The Best VPN for Windows in 2024

It’s not strange that many PC users seek the best VPN services for Windows. This operating system’s versatility attracts millions of users. However, it’s way more vulnerable than macOS, especially because of all the tracking and telemetry in the background. Not to mention that whenever you go online, you’ll encounter a few issues. Geo-restrictions will prevent you from accessing certain sites. Moreover, your ISP will follow you around, snooping on your traffic and monitoring your online activities.

Torrenting, a popular use case for VPNs, is also supported. You don’t want to engage in P2P without additional protection. When considering gaming, which VPN providers can enhance, you can see why so many people look for a reliable VPN app for Windows.

If you’re unable to choose one by yourself, don’t worry. Today, we’ll divulge some excellent VPNs for Windows computers we tested recently. These should be your go-to options if you want top-tier privacy, security, speeds, and much more.

Best VPNs for Windows PCs in 2024: Our Detailed List

As always, we’ll start the guide by immediately addressing the subject. Our favorite premium VPNs for Windows in 2024 are:

1. NordVPN – the best VPN overall for Windows 10 and 11
2. ExpressVPN – speedy and easy-to-use
3. Private Internet Access – Windows VPN with unlimited connections
4. Surfshark – one of the cheapest premium VPNs for Windows
5. CyberGhost – P2P and streaming-friendly Windows VPN
6. Proton VPN – Swiss privacy & security

Let’s find out more about each of the top 6 picks and discover what they have to offer.

1. NordVPN

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NordVPN is compatible with Windows, offering a modern-looking app brimming with features. This provider rocks 6,400+ servers in 111 countries, so it’s simultaneously one of the largest VPNs for Windows. Moreover, it’s extremely fast thanks to NordLynx.

This protocol, in conjunction with 10 Gbps servers, ensures smooth performance for playing games, torrenting, and streaming. Speaking of that, NordVPN works with BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and other streaming services, which Windows VPN users will especially value.

We want to mention its Windows-present features. One of them is a Double VPN, which doubles your encryption and makes you untraceable online. Users who enjoy this VPN on their PC will also like Threat Protection, which removes malware and cleans ads and trackers. A special feature called Dark Web Monitor is there too. It monitors your email address for potential breaches and informs you if you need to take action.

NordVPN comes with AES-256 encryption and includes standard features like a kill switch and IP leak protection.

An interesting option is Meshnet. It’s ideal for remote file sharing and device access that can be used to, let’s say, alter your Netflix region. NordVPN is based in Panama, and as a result, keeps no logs. It’s even been audited multiple times by PwC and Deloitte.

Overall, NordVPN has no major downsides and works like a charm for every purpose. We haven’t mentioned all of its features, but you can find more about them in our NordVPN analysis. The service costs just above $3/mo, so it’s also very affordable for most people.

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2. ExpressVPN

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ExpressVPN is a bit on the opposite side compared to NordVPN. Yes, it’s an extremely popular VPN app for Windows but also slightly expensive. We think its price is justified thanks to 3,000+ servers, some of the fastest speeds, and unlimited monthly bandwidth.

ExpressVPN’s Windows app is impeccable. It’s easy to use and offers access to Lightway, a proprietary protocol. We discovered that its Advanced Protection works pretty well for blocking ads, trackers, and malicious sites, such as porn sites, for example.

Another perk is Network Lock, a reliable kill switch that prevents unwanted data leaks. ExpressVPN is a streaming machine, offering access to 15+ Netflix catalogs. It also works for torrenting on all 3,000+ servers, and thanks to powerful performance, P2P is very fast.

As one of the top-rated VPNs for Windows, ExpressVPN has built-in obfuscation. It helps alleviate censorship and ensure internet freedom. We appreciate the inclusion of MediaStreamer, a Smart DNS service for streaming on multiple platforms.

ExpressVPN’s security and privacy are undeniable. Apart from AES encryption, users can enjoy split tunneling, DNS leak protection, RAM servers, Private DNS, and Perfect Forward Secrecy. More importantly, ExpressVPN is famous for storing no logs.

Let’s just say it has nearly 20 third-party audits and leave it at that. Unfortunately, it’s not the most affordable VPN for PC in 2024 but there’s a 49% discount thanks to 3 free months for its annual plan.

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3. Private Internet Access

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One of the most advanced Windows VPNs, Private Internet Access, will blow you away. With over 30,000 servers in nearly 100 countries, you’ll be a spoiled brat, as they say. PIA’s security is one of the best around, with advanced features like MultiHop and obfuscation.

The Windows VPN app, in particular, sports extras like Shadowsocks, which is a powerful proxy that deters internet censorship. Users who want more can also select SOCKS5 or even use port forwarding to speed up their P2P traffic and get more security.

Private Internet Access includes something called MACE, which blocks trackers and ads. Its protocols are fully customizable, so you can pick from WireGuard and OpenVPN and apply certain settings to make them to your liking. We elaborated on that in this PIA test.

We love how reliable Private Internet Access is for daily use. Its speed isn’t the best but it’s stable for Full HD streaming and playing fast-paced online shooters. Furthermore, it includes a suite of bonus features, like dedicated IPs, to prevent IP blacklisting and captcha puzzles.

At just $1/mo on top, you can get its nifty little antivirus to keep all types of threats out of your Windows PC. Let’s not forget about its no-logging policy proven in court a dozen times, making Private Internet Access one of the most respected VPNs for Windows in 2024.

Best of all – it won’t break the bank! At just over $2 a month, Private Internet Access delivers unlimited simultaneous connections, 24/7 support, uncapped traffic, and much more. Such a shame it lacks a Firestick app but hey, nothing is perfect.

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4. Surfshark

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Surfshark does many things right and very few wrong. Its recent updates have made the VPN much faster, which, coupled with its 3,200+ servers, makes it very capable. This Windows PC VPN is also streaming-friendly, perhaps more so than other options on this list.

Well, it works with 30+ Netflix catalogs, for instance! Surfshark prides itself on offering static and dedicated IP addresses, which you won’t find in, let’s say, ExpressVPN. Another benefit of Surfshark is its security, which is as versatile as it’s powerful. Perfect for Windows users.

We’d like to mention its MultiHop servers that you can further customize. Its users also praise the WireGuard implementation that works wonderfully for security. Surfshark’s app for PC also has NoBorders, which adds obfuscation to mask your VPN traffic.

You’ll find its IP Rotation useful because it rotates your IP periodically and keeps your connection intact, preventing third-party tracking in the process. Surfshark’s One plan offers more goodies, such as its private Search browser and an antivirus for added protection.

Apart from that, its apps look stunning, and the VPN is compatible with the latest versions of Windows. Unlimited simultaneous connections are there too, complemented by the inclusion of Smart DNS that can be used to unblock US-based streaming services on any other device.

Surfshark’s kill switch can be problematic at times and its speeds can take a hit on more distant servers. That’s nothing compared to other eye-piercing qualities with a modest price of around $2.3/mo. Now, you can see why we think it’s an exquisite Windows VPN.

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5. CyberGhost

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Our list isn’t complete yet – we must mention CyberGhost. This service won’t reinvent the wheel but it surely offers a few redeeming qualities. For one, its Windows PC VPN offers dedicated streaming and torrenting servers that we found handy for these purposes.

They’re not a gimmick, as they work reliably for watching Netflix and using torrent clients to download files. NoSpy servers are unique to Windows and we love them because they’re independently operated and owned by CyberGhost, which enhances privacy.

CyberGhost is fast when using WireGuard but its OpenVPN speeds tend to suffer. Regardless, this VPN remains useful because of other things. It offers dedicated IPs in 20+ locations, along with many Smart DNS locations in and outside the USA.

Our experts recognized CyberGhost’s strong privacy promptly. Based in Romania, the VPN’s no-log policy is unquestionable. Being one of the best-rated VPNs for Windows, CyberGhost includes mandatory stuff like bank-grade encryption and a reliable kill switch.

A great feature is domain split tunneling which routes only specific websites through the tunnel. An ad blocker is there too and users can protect their IPv6 connections from leaks. CyberGhost packs 12,000+ servers in 100 countries, so its size is enormous.

However, it suffers from the lack of obfuscation, only 7 simultaneous connections, and a slightly convoluted app design. That’s leveled by a modest price for the 2-year plan, followed by a unique 45-day money-back guarantee for all plans longer than a month.

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6. Proton VPN

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We’ve left Proton VPN for the last for a few reasons. It’s pretty expensive compared to the other best VPNs for Windows. However, its price is somewhat justified considering its privacy and security. Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, explaining its obvious qualities.

It’s a popular VPN that keeps no logs of your online activities. At the same time, it uses RAM-only servers and includes an in-house DNS service to keep your DNS queries private. Many praise Proton VPN’s Secure Core servers that add to your privacy tremendously.

In addition, there’s the NetShield ad blocker that also eliminates trackers. This premium VPN for Windows PCs isn’t only about security. It’s reasonably fast thanks to WireGuard, so it’s also used to gamble online, play some PC games, and stream on BBC iPlayer.

We found its port forwarding function useful for slightly faster P2P. While we’re at that, Proton VPN’s revolutionary VPN Accelerator also greatly influences the connection speed. As a premium Windows VPN, it packs unlimited bandwidth, as well.

It’s worth pointing out that its app contains split tunneling, an auto-kill-switch, and many customization options. A standout feature is Onion Over VPN support, which makes the VPN ready for Tor and browsing the dark web.

As said, the VPN can be expensive. This is its main downfall. On the other hand, it has a completely free VPN that you can use on Windows with unlimited bandwidth. If you opt for a premium version, be ready to pay around $5/mo for the 2-year plan. That’s 100% more than PIA, Surfshark, or CyberGhost.

How to Install and Use a VPN on Windows?

We know that not all of our readers are tech-savvy. Maybe this is your first time reading about VPNs. In this case, we’ll honor you with a guide on how to install a VPN on Windows. We’ll also explain how to use it and enjoy its plentiful benefits.

1. Subscribe to a VPN

The subscription process is the first on the list. Now that you know what the best premium VPNs for Windows are, select one. We recommend NordVPN and we’ll stick with it but the procedure is identical no matter which one you pick. Click one of the buttons we left.

These buttons lead you to VPNs’ websites where you can claim their discounts. NordVPN has a 2-year plan with around a 70% discount, so it’s an excellent deal. Claim the discount by providing your email to the VPN, paying for it, and verifying your email afterward.

Visit NordVPN website

2. Install a VPN on Windows

Okay, so now it’s a good time to install the service you subscribed to. Windows VPN setups are the simplest. You go to the provider’s official site, find the Download section, and select the Windows app. Press Download and the setup file will be on your PC.

From here, open the setup file and follow the steps on the screen to install your Windows VPN. Once you’re done, open the application and sign in. Remember to use your email and password from Step 1.

If you’re using NordVPN, you can sign in with Google too.

This is what NordVPN’s app looks like. You know you’re ready when this appears because you can do anything you want inside the app.

3. Connect to a VPN Server

However, the most important is to connect to a server. It’s done in virtually a few clicks – similar to using a VPN on your iPhone. Open the server list, find the country you want, and click once on it. After a few seconds, NordVPN will connect – this is how it looks:

We connected to a random Australian server to show you how it works. The “Connected” message appears up top, signifying you’re ready to go online anonymously. It’s up to you how you’ll use some of the best Windows VPNs. Enjoy.

Why Use a VPN on a Windows PC?

As you likely know, Windows is one of the most capable operating systems. It’s widely used for many purposes, both business and entertainment. Here’s how a proper Windows VPN application can aid your cause.

Privacy Preservation

The obvious benefit of the best VPN for Windows is privacy. It doesn’t get better than this. Pesky VPNs might store your data and leak your IP but not our top 6 options. They’re extremely well-equipped, using features like:

• AES-256 encryption
• IP and DNS leak prevention
• Double VPN
• Kill Switch
• Obfuscation
• No-logging policy, …

All of these aid privacy preservation and ensure you’re going online anonymously. ISPs and government bodies are known for tracking your online activities. Well, concealing your IP address with a VPN prevents this because of strong encryption and many other features.

Websites and data brokers also won’t be able to collect your private information while using a VPN. They will associate your online activities with an IP address from the VPN, which, in the end, means nothing because this isn’t your true identity.

Unlimited Streaming

Windows computers and laptops are frequently used for streaming. But when the geo-block knocks on your door, the only way to fight it is with a VPN. This service lets you access Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITV, MAX, and hundreds of other streaming services.

These best VPNs for Windows are simultaneously excellent for Netflix. They can unblock many libraries, such as ones from the USA, the UK, Japan, and others. Such a commodity lets you access ANY movie or series no matter your location or device.

Just connect to a server, go online, and start watching.

Anonymous Torrenting

We know Windows users prefer torrenting with a VPN. Without it, you’re left exposed to your ISP and even torrent sites that gladly collect your download history and hand it out to any governing body that requests it.

That’s hardly the case when your connection is encrypted with this service. Torrent sites and other “peers” downloading the same torrent will see the IP address of the VPN. Even if downloading a specific file ends up associated with this IP, you won’t be phased.

DDoS-Free Online Gaming

How about gaming? Well, our favorite VPNs for Windows provide impeccable DDoS protection and decreased ping that usually appears because of ISP throttling. Connecting to a server lets you enjoy the full speeds and encryption needed to sway DDoS attacks.

Malware Protection

While VPNs are not the same as antivirus, they can and will protect against malware. At least NordVPN, our #1-rated Windows VPN. This is welcome because malware can seriously damage your Windows PC and even mine crypto using your precious computing resources.

NordVPN’s Threat Protection can remove unwanted software to keep your computer running like a well-oiled machine. This nifty little feature is also offered by Surfshark which offers a full-fledged antivirus instead.

Conclusion

If you’re a Windows user, you have ample options to pick from. However, if you’re settling only for the best Windows VPNs in 2024, you know what’s up. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are our favorites, as they’re compatible with Windows 11 and 10.

Above all, their features are by far the most superior, coupled with amazing performance and bulwark security. We then have PIA and Surfshark as respectable options with unlimited simultaneous connections, RAM-only servers, and great streaming capabilities.

CyberGhost and Proton VPN are our last two. CyberGhost is for streaming and P2P, while Proton VPN’s image is built upon impressive, Swiss privacy and unbeatable security. Your turn now. Select the provider you want and secure your Windows PC with a VPN now.

Visit NordVPN

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FAQ

Still have questions? Let us answer them promptly.

Can I use a VPN on Windows 7?

At the time of writing, pretty much all providers work on Windows 7. NordVPN, for instance, fully supports Windows 7, 8, and 8.1. Windows XP users can also enjoy some VPNs, alas, through the OpenVPN client and not directly through dedicated clients.

Does Windows have a built-in VPN?

No. It only has built-in VPN support but you still need to subscribe to one to utilize it.

Are Windows VPNs really safe to use?

It depends on which provider we’re talking about. Our top 6 options are the safest options to use in 2024. We can’t guarantee for any provider outside of this list. Before you get one, inform yourself properly and avoid services that store logs or look shady.