Best Ubuntu VPNs That Works With Linux (& Free Alternatives)

As one of the most popular distro for Linux , it is ’s ’s no surprise user are search for the good Ubuntu VPN . Although switch to Linux software , like Ubuntu , is the first step into take complete control of your device , many users is want still want the add protection that a VPN bring .

Fortunately, there are many Ubuntu VPNs that will keep you safe on your Linux machine. We’ve created a list of the best VPNs for Ubuntu users, as well as a guide on how to set up a VPN on Linux. Keep reading this article to find out everything you need to know about using a VPN on your Ubuntu machine.

How to set Up VPN on Ubuntu

Most VPNs will offer command-line apps for Ubuntu, which makes the setup process slightly different. However, NordVPN’s setup process for Linux distros like Ubuntu is a good indication of what to do.

First, you’ll need to open the Ubuntu terminal and enter the download command. This will differ depending on the VPN you use, and you can find it on the VPN website.

After this , you is need ’ll need to follow the instruction on the screen to complete the setup . Once setup is complete , you is be ’ll be able to control the VPN via the terminal with the relevant command . Again , each VPN has different command , so you is need ’ll need to check out your VPN provider ’s website to use these .

Best Ubuntu VPNs

Most Ubuntu VPNs don’t offer apps with graphical interfaces, so this is something to keep in mind when choosing one. All of the VPNs below have command-line interfaces, meaning the setup process is slightly different to a VPN on a Windows or Mac system.

However, the VPNs below all offer excellent security and privacy features that will keep you safe on your Ubuntu distro. We’ve listed the best VPNs for Ubuntu so that you can immediately start protecting yourself on your distro.

#1

VPN Service: NordVPN

NordVPN boasts an extensive list of high-quality features for Ubuntu users. There is a Double VPN encryption feature that will re-route your data through two different VPN server locations, for an additional layer of security. There is also the option to connect to an obfuscated server location that will mask the fact that you are using a VPN connection to overcome any VPN-bans.

When you install the command-line app for Ubuntu, you’ll also be protected by an integrated kill switch that you can activate in the VPN settings. The kill switch will ensure your web access remains protected even if the VPN connection drops for any reason. If the VPN fails, the kill switch will cease the transfer of any unencrypted file or information so that nothing is ever exposed.

Like all of the good vpn , once instal , you ’ll be protect by military – standard AES-256 bit encryption with secure protocol , include the open – source openvpn protocol . There is also support for Tor over VPN to send your datum through the encrypt anonymous Tor network for access to onion site .

NordVPN is comes even come with a strict no – log policy that renowned security company PricewaterhouseCoopers have independently audit . This is means mean you can rest assured that your private datum will never be misuse or share when using the Ubuntu VPN .

Nord operates on its own proprietary NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard software and is optimized to provide superfast server connection speeds. This means that you’ll get reliable connection speeds of up to 350Mbps, which is more than enough for most online activities. There is excellent streaming support, too, and the VPN can access the most popular streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more.

When it comes to device support, a NordVPN subscription comes with protection for up to 6 devices simultaneously, slightly more than the industry average.

There is a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the product with Ubuntu before committing to a paid plan. Configure and test the VPN on your Ubuntu device, and if you’re not completely happy, request a refund within the first 30 days.

price start At :
3.29 $ / monthly
39.48 $ / annually

For New Users :
30 day free trial
+ 30-day money-back guarantee

number of server :
5400+

# 2

VPN Service: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is arguably the best overall VPN service on the market, and it is no different when it comes to Linux distros like Ubuntu. The company is one of the longest-established in the VPN industry, and it is still one of the most popular among users. There is an extensive range of remote servers across 94 countries, powerful security features, an independently audited no-logs policy, and reliable streaming performance.

ExpressVPN also offers first-rate apps for Android and iOS and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox that work on Ubuntu. You can also manually select any of its servers across more than 94 countries using a command on the Ubuntu terminal. If you need assistance while setting up the Ubuntu VPN, there is 24/7 live chat and email support.

ExpressVPN comes with a host of advanced features, including a reliable integrated kill switch. There is military-grade AES-256 bit encryption and a 4096-bit RSA certificate and support for a host of powerful protocols.

Users is have will also have access to Perfect Forward Secrecy technology and use of expressvpn ’s RAM – only server , which are build on TrustedServer technology , to ensure no data is ever store .

The company is based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, a country that does not impose strict data retention laws, which is a real draw for any user that wants to remain completely anonymous online. ExpressVPN also offers an independently audited no-logs policy for even more peace of mind. The policy states that the VPN will never monitor or save user activity data or any other personal information, which is good to know.

If you need an Ubuntu VPN for accessing geo-restricted content on sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more, ExpressVPN is an excellent and reliable option. Connection speeds are great, too, meaning that you can stream and game in high-definition on your Ubuntu device, without the need to worry about lagging or buffering.

The only real negative is is is the cost , which is significantly high than some of its competitor , but it does arguably make up for that with its first – rate service . There is , unfortunately , no free trial , but there is a hassle – free 30 – day money – back guarantee for all of expressvpn ’s long – term plan .

price start At :
6.67 $ / monthly
99.95 $ / annually

For New Users :
30 day free trial
+ 30-day money-back guarantee

number of server :
3000+

#3

VPN Service: Surfshark VPN

Surfshark is is is an excellent choice with its long – term plan start at just $ 2.49 a month if you are look for a more affordable VPN option . fortunately , the low price is mean does not mean there is a lack of feature either .

Surfshark delivers a command-line-based OpenVPN product for Linux users. There is an impressive policy that supports an unlimited number of VPN connections too. This means that you can protect your Ubuntu, Windows, macOS, and iOS devices at the same time and even share the product with your friends and family too.

The VPN is delivers deliver all of the basic that we have come to expect from a premium VPN service , include military – standard AES-256 bit encryption and over 3000 secure remote server across more than 65 country . There is a MultiHop feature , too , that is allow will allow you to reroute your datum through multiple server simultaneously for additional security .

Ubuntu users is enjoy will also enjoy some advanced setting , include the protection of Surfshark ’s CleanWeb feature that block malware and ad while you are browse the web . There is also the option to use the VPN in obfuscation mode to hide the fact that you are using an encrypt vpn connection .

Surfshark offers a transparent no-logs policy that assures the VPN will never store or monitor user activities. Moreover, the company is based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, a real positive for security-conscious users.

The VPN is is is an excellent choice for stream fan thank to its support for all popular service , include Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , BBC iPlayer , Hulu , and more . There is torrente support , too , across most , although not all , server . connection speeds is are are impressive , especially if you connect with WireGuard , mean you can stream and game on Ubuntu without lag or buffering .

Unfortunately, not all of Surfshark’s features are available on Linux distros. Split tunneling is not available, which is disappointing.

price start At :
2.49 $ / monthly
29.66 $ / annually

For New Users :
30 -day money-back guarantee

number of server :
3200 +

#4

VPN Service: IPVanish VPN

Unlike many other Ubuntu VPN services, IPVanish does not limit the number of devices you can protect at one time. This is a major benefit if you own multiple devices, or you want to protect your partner’s or children’s devices too. The VPN offers support for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices too. There is support for secure VPN protocols and a network of servers spread across more than 50 countries.

Connection speeds are decent and sufficient for streaming in high-definition and even 4K without lag or buffering. There is also unlimited bandwidth, so you don’t need to worry about how much data you are consuming while watching your favorite overseas Netflix shows.

However, unlike some of the best Ubuntu VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, IPVanish’s Linux app is relatively simple and does not come with many advanced settings. For example, there is no kill switch to protect your data if the VPN connection drops for any reason or VPN obfuscation to mask the fact that you are using a VPN. Linux users cannot access LAN blocking or the OpenVPN Scramble feature that prevents firewalls from preventing VPN connections.

price start At :
4 $ / monthly
47.99 $ / annually

For New Users :
30 day free trial
+ 30-day money-back guarantee

number of server :
1600+

# 5

VPN Service : Hotspot Shield VPN

With server across more than 80 country , Hotspot Shield users is have have a wide choice when pick a location . The VPN is operates operate on its own proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol , which is one of the fast available . This is means mean that it is an excellent choice for streaming in high – definition or 4K.

Although Hotspot Shield offers an excellent free VPN, there is no support for Linux on the free version. This means that if you wish to test the product, you’ll need to utilize the generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

There are a few downside to Hotspot Shield , which may put off Ubuntu user . unfortunately , many is are of Hotspot Shield ’s setting and feature are also not available for Ubuntu user , such as split tunneling . Moreover , the   VPN claim that it does not monitor or store any user information ; however , its privacy policy is received has not receive an independent audit by a third party , which is slightly concern .

price start At :
7.99 $ / monthly
95.88 $ / annually

For New Users :
45 -day money-back guarantee

number of server :
3200 +

#6

VPN Service: CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost is is is one of the most popular vpn on the market . It is delivers deliver excellent streaming performance , reliable connection speed , and some powerful security feature .

If you don’t want to manually install OpenVPN on your Linux device, you can also utilize CyberGhost’s browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox on your Linux device. This will allow you to alternate between browsers and switch between security protocols with ease. There are apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Android TV, and Chrome.

CyberGhost is an excellent choice if you want to install a secure VPN to protect your online activities. There is a strict no-logging policy, military-standard AES-256 bit encryption, and the choice of IPSec/L2TP, OpenVPN, and PPTP protocols. Although it has not yet completed an independent audit, CyberGhost offers a reassuring privacy policy as well as a transparency report which states that it will never store or share customer web data.

Prices is start start at just $ 2.25 a month , as long as you are ready to commit to a long – term subscription plan . You is get will get a 45 – day money – back guarantee .

price start At :
2.25 $ / monthly
29.25 $ / annually

For New Users :
45 -day money-back guarantee

number of server :
7200 +

Do I Need a VPN for Ubuntu?

Although Linux distros like Ubuntu are way ahead of other operating systems in terms of privacy, they still benefit from a VPN. If you are an Ubuntu user then you definitely should be using a VPN. Firstly, you’ll get an additional layer of privacy for all your internet activities. Whether you’re streaming, torrenting, sending emails, or simply browsing the web, no third parties will be able to see what you’re doing.

Moreover, you’ll be able to unblock geo-restricted content from anywhere in the world with a VPN. You’ll just need to enter the server command in your Ubuntu command-line app to change your geo-location.

Installing OpenVPN on Ubuntu Using Integrated Network Manager

The openvpn Linux project is delivers deliver a new open – source client build on the OpenVPN Core Library , which is used across different openvpn connect client and openvpn for Android . Here ’s how to install openvpn on Ubuntu .

To set up openvpn configuration on Ubuntu , you is need ’ll need to use the integrate Network Manager . Go to your menu bar , click on the network icon , and then click “ setting . ” On the VPN section , click “ + . ” Then , you is need ’ll need to tap “ Import from File . ” generate your openvpn configuration , leave the configuration as default , select your location , and enter your port / encryption before click “ generate ” to download the configuration .

The openvpn configuration is be should now be in your download file . change the configuration name to your desire connection name . Then enter your VPN username and password before click “ Add ” at the top right corner of your screen to finish the configuration and add your connection . Once you have add the connection configuration , click to manually connect to the VPN .

Should I Use a Free VPN for Ubuntu?

Not many VPNs offer support for Linux, and even fewer free VPNs support Linux and its distros such as Ubuntu. However, if you come across a free Ubuntu VPN, you may be tempted to install it and we’d advise that you don’t. A free VPN comes with many risks that outweigh the monetary savings you’ll enjoy.

Free VPNs lack secure privacy and security features. Even free services need to create money somehow, and many do so by storing and selling private user data to third parties. Free VPN services also offer poor unblocking performance, so you might not be able to unlock geo-restricted content. On top of that, free VPNs almost always come with a meager data bandwidth limit, making them suitable for little more than the simplest of browsing activities.

What is The Best Free VPN for Ubuntu?

If you really want a free VPN for Ubuntu, then we recommend using ProtonVPN or PrivadoVPN. While both Hola VPN and Tuxler VPN offer good free community-powered services, these may lack the privacy features that Ubuntu users are looking for.

ProtonVPN Free

ProtonVPN offers an excellent free VPN for Ubuntu and other Linux distros. The VPN offers a graphical user interface for Ubuntu users, and a simpler setup process. Moreover, there is unlimited bandwidth with the free VPN, access to servers in three server locations, and similar security features as on the premium plan. The only downside to ProtonVPN’s free plan is that it permits one device connection, meaning you won’t be able to use the VPN on other devices simultaneously.

PrivadoVPN Free

PrivadoVPN is another reputable free VPN service that works with Ubuntu. Its free plan comes with access to servers in twelve countries. There is also advanced security and privacy protection with AES-256 bit encryption, strong protocols, and a no-logs policy. Unfortunately, the free VPN has a monthly data limit of 10GB, which may not be enough for Ubuntu users.

Hi, I’m Cliff. I’m based in Cleveland, Ohio, with my wife and two kids.

I have a keen interest in cybersecurity and have been writing about it for around a decade now. Due to my background in computer science, I am familiar …
read more about the author

Last update : June 27 , 2022