Best VPNs for Linux

Very few VPNs have native Linux support and even fewer have a GUI, which makes the search a little harder. This guide highlights the very best VPNs for Linux, including those with a user interface. 

Linux users typically have a higher level of technical expertise compared to the average user. For these tech-savvy individuals, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) hold significant advantages, which makes them a highly popular tool among Linux enthusiasts. Despite this, there are relatively few VPN providers offering native support for Linux - making it hard to find a world-class VPN that is compatible.

At Bleeping Computer, we firmly believe that your choice of operating system should not limit your VPN experience. To ensure Linux users get the best VPN service available, we conducted extensive testing on some of the top VPN providers in the market. Our goal was to identify those that offer comprehensive Linux support, maximum functionality, and a solid no-logging policy.

In this guide, we have pinpointed the best VPNs for your Linux system. Our recommendations excel in providing the features and support you need for a seamless and secure online experience, and for gaining additional freedom and accessibility on Linux.

The best VPNs for Linux:

1. NordVPN: Our top VPN pick for Linux. Zero-logs provider with first-class speed and streaming ability. Consistently pushes VPN technology forward. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Linux, with support for Ubuntu or Debian systems. Also offers a GUI.
3. ExpressVPN: Fast and secure, with a large network and over a dozen supported distros. Infrastructure and software have both been audited.
4. Mullvad: This quick, beginner-friendly VPN supports most distributions with systemd.
5. IVPN: Great general-purpose VPN with no logs and support for the most popular distros.
6. CyberGhost: Highly versatile service with truly exceptional performance.
7. Atlas VPN: Impressive security and speeds, but only works on Ubuntu for now.

You could technically use just about any VPN with a Linux system as long as the service allows access to its OVPN files. However, we’re looking for VPNs that go the extra mile for Linux users, which is why we created a strict list of criteria that our top providers had to meet. We've outlined some of these below, but you can also read more about our VPN testing methods further in this article.

• Does not require Linux users to manually configure anything
• Works with major distros (the more, the better)
• Maintains most, if not all, of its functionality in the Linux app
• Offers powerful security tools and a no-logs policy
• Provides high-speed servers in at least 40 different countries
• Makes it easy for users to get help
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN provider must have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party and own its entire network infrastructure. Servers must be diskless/RAM only and the provider must have had its logging policies (infrastructure) audited by a respected third-party

Summary table

Best VPNs for Linux systems

We’ll now do a deeper dive into each of our top picks to really show what each has to offer. Here's our list of the best VPNs for Linux:

NordVPN works with nine different Linux distributions, including Raspberry Pi OS, QubesOS, and OpenSUSE, though theoretically, it should work with most Debian or RHEL-based systems. Its CLI product offers every feature that the Windows app does, and all supporting documentation is available in 10 languages. Additionally, support staff are on-hand 24/7 via live chat, with a ticket system available for more complex queries.

One of the reasons we think NordVPN stands head and shoulders above its competitors is that it just open-sourced its Linux client and associated networking libraries. It's wonderful to see a VPN company embrace the open ethos of Linux, providing much-needed transparency and alleviating security and privacy concerns that many Linux users may have. We can only hope other providers follow suit. 

One of this provider’s biggest selling points is its self-owned network. There are more than 5,200 servers to choose from across 59+ countries, with some specially optimized for P2P file-sharing, accessing the dark web, or browsing securely in countries with repressive online censorship. What’s more, NordVPN is very fast (averaging around 200 Mbps in our tests) and is one of the most reliable options for securely accessing streaming sites like Netflix or BBC iPlayer.

Once connected, users are protected from DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and all traffic is secured using 256-bit AES encryption. That’s far from all NordVPN has to offer, though: there’s also a kill switch, port and subnet whitelist, and a Threat Protection Lite tool that blocks ads, trackers, and malware.

Finally, there’s a feature named Meshnet that makes it easy to create a secure point-to-point connection between your devices and other NordVPN users. Not everyone will need this, but if anyone will appreciate the option, it’s Linux users.

NordVPN supports OpenVPN connections and also has its own protocol named NordLynx. This is based on WireGuard but the main difference is NordVPN’s double NAT system that ensures source IP addresses are never saved to the server. On that note, NordVPN is a zero-logs provider and has had this fact verified twice by independent auditors.

BEST LINUX VPN: NordVPN is our top choice. It offers a huge degree of customization as well as high speeds, strong security, and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark is one of the most cost-effective VPNs on the market, provided you choose a long-term subscription. It’s also one of the only major providers to offer a graphical interface for its Linux app, though this only works with Debian, Ubuntu, and Linux Mint, and only on 64-bit systems. On the plus side, there’s no connection limit, meaning you can secure every device you own simultaneously.

This VPN boasts over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, with some capable of getting you a static IP address or routing data through two locations. We’ve seen Surfshark deliver excellent download speeds, so you shouldn’t have any issues torrenting, making video calls, or gaming. It’s great for streaming too, working reliably with major platforms like Netflix and Disney+.

So, how’s the security? First off, Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption and protects against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Its Linux app includes a built-in kill switch, as well as WireGuard support and a CleanWeb tool that stops ads, trackers, and malware in their tracks. This provider follows a true no-logs policy, which means it can’t divulge details of your activities under any circumstances and has twice had its infrastructure audited to prove its commitment to privacy. It also boasts unique features such as a GUI for Linux desktops, a private search engine, and rotating IP addresses.

Getting help is remarkably simple, thanks to the free, 24/7 live chat service. Users can also submit a support ticket for help with more technical issues or browse an expansive list of tutorials and troubleshooting guides in the knowledge base. Like all of the top three providers in this list, it has an excellent record of working in China. This has increasingly become more of a problem for most VPN providers, so the fact Surshark can still navigate China’s sophisticated VPN blocking system is a huge bonus.

BEST BUDGET VPN: Surfshark is a low-cost VPN capable of competing with much more expensive services. It’s quick, reliable, and works great on Linux, while allowing you to secure an entire household. Best of all, Surfshark includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN was actually the first provider to offer its own CLI for Linux so it should be no surprise to see it in this list. Currently, it’s confirmed to work with around 15 distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, CentOS, Mint, and Raspberry Pi OS, though ExpressVPN suspects that it may function on others as well.

Whether you’re looking to run a small project or secure traffic from your main PC, ExpressVPN is up to the task. We’ve seen it deliver speeds in excess of 400 Mbps, and there are thousands of servers spread across 94+ countries, all of which allow P2P traffic. This provider is fairly adept at streaming too, having no issues with platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, or Hulu. If you’re unsure about anything, just reach out using the 24/7 live chat service – staff are happy to answer simple questions even if you’re not currently subscribed.

ExpressVPN’s Linux app is well-documented, easy to use, and independently audited for security. Additionally, it includes the new Threat Manager feature, which isn’t currently available on Windows – this blocks an ever-growing list of trackers and malicious sites from communicating with your device. There’s also AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, plus the option to connect automatically on startup.

This provider supports two protocols: OpenVPN and one it created in-house, called Lightway. The latter offers drastically improved speeds (partially thanks to its stripped-down codebase) and can secure your connection even in the brief moment when switching networks. Crucially, ExpressVPN refuses to log any information that could identify you, though it does collect anonymized statistics such as total bandwidth consumption and which dates you connected. Additionally, both its infrastructure and software have been audited, which isn’t necessarily the case with the providers in this list that sit outside the top three.

ExpressVPN (along with CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and ZenMate) is owned by Kape Technologies (formerly Crossrider). 

BEST VPN FOR UNCOMMON DISTROS: ExpressVPN is a natural choice for Linux users thanks to its widespread support, beginner-friendly CLI offering, and 24/7 customer service. It even offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can see if it works with your distro of choice.

Mullvad is an interesting little provider that you might not have heard of. It differs from the competition in several ways, for instance, by keeping its price the same for more than a decade and refusing to provide discounts for long-term subscriptions. This service only officially supports Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora, but should work on most 64-bit distros with systemd.

This provider breaks tradition by having you log in with a secret number instead of a username/password combination. This lets users sign up without linking an email address or handle that could lead back to them. It doesn’t log any data that could identify you, though some aggregated information is collected to help diagnose problems with the network. Mullvad’s encryption is rock-solid no matter whether you connect via OpenVPN or WireGuard, and there’s also an always-on kill switch plus protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. What’s more, users can even block trackers, ads, gambling sites, and adult content automatically.

Unfortunately, Mullvad doesn’t offer live chat-based support. There is a support email address, though, and a large selection of guides in the knowledge base. It freely mentions other privacy-boosting services and seems focused on educating users rather than selling a product, which is actually quite refreshing to see.

It’s worth mentioning that Mullvad isn’t the best at accessing geo-blocked streaming services. However, it does have port forwarding, which makes it good for torrenting! If you’re looking for an inexpensive, privacy-conscious VPN with reasonable speeds and powerful security tools, Mullvad VPN is well worth considering.

BEST GENERAL-PURPOSE VPN: Mullvad is very easy to use, supports the more widespread Linux distros, and provides strong security at a reasonable price. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee just in case you’re not quite convinced it’s right for you.

IVPN has a lot to offer Linux users. First and foremost, it supports Ubuntu, Debian, Mint, Fedora, CentOS, and Arch, which should cover most people. Additionally, IVPN is the only provider in this list other than Surfshark, which has a graphical interface on Linux. The network is a little smaller, with around 70 servers in 30+ countries, but this VPN is still absolutely fast enough for 4K streaming, gaming, or torrenting.

We were really impressed by IVPN’s commitment to privacy. It refuses to log any data that could identify users and rejects the “VPNs are the only way to stay safe online” argument that’s becoming increasingly common. Traffic is secured using either AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption, depending on whether you’re connecting via OpenVPN or WireGuard.

That’s not all – the Linux apps also boast DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, a kill switch, LAN-traffic blocker, split tunneling functionality, and automatic connection options for even greater flexibility. Finally, there’s an AntiTracker tool that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. This is all included in the standard subscription, though you’ll need a Pro account to use MultiHop servers, turn on port forwarding, or connect more than two devices at a time.

IVPN isn’t the best at unblocking regionally-restricted services. However, it did work with some streaming platforms we tried, so your mileage may vary. Customer support can be reached exclusively via email though there’s an in-depth list of help articles on the website, with a whole section specifically for Linux users.

BEST VPN FOR PRIVACY: IVPN doesn’t claim to be the best of the best. It is, however, honest about what it offers: a stellar Linux app, a ton of functionality, and a zero-logs policy. Not convinced? Why not try it out for yourself using the 30-day money-back guarantee?

CyberGhost is perhaps best known for its staggeringly-high speeds (our most recent tests saw it average more than 280 Mbps). However, it also boasts a robust CLI for 64-bit Ubuntu, Fedora, Mint, Kali, PopOS, and CentOS systems. This requires a little more typing than many other leading VPN apps but there’s a good amount of documentation available on the CyberGhost website that’ll walk you through it.

This provider uses effectively uncrackable encryption, supports the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, and prevents DNS and IPv6 leaks. Additionally, it offers a kill switch, automatic connection options, and a Smart Rules feature that allows users to add specific apps or networks to a whitelist.

CyberGhost doesn’t log any data that could identify you and only collects aggregate data for diagnostic purposes. CyberGhost is quite possibly one of the most user-friendly VPNs out there. It has a network of 9,000+ servers in 91+ countries, and these are separated into different lists so you can easily find one that’s suitable for general browsing, evading censorship, torrenting, or gaming. Further, there’s an extensive list of supported streaming services, from Netflix to DAZN, so you’ll never be short of something to watch.

As you might expect, CyberGhost provides around-the-clock support over live chat. This is usually the best way to get in touch since you’ll get an answer right away. Alternatively, you can send customer service an email, submit a ticket, or check out the help section for step-by-step tutorials.

FAST LINUX VPN: CyberGhost is lightning-quick and doesn’t compromise when it comes to security either. Its Linux app works with a wide array of popular distros and offers a large degree of control over your connection. Plus, this VPN has a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Atlas VPN is a newer provider that’s only recently added Linux support. At the moment, it only works with Ubuntu, but the company claims that support for other distros is coming soon. So how’s the performance? In a word: fantastic. Atlas VPN boasts average speeds of over 150 Mbps and can reliably access stubborn services like BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Prime Video.

This service supports the IKEv2 and WireGuard protocols, uses effectively uncrackable encryption, and follows a no-logs policy (though it does collect advertising IDs, so clearing these periodically is a good idea). Users can also configure the service to connect automatically on startup, block ads and trackers, or alert you when your credentials are leaked online.

Atlas VPN currently has around 750 servers in 38+ countries. This is a smaller selection than some of the providers higher up our list but still an impressive showing for a freemium service, especially as it includes popular locations like the United States, The UK, and Australia. Additionally, some of these are MultiHop servers that encrypt your data twice, while the SafeSwap servers change your IP address at fixed intervals for even greater anonymity.

One of the biggest flaws with this VPN is that it doesn’t work with routers. In other words, it won’t help you encrypt traffic from devices that don’t support the full VPN app. There’s no connection limit, but this is still a pretty large oversight. The kill switch also leaks for a split second during reconnection, which isn't ideal. If you need help, you can contact support staff day or night over live chat or email or check out the support section to see if your question has already been addressed.

BEST STREAMING VPN: Atlas VPN has all the tools Linux users need to stream their favorite shows securely. What’s more, it can protect all of your devices at once and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Methodology: Finding the best VPN apps for Linux users

For a long time, VPNs would release apps for Windows and Mac, with Linux being treated almost like an afterthought. Now, though, Linux users have more options than ever. To help thin out the competition and ensure we only recommend the best of the best, we decided to only list providers that abide by the following principles:

• Linux users deserve the same features: Whether using CLI or GUI, every effort should be made to include functionality that’s available on other operating systems.
• Privacy is a VPN’s top priority: A VPN that keeps activity logs is no use to anyone. To truly keep your browsing habits secure, a service must follow a no-logs policy and use as-yet-uncrackable encryption. We strongly gravitate towards providers that have shown a willingness to push the industry forward with innovative new security features.
• Uninterrupted browsing is better for everyone: If your VPN is too slow or frequently gets detected by the sites you visit, you’re less likely to use it. That’s why we strongly prefer those with high speeds and the ability to fly under the radar.
• Protecting yourself should be simple: The easier a service is to use, the better. We specifically looked for VPNs with well-written, comprehensive documentation, 24/7 support, and easy-to-use apps. In this case, having a GUI is a huge bonus, but we also considered how user-friendly each VPN’s CLI was as well.
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. While almost every provider says they are a ‘no logs' VPN, the only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. This is why we will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. 
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers, and it is wiped on shutdown.

Why Linux Users Need VPNs

When you connect to the internet local network administrators, ISPs, government agencies, and other potential eavesdroppers (such as hackers on public WiFi) can track your web visits and potentially intercept your personal data. This makes VPNs hugely important for any Linux user because it encrypts your internet connection to prevent anybody from monitoring your web visits. This gives you the privacy needed to use the internet without allowing ISPs to profile you and potentially sell data about you to third parties (which is legal in the US).

The privacy provided by a VPN not only stops tracking, but it also gives you the ability to bypass blocks on local networks, or in countries with overreaching censorship, without fear of being monitored. This is perfect if you want to use social media or YouTube at work without anybody knowing. It also allows you to use VoIP apps in countries where they are blocked, for example.

Finally, the way a VPN works allows you to engage in IP address spoofing. This gives you the opportunity to pretend to be in a completely different country, which lets you access region-locked TV services, internet banking, shopping platforms, or anything else that takes your fancy. You can even use a VPN to buy plane tickets cheaper and to purchase games for less.

Setting Up a VPN on Linux: Step-by-Step Guide

Some of the VPNs we have recommended in this guide have a GUI app for Linux. This makes it extremely easy to set up the VPN on your Linux machine. Others have a CLI application, which means that you need to use commands to set up the VPN and install the config files to connect to its servers.

The good news is that each VPN has a guide with the commands needed to use the VPN and set up specific features, such as the kill switch. If your VPN has a CLI app, we recommend heading to the specific setup menu on the VPN provider's website. Below, we have provided an overview that explains how to set up a VPN on Linux:

1. Choose a VPN for Linux from this guide
2. Navigate to the VPN's website and subscribe
3. Download the VPN application onto your Linux machine (or install it using the commands provided on the website)
4. Login to the GUI app using your credentials, or enter your credentials as instructed using the CLI.
5. Choose a VPN server from the app, or use the command needed to connect to the server you require.

VPNs on Linux: FAQs

Do any Linux VPNs have a GUI, or do I have to use the command line?

The vast majority of VPNs don’t offer a GUI on Linux systems, with users having to rely on the command line. However, Surfshark and IVPN are two major providers that have recently introduced their own apps for desktop users.

How do I manually install a VPN in Linux?

If your VPN provider doesn’t have a dedicated Linux app, you may still be able to use it, provided it allows you to download its OpenVPN configuration files. If you’re using Ubuntu, the quickest way to get set up is using the Network Manager but the exact process will be different for other distributions.

Luckily, most VPNs provide detailed manual installation guides in the support section of their website. If you can’t find one, we’d recommend contacting customer support to see if they can point you in the right direction.

Do I need a specific Linux distro to use VPN apps?

If you’re on Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Debian, you should be perfectly fine. That said, you might run into trouble finding consumer VPNs that support more niche distributions like OpenSUSE. To make matters worse, a lot of providers haven’t actually checked to see if their software works on less popular distros, meaning their list of supported Linux is often incomplete. On the plus side, you’ll usually find major VPNs offering a money-back guarantee; this allows you to try the service out risk-free and get a full refund if it doesn’t work.

Can I access streaming services with a VPN for Linux?

Yes. When you connect to a VPN server on your Linux machine, you get a valid IP address in that location. This allows you to access streaming services that are region locked to that country. This is perfect if you are working abroad, on vacation, or an expat who wants to be able to keep watching home TV services and streaming platforms on vacation. 

The important thing to remember is that most VPNs have been blocked by popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, ITVX, Peacock, and Disney Plus. This means that you have to choose your provider carefully.

The VPNs we have recommended in this guide all have fast servers that are suitable for streaming in HD, gaming, torrenting, and making video calls. We have also tested them with numerous streaming platforms to ensure that they are good all-rounders.

With that said, it is important to remember that each VPN on this list is unique and may work with different streaming services. You can find out more by reading our in-depth reviews for each service. Alternatively, you can test the VPN with your favorite streaming platforms and TV networks by using each VPN's money-back guarantee.

If Linux is more secure, why do I need a VPN?

Although Linux is considered more secure than other operating systems, there are still plenty of reasons why you should be using a VPN:

1. Privacy protection: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for anyone, including your internet service provider or other eavesdroppers, to monitor your online activities. This is vital if you frequently use public WiFi networks, where your data is more vulnerable to being tracked or falling victim to hackers.
2. Browsing protection: A VPN masks your IP address, making it harder for websites, advertisers, or other online entities to track your online activities. This protects your digital footprint and stops your personal information from being disseminated to marketing companies and data brokers. It also helps to stop you from being served personalized ads and helps to stop companies from profiling you. 
3. Geo-restricted content: Some services and websites are restricted based on your geographical location. With a VPN, you can bypass these restrictions by connecting to a server in a different country.
4. Enhanced security: Although Linux is secure, a VPN adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your data and protecting your machines from potential threats or attacks. It helps safeguard your sensitive information, such as passwords, financial details, or private communications. And it stops you from exposing your IP Address to malicious actors when connecting P2P.
5. Evade censorship: Some countries block many websites and services. By using a VPN, you can bypass these restrictions to browse the web and communicate without limitations.