5 Best VPNs for Ubuntu Tested in 2024: Safe, Fast Native Apps

Ubuntu, a great Debian-based system, is ideal for beginners to Linux-like operating systems. However, its slower update schedule makes it difficult to stay secure online without a VPN. To make matters worse, not all VPNs provide dedicated apps or strong command-line interface (CLI) support for Ubuntu.

My team and I tested 80+ VPNs and found the best ones for Ubuntu that offer GUI and/or CLI apps with features almost on par with their Mac and Windows counterparts. They also protect your data with military-grade (AES 256-bit) encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy. Plus, servers worldwide allow you to use local online services even when you travel abroad.

My top recommendation is ExpressVPN because of its robust security features and impressive speeds. With it, you can securely game online and browse uninterrupted. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN without risk. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Ubuntu in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Best VPNs for Ubuntu — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Advanced Security Features To Protect You on Ubuntu

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Tested November 2024

Available on:

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www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN stands out with its impressive commitment to privacy and security. Your connection remains secure with AES 256-bit encryption (the strongest available), which would take a supercomputer thousands of years to crack. On top of that, Perfect Forward Secrecy regularly replaces your encryption keys — even if one session got hacked, all previous and subsequent sessions are safe.

Your data won't be exposed even if the VPN connection suddenly drops (for example, when you switch servers). That’s because ExpressVPN's kill switch (Network Lock) blocks your device's traffic if the VPN link is lost. I tested ExpressVPN for IP/DNS/WebRTC leaks and detected none, meaning the VPN keeps your data private. Additionally, its Linux app includes Threat Manager, which blocks access to known malicious sites and filters out ads.

The kill switch becomes active as soon as you connect to a server

ExpressVPN's fast servers worldwide make it a great choice for Ubuntu users. The Lightway protocol delivers excellent speeds, thanks to its optimized code—about 1,000 lines compared to OpenVPN's 70,000. On US, France, and Germany servers, we averaged 114.4Mbps, just a 5.9% drop from base speeds of 121.6Mbps. I downloaded a 4GB file in under 5 minutes. With speeds like this, you can stream UHD content and play games without lag.

The VPN also has a custom CLI client for Ubuntu for more control and flexibility. When you log into your account, simply click Download and choose Linux as your preferred operating system. I set up the VPN on my PC in just 3 minutes using the clear written and video guides. There's also a Linux GUI for browser extensions, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

The Linux client doesn’t support split tunneling. However, I had no issues manually routing my traffic in Ubuntu using iptables instead. All subscriptions are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee too, so you can always test out your setup with the VPN first. I tried out the refund process via 24/7 live chat and was reimbursed after 3 days. ExpressVPN frequently offers discounts of up to 82%, and you can use it on 8 devices simultaneously.

Useful Features

• Smart Location. This feature helps you connect to the nearest and fastest server available. It’s useful when you don't have any specific server preferences.
• No-logs policy. ExpressVPN’s policy has been independently audited to confirm that the VPN doesn’t record or store your online activity. Additionally, ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands (which has no data retention laws), meaning it isn’t required to share any data — even with government requests.
• RAM-only servers. These servers are wiped clean with every server reboot. So, there’s no chance of ExpressVPN recording your information in the first place.
• Obfuscation. ExpressVPN automatically obfuscates all its servers, so your VPN use is always hidden. This makes encrypted traffic look like regular internet traffic, so it can easily get past VPN blocks and DPI.
• Torrenting support. The entire network allows P2P activity and the VPN works with popular torrent clients such as qBittorrent, Deluge, and Transmission on Ubuntu, so you can download without any issues.

2. CyberGhost — Excellent Speeds to Stream and Torrent Without Slowdowns on Ubuntu

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www.cyberghostvpn.com

The fast and reliable speeds of CyberGhost allow you to stream, torrent, and play games uninterrupted. With the WireGuard protocol, servers in Canada, France, the US, and Ukraine hovered at 116.6Mbps (just 4.1% below a base connection of 121.6Mbps). Ultra HD streaming requires 25Mbps, so our connections were fast enough to watch Money Heist on Netflix in the highest quality.

Even from over 9,000 km away, WireGuard consistently delivered high speeds

The Ubuntu CLI app offers optimized servers for streaming services like Hulu, and dedicated torrenting servers. Simply type cyberghostvpn --torrent --country-code for torrenting or cyberghostvpn --streaming --country-code for streaming access. Torrenting with uTorrent and Vuze was fast, downloading a 3GB file in just 5 minutes. We also successfully streamed TF1 using CyberGhost’s streaming-optimized server in Paris during our tests.

Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost offers strong security with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to keep your data safe and private. It also supports OpenVPN as well as WireGuard. While WireGuard is faster, OpenVPN is the best for ultimate security. The Identity Guard feature alerts you if your passwords are part of a data breach too.

On the downside, the VPN's monthly plans are expensive and only offer a 14-day money-back guarantee. However, you can use CyberGhost free for 45 days with its long-term options (starting at $2.03/month). I requested my money back via the 24/7 live chat and, after I answered a few questions about my experience, the agent approved the refund. My money was in my bank account after 4 days.

Useful Features

• NoSpy servers. You can upgrade to these independently operated servers that provide extra protection for an additional fee. They are housed within CyberGhost's secure headquarters, minimizing the risk of any third-party interference.
• Multiple simultaneous connections. You can torrent, stream, or browse on up to 7 devices at the same time, and only pay for one CyberGhost account.
• Content Blocker. Blocks pop-up ads that can direct you to potentially harmful websites. It also protects you against trackers and malware often distributed by ad networks.
• Extensive knowledge base. On the website, you'll find detailed, step-by-step guides on installing and using the VPN on Ubuntu and other Linux-based operating systems. I even managed to find tutorials for OpenVPN and PPTP Ubuntu setups, which is rare.
• Strong privacy policy. An audited no-logs policy means the VPN won't collect or share your data. It's also based in Romania, which is a privacy-friendly country.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — GUI for Linux to Easily Install and Use the VPN on Ubuntu

Available on:

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Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA’s intuitive GUI for Linux makes using it on Ubuntu straightforward. You don’t have to deal with the command line configuration to manage your VPN connection on Ubuntu. It offers features that closely match those available in the Windows and Mac apps. I quickly found a server close to me using the search bar in my tests.

You can “favorite” your most used servers by clicking the heart icon next to them

You can also customize security features to suit you. When banking online, I prefer a higher level of encryption (AES 256-bit) combined with the highly secure OpenVPN. However, I recommend switching to the lightweight WireGuard protocol for the best speeds. AES 128-bit is also an option when using OpenVPN.

It has an adjustable kill switch and DNS/IP/WebRTC leak protection. I found no leaks during my tests. Plus, its DNS-based adblocker (MACE) stops malware domains and trackers. Since it uses obfuscation to hide your VPN traffic, you can also use PIA on restricted networks (like work and school) or when visiting countries with strict censorship, like China.

A slight issue is that the VPN is located in the US, which has strict data-sharing laws. However, with a proven no-logs policy and RAM-based servers, PIA keeps your sensitive data from prying eyes. A hassle-free 30-day money-back guarantee means you can try PIA without risk.

Useful Features

• Unlimited device connections. With PIA, you can protect your activity on Ubuntu while others in your household simultaneously use the VPN to torrent, stream, or game.
• Fast speed. Using WireGuard, we averaged 112.2Mbps on the Canada and Ukraine servers against a baseline of 123.7Mbps. This was only a 9.3% loss and fast enough for torrenting without delays — PIA’s whole network is P2P-friendly.
• Port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxy. You can turn these two features on to receive a speed boost when torrenting on Ubuntu. However, you won't be protected by encryption.
• Split tunneling. This feature works on Ubuntu and lets you choose which traffic goes through the VPN. This means you can browse with your normal IP address while your torrenting traffic is secured with the VPN, for example.

4. NordVPN — Global Network to Safely Access Your Favorite Sites on Ubuntu From Anywhere

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Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN’s huge server network spans 111 countries, making it easy to change your virtual location and securely access geoblocked sites with the CLI client. While testing NordVPN, our UK tester connected to servers across the UK and instantly accessed his Halifax bank account without triggering any security alerts. Plus, the Quick Connect feature automatically finds the best server for your location.

24/7 support is available if you need help with the commands

Like ExpressVPN, it safeguards your connection from monitoring with AES 256-bit encryption, Perfect Forward Secrecy, DNS/IP leak protection, and a kill switch. Plus, you can maximize your online safety by enabling Double VPN. This feature adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your traffic twice, but it slows your connection down significantly.

I was concerned that NordVPN’s privacy policy demonstrates a readiness to adhere to government demands for user data. However, this is mitigated because it operates RAM-only servers, doesn’t record your activity, and is headquartered in privacy-friendly Panama. This means NordVPN won't store or share your personal information with anyone. There's also a 30-day guarantee, so getting a refund is painless if you’re not 100% happy.

There's also a 30-day guarantee, so getting a refund is painless if you’re not 100% happy with the VPN. I canceled by emailing support and got confirmation after 2 hours. You can also use its 24/7 live chat. My card was credited with the total amount within that same week.

Useful Features

• P2P support. You can use its torrenting servers to share large files without interruptions. Simply enter nordvpn connect P2P on the Ubuntu VPN client to connect to a P2P server.
• Speed. We recorded a 15.5% reduction from a base connection speed of 126.2Mbps. This was still fast enough to stream in UHD on Hulu, Binge, and HBO Max — even in high quality.
• Auto Connect. Once enabled, NordVPN will establish a VPN tunnel whenever you connect to a network, including mobile networks, WiFi, or Ethernet. This means you don’t have to worry about remembering to switch the VPN on every time.
• Obfuscated servers. They offer a reliable way of avoiding firewall and network bans, granting you access to websites and content that may otherwise be restricted.

5. Surshark — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Protect Your PC and All Other Devices

Available on:

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Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark is great for large households, as you can cover all devices with one subscription (protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee). Our connections remained stable even when using multiple devices at once. We tested Surfshark by streaming Netflix on an Ubuntu PC, various smartphones, and tablets simultaneously. We averaged 100Mbps — only a 19.7% drop from base speeds of 124.6Mbps, and fast enough for streaming.

With Surfshark, we could stream on many devices without delays

Similar to PIA, Surfshark also offers a Linux GUI for Ubuntu, removing the necessity of typing any commands into the terminal. The application offers features similar to the Mac and Windows versions of the VPN, including server favorites, one-click connect, and search. The initial setup requires using the terminal but Surfshark simplifies this process by providing the necessary command.

A minor downside is that the Camouflage mode, designed to disguise your VPN traffic as regular browsing, is confined to OpenVPN (UDP or TCP). Still, the speed-focused WireGuard protocol is compatible with advanced functions in Ubuntu, such as MultiHop. All of this is underpinned by an audited no-logs policy too.

A 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test all of Surfshark's features risk-free. I canceled my subscription via the 24/7 live chat. The refund took about a week to hit my bank account.

Useful Features

• MultiHop. This feature allows you to route traffic through 2 servers instead of one. This adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your data twice.
• Strong security and privacy features. AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS/WebRTC leak protection are in place to keep your activity private.
• CleanWeb. This built-in feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the network level. It provides a smoother, safer browsing experience by preventing unwanted content from affecting your Ubuntu system.

Quick Comparison Table: Ubuntu VPN Features

The table below shows a quick side-by-side comparison to help you decide which VPN is best for you. I paid specific attention to Linux app type, security, and speed.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Linux Ubuntu

I ensured that each VPN I carefully selected satisfies my rigorous standards to qualify as the best VPNs for Ubuntu. You can employ the checklist below to identify the one that most closely aligns with your requirements:

• Linux app. The easiest way to set up and use a VPN on Ubuntu is to get one with a native Linux app.
• Ease of use. Protect your PC right away by choosing a VPN with an intuitive command line or GUI-based interface. The ability to use the service simultaneously on multiple devices is also a great advantage to your online security.
• Robust security features. Keep your online identity and activity private while using Ubuntu by choosing a VPN that comes with strong security measures. Look for services with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, a no-logs policy, and an HQ in a privacy-friendly country outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances.
• Fast speed. Stream and torrent without delays when choosing a VPN that doesn’t drop your speeds by more than 20% on nearby servers. The best Ubuntu VPNs make the speed drop unnoticeable.
• Global network. Plenty of server locations worldwide mean you can always find one near you for the best connection. It also allows you to securely access geo-restricted websites from across the world. Additionally, choosing a provider that supports P2P activity on its servers can greatly enhance your torrenting speed.
• Reliable money-back guarantee. Choose a provider with a trustworthy refund policy, so you can easily get your money back if you're unsatisfied. At a minimum, look for 30 days.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Ubuntu

My main priority was making sure each VPN works seamlessly with Ubuntu across its different versions. I assessed both CLI and GUI apps, along with speed and reliability. I also evaluated security features to ensure they protect your online privacy.

For more details on how we conduct our tests, check out our methodology page — you can use the same criteria to test VPNs on your own. Our goal is to provide clear and thorough information to help you pick the best VPN for your Ubuntu device.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Why Should You Use a VPN With Ubuntu?

Although Ubuntu is known for security, it’s not immune to threats. Like other operating systems, Linux can be targeted by hackers and malicious third parties looking to exploit your personal data. Relying solely on Ubuntu’s built-in protections isn’t always enough, especially with the system's slower update schedule.

Using a VPN with Ubuntu adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your internet traffic, preventing anyone from spying on your online activities. The VPNs in this list offer advanced security features like RAM-only servers and audited no-logs policies, ensuring none of your data is stored or tracked.

These features are crucial for safeguarding your privacy, especially if you frequently use public WiFi or want to stay safe from online surveillance. With a VPN, you can browse, stream, and download on Ubuntu without worrying about your data being compromised.

FAQs on VPNs for Ubuntu

Does Ubuntu have a built-in VPN?

No, it doesn’t — but it does support VPN connections through its Network Manager. This allows you to use a VPN by manually configuring OpenVPN, PPTP, or WireGuard connections. That said, it can be complex to set up. For a more user-friendly experience, consider getting a VPN that offers dedicated Linux apps or strong command-line interface (CLI) support for easier configuration and management on Ubuntu.

How do I choose the best VPN for Ubuntu?

Prioritize selecting a VPN that offers a dedicated client for Ubuntu and provides a user-friendly or a VPN that has a comprehensive command-line interface, like ExpressVPN. To enhance your online privacy, look for a provider that offers robust encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection and follows a no-logs policy. Also, check that speeds and performance are sufficient for your needs, with a good network of servers worldwide.

How do I install a VPN on Ubuntu?

The easiest way is to choose a VPN that offers a native app for Ubuntu. Some will allow you to configure and use the VPN with the command line, while others offer a graphical user interface. That way, you can install your Ubuntu VPN in a couple of steps.

You can also connect to a VPN using the Network Manager in Ubuntu, which supports protocols like OpenVPN. It provides an excellent GUI to configure your network settings and manage your VPN connections. VPN clients for Ubuntu, like AnyConnect and OpenConnect can also assist with manual installation. The exact configuration steps can vary slightly depending on your preferred client, VPN provider, and protocol you choose to use.

Will using a VPN on Ubuntu slow down my internet speed?

Using a VPN on Ubuntu will always impact your speed to some extent due to factors such as encryption and routing of internet traffic through a private server network. However, the best VPNs for Ubuntu make the speed reduction unnoticeable — you won’t even know you’re using a VPN. To maintain a seamless online experience on Ubuntu, I recommend you choose a server close to your location.

Are Ubuntu VPNs legal?

Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN with Ubuntu, but the legality of VPNs can vary depending on your country. So it's crucial to check your local rules and regulations to avoid accidentally breaking them. But using them is legal in most countries, including the US, the UK, and Australia since VPNs are legitimate tools designed to protect your privacy online, prevent unauthorized access to your data, and enable you to access the internet freely.

Which VPN for Ubuntu is the cheapest?

The cheapest option may vary depending on the provider's available discounts and deals. Most top VPNs have a trustworthy money-back guarantee so that you can test them risk-free. Currently, PIA is the most affordable at $4.99/month and can be used on unlimited devices with one subscription.

Can I use a free VPN with Ubuntu?

It’s not recommended as most of them are risky. These services often lack important security and privacy features, forcing you to upgrade to unlock their full potential. On top of that, free services have limited servers, slow speeds, and capped bandwidth, making them unsuitable for streaming, gaming, or torrenting. It’s better to use a low-cost premium VPN that takes your online privacy seriously.

Some free VPNs may even sell your data to third parties and ad networks to make money. Worse, others are laden with malware and trackers that can expose you to hackers and snoops. They also don’t offer custom apps for Ubuntu and rarely provide any support. So you’re always left to fend for yourself if you run into any problems.

Get the Best VPN for Ubuntu

There are a few high-quality VPNs that are compatible with Linux-based systems. The ones on my list are easy to use with Ubuntu (with a command line or GUI-based interface), have robust security features, and won’t compromise speed.

My top recommendation for Ubuntu is ExpressVPN. Its custom CLI client for Linux makes it straightforward to use on Ubuntu to protect your online privacy. Plus, its impressive speeds are ideal for uninterrupted streaming, torrenting, and gaming. There's also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Ubuntu...

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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