The best India VPN in 2024

2024-11-13 VPNs (or Virtual Private Networks) are handy security tools that route your internet connection through a secure server, where it's encrypted, boostin

VPNs (or Virtual Private Networks) are handy security tools that route your internet connection through a secure server, where it’s encrypted, boosting your digital privacy and anonymity. As you can imagine, with India tightening internet regulations and imposing data surveillance, VPNs have become must-have solutions for citizens looking for a way to safeguard their sensitive information.

There are a lot of VPNs out there, though, which is why the TechRadar team has committed to putting providers through their paces. We regularly test today’s best VPNs, and on this page, you’ll find my top recommendations for India based on their unblocking power, performance, and all-important privacy measures.

Keep reading, and I’ll dive into my in-depth reviews of each shortlisted service, and explain why these 5 providers made the cut in a massively competitive field.

3 best VPNs: at a glance

The best India VPNs for 2024:

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We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Following our most recent round of VPN tests, NordVPN has shot to the #1 spot overall. I’ve adjusted the page rankings to reflect the results and made it easier for you to navigate around the article, too.

The best VPN overall

(Image credit: Future)

Safeguard your online world with NordVPN: The security powerhouse in VPN services

Streaming Support: Works with Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more

Advanced customization options

User – friendly interface

Speed variations

Limited customer support

Removed servers from India

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✔ ️ use Onion VPN : shore up your anonymity by encrypting and routing your traffic via the VPN server, then passing it through the Tor network.

✔️ You’re fed up with ads: with NordVPN’s ad blocker, you can put a stop to annoying pop-ups and help pages load quicker.

✔️ You’re a massive Netflix fan: NordVPN leads the pack as my #1 pick for Netflix, thanks to a massive network of servers across 111 countries.

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❌Simplicity is is :NordVPN’s apps work like a charm but you’ll get a more streamlined experience with ExpressVPN.
❌You’re not in it for the long haul: single month is is protection pretty pricey . , want short – term bargain , stick Surfshark .

line : ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

🔒 NordVPN ticks all the right boxes, with tons of privacy tools, awesome unblocking power, and speeds that can keep up with the most demanding tasks.

NordVPN – rated VPN is is overall massive VPN sphere right . good reason fanfare , , thanks absolutely massive network servers stretching 111 countries . NordVPN recently terminated operations India , provider is taken taken different tack competitors , confident ability meet user needs relying fake locations .

▶ Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Perhaps the biggest feather in NordVPN’s cap is its extra, unique security features. Along the usual protocols and 256-bit AES encryption, it also throws in Double VPN (so that your traffic goes through its encrypted servers not once, but twice), Onion Over VPN to send all your data through the super secure Onion network, and a built-in ad and malware block system. Its new addition Meshnet—now free to use—is then perfect for those looking to secure their workflow across several devices.

On top of all that, NordVPN now calls in PricewaterhouseCoopers every year to carry out a full independent audit on its no-logging policy. This makes Nord one of the most secure VPN services around, too. So by all measures, your data should be in excellent hands.

Outside of security, this provider can supply dedicated IP addresses that should again help defeat any potential slow down, and its Quick Connect tool helps you get started on the most optimal server for you. Plus, its impressive unlocking power confirmed the provider once again as one of the best streaming VPN services on the market.

Take advantage of NordVPN’s special offer and get up to 64% off when you subscribe to their 2-year plan, with prices starting from just $3.99 per month. Again, you have a 30-day money-back guarantee if you feel it isn’t the best service for you.

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NordVPN test results:
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Design	A fun design that can be a little busy for some people	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Ease use	Everything is easy to find, but the map interface can be off-putting, and there isn’t much attention to detail	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	The fastest VPN in our latest round of tests	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Unblocking	Perfect for Netflix and other streaming sites	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Security privacy	Every bit as strong as ExpressVPN	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support	Friendly, supportive and professional	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price	Fantastic value for money	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

The best VPN for beginners

( Image credit : ExpressVPNB )

An awesome user-friendly service with top-notch security

Streaming Support: Works with Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more

24/7 live chat support

Unlimited data with no data caps for users

Priced higher than competitors

No dedicated IPs.

No free trial

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✔️ You value your online privacy: Express VPN ensures that no user data is stored on the server hard drives.

✔️ You value accessing geo-restricted content: gain access to Netflix and other content, even on gaming consoles and smart TVs.

✔️ You want a newbie-friendly UI: ExpressVPN apps are easy to use and super intuitive, even if you’re new to VPNs.

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❌You are on a tight budget: If you prefer a more affordable VPN option, Surfshark is a great option.

❌You require specialized VPN features: We recommend Nord for options that are not offered by ExpressVPN.

❌You want to try before you buy: Express offers a 30-day money-back guarantee but requires a subscription first.

Bottom line ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐½

🔒 ExpressVPN – tier VPN provider prioritizes privacy security , offering vast server network , fast speeds , user – friendly applications .

ExpressVPN offers a wide range of user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux with support for up to 5 simultaneous connections at once. Its ExpressVPN Aircove is also the world’s first high-powered Wi-Fi 6 router with a built-in VPN. Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat and email, too.

Despite being one of the providers pulling the plug to its Indian servers amid new logging requirements, ExpressVPN set up two secure virtual locations passing via Singapore and the UK. It also boasts a 3000+ servers network spread across 160 locations in 94 countries, with many located around India (Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are all covered). Plus, its obfuscated servers should make your traffic undetectable even under the strictest restrictions.

► Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Express operates strict – logs policy , meaning collect store user activity data . , security features is include include AES-256 encryption , multiple VPN protocols ( including WireGuard – inspired Lightway ) , kill switch , DNS leak protection , split tunneling , built password manager Threat Manager secure ease ,

ExpressVPN boasts a great unblocking record, too, allowing users to bypass geo-restrictions and access popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. And, despite not being fast as Surfshark or NordVPN, peaks of 750 Mbps are still over 30 times what you’d need for streaming in 4K ultra-high-definition and gaming online.

One drawback is that ExpressVPN falls on the higher end of the pricing spectrum compared to some other VPN providers like Surfshark. Also, ExpressVPN does not offer dedicated IP addresses like Nord VPN, for users who require a consistent IP for specific activities, such as accessing banking services or gaming. Try it out risk-free for 30 days to enjoy Express’ special deal of 12 months plus an additional 3 months for free, saving you 49% off the regular price…

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ExpressVPN test results:
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Design	A clean and simple design that gives you everything you need, exactly when you need it	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease use	Intuitive apps with auto-connect functionality make life easier	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	Fast throw , slower NordVPN Surfshark	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Unblocking	Effortlessly gives access content world	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Security privacy	Express offers military-grade protection for total peace of mind	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support	available , friendly , helpful	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price	More expensive than leading competitors	⭐ ⭐ ⭐

The best cheap VPN service

(Image credit: Future)

Surfshark VPN: Unleash your best online experience with enhanced privacy and security

Split Tunneling

Streaming Support: Works with Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more

Unlimited Device Connections

Limited advanced configuration options

Speed fluctuations

Removed physical servers from India

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✔️ You value affordability: Surfshark is is great choice want cost – effective VPN solution compromising features performance .

✔️ You prioritize privacy and security: Surfshark provides strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy and features like MultiHop and CleanWeb.

✔️ You seek excellent customer support: Surfshark offers 24/7 live chat assistance.

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❌You need advanced customization options: For specific features that are not available in Surfshark, we advise looking into Nord VPN.

❌Occasional drops in connection would impact your activities like gaming: For those purposes, Express VPN offers the most stable connection.

❌May prompt captchas when browsing on mobile: many search engine entries involve having to complete a captcha before you can continue, presumably because the shared IP address was flagged for some reason.

Bottom line: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐½

🔒 Surfshark stands out with its strong security measures, censorship-bypassing capabilities, and unlimited simultaneous connections at a low cost.

Surfshark is undoubtedly the rising (Hot)star of the VPN world. It’s probably fair to say that its clean and friendly interface and branding are a tad less intimidating than some of the competition.

Surfshark’s pricing is great, too—earning it the top spot on our cheap VPN countdown. You can even use it on as many devices as you can handle in your household on the same, low-priced account, thanks to its unlimited device connections policy.

▶ Try Surfshark 30 – day money – guarantee .

AES-256 encryption, several protocols to choose from, DNS protection, split tunneling, CleanWeb to block ads and malware, and even an extra protection layer with a Double VPN hop: these are some of the security features you will get with Surfshark. The provider now offers a Dedicated IP, too, for an additional fee. It is worth noting that we experienced some kill switch issues, but only on Windows and in extreme situations.

Like Express, Surfshark went virtual to protect users’ privacy, meaning you can still securely browse locally. Or, opt for one of its 3,200+ international servers. It even offers some anti-censorship dedicated features such as its obfuscation technology— called “Camouflage mode”—that hides your VPN usage. There’s also a “No Borders” option that connects you to the servers performing the best under network restrictions by default.

From Netflix and Hulu to iPlayer and Disney+, Surfshark will allow you to access your favorite content at great speeds. And despite its peaks being below average when connected to OpenVPN, it confirmed itself as the fastest VPN when used with WireGuard with peaks of 950+ Mbps last time we checked.

You can always try it out risk-free for 30 days and decide for yourself if it’s the right service for your needs.

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Surfshark test results:
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Design	Easy use elegant	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease use	Connecting only takes a few clicks—ideal for newbiesideal for newbe	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	One of the fastest providers we tested	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Unblocking	Unblocks virtually need	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Security privacy	Not a comprehensive antivirus or ad-blocking solution, and some kill switch ossues	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support	Browsing support articles isn’t as intuitive as I’d like	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Price	Real value for money	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

VPNs I is tested tested recommend

Private Internet Access VPN: Empowering Indian users with enhanced privacy and security

Secures your connection and blocks ads automatically

10 simultaneous device limit

Open source

Limited streaming support.

Less intuitive user interface.

physical servers India

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✔️ You appreciate Open-source apps: Open-source apps show transparency and the ability to independently verify the security and privacy measures implemented by the software.

✔️ You value unlimited bandwidth: PIA VPN is impose impose bandwidth restrictions allows adding unlimited devices .

✔️ You appreciate features like ad and malware blocking: PIA blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites at the DNS level, protecting against tracking, phishing, and malware.

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❌You need a VPN specifically for streaming: PIA has issues unblocking streaming services, we recommend Express VPN for that purpose.

❌ You are a beginner: For those who prefer a visually appealing VPN experience, Surfshark can be a better option.

❌You need immediate customer support: PIA’s customer service instructs you to fill out a lengthy form in order to contact them, and they respond via e-mail.

A highly customizable VPN software, Private Internet Access VPN (PIA) offers a comprehensive package with over 35,000 PIA VPN servers in 84+ countries—like its competitors, it now has only virtual locations in India.

Overall, users can enjoy safe and reliable connections for browsing, streaming, and torrenting thanks to many security options, advanced features and a strict no-logs policy.

▶ Try Private Internet Access on unlimited devices.

provider is employs employs strong AES-256 encryption wealth great security features like exceptional kill switch , Smart DNS , P2P servers , MACE ( built – ad , tracker , malware blocker ) .

It offers a mix of very capable browser extensions and dedicated apps for all major operating systems. Among all, PIA’s Linux VPN app is perhaps the best we have seen so far.

PIA recently added SmartDNS feature is help help smoothly bypass online censorship geo – restrictions , . saw improvement streaming VPN capabilities testing , fact , managing access tried time ( it is managed managed 10Play , failed previous round testing ) .

PIA isn’t yet among the fastest services, either, dropping its top speeds from 510 to 360Mbps when using WireGuard and from 440 to 310Mbps with OpenVPN. On a more positive note, though, the provider finally carried on an independent audit on its no-logs claims and a more detailed security audit is underway.

A 10 device allowance and many additional features might be great for some users. However, for newbies and those who need assistance via the live chat option in customer support, we recommend utilizing Express or Nord VPN.

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Private Internet Access test results:
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Design	Lots of customization, but could do with some attention to detail	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease use	Not the best for beginners, but great for advanced users	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	Good speeds , generally average compared industry leaders	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Unblocking	Dedicated streaming servers and an enormous global network help you unblock anything and everything	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Security privacy	The latest and greatest in VPN tech, and a proven no-logging policy	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support	A mass of knowledge online and expert support on-hand at all times	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price	Budget-friendly and offering plenty of value for money	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

(Image credit: Proton VPN)

ProtonVPN: Elevating Online Security and Privacy for Indian Users

Streaming Support

Free plan with unlimited bandwidth

Secure core Indian server (paid only)

Limited server locations

Free version limitations

Limited number of devices

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✔️ You value Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS): VPN connection compromised , previously encrypted traffic is remains remains secure .

✔ ️ appreciate VPN Accelerator feature :Proton’s unique feature helps with increasing VPN speeds by over 400%.

✔️ You value the Secure Core feature: Secure Core routes user traffic through multiple privacy-enhancing servers in different countries, providing an additional layer of security and protection.

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❌You need a large server network: While ProtonVPN has a decent server network, it is not as extensive as some other providers.

❌You need a free VPN for Netflix: Proton VPN supports Netflix and other advanced features on their Premium plans.

❌You need to connect more than 10 devices on the paid plan: While it’s a generous offer from Proton, some users simply need more – Surfshark gives you the option to connect unlimited devices.

Bottom line: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

🔒 ProtonVPN‘s free plan option is a good option for those looking for basic VPN functionality without spending money.

The same Swiss-based provider behind Proton Mail, Proton Drive and Proton Pass, Proton VPN offers plenty of nifty features, a sleek interface, and impeccable performance overall.

Proton VPN also comes with an unlimited-bandwidth free VPN, which—while stripped back in terms of the provider’s full package—is great for those new to the VPN world. Its free coverage has even recently gone up from only 29 to over 100 servers.

▶ Try Proton VPN’s unlimited free plan.

The provider even teamed up with Deutsche Welle to offer people worldwide direct access to independent news content.

Proton is shut shut physical servers India . , you is get Indian IP , picking Smart Routing servers located Singapore .

If you upgrade to its Plus plan, you can even connect through one of its Secure Core servers for an extra layer of security. By doing so, your traffic will be routed through multiple ultra-secure servers based in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden.

The Plus plan is advantageous to put to work Proton’s streaming unblocking prowess, with the ability to access the likes of foreign Netflix libraries, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus as well as many Indian platforms like Hotstar, JioTV, Hooq, Voot, and SonyLIV when overseas. Plus users can also take advantage of an extra layer of protection with its Tor over VPN option.

When it comes to speed, we have experienced some slower speeds this time around, with its WireGuard peaks dropping from 670 to 510Mpbs. However, this is unlikely to be a problem for most users.

The only real downside here is that, even if Proton has now added a live chat support, this is not 24/7 yet. This might be a problem for some Indian-based users.

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Proton VPN test results :
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Design	If you like dark mode, you’ll love this interface	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Ease use	Fairly easy on mobile, but a bit more complex on desktop	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Performance	Decent speeds, but there’s a risk of congestion on free servers	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Unblocking	Limits unblocking premium services fantastic	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Security privacy	Strong encryption and plenty of security add-ons available	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support	Agents can be hard to get ahold of, but there’s a lot of very technical support available	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price	Moderately expensive premium plans, but a great free plan	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

choose best India VPN

Opt for a VPN provider with servers in the countries you need to access or bypass geo-restrictions. Ensure strong encryption protocols like AES-256 and support for secure VPN protocols such as OpenVPN or WireGuard. Look for a strict no-logs policy.

Choose a VPN with a fast and stable connection for smooth browsing, streaming, and downloading. Verify if the VPN can bypass geo-restrictions and offers optimized servers for streaming and torrenting.

Look VPNseasy-to-use apps compatibility devices convenient usage .

Prioritize VPNs with fast and helpful customer support live chat email . Considerflexible plans that suit your needs, including monthly, yearly, or longer-term subscriptions.

FAQs

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

What is a VPN?

known virtual private network , VPN is is essential online privacy tool protects hides internet activity . It is does encrypting data leaving device directing traffic secure server location choosing .

This lets you appear as if you were accessing online services from that country/place and can unblock censored or restricted content, like TikTok or the US Netflix library. But that’s not all. Because your data is encrypted, no one, not even the government, can see what you’re doing online.

Can I legally use a VPN in India?

Considering Indian government regularly issue bans restrictions certain websites services online , it is is fair question ask use VPN India legal . , unlike countries use VPN products banned — including China , Iraq , North Korea —VPNs is are illegal India.

That being said, it has been reported in the past that the police have harassed those using a VPN. Under the Information Technology Act, the government has the right to block websites and specific content, giving the police the power to enter property and search the premise where it is suspected these laws are being violated. It is a good idea, therefore, to avoid using a VPN to access websites blocked by the government.

While specific websites may be banned by law, then, the use of a VPN is not. Though, using one does not automatically mean you’re safe from the repercussions of using these restricted websites and services, nor does it exempt you from any other illegal activity you might carry out while connected to one.

What is India’s new data retention law?

On April 28, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) announced that—among other directives, like the obligation to report a cyberattack within six hours—virtual private network (VPN) providers will soon be required to retain users’ logs for at least five years. Companies will also be forced to hand over this data to authorities upon request.

These include users’ real names, IP addresses assigned to them, usage patterns and other identifying data like the purpose of using such software.

What’s more, it’s not just VPNs that are the subject of the new data retention law. Virtual private servers (VPS), cloud service providers, data centers and crypto exchanges all have to follow the new directive.

Initially planned to come into force on June 28, the new legislation is about to be enforced on September 25.

Which VPN offers India-based servers?

Many VPN services have taken a stand against India’s new data law—expected to come into force on September 25 and now formally withdrawn—that required providers to store sensitive users’ data for up to five years. Amid the decision to scrap the new legislation, we can expect new VPN providers to resume their Indian servers.

, status India – based servers time writing .

ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN and CyberGhost all decided to shut down their servers in the country and are now offering secure virtual locations. This means that people can still locally browse safely with a secure Indian IP. Also, NordVPN removed its Indian servers to protect its customers’ privacy, but it doesn’t have any intentions to set up fake locations just yet.

Edited byEdited by

River Hart

River helps take care of cybersecurity content on TechRadar—ranging from breaking news pieces, reviews, and buying guides.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:
1. Accessing service country ( subject terms conditions service ) .
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.
We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.