How to Download a Free VPN: Easy Guide for 2024

Downloading a free VPN is pretty straightforward since there are usually native apps for the most widely used devices, like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. That said, these aren’t the only gadgets you can use a VPN with, and when there isn’t a native app, installation can become a bit more technical.

My team and I put together this handy guide to simplify the setup process for any device. It includes step-by-step instructions for popular devices — including how to download an APK file. Plus, we provide additional information and resources for setting up a free VPN on routers and devices that don’t normally support VPNs.

We also list a few of our favorite 100% free VPNs and our top-recommended premium VPN, ExpressVPN, for comparison (the setup is very similar). ExpressVPN offers tons of native apps and easy alternative installation methods. Plus, it’s the fastest VPN we tested to keep your online activities free from interruptions, which is an issue with most free VPNs. It isn’t actually free, but it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee — when I tested it, I got my money back in just a few days. 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 Free VPN Downloads in 2024

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.

How to Download a Free VPN on PC and Mobile Devices

Downloading a VPN to your most commonly used devices will enhance your online privacy, no matter where you connect. The good news is that the setup is pretty straightforward in most cases.

Here are the steps for installing a free VPN using its native app download. We used ExpressVPN as an example since it’s safe, easy to install, and doesn’t limit you like the 100% free options. However, the steps are pretty much the same for any free or paid VPN.

1. Choose a Reliable VPN

Selecting a trustworthy VPN is crucial for your online security. Look for providers with transparent privacy policies and a good reputation in the industry. They should also provide user-friendly apps that are easy to install.

Simply click "Get ExpressVPN" to start your subscription

2. Download the VPN App

Visit the official website of your chosen VPN provider or use your device's app store. For PC users, navigate to the VPN's website and find the download section. Mobile users can search for the VPN app in the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS). Avoid downloading from third-party websites to reduce the risk of malware.

ExpressVPN offers a money-back guarantee on all subscription plans

3. Install the VPN Application

Follow the installation prompts to set up the VPN on your device. The process is usually straightforward, but it may vary slightly between operating systems. On Windows, you'll typically run an executable file and follow on-screen instructions. For mobile devices, the app will install automatically after downloading.

UDP connections are generally faster, but TCP can be more stable on less secure networks

4. Configure the VPN (Optional)

Some free VPNs offer basic customization options to optimize your experience. You might be able to choose a preferred protocol or enable features like a kill switch. While not always necessary, tweaking these settings can enhance your security. However, most free VPNs have limited customization compared to paid versions.

It's easy to configure ExpressVPN so you're always protected when you're online

5. Connect to a Server

Open the VPN app and select a server location to connect. Free VPNs often have a limited selection of servers. Choose a server based on your needs — nearby servers are usually faster. Keep in mind that free VPNs may have slower speeds due to overcrowded servers.

After connecting, you're ready to browse with improved privacy. Remember, free VPNs often come with limitations like data caps or slower speeds. If you find these restrictions problematic, consider upgrading to a paid service for a more robust experience.

You can also create shortcuts to your favorite apps and sites that show up on the home screen

Best Free VPN Downloads in 2024

While truly free VPNs always come with limitations, there are some you can at least depend on to keep you protected without a cost. We've tested numerous VPNs to find those that provide the best balance of security, speed, and features in their free versions. Here's a quick comparison of our top recommended 100% free or risk-free VPNs:

1. ExpressVPN — Easy to Download, Unlimited Apps With a Money-Back Guarantee

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN's 30-day trial provides unrestricted access to premium features. And with only a 2% drop on local servers, ExpressVPN offers the fastest speeds we’ve tested. Free VPNs usually struggle with speeds. We had 250.24Mbps, which allowed for streaming and torrenting without buffering or slow downloads.

Its apps are user-friendly and available for all major platforms. I installed it on my Android phone in under a minute. Its proprietary Lightway protocol combines speed and security, ensuring your data stays protected without compromising performance.

One drawback is that ExpressVPN isn't free and requires payment information upfront. However, if you’re not completely happy, it’s easy to get a full refund within the first 30 days of subscribing. I tested the process myself, and it took just 2 minutes via 24/7 live chat. The money was back in my account in a few days.

2. Proton VPN — Unlimited Free Data for Unrestricted Browsing

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Proton VPN >

protonvpn.com

Proton VPN offers unlimited data on its free plan. This is rare among free VPNs and allows for extended use without worrying about hitting a cap. During our Proton VPN tests, we browsed and streamed for hours without any restrictions. However, speeds are noticeably slower than ExpressVPN, and we got a 43% reduction on nearby servers. Nevertheless, sometimes it gave better results than this, as speeds depend on multiple factors.

The downside is that you're limited to one device connection on the free plan, and you can only connect to the fastest (usually nearest) server. However, Proton VPN's strong focus on privacy is commendable. It's based in privacy-friendly Switzerland and uses strong encryption.

3. Avira Phantom VPN — Unlimited Connections to Protect All Your Devices

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome More

Try Avira Phantom VPN >

www.avira.com

Avira Phantom VPN allows unlimited device connections on its free plan. This is great if you live in a large household or want to protect multiple devices without paying. We didn’t have any connection issues while using Avira Phantom, even with several active devices, including a laptop, smartphone, and tablet.

The main limitation is the 500MB monthly data cap. This is sufficient for basic browsing and email but not for streaming or large downloads. Plus, as with Proton VPN, the server options are limited to one location on the free plan (the nearest). However, Avira's interface is straightforward, which makes it suitable for VPN beginners.

Our Methodology for Testing Free VPN Downloads

We rigorously evaluated each free VPN's performance, security features, and usability. We tested speeds and server reliability across multiple devices to assess real-world performance. We also examined each VPN's privacy policy and conducted IP/DNS leak tests to verify their security claims. User experience was a key factor in our assessment. We installed each VPN on various OSs to evaluate ease of use and cross-platform compatibility.

Our team continually updates our findings to provide the most current information. For a comprehensive breakdown of our testing process, visit our methodology page for in-depth insights. Feel free to use this info as the basis for your own testing.

How to Download a Free VPN APK

APK files allow you to install apps on Android devices without using the Google Play Store. This can be useful for accessing free VPNs that aren't available in your region or if you prefer not to use official app stores. However, downloading APKs comes with some risks, so it's crucial to follow these steps carefully:

1. Enable installation from unknown sources. Before downloading any APK, you need to allow your device to install apps from sources other than the Play Store. Go to Settings > Security > Unknown Sources and toggle this option on. On newer Android versions, you might need to enable this for each app individually.
2. Choose a reliable APK source. Not all APK sites are trustworthy, so it's important to use reputable sources. I recommend downloading directly from the VPN provider's website whenever possible. Avoid downloading from random websites to reduce the risk of malware.
3. Download the VPN APK. Visit the chosen website and search for the free VPN you want to download. Make sure you're getting the latest version of the app. Before downloading, check the app's ratings and reviews to verify its legitimacy. Tap the download button and wait for the APK file to finish downloading.
4. Install the VPN. Once the download is complete, tap on the APK file to begin the installation. Your device might warn you about installing apps from unknown sources. If you're confident in the APK's safety, proceed with the installation. The process should only take a few moments.
5. Set up and use the VPN. After installation, open the VPN app and create an account if required. Most free VPNs have a simple setup process. Choose a server location and connect to start using the VPN. Remember that free VPNs often have limitations like data caps or slower speeds.

Always exercise caution when downloading APKs. Even legitimate-looking files can contain malware. It's safer to use official app stores or download directly from the VPN provider's website when possible.

How to Download a Free VPN on All Other Devices

Free VPNs are available for a variety of devices beyond just smartphones and computers. For example, by using a smart DNS feature, you can configure a VPN for devices that don’t normally support VPNs, such as game consoles and older smart TVs.

Alternatively, you can configure a VPN to your router to cover an entire household of devices. Just make sure your router is compatible with VPNs.

Regarding a less common OS, there are even a few free VPNs that you can use with Linux.

Risks of Using Free VPNs: What You Need to Know

Free VPNs often come with significant drawbacks that can compromise your online security and privacy. While the allure of cost-free protection is tempting, it's crucial to understand the potential risks involved:

• Data logging and selling. Many free VPNs collect and sell user data to third parties. This practice directly contradicts the privacy protection you're seeking. Many free VPNs even inject ads into your browsing sessions, further compromising your online experience.
• Limited security features. Free VPNs typically offer basic encryption at best. They often lack essential security features like kill switches or DNS leak protection. During my tests, I encountered free VPNs that leaked my IP address, defeating the purpose of using a VPN.
• Slower speeds and data caps. To manage costs, free VPNs often impose strict data limits and throttle connection speeds. This makes them impractical for streaming, torrenting, or any data-intensive activities. We've experienced frustratingly slow speeds with many free options, making even basic browsing a chore.
• Fewer server locations. Free VPNs usually offer a limited number of server locations. This can result in overcrowded servers, further reducing speeds.
• Malware risks. Some unscrupulous free VPNs have been caught embedding malware in their apps. This poses a significant threat to your device and personal data. I always recommend thoroughly researching any free VPN before installation and even testing for viruses using a tool like VirusTotal.
• Unstable connections. Free VPNs often suffer from frequent disconnections and unreliable service. This instability can expose your real IP address, compromising your privacy.
• Limited device support. Many free VPNs restrict you to a single device or offer limited cross-platform support. This can leave some of your devices unprotected.

FAQs on Downloading and Using Free VPNs

Which free VPN download is best for streaming and Netflix?

For a truly free option, Proton VPN is a solid choice. It provides good speeds and offers unlimited data, which is rare among free VPNs. However, you're limited to using the fastest (usually nearest) server. Plus, it only worked with Netflix Originals in our tests.

ExpressVPN is our all-time favorite streaming VPN, but it’s not free. However, its 30-day money-back guarantee provides unrestricted access to all premium features, including fast servers optimized for HD streaming. Plus, it can safely access the most popular streaming platforms (including Netflix) from anywhere. While not completely free, the refund period allows you to test the service without limitations.

What is the best free VPN download for torrenting?

I can’t recommend any of the 100% free VPNs on my list. However, the first listed VPN comes with a money-back guarantee and is excellent for torrenting. While Proton VPN’s free plan doesn’t support torrenting at all, Avira Phantom only gives you up to 1GB of data, which won’t let you download much at all.

That said, there are a few 100% free VPNs that are better equipped for P2P activities. We tested them to ensure they offer strong privacy protection, decent speeds, and enough data to support at least a few downloads.

What's the best free VPN download for Android?

Of the 100% free VPNs in this list, Proton VPN has the best Android app. You get unlimited data, a kill switch, and dependable privacy protection with Proton. It has its limitations but is still ideal for uninterrupted, secure connections on your Android whether you’re at home or on the go. It also provides a downloadable APK file on its official site, which many free VPNs lack.

To summarize, these are the best free VPN downloads…

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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