
✔️ You want a beginner-friendly service: all of Surfshark's apps are easy to use and clutter-free, and awesome live chat support is on hand to help untangle any knots.
❌ You rely on your kill switch: I found a few issues with Surfshark's Windows kill switch, so stick to NordVPN if you can't afford a data leak.
❌ You want a bigger spread of server locations: 143 locations is pretty impressive, but the likes of ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access have even more.
🔒 Surfshark is the epitome of value for money; it's quick, super secure, and packs unlimited simultaneous connections—and all for prices that blow the competition out of the water. Try the service for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Visit our in-depth Surfshark review to see why this budget pick continues to impress.
Surfshark is an incredibly popular VPN that ranks well in a lot of my round-ups—and for Linux, it's no different. It's one of the few leading VPN services that offer a GUI, and the only one of my top three overall. That means there's no need to spend all day at the command line—although there's still a CLI option if you prefer it.
In my most recent Surfshark review, I found that the Linux app doesn't have quite as many features as other platforms. There's no Whitelister, for instance, Surfshark's split tunneling feature which allows traffic for selected apps to bypass the VPN. However, essential tools like the kill switch are present—so you won't need to worry about leaking data if your connection happens to drop.
▶ Try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
What's more, Surfshark's Camouflage Mode—obfuscation tech that hides the fact you're using a VPN—is also available. This makes it a particularly great pick if you're looking for a secure VPN to use in locations where internet activity is highly monitored or VPN use is restricted.
Elsewhere, Surfshark delivers more than I'd expect it to. There are servers in more than 100 countries, for instance, which come in handy if you're looking to unblock streaming services and sites from overseas. I had no trouble accessing Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime with Surfshark—and thanks to its awesome speeds, you'll be able to enjoy smooth, HD streams on all of your devices.
On that note, Surfshark's unlimited simultaneous connections let you share your subscription with friends and family, to ensure everyone's favorite gadgets are secure. It's great value for money, and is a huge part of the reason why Surfshark tops my best cheap VPN list. It's also worth noting that the Surfshark apps are incredibly easy to use—even if you're a VPN newbie. If you're thinking of giving it a try, take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Fresh-feeling apps for all devices | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | All features are clearly signposted and simple to use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | One of the quickest providers in my shortlist | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks all of the most popular streaming platforms | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Some kill switch issues, but otherwise impressive | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Live chat and email support is superb | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | A great budget-friendly option that's packed with value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best of the rest
✔️ You want the industry's gold standard: ExpressVPN sets the bar with regular audits and a proven no-logs policy, ensuring your information is secure.
✔️ You need easy-to-use apps: all of ExpressVPN's apps have a fun, fresh design that's a joy to navigate—even if you've never used a VPN before.
✔️ You want access to content around the world: with servers in more than 105 countries, accessing content from overseas is a breeze.
❌ You're sticking to a budget: ExpressVPN is an undeniably pricey option, which might be a deal breaker in a cost-of-living crisis.
❌ You want a full security suite: unlike NordVPN, you won't get an all-in-one solution with antivirus functionality with ExpressVPN.
🔒 ExpressVPN is a market leader for a reason—it's quick, easy to use, and packs a ton of features into each subscription. You can take the service for a test drive, too, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our in-depth ExpressVPN review to see why it's my number one VPN pick overall.
Every Linux user has their own VPN preferences, but ExpressVPN is a world-famous service that works hard to cater to everyone. During my testing, I found that there's a lightweight command line app with .deb and .rpm packages for Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch, Mint, and more.
While ExpressVPN doesn't offer a full GUI, you can install the Chrome or Firefox extension and control the app directly from your browser. It's not quite as plug-and-play as Surfshark or PIA, but it's very easy to get up and running. You can also set it up manually and use the service from Network Manager or any suitable OpenVPN-compatible app.
► Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
In better news, ExpressVPN's Linux app has plenty of features. You'll get access to the VPN's very own proprietary protocol, Lightway, which strikes an awesome balance between speed and security. The Linux app also received support for the tracker and malware-blocking Threat Manager feature before its Windows counterparts—a nice change of pace from other providers that tend to neglect their Linux user base.
The list of ExpressVPN's security tools goes on and on. I particularly like the combination of the auto-connect and kill switch functions, which will ensure you're always protected. The kill switch cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops out, preventing data leaks, and auto-connect is a must-have if you use your phone to connect to notoriously unsecure public Wi-Fi networks on the go.
When it comes to unblocking, ExpressVPN is one of the best streaming VPNs on the block. Servers in 94 countries give you access to in-demand platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, and their international libraries, and ExpressVPN even unblocks smaller regional services.
As you'd expect from its name, ExpressVPN is no slouch when it comes to speed, either. It's not quite as quick as NordVPN and Surfshark, but it still managed to hit top speeds of 750 Mbps—which is more than 30 times what you'll need for HD streaming and online gaming. Plus, if you run into any trouble, ExpressVPN's excellent support team is available 24/7 via live chat.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A clean and clutter-free design looks fantastic on all devices | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Awesome for VPN newbies with a handy auto-connect feature | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Blazing speeds that can handle HD streaming and torrenting | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks virtually any service you point it at | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Tough encryption and an audited no-logs policy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat is always available to troubleshoot issues | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | An expensive provider, but packed with premium tools | ⭐⭐⭐ |
✔️ You're a huge Netflix fan: NordVPN has no trouble unblocking international Netflix libraries.
✔️ You need a speed demon: currently, NordVPN tops my list of the quickest VPNs, making it a great pick for torrenting and gaming.
✔️ You want an all-in-one solution: NordVPN's plans come with built-in ad blocking and malware protection as standard.
❌ You need super simple apps: NordVPN has a map-style interface that's fun at first, but can be tricky to use on smaller screens.
❌ You want access to content everywhere: servers in 60 locations is pretty decent, but you'll get more choice if you go with ExpressVPN or PIA.
🔒 NordVPN is a stellar service that packs a lot of functionality into budget-friendly prices. Check out just how speedy and secure the service is with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Head on over to our NordVPN review for an in-depth look at this awesome all-rounder.
Many VPNs reserve their best features for Windows, maybe Mac, but never quite get around to delivering them on Linux. NordVPN does things differently. It may 'only' have a command line offering, but this still supports all the core encryption and VPN technology, a top-quality kill switch to protect you if the connection drops, and automatic VPN connections that'll ensure you're always protected from snoopers and cybercriminals.
Some of these features go way beyond anything I've seen elsewhere. For example, the Meshnet feature, which is now free of charge, allows you to create a secure private network for multiple devices, wherever they are in the world. Once it's up and running you can share folders, play network games, route traffic through them, as though you were all in the same building (only with the added security of an encrypted NordVPN connection). It may even be useful for those who share Netflix passwords.
▶ Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Don't worry if you're not all that interested in the technicalities: NordVPN is a perfect pick for VPN newbies. All of its apps have a unique, modern design, although the map-based interface can be a little tricky to use if you're on your phone or an iPad.
NordVPN is currently my number one Netflix VPN, seeing as it effortlessly unblocks the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan libraries. If you have subscriptions to other streaming platforms, you'll be glad to hear that NordVPN is just as adept at accessing Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+, amongst others.
In addition to being an awesome streaming pick, NordVPN is the fastest VPN I've tested in a long time. In fact, it managed to max out my connection with speeds of over 950 Mbps. That means you'll have no trouble streaming HD, hopping into online games, and torrenting, and can even leave the VPN running in the background as you go about your day-to-day browsing without noticing a huge impact.
It's also worth noting that a NordVPN subscription comes with some handy extras. Built-in ad-blocking and antivirus protection keep you safe as you hop from site to site, and users on the Complete plan also get access to its password manager, data breach scanner, and NordLocker secure cloud storage.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Well-designed and fresh, but may be too complex for some | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | The map interface can be off-putting, but most features are easy to find | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | The fastest VPN in my rankings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | A great pick for Netflix and BBC iPlayer | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Plenty of security tools and robust encryption | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Live chat support is friendly and professional | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Low-cost plans, fantastic value for money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
✔️ You want a free Linux VPN: it's rare to find a free VPN offering Linux support, and Proton VPN even has a GUI for its freemium users.
✔️ You need a VPN that's totally privacy-focused: Proton VPN is an audited, no-logs service that you can pay for with Bitcoin... or cash.
✔️ You want a free service without limitations: Proton VPN doesn't impose harsh data caps and monthly allowances on its free plan.
❌ You need a super speedy service: Proton VPN's connection speeds weren't all that impressive, so stick to NordVPN and Surfshark if performance is a priority.
❌ You want lots of locations to choose from: Proton VPN's network is improving, but its range of locations is still limited compared to the likes of ExpressVPN.
🔒 Proton VPN has carved out an impressive niche in the VPN world, and is known for its robust security tools—and its free Linux VPN. Put it to the test in your own time with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Visit our detailed Proton VPN review for more information about how the service sticks up for user privacy.
Proton VPN's Linux credentials are obvious from the moment you visit the website. The service has two Linux apps; a gorgeous GUI, and a lightweight CLI. Distro support is impressive, too, and includes Debian, Ubuntu, Mint, MX Linux, Kali Linux, Elementary OS, Fedora, and Arch Linux/ Manjaro. The website even includes an installation guide for each distro with all sorts of handy tips and details.
Proton VPN's Linux feature support is also better than most. Sure, the CLI app doesn't offer split tunneling (yet), but it's included with the GUI edition, along with a rock-solid kill switch that'll leap into action if your VPN connection drops. You'll also get access to Proton VPN's very own ad, malware, and tracker-blocking tech, so you can rest assured that your browsing sessions are more secure than ever.
▶ Try Proton VPN's unlimited free plan.
Few VPNs can match Proton VPN when it comes to privacy, too. You'll often find providers using a tracker or two on their website and Android apps, which isn't ideal, even if they're only Google Analytics and a crash reporter. I noticed that Proton VPN doesn't have a single one—it's a rare service that really lives up to its privacy promises.
There have been a few privacy upgrades recently, too, including a new browser extension that should make it easier to bypass censorship. The Swiss-based VPN has even teamed up with a German independent media firms, to ensure users in oppressive countries have access to a trustworthy global new source—Deutsche Welle.
Of course, Proton VPN isn't without its issues. For example, I found that the Windows app can take up to 10 seconds to connect (whereas other providers only need 1 or 2), and its support doesn't quite match up when compared to the other top contenders. I'd like to see Proton VPN introduce live chat support, seeing as support site articles can't always resolve more technical issues.
It's also worth noting that Proton VPN is a pretty average performer when it comes to speed, hitting peaks of 460 Mbps. However, you'll have easy access to all sorts of streaming platforms, including Netflix and Amazon Prime—just remember that you'll need a paid account to reap these benefits.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | The dark mode is a stunner, and looks great on all devices | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Fantastic on mobile, although the desktop app can be complex | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Middle-of-the-pack speeds | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | With a paid plan, you'll be able to unblock Netflix content from overseas | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Open-source apps, strong encryptions, and lots of security add-ons | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | The lack of live chat makes reaching out to support tricky | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Premium plans are slightly pricey, but the free version is a standout | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How to choose a VPN
First things first, a quality Linux VPN needs to have its own app, simplifying the setup process and making it much easier to use. Some VPNs have command line (also known as CLI) apps, an increasing number have full GUI apps, a few even have both: check your prospective provider carefully before you sign up.
You'll also need to make sure the app has all the features you need. VPN websites often have lengthy lists of amazing tools, but 'forget' to mention that some of the best aren't available on Linux, as they're so focused on other platforms. Don't assume the app has any particular feature until you've seen it confirmed on the website.
A support team with real Linux experience is a big plus (even if you're an expert, you might need help occasionally.) Browse any Linux support pages for clues that a provider knows what it's doing. A couple of short pages last updated five years ago is probably a bad sign, but a lengthy list of detailed and genuinely useful content is far more encouraging.
We've researched and reviewed hundreds of VPN providers, but you have the final say in which service best suits your own needs and budget.
It's not just about Linux features, of course; the key ingredients of a great VPN are the same for every platform.
Look for a service with locations in all the countries you need, with regularly-updated apps, and support for the fastest and most secure protocols (like WireGuard, Lightway, Nordlynx, OpenVPN.)
Many VPNs have a strict no-logs policy to confirm they're not monitoring your traffic. That's good, but it's even better if they've had the service independently audited to confirm that they're delivering on these promises.
If you regularly travel to countries that block VPNs, look for services that use obfuscation—technical trickery that makes it more difficult to detect VPN usage.
Our Linux VPN testers
Meet the experts who put the best Linux VPNs under a microscope.
Mike regularly reviews our top picks, and loves looking behind the curtains to see how a VPN works in the background. If there's a skeleton in the closet, he'll find it.
A privacy purist at heart, Andreas is a VPN expert who believes that the best VPN doesn't have to be the most expensive—it's about what's right for you. He enjoys nothing more than holding VPN services accountable to the highest standards and challenging the industry to be better.
Linux VPN FAQs
Does Linux need a VPN?
Opting for Linux gives you an advantage in privacy and security when compared to other operating systems, but it can't shield you from every threat. Adding a VPN to your system brings all kinds of privacy benefits.
Connect to a VPN and your traffic is directed through a secure and encrypted tunnel to the VPN server, then on to its real destination (whatever site or resource you're trying to access.) This ensures hackers can't snoop on your traffic, even when you're using dodgy public Wi-Fi, and your local network and ISP won't be able to see what you're doing online, either.
Meanwhile, whether you're connecting to a P2P torrent peer or a regular website, it'll only see the IP address of the VPN server and not yours. There's no way for anyone to see that it's you downloading that torrent, visiting that website, or anything else.
The best VPNs have servers in VPNs all around the world, making them ideal for accessing content that might be blocked in your country. So, if you're looking to view US Netflix or access uncensored news your government really doesn't want you to see, a good VPN can unblock the content you need.
What is today's best Linux VPN?
Top of my list in the Linux VPN stakes is Private Internet Access. It has a fantastic (and full) GUI, as well as a CLI app, and is jam-packed with security features that'll keep your device secure.
PIA isn't just any old VPN service, though. It's an industry veteran that's proven its no-logs claim in court—twice!
Can I use a free Linux VPN?
Linux is free, so opting for a free VPN might seem like an obvious choice. Unfortunately, it's usually a bad idea—some free VPNs leave you more vulnerable to privacy and security problems than if you didn't use any VPN at all.
The problem with most free services is that although they don't ask you for money, you'll pay in other ways. Some display ads, introducing the possibility that you'll be tracked or perhaps infected by malware. Others have been found to log your browsing history. I've even seen one say that it'll send screenshots of your device back to the provider.
Even when a provider is totally honest, the reality is that maintaining a quality VPN service is expensive. Take the free option and it's highly likely you'll be signing up for a service that compromises on speed, reliability, security, software development, and more. You're just rolling the dice and hoping that somehow it'll be 'good enough.'
But the real question is: why take that risk? Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the best VPNs around, for instance, and although it's not free, sign up for the three-year plan and it'll cost you under seven cents a day.
What is a Linux VPN for?
VPNs were originally used to allow remote workers to log in to corporate networks remotely over a secure connection.
In essence, a VPN works by routing all your Internet traffic through another computer, which could be on the other side of the planet. For all intents and purposes, it’ll appear you are browsing the Internet through that remote computer.
I spoke to Linux User & Developer back in 2018 who helped me dig into all the pros and cons of VPNs on Linux.
River helps take care of cybersecurity content on TechRadar—ranging from breaking news pieces, reviews, and buying guides.
Disclaimer
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:
1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.
We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
