5 Best VPN For Linux: Factors To Consider & Top Recommendations

Searching for a compatible and secure VPN solution can be a unique and somewhat daunting task for Linux users. 

With its diverse distributions and complex configurations, the Linux ecosystem demands a VPN provider that seamlessly integrates with the operating system while ensuring top-notch privacy and security. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to the top five VPNs for Linux, each carefully selected based on their Linux compatibility and strong feature sets.

Setting up the best VPN for Linux systems can often be complex, and not all VPNs offer native support for Linux distributions. 

However, the five providers we recommend in this article offer straightforward setup procedures, including native apps for specific Linux distributions, ensuring you can easily protect your online activities.

What Are The Best VPNs For Linux?

To find the best VPN for Linux, consider compatibility, speed, performance, platform support, server network, security, privacy features, and additional functionalities. 

The ideal VPN should also offer a money-back guarantee and reliable customer support.

Based on these criteria, the top five VPNs for Linux are:

NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN For Linux In 2023

NordVPN stands out as the best VPN for Linux, supporting various distributions and other platforms like Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS. 

It offers a native Linux app for Debian, Ubuntu, Elementary OS, Linux Mint, and RPM-based distros. You can access content worldwide with a vast network of servers across 60 countries and robust unblocking capabilities. 

Security features include secure VPN protocols, AES 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, a Double VPN, a kill switch, split tunneling, and more. 

NordVPN provides reliable performance; every plan has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Merits:

• Native Linux app
• Strong privacy measures
• Extensive security features
• Excellent for unblocking restricted content
• 30-day refund period

Demerits:

• Slower on remote servers

ExpressVPN – Beginner-Friendly VPN With Native Linux Support

ExpressVPN offers an easy-to-use native Linux app compatible with various Linux distros. It also supports multiple platforms and allows up to 8 simultaneous connections. 

ExpressVPN boasts a wide server network of 3,000+ servers across 100+ countries, delivering exceptional unblocking capabilities for various websites and streaming platforms. 

It features robust security and privacy, including military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, secure VPN protocols, a kill switch, split tunneling, TrustedServer technology, and advanced leak protection. 

ExpressVPN is known for its blazing-fast speeds and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Merits:

• Supports multiple Linux distros
• Native Linux app
• Top-notch unblocking capabilities
• Lightning-fast speeds and performance
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Demerits:

• No ad blocker

Pure VPN – User-Friendly With Various Distributions

PureVPN offers a Linux-compatible VPN service, ensuring online privacy and security. It supports various Linux distributions, although the setup process may vary based on your chosen distribution and technical proficiency. 

Some users may find it more complex, but PureVPN provides detailed guides and customer support. This Linux VPN free is a suitable choice for those who prefer Linux’s open-source nature.

Merits:

• Enhanced online privacy and security
• Bypasses geo-restrictions
• Strong encryption
• Available customer support

Demerits:

• Setup complexity
• Variable user experience

Surfshark – Best VPN For High-End Privacy

Surfshark is a powerful Linux VPN that supports Linux, iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows. It offers an easy-to-use Linux graphical interface with its native app on Ubuntu distros and allows unlimited simultaneous connections. 

With a server network covering 100 countries, it excels in content unblocking. Surfshark ensures high-speed internet connections, strong security, and privacy, leak protection, and features like a kill switch, split tunneling, CleanWeb ad blocker, Smart DNS, and more. 

All Surfshark plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support.

Merits:

• Beginner-friendly GUI Linux app
• Top-notch security and privacy
• Robust suite of features
• Super-fast connection speeds
• 30-day money-back period

Demerits:

• Best VPN for Ubuntu distros only

Private Internet Access – Largest VPN Server Fleet Available

Private Internet Access (PIA) offers strong Linux VPN client support and compatibility with macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. 

It has a full GUI in its native Linux app for Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Debian, Fedora, and Arch Linux and allows unlimited simultaneous connections. 

PIA boasts the largest server network in the market, covering thousands of servers in 84 countries. It excels in content unblocking and offers robust security and privacy. A

Also, features like split tunneling, a kill switch, Multi-Hop, P2P support, an ad blocker, anti-malware, port forwarding, customizable DNS settings, and a 30-day money-back guarantee exist.

Merits:

• Largest server fleet on the market
• Offers full GUI for Linux
• Multi-hop and port forwarding available
• Many customization options
• 30-day refund policy

Demerits:

• Slowest VPN on our list

What Makes A VPN Essential For Your Linux Device?

Using a VPN on your Linux device is essential for various reasons, and it offers many advantages.

• Privacy and Security- A free VPN for Linux safeguards your online activities from ISPs, governments, and hackers, ensuring privacy and data protection.
• IP Address Concealment- It hides your real IP address, which otherwise reveals your location and sensitive information, replacing it with a new one.
• Avoid Bandwidth Throttling- VPNs help prevent bandwidth throttling by concealing data usage patterns and maintaining a consistent internet speed.
• Bypass Local Censorship- Connecting to servers in unrestricted regions allows you to access blocked websites and content, regardless of your physical location.
• Access Geo-Restricted Content- VPNs provide access to geo-restricted content worldwide, expanding your digital horizons.
• Stay Connected to Local Content While Abroad- When traveling, a VPN lets you access local content from your home country, ensuring uninterrupted access to your favorite websites and services.
• Secure Public Wi-Fi Use- Public Wi-Fi networks are often insecure, but a VPN encrypts your data, turning these potentially risky connections into secure ones.
• Enhanced Gaming Experience- Gamers can improve their experience by connecting to servers near game data centers, reducing ping times and minimizing lag.
• Eliminate Price Discrimination- VPNs unlock region-specific deals, providing access to the best prices and ensuring the security of your personal and financial data during online shopping.
• Secure Torrenting- VPNs protect your personal information and activities when downloading torrents, keeping you safe while enjoying file sharing.

Conclusion

Linux users often struggle to find compatible and secure VPN solutions. It’s essential to select a reliable VPN that easily integrates with Linux. 

We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN for Linux because of its extensive Linux support and ability to provide comprehensive protection for your devices and data. It’s an ideal choice for unblocking content while offering blazing-fast speeds. 

Stay protected and enjoy unrestricted access with NordVPN.