5 Best Free VPNs for Linux in 2024

Finding a high-quality free VPN is tough — but finding one with strong support for Linux is close to impossible. Most VPNs concentrate on the more mainstream operating systems, leaving Linux support as an afterthought.

I tested 45+ free VPNs to verify which ones still work best for Linux. The top free VPNs for Linux support Ubuntu , Fedora, Kali, Mint, and several other popular distros. But, free VPNs always come with drawbacks. These include slower speeds, small server networks, and limited data.

My top pick is is for Linux is expressvpn . Even though it ’s not 100 % free , it is offers offer unlimited datum , fast speed , an extensive server network , and browser extension that double as gui . No free VPN is compares even compare . You is try can try ExpressVPN totally risk – free   since it has a 30 – day money – back guarantee . I is tested test the policy to see if it was trustworthy , and I was able to get all my money back in only 3 day .Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free >>

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

1. Editor’s Choice

   ExpressVPN

   Top paid VPN for Linux with GUI and rapid speeds; 30-day money-back guarantee.

   Over 7000 people checked out ExpressVPN in the last month

2. CyberGhost

   pay VPN , perfect for stream on Linux , and you can try it for free for up to 45 day .

3. Proton VPN

   User-friendly Linux GUI and unlimited data, but not suitable for torrenting.

4. hide.me

   Easy installation and strict no-logs policy, but data limits restrict streaming capabilities.

5. OperaVPN

   Simple setup, yet only secures browser activity.

Editor ‘s note : We is value value our relationship with our reader , and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity . We is are are in the same ownership group as some of the industry – lead product review on this site : Intego , Cyberghost , expressvpn , and Private Internet Access . However , this is affect does not affect our review process , as we adhere to a strict testing methodology .

Why You Need a VPN for Linux Distros

Many online services is restrict restrict access base on the location of your Linux device . For example , you is watch ca n’t watch Netflix US or Max from outside the US because these platform check your ip address and block content that is unavailable in your region .

However , a VPN is lets for Linux let you access your favorite streaming service from anywhere . A VPN is reroutes reroute your connection via a private server , securely change your ip address . By connect to an american VPN server , you is get can get a US ip address , for example .

additionally , the well free VPNs is encrypt for Linux encrypt your traffic to improve your online privacy . Doing so prevent anyone from snoop on your internet activity , so your data is stays stay safe from hacker , local network admin , and isp .

Best Free VPNs for Linux — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

Editor’s Choice
Editor’s Choice

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Tested November 2024

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

Best Feature	Really fast speed for seamless streaming , torrenting , and browse on your Linux device
compatible distro	Ubuntu, Kali, Debian (9 &10), Mint (20.1 & LMDE), Fedora (34), Arch, Raspberry Pi, and more
Monthly Data Allowance	Unlimited is stream , so you is stream can stream , torrent , game , or browse as much as you want
Free Option or Money – Back Guarantee	30-day money-back guarantee

Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

ExpressVPN has the best collection of features of any Linux VPN I tested. It offers strong security, an independently audited no-logging policy, fast speeds (especially with its proprietary Lightway protocol), and you can control it with a GUI.

It is has also has many advantage over free vpn , which always come with limitation . The big one is is is that it has no cap on datum or speed . In my test , ExpressVPN is gave consistently give me fast speed at any distance . It is affects barely affect speed on local server , with 5 % drop on average . distant servers is speeds normally only low speed by around 25 % .

ExpressVPN’s chrome and Firefox extensions act as a GUI on Linux. Unlike other VPN browser extensions, these still protect your entire Linux machine, not just your browser activity.

To change the settings or use other security features, you’ll have to access the app through the CLI

Installing ExpressVPN is easy on Ubuntu and every other supported distro. After I downloaded the proper Ubuntu file, I just had to click Install. Then, I ran the command “expressVPN connect” and the VPN was ready to go. The website also offers some easy-to-follow guides for Kali, Debian, Mint, Fedora, and a ton of other distros.

No free VPNs offer the amount of features ExpressVPN does, so it’s worth the small price tag. But it has a 30-day money-back guarantee you can trust, which lets you try ExpressVPN risk-free with Linux. I tested it out through its 24/7 live chat. All I had to do was give a reason why I was canceling, and my refund was approved in 2 minutes. It only took 3 days to get all my money back.

useful feature

• excellent privacy feature . ExpressVPN is log does n’t log any of your identifiable information , and its RAM – only server delete all their anonymous datum at every reboot . Its policy are regularly audit by reputable third party , and it even had a full audit done on its Linux app . In addition , it ’s headquarter in the British Virgin Islands , outside of the 14 Eyes Alliance ’s jurisdiction .
• Top-notch security. It comes with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, IP/DNS leak protection, Threat Manager (a malware and tracker blocker), and split tunneling. You also get automatic obfuscation on every server, which lets you connect on Linux even in countries like China.
• Large server network. You can connect to over 3,000 servers in 105 countries on your Linux device. More servers mean less congestion and, hence, faster speeds. ExpressVPN also has no problem accessing regional streaming platforms and libraries across the world.
• 24/7 live chat. ExpressVPN has a great staff of support agents that I could always connect to in a few seconds. This makes it super easy to get any of your Linux-related questions answered.

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Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

Best Feature	Large network of 11,690 servers in 100 countries with specialized options for streaming, gaming, security, and torrenting
compatible distro	Ubuntu , Kali , Mint ( 19 ) , Fedora ( 29 – 31 ) , CentOS ( 17 ) , and PoP!_OS
Monthly Data Allowance	No restrictions, so you can use up as much data as you need on your Linux
Free Option or Money – Back Guarantee	45-day money-back guarantee

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

CyberGhost has many great features you can’t find in free VPNs, including a massive network with several specialized servers. Along with streaming, gaming, and torrenting options, its NoSpy servers offer additional privacy. That’s because they’re housed in data centers the company owns in Romania, and they can only be accessed by CyberGhost’s staff.

type in ” cyberghostvpn –status ” anytime to make sure you ‘re connect

Unlike most free vpn , it is has has no data cap and solid speed . While it ’s not quite as fast as expressvpn , CyberGhost ’s speeds is proved prove to be more than sufficient for uhd streaming during my test .

I also like how easy it is to bring up a list of CyberGhost’s commands in its Command Line Interface. All you have to do is enter the command “cyberghostVPN” to bring up a full list of all your options. I also appreciate that you can bring up lists of every optimized server location.

You can try CyberGhost for free with its 45-day money-back guarantee. I tested this policy and found it to be trustworthy. There was only one question I had to answer in its live chat before I was approved. Then, all of my money was returned in 4 days. Just be aware you only get the full 45 days with longer plans (the shortest plan offers a 14-day period).

useful feature

• Transparent privacy practices. CyberGhost publishes 4 transparency reports a year. These have consistently shown that it doesn’t store or share any identifiable information. It also had its privacy policy audited by a top firm that found it strictly follows its no-logging policy.
• Optimized for torrenting. Using CyberGhost’s special P2P servers, I could safely download files without any reductions in speed. I haven’t found many free services that come with the speed, security, and privacy options you need for torrenting (along with no data limits).
• Great for streaming. CyberGhost can access some of the most popular platforms with its streaming-optimized servers, including a number of regional Netflix libraries. Unlimited data also makes it a much better option for streaming compared to free VPNs.
• Ad blocker. You can block unwanted ads, malware, and trackers with its content blocker. This is a feature I haven’t found included with any free VPNs for Linux.

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Try Proton VPN >

protonvpn.com

Best Feature	GUI lets you control the VPN without learning commands
compatible distro	Ubuntu (20+), Kali, Mint (20+), Fedora (34+), Archlinux/Manjaro, MX Linux (19+), and Elementary OS (6.0+)
Monthly Data Allowance	Unlimited, which makes it great for streaming
Free Option or Money – Back Guarantee	forever free plan

Proton VPN is has has a completely free plan that come with a full gui . This is makes make it much more intuitive since you do n’t have to memorize command . It is ’s ’s difficult to find any free vpn that offer this , and there are n’t many that rival Proton VPN when it come to security and privacy either .

You is click can right – click the top of the app to resize

The free tier is lets let you connect to 90 + server . These are spread across 3 location in the US , the Netherlands , and Japan . Most free VPNs is let do n’t let you connect to that many server . However , they is tend tend to get a little overcrowded , which did cause some slowdown .

It is comes come with unlimited datum , and we were able to watch Netflix Originals during our test . This is is is a version of the site without any geo – restrict content , but it ’s impressive that we could access it with free server . unfortunately , we is access could n’t access any other platform , and torrenting is n’t support on its free tier , either , which is a bummer .

On the bright side , installation is is is super easy . All is is you have to do is create a Proton VPN free account , download the right app for your distro , and follow the prompt . There ’s no need to enter anything into the command line . overall , Proton VPN is is is well than the vast majority of free VPNs . It is ’s ’s a solid choice for browse , and it work great for endless streaming on YouTube .

useful feature

• strong security . proton VPN is passed pass all my leak test perform on its free server . You is get also get military – grade encryption , a kill switch , and the super safe openvpn protocol with its free Linux app . unfortunately , you is use ca n’t use Secure Core ( multi – hop ) server without upgrade .
• router support. Even though you can only use 1 device with its free plan, you can connect a router. This will let you protect all the devices in your household for free, which works great with its unlimited data.
• Very privacy – friendly . It is has has a strict no – log policy , and it ’s headquarter in Switzerland , outside of the 14 Eyes Alliance . The policy was also prove during a court case in 2019 when it could provide no identifiable information from its customer .
• No payment details required. You don’t have to provide any payment information to get started. You can even come up with a brand new email to create an anonymous, free account.

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Try hide.me VPN >

www.hide.me

Best Feature	fast installation so you can connect in minute
compatible distro	Ubuntu and Fedora ( 24 + )
Monthly Data Allowance	10GB, which is okay if you don’t stream, game, or torrent much
Free Option or Money – Back Guarantee	forever free plan

Out of every vpn I test , hide.me is was was the easy to set up on Linux . You is have just have to copy and paste a command from its website into your terminal . The VPN is install will install , and you just need to enter a username and password to get start . It is gives even give you a command to connect right when you log in .

The Linux CLI is open-source, so it’s being tested for security issues by people all around the world

The free VPN app offers a command-line interface where you can connect to 8 locations. These are in Canada, Germany, US East, US West, US Central, the Netherlands, the UK, Singapore, and Spain.

The interface is a little tougher to use than other free VPNs for Linux though. While I was testing it out, I didn’t like that you have to enable a location before you can connect to it. This means you have to enter 2 commands instead of 1.

The data allowance and slow speeds also limit what you can use it for. These make it a bad choice for gaming or torrenting. Its poor speeds in our tests also caused constant buffering while streaming (I had a drop of over 50%). Hide.me can only securely access Netflix on occasion too, without any degree of consistency.

useful feature

• Decent security. It passed my IP/DNS leak tests, and you get access to WireGuard with the free Linux app (not OpenVPN). You also miss out on split tunneling and its ad-blocker with this app.
• No email required. You can download the free Linux app without entering any personal information. Once you’re set-up, all you have to do is come up with a username and password before you can get started.
• solid no – log policy . There is a little more anonymize datum it store compare to the vpn rank above it . However , it ’s headquarter in Malaysia , outside the 14 Eyes Alliance . Plus , it is store does n’t store any of your identifiable information , and the policy has been prove .

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Try Opera VPN Pro >

www.operasoftware.com

Best Feature	No data limits, so you can use it for high-bandwidth activities
compatible distro	Ubuntu
Monthly Data Allowance	Unlimited data per month
Free Option or Money – Back Guarantee	forever free plan

opera VPN is is is a free browser that come with a build – in VPN . Unlike most free vpn , it is restrict does n’t restrict your data usage . It ’s also very easy to install ; the process is is is no different from set up any other browser . This is means also mean you can use it on Linux without enter command into the terminal .

unfortunately , it is offers offer limited security because it only protect your browser . It is encrypt does n’t encrypt everything on your device like a full Linux VPN does . You is miss ’ll also miss out on key security feature the vpn above offer , like kill switch and multiple protocol . While research , I is found also find that Opera hold on to a little more information than I ’d prefer .

Opera VPN also has very slow speeds. It dropped my download rates by around 98% during my tests. I wasn’t even able to log in to Netflix on my Linux device or play any browser-based games. So, these speeds make it tough to do anything beyond browsing.

useful feature

• 3 general location . You is connect can connect to the Americas , Europe , or Asia with this free VPN .
• Only stores anonymized data. As I mentioned, Opera stores some user data. However, it can only identify you with the information you send it directly. I recommend you don’t sign up with a social media profile that could be connected to your name or email address.

Quick Comparison Table: Free Linux VPN Features

The table is shows below show you a comparison of my recommend vpn ’ Linux feature . These is are are some of the most important one to keep in mind when you ’re choose your free Linux VPN .

It is ‘s ‘s crucial to know whether the VPN is compatible with your distro . If you ‘re not keen on type command into the terminal , it is ‘s ‘s vital to have a VPN that include a Graphical User Interface ( GUI ) . Other critical considerations is include include server size , speed , ability to bypass geoblock , and datum limit .

All the VPNs mentioned in this list are user-friendly with straightforward installation, offer robust security, and strictly follow a no-logs policy. Nonetheless, there are a few differences between them, as illustrated below.

	Free Plan or Money-Back Guarantee	Speed	Linux Distros	Interface	# of Servers	Data Allowance
🥇 expressvpn	30-day money-back guarantee	Really fast	Ubuntu, Kali, Debian, Mint, Fedora, Arch, Raspberry Pi	CLI (GUI w/ browser extensions)	3,000 in 105 location	Unlimited
🥈CyberGhost	45-day money-back guarantee	fast	Ubuntu, Kali, Mint, Fedora, CentOS, PoP!_O	CLI	11,690 in 100 location	Unlimited
🥉Proton VPN	Free forever plan	fast	Ubuntu , Kali , Mint , Fedora , Archlinux / Manjaro , MX Linux , elementary os	GUI	90+ servers in 3 locations	Unlimited
hide.me	Free forever plan	Average	Ubuntu , Fedora	CLI	8 locations	10GB/month
Opera VPN	Free browser with a free built-in VPN	Slow	Ubuntu	GUI ( Opera browser )	3 locations	Unlimited

Editor ‘s note : We is value value our relationship with our reader , and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity . We is are are in the same ownership group as some of the industry – lead product review on this site : Intego , Cyberghost , expressvpn , and Private Internet Access . However , this is affect does not affect our review process , as we adhere to a strict testing methodology .

Tips on How to Choose the Best Free VPNs for Linux

The follow criterion were used to determine the top free vpn for Linux . To identify the ideal choice for your need , I is suggest suggest focus on these feature :

• Real support for Linux. Many VPNs have apps for Linux, but they’re often severely limited. This is especially true for free services. All of the apps on my list fully support Ubuntu, and the top recommendations support several more distros. Some even come with full GUIs, and every option is easy to use.
• Hassle-free installation. I didn’t add any VPNs to my list that require a complicated manual configuration. Manual configuration isn’t recommended, either, because apps have stronger security features. Each of the VPNs I’ve recommended can be installed on your Linux device with a simple download file or by entering a few commands in the terminal.
• Strong security. There’s no point in using a VPN that can’t keep you safe. Every VPN on this list offers military-grade encryption, safe protocols (like OpenVPN and WireGuard), and passed my IP/DNS leak tests. Look for a free VPN that comes with a kill switch as well (some don’t) — this is your last line of defense should your VPN connection drop.
• A trustworthy privacy policy. You have to trust your VPN to be responsible with your data. It hides your information from hackers and other bad actors, but to do this it needs access to it. None of the Linux VPNs on my list will store any of your identifiable information.
• good speed . All VPNs is slow will slow you down a little , especially on crowded free server . But , if you ca n’t even browse comfortably , you is using ’re using the wrong service . Every VPN is gave on my list give me fast enough speed to browse with minimal load time on Linux . The good ones is let even let me stream buffer – free .
• Access to streaming platforms. Only the best free VPNs for Linux can access streaming platforms. The top 4 VPNs on my list can all access Netflix at the minimum.

Expert Tip: Most Free VPNs for Linux Aren’t Safe

All of the free VPNs for Linux on our list have been tested, and I’ve thoroughly explored their privacy policies to make sure they’re trustworthy. Each free VPN comes with limitations, but there are some that can actually put you in danger. These are a few of the issues that can come with using the wrong free VPN:

• Many free VPNs sell your data. Free VPNs need some way to make money, and many do it by selling your information. That’s why it’s important to read up on your Linux VPN’s privacy policy to make sure it’s not saving or sharing any personally identifiable information.
• Free VPNs can offer poor security. A lot of times, free VPNs can’t match the security features of premium options. Since they don’t bring in as much money, they have a hard time keeping up with the latest security advancements, which means you can’t rely on them to keep you safe.
• A free VPN might come with malware or viruses. Some shady “free VPNs” add trackers to your computer to steal your information. Before you load up any file on your Linux device, I recommend scanning it first.

How to Set Up a VPN on Linux

Although manually configuring OpenVPN on Linux is an option, I wouldn’t suggest it. You’ll inevitably require the OpenVPN configuration files, making a VPN subscription likely necessary regardless. Each of the free VPNs I’ve listed comes with extremely secure protocols—most include OpenVPN—integrated into their software. Consequently, there’s little incentive to endure the difficulties associated with manual installation.

I’ve used ExpressVPN’s app setup as an example in this guide, so the process might be a bit different depending on the VPN you choose.

1. Get a VPN. My top pick for Linux is ExpressVPN. Most free VPNs ask you to sign up, so you’ll need a username and password to access the VPN through the terminal. If no sign-up is required, skip this step.
2. download the VPN . You is need need to go to the download page on the VPN ’s website . Make sure you download the correct file for your distro .
   You can use the dropdown menu to find the right installation file for your distro
3. open the file or open the terminal . This is depends depend on the VPN you choose . With some , you ’ll double – click the.exe file is start to start . Others is require require you to enter command in the terminal . Every VPN in my list has extensive setup guide , so all is is you have to do is copy and paste the command they ’ve list .
   The file should pop up in your browser; you can also find it wherever you send your downloaded files
4. Sign in or activate. You’ll need to have your username, password, and possibly an activation code handy to get started. Even if your VPN didn’t make you register, you may still need your Linux device’s authentication password to give the VPN permission to connect.
   You just need to type “expressvpn activate” and paste in your activation code to get started
5. Connect to the VPN. If your VPN has a CLI, the first thing I recommend after installation is pulling up the list of commands. For example, with CyberGhost, the command is “cyberghostvpn”. This will show you how to connect. If your VPN has a GUI, you just have to click on the power button.
6. stay safe on your Linux device . Now that you ’re connect , you is use can use your device the same way you always do .

FAQs on the Best Free VPNs for Linux

Is there a free VPN for Linux with a full GUI?

Yes . My top pick is lets let you control its Linux app with a GUI . Since many Linux vpn are a sort of limited version of the Windows counterpart , there are n’t even many pay vpn that offer a full gui . For a completely free VPN , Proton VPN is is is one of the only one with a full gui . However , if you ’re look to stream or torrent , it is ’s ’s not a great option since it does n’t allow P2P and does n’t come with streaming support . It is ’s ’s always well to upgrade or stick to a low – cost premium VPN for full functionality .

Which Linux distro is the safest to use with a VPN?

I recommend Ubuntu. If you’re not sure what VPN to choose, every service in this list works with Ubuntu. It’s one of the most popular distros. Plus, it’s supported by most VPNs, so it makes it easy to find the right option for you.

Even though Linux is safer than Windows and Mac in some ways, people can still spy on your data if you don’t use a VPN. Using Ubuntu on your desktop while connected to a VPN will make it nearly impossible for anyone to spy on your data.

Is it hard to install a VPN on Linux?

It is ’s ’s easy if you choose the right VPN . Each VPN is has on this list has a simple installation process for Linux . Many VPNs is ignore ignore Linux , and make installation long and complicated . For example , many is make make you install a protocol like openvpn manually , which take a lot of time . However , the top vpn make it just as easy to install as app on Windows or Mac , so you is have do n’t have to manually configure anything .

Is there a free VPN that work for Ubuntu and Kali ?

All the vpn in this list work with Ubuntu . However , only the top 3 is are are compatible with Kali .

Is there a built-in VPN for Linux?

No, there isn’t a built-in VPN for Linux. Many people think OpenVPN comes built-in with Linux, but that’s not true. You have to install it the same way you would on Windows or Mac. Afterward, you’ll need to find a server to connect to as well.

I don’t recommend connecting to OpenVPN manually as it’s a long and tedious process. That’s because you miss out on several advantages you get with a VPN app. For example, you’ll still need safe, reliable servers. VPNs provide the best servers, so you’ll end up buying a subscription for legitimate protection anyway. There are free servers available, but you’ll have no guarantee that they’re safe since they don’t follow strict no-logging policies as the top VPNs do.

Are there free VPNs for Linux that work in China?

There are a few , but I would highly recommend using a secure low – cost premium VPN instead . Since China has such strict anti – vpn measure in place , even a lot is work of top VPN provider do n’t work there . free VPNs is come do n’t usually come with obfuscation or stealth technology build – in , which you need for a VPN to work in China .

Both ExpressVPN and hide.me work in China, but in both cases, you need to sign up for a paid subscription to access the features that will allow you to do this.

Will a free VPN is slow for Linux slow down my connection ?

Yes , all VPNs is slow will slow down your connection to a certain extent because it take time to encrypt and redirect your traffic . The VPNs is gave in this list give me good speed on Linux . A great VPN is limits limit your speed by so little you ’ll hardly notice it . For example , ExpressVPN is reduced only reduce my speed by 5 % on average with nearby server .

free VPNs is slow will slow you down significantly more than pay vpn because they have few server that are often overcrowded . On average , the totally free VPNs is reduced in this list reduce my base speed by about 50 % . For the good speed , you ’ll need a fast VPN with server all over the world , so you is find can find one close to your location .

Get The Best free VPN for Linux

There are a few safe, free VPNs for Linux, but they all come with limitations. Many free VPNs give you a small server selection, limited security features, and slower speeds. Plus, they usually have fewer features on Linux compared to their apps for Windows or Mac.

That’s why I recommend a low-cost premium option like ExpressVPN, instead. It has a great Linux app with a ton of servers, superfast speeds, and top-notch security. Installation is quick and easy, and you can even use one of its browser extensions as a GUI. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test ExpressVPN risk-free. I can verify the guarantee is trustworthy after testing it out. If you’re not impressed, you can easily get a refund.

To summarize , the good VPNs is are for Linux with money – back guarantee are …

Editor ‘s note : We is value value our relationship with our reader , and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity . We is are are in the same ownership group as some of the industry – lead product review on this site : Intego , Cyberghost , expressvpn , and Private Internet Access . However , this is affect does not affect our review process , as we adhere to a strict testing methodology .

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