Get 50% off on Vault theme. Limited time offer! If you use Windows for streaming, gaming, browsing, or remote work, online privacy should be one of your top priorities. Windows computers are among the most widely targeted devices for data theft, surveillance, and cyberattacks. According to Microsoft’s Digital Defense Report, Windows devices face over 921 password attacks per second globally, making security tools like VPNs essential.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your connection and hides your IP address so you can browse safely, access blocked websites, and protect your data from hackers, ISPs, and trackers. But with so many VPN options available, choosing the right one for Windows can be tricky.
To make things easier, here’s a detailed list of the best VPN for Windows, all beginner-friendly, affordable, and packed with privacy features.
Why Use a VPN on Windows?
- Privacy Protection: Keeps your browsing history hidden from ISPs, advertisers, and third parties.
- Secure Wi-Fi: Protects your data on public Wi-Fi networks, especially in airports, cafés, and hotels.
- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Lets you stream global content on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
- Faster Gaming and Torrenting: Reduces lag and helps maintain stable connections with optimized servers.
- Data Encryption: Encrypts your internet traffic, ensuring complete online anonymity.
List of Top 15 VPN For Windows
1. NordVPN
Official website: www.nordvpn.com
NordVPN is one of the most trusted and popular Virtual Private Networks for Windows, offering strong security and reliable performance. With over 6,400+ servers in 110+ countries, it ensures fast speeds for streaming, gaming, and browsing. The Windows app features a clean interface and advanced tools like Threat Protection and an Ads Blocker to stop intrusive ads, malware, and online trackers.
With Double VPN and Meshnet, you get extra layers of privacy and safe file sharing between devices. NordVPN’s lightweight protocol (NordLynx) delivers blazing-fast speeds with minimal drops, even on slower networks.
Features:
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Kill Switch and Split Tunneling
- Double VPN and Onion over VPN
- Threat Protection against ads and malware
- 6 simultaneous device connections
Pricing:
- Basic – $2.99/month (2-year plan)
- Plus – $ 3.79/month
- Complete – $ 4.79/month
2. ExpressVPN
Official website: www.expressvpn.com
ExpressVPN is known for its lightning-fast performance and exceptional privacy standards. It operates 3,000+ servers across 105 countries, ensuring consistent speeds and minimal downtime. As one of the best VPNs for Windows, its intuitive app allows quick one-click connections and automatic protocol selection.
ExpressVPN uses the Lightway protocol, which enhances speed without compromising encryption. Its TrustedServer technology ensures no user data is ever stored on hard drives. Whether you’re streaming Netflix, gaming, or downloading torrents, ExpressVPN maintains high reliability and privacy at all times.
Features:
- AES-256 encryption
- Network Lock (kill switch)
- Split tunneling for app-level control
- TrustedServer (RAM-only servers)
- 24/7 live chat support
3. Surfshark VPN
Official website: www.surfshark.com
Surfshark offers premium-grade VPN features at a very budget-friendly price, making it perfect for beginners. It provides 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, ensuring smooth browsing and streaming access worldwide. The Windows app is modern and simple to use, with advanced options like CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and phishing links.
Surfshark’s NoBorders Mode automatically detects and bypasses censorship, allowing you to access restricted content in any region. Plus, it allows unlimited device connections under one subscription — a standout feature.
Features:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- AES-256-GCM encryption
- CleanWeb ad and tracker blocker
- MultiHop double encryption
- Camouflage and NoBorders modes
Pricing:
- Surfshark Starter: $1.69/month — $45.63 for the first 27 months
- Surfshark One: $1.99/month — $53.73 for the first 27 months
- Surfshark One+: $4.19/month — $113.13 for the first 27 months
4. ProtonVPN
Official website: www.protonvpn.com
ProtonVPN, developed by the team behind ProtonMail, focuses heavily on privacy and open-source security. Based in Switzerland, a country with strong privacy laws, it ensures zero-logs and transparency. ProtonVPN offers 3,000+ servers in 70+ countries, with options for both free and premium users.
The Windows app is intuitive and offers features like Secure Core, which routes your data through multiple servers for maximum protection. Its free version includes no data limits, making it one of the best free VPN for Windows.
Features:
- Open-source Windows client
- Secure Core multi-hop routing
- NetShield ad and malware blocker
- Kill Switch and Always-On VPN
- Free and paid plans available
Pricing:
- VPN Plus – €2.99 per month
- Proton unlimited- €6.49 per month
5. CyberGhost VPN
Official website: www.cyberghostvpn.com
CyberGhost is ideal for users who want a simple, one-click VPNs for Windows with dedicated streaming servers. With 11,000+ servers in 100+ countries, it’s one of the largest networks in the world. The Windows app displays recommended servers for platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer, making it easy for beginners.
Its built-in ad and tracker blocking keeps browsing smooth and secure. CyberGhost’s strict no-logs policy and independent audits add to its reliability and trustworthiness.
Features:
- One-click server selection
- 256-bit encryption
- Dedicated streaming and torrenting servers
- Automatic Wi-Fi protection
- No-logs and audited privacy
Pricing:
- 2 Years + 2 Months: â‚ą175/month (Billed â‚ą4,550 for first 2 years)
- 6 Months: â‚ą560/month (Billed â‚ą3,360 every 6 months)
- 1 Month: â‚ą965/month
- Dedicated IP (Add-on): â‚ą200/month
6. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Official website: www.privateinternetaccess.com
PIA is a trusted VPN for users who value customizability and open-source transparency. It offers 10,000+ servers in 90+ countries, giving Windows users multiple choices for optimized connections. The app allows users to configure encryption strength, ports, and protocols, making it ideal for both beginners and power users.
PIA’s MACE feature blocks ads and malicious domains, improving speed and privacy. It’s also one of the few VPNs supporting unlimited bandwidth and 10 simultaneous connections.
Features:
- Fully open-source client
- MACE ad blocker
- Split tunneling and kill switch
- WireGuard and OpenVPN support
- 10 simultaneous connections
7. IPVanish VPN
Official website: www.ipvanish.com
IPVanish stands out for offering unlimited simultaneous connections and fast server speeds ideal for streaming and gaming. With 2,200+ servers in 75+ locations, it provides stable performance worldwide. The VPN for Windows interface is simple yet powerful, showing real-time connection stats for advanced users.
IPVanish owns and manages its entire infrastructure, ensuring no third-party involvement in your data. It’s especially popular among users who want consistent speed for torrenting and secure file transfers.
Features:
- Unlimited connections
- 256-bit AES encryption
- WireGuard protocol
- Zero-logs policy
- 24/7 support
Pricing: Starts at $2.19/month
8. Windscribe VPN
Official website: www.windscribe.com
Windscribe offers a balanced mix of free and paid VPN services for Windows. It provides 480+ servers across 60+ countries, with its free plan giving users 10GB per month. The app has a friendly interface with detailed customization options.
Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T. feature allows users to create personalized ad and tracker-blocking rules. With strong encryption, powerful firewall software, a firewall-based kill switch, and DNS leak protection, it ensures top-level security.
Features:
- R.O.B.E.R.T. custom blocker
- Free plan with 10GB/month
- Split tunneling and kill switch
- OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols
- Secure hotspot feature
Pricing:
- Monthly Plan: $9.00 per month
- Yearly Plan: $5.75 per month (Billed $69 annually)
- Build A Plan: $1.00 per location, per month
9. TunnelBear VPN
Official website: www.tunnelbear.com
TunnelBear is one of the most beginner-friendly VPN software for Windows. With its cute bear-themed interface, it makes online privacy simple for everyone. The service operates 5,000+ servers in 47 countries, delivering decent speeds for streaming and browsing.
Its Windows app allows instant one-click connections, and the free plan includes 2GB of data monthly. TunnelBear’s clear privacy policy and annual independent audits make it a trustworthy choice for casual users.
Features:
- Beginner-friendly interface
- AES-256 encryption
- VigilantBear (kill switch)
- GhostBear mode for censorship bypass
- Annual security audits
10. Hotspot Shield VPN
Official website: www.hotspotshield.com
Hotspot Shield is a fast and reliable VPN for Windows that’s perfect for streaming and gaming. It uses its proprietary Hydra protocol for faster connections and improved stability. The service includes 1,800+ servers in 80+ countries, ensuring wide coverage.
Hotspot Shield offers a free version with limited daily bandwidth and a premium version with full access to HD streaming. The app also includes built-in malware protection and password manager integration.
Features:
- Hydra protocol for fast speeds
- Built-in malware protection
- Split tunneling
- Free and premium versions
- 5 simultaneous connections
Pricing:
- Basic Plan: Free
- Premium Subscription: $7.99/month
11. PureVPN
Official website: www.purevpn.com
PureVPN is a well-established VPN provider known for its huge global network and reliable performance on Windows. It operates over 6,500+ servers across 78+ countries, allowing users to access content from nearly anywhere. The Windows app features a clean, modern interface with easy server selection and quick connect options.
PureVPN supports strong AES-256 encryption, split tunneling, and multiple protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. Its always-on audit policy ensures transparency, making it one of the most trusted VPNs for privacy-conscious users.
Features:
- 6,500+ servers in 78+ countries
- AES-256 encryption and WireGuard support
- Split tunneling and kill switch
- Dedicated IP option
- 24/7 live chat support
Pricing:
- Standard Plan: $1.69/month
- Plus Plan: $2.66/month
- Max Plan: $3.33/month
- Teams Plan: $5/user/month
12. VyprVPN
Official website: www.vyprvpn.com
VyprVPN is known for owning its entire server network, which means better security and faster connections. It offers over 700+ servers in 60+ countries with strong encryption protocols like WireGuard and its proprietary Chameleon protocol — perfect for bypassing censorship and VPN blocks.
The Windows app is simple to use, with easy access to connection details and automatic server recommendations. VyprVPN has a strict no-logs policy, independently audited for transparency. Its fast speeds and advanced privacy controls make it a great option for Windows users seeking both performance and security.
Features:
- Proprietary Chameleon protocol
- WireGuard and OpenVPN support
- DNS leak and kill switch protection
- Audited no-logs policy
- Up to 10 simultaneous connections
13. Mullvad VPN
Official website: www.mullvad.net
Mullvad VPN is a privacy-focused service that doesn’t even require an email address to sign up. Based in Sweden, it operates under strict privacy laws and charges a flat monthly rate. The Windows app is open-source, offering features like split tunneling, multi-hop connections, and a reliable kill switch.
Mullvad has a smaller server network compared to major providers, but it compensates with transparency and strong encryption. It’s a great choice for users who value anonymity over extra bells and whistles.
Features:
- Open-source Windows client
- Flat-rate pricing (no hidden fees)
- Multi-hop and split tunneling
- No personal data required for signup
- Accepts cryptocurrency payments
14. Hide.me VPN
Official website: www.hide.me
Hide.me is an excellent VPN for Windows users who want both a free and premium option. It provides 2,000+ servers in 75+ locations, supporting top protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
The Windows client is lightweight, offering features like split tunneling, Stealth Guard, and a built-in kill switch. Hide.me’s strict no-logs policy ensures complete privacy while browsing or streaming. The free version gives up to 10GB/month, making it a solid choice for light users.
Features:
- Free plan with 10GB/month
- WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 support
- Split tunneling and kill switch
- Stealth Guard and no-logs policy
- 24/7 customer support
Pricing:
- Free Plan: $0.00/month
- 1 Month Plan: $9.95/month
- 12 Months Plan: $3.49/month
- 29 Months Plan: $2.07/month
15. StrongVPN
Official website: www.strongvpn.com
StrongVPN has been in the VPN market for over two decades, known for its simplicity and stable performance on Windows. It operates 950+ servers in 30+ countries, supporting AES-256 encryption and protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN.
The Windows app provides easy server access, real-time connection stats, and automatic connection on startup. StrongVPN is ideal for users who prefer straightforward, no-nonsense VPN protection with solid speed and reliability.
Features:
- AES-256 encryption
- WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
- Zero-logs policy
- Automatic reconnect option
- 12 simultaneous connections
Pricing:
- Annual Plan: $3.97/month
- Monthly Plan: $11.99/month
How to Choose the Right VPN for Windows
- Check for fast servers: Look for VPNs with large global networks and high-speed protocols like WireGuard or NordLynx.
- Privacy policy: Always choose a VPN with a strict no-logs policy and independent security audits.
- Ease of use: Beginners should prefer VPNs with simple interfaces and one-click connection options.
- Value for money: Compare features, server coverage, and customer support before subscribing.
How to Set Up a VPN on Windows
- Visit the official VPN website and sign up.
- Download the Windows app from the official site.
- Install and log in using your credentials.
- Choose your preferred server location.
- Click “Connect” — your connection is now secure and encrypted.
Conclusion
Online privacy is important for everyone who uses Windows. With so much personal data shared every day, keeping it safe should be a habit, not a choice. Using a VPN for Windows provides a secure connection that helps protect your information, hide your online activity, and give you more freedom while browsing.
Most tools are easy to set up and work with just one click. They make sure your data stays private, even on public Wi-Fi or shared networks. Once you start using one, you can browse, stream, and work online without worry.
A good privacy tool doesn’t just keep you safe, it helps you feel more confident every time you go online.
FAQs
Q1. Do I Really Need a VPN on Windows?
Yes. A VPN encrypts your online traffic, hides your IP address, and protects your data from hackers and third parties.
Q2. Which VPN is Best for Streaming Netflix on Windows?
NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark offer the best performance for Netflix and other streaming services.
Q3. Can I Use a Free VPN for Windows?
Free VPNs like ProtonVPN and Windscribe are safe options, but they often have data or speed limits.
Q4. Will a VPN Slow Down my Internet Speed?
A slight drop in speed is normal, but VPNs with optimized protocols (like Lightway or WireGuard) maintain fast connections.
Q5. Is it Legal to Use a VPN in India or Abroad?
Yes, VPN use is legal in most countries, including India, as long as it’s not used for illegal activities.