5 Best VPNs for Ubuntu in 2024 — Fast and With Native Apps

My team and I tested 80+ VPNs and found the best ones for Ubuntu that offer GUI and/or CLI apps with features almost on par with their Mac and Windows counterparts. They also protect your data with military-grade (AES 256-bit) encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy. Plus, servers worldwide allow you to use local online services even when you travel abroad.

My top recommendation is ExpressVPN because of its robust security features and impressive speeds. You can securely game online and browse uninterrupted. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN without risk.

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

Best VPNs for Ubuntu — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Advanced Security Features To Protect You on Ubuntu

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Tested April 2024

Available on:

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www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN stands out with its impressive commitment to privacy and security. Your connection remains secure with AES 256-bit encryption (the strongest available), which will take a supercomputer thousands of years to crack. On top of that, Perfect Forward Secrecy regularly replaces your encryption keys — even if one session got hacked, all previous and subsequent sessions are safe.

Your data won't be exposed even if the VPN connection suddenly drops (for example, when you switch servers) as ExpressVPN's kill switch (Network Lock) blocks your device's traffic. I tested ExpressVPN for IP/DNS/WebRTC leaks and detected none, meaning the VPN keeps your data private. Additionally, its Linux app offers Threat Manager that prevents your device from accessing sites that are known to be malicious.

The kill switch becomes active as soon as you connect to a server

ExpressVPN's fast servers worldwide make it a great choice for Ubuntu users. Its Lightway protocol gave me consistent speeds. It consists of around 1,000 lines of code, compared to OpenVPN's 70,000, so it performs better. Its US, France, and German servers had an average download rate of 114.4Mbps — a mere 5.9% decrease from my base speed of 121.6Mbps. You can stream local content in UHD and play games without lag with such results.

It also offers a custom CLI client for Linux for more control and flexibility. When you log into your account, simply click Download and choose Linux as your preferred operating system — I was able to set up the VPN on my PC in 3 minutes. There's also a Linux GUI for browser extensions, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

The VPN does cost a few dollars more than the other providers on my list, starting at $6.67/month. However, ExpressVPN regularly offers discounts of up to 49%, and you can use it on up to 8 devices at once. All subscriptions are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. To test its refund policy, I canceled my via 24/7 live chat. The support agent immediately responded and processed my request. My credit card was reimbursed after 3 days.

Useful Features

• Smart Location. This feature helps you connect to the nearest and fastest server available. It’s useful when you don't have any specific server preferences.
• No-logs policy. This prevents the VPN from recording or storing your online activity. Additionally, it’s based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly territory with no data retention laws. So, ExpressVPN isn't obligated to hand over data, not even when requested by a government.
• RAM-only servers. These servers are wiped clean with every server reboot. So, there’s no chance of ExpressVPN recording your information in the first place.
• Obfuscation. ExpressVPN automatically obfuscates all its servers, so your VPN use is always hidden. This makes encrypted traffic look like regular internet traffic, so it can easily get past VPN blocks and DPI.
• Torrenting support. The entire network allows P2P activity, too, so you can torrent without any issues.

2. CyberGhost — Excellent Speeds to Stream and Torrent Without Slowdowns on Ubuntu

Available on:

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www.cyberghostvpn.com

The fast and reliable speeds of CyberGhost allow you to stream, torrent, and play games uninterrupted. With its WireGuard protocol, servers in Canada, France, the US, and Ukraine hovered at 116.6Mbps (just 4.1% below my base connection of 121.6Mbps). Ultra HD streaming requires 25 Mbps, so my connection was fast enough to watch Money Heist on my local Netflix library in the highest quality.

Even from over 9,000 km away, WireGuard consistently delivered high speeds

The CLI app for Ubuntu includes servers optimized for streaming sites like Hulu, so you can reliably and securely stream without running into issues. There are also dedicated servers for torrenting. Simply type in cyberghostvpn --torrent --country-code to access the P2P servers and cyberghostvpn --streaming --country-code for streaming. When testing CyberGhost while visiting Paris, I watched TF1 with the streaming-optimized server in France.

Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost has strong security features to protect your online privacy. AES 256-bit encryption safeguards your data from prying eyes, while its kill switch and DNS/IPv6 leak protection prevent accidental data exposure. Alongside WireGuard, it offers other leading security protocols, including OpenVPN. Although WireGuard is faster, I recommend using OpenVPN for gold-standard security.

On the downside, the VPN's monthly plans only offer a 14-day money-back guarantee. However, you can use CyberGhost free for 45 days with its long-term options that cost only $2.03/month. I requested my refund via its 24/7 live chat.After answering a few questions about my experience, the agent canceled my subscriptions and issued a refund. My money was in my bank account after 4 days.

Useful Features

• NoSpy servers. You can upgrade to these independently-operated servers that provide extra protection. They are housed within CyberGhost's secure headquarters, minimizing the risk of any third-party interference.
• Multiple simultaneous connections. You can torrent, stream or browse on up to 7 devices at the same time, and only pay for one CyberGhost account.
• Content Blocker. Blocks pop-up ads that can direct you to potentially harmful websites. It also protects you against trackers and malware often distributed by ad networks.
• Extensive knowledge base. On its website, you'll find detailed, step-by-step guides on installing and using the VPN on Ubuntu and other Linux-based operating systems.
• Strong privacy policy. An audited no-logs policy means the VPN won't collect or share your data. It's also based in Romania, outside the intelligence-sharing agreements of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — GUI for Linux to Easily Install and Use the VPN on Ubuntu

Available on:

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Try Private Internet Access >

www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

PIA’s intuitive GUI for Linux makes using it on Ubuntu straightforward. You don’t have to deal with the command line configuration to manage your VPN connection on Ubuntu. It offers features that closely match those available in the Windows and Mac apps. I quickly found a server close to me using the search bar in my tests.

You can “favorite” your most used servers by clicking the heart icon next to them

You can also customize security features to suit you. When banking online, I prefer a higher level of encryption (AES 256-bit) combined with the highly secure OpenVPN. However, I recommend switching to the lightweight WireGuard protocol for the best speeds. AES 128-bit is also an option when using OpenVPN.

It has an adjustable kill switch and DNS/IP/WebRTC leak protection. I found no leaks during my tests. Plus, its DNS-based adblocker (MACE) stops malware domains and trackers. Since it uses obfuscation to hide your VPN traffic, you can also use PIA on restricted networks (like work and school) or when visiting countries with strict censorship, like China.

A slight issue is that the VPN is located in the US, with strict data-sharing laws. However, with a proven no-logs policy, it keeps your sensitive data from prying eyes and uses RAM-based servers. A hassle-free 30-day money-back guarantee means you can try PIA with Ubuntu without risk. I canceled my subscription via the 24/7 live chat and got my PayPal wallet refunded within 5 days.

Useful Features

• Unlimited device connections. With PIA, you can protect your activity on Ubuntu while others in your household simultaneously use the VPN to torrent, stream, or game.
• Fast speed. Using WireGuard, I averaged 112.2Mbps on its Canada and Ukraine servers against a baseline of 123.7Mbps. This was only a 9.3% loss and fast enough for torrenting without delays — its whole network is P2P-friendly.
• Port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxy. You can turn these two features on to receive a speed boost when torrenting on Ubuntu. However, you won't be protected by encryption.
• Split tunneling. This feature lets you choose which traffic goes through the VPN. This means you can browse with your normal IP address while your torrenting traffic is secured with the VPN, for example.

4. NordVPN — Global Network to Access Your Favorite Sites on Ubuntu From Anywhere

Available on:

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Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN’s huge server network spans 111 countries, making it easy to change your virtual location and access geoblocked sites with the CLI client. While testing NordVPN, our UK tester connected to servers across the UK and instantly accessed his Halifax bank account without triggering any security alerts. Plus, its Quick Connect feature automatically finds the best server for your location.

24/7 support is available if you need help with the commands

Like ExpressVPN, it safeguards your connection from monitoring with AES 256-bit encryption, Perfect Forward Secrecy, DNS/IP leak protection, and a kill switch. Plus, you can maximize your online safety by enabling Double VPN. This feature adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your traffic twice, but it slows your connection down significantly.

I was concerned that NordVPN’s privacy policy demonstrates a readiness to adhere to government demands for user data. However, this is mitigated because it operates RAM-only servers, does not record your activity, and is headquartered in privacy-friendly Panama. This means NordVPN won't store or share your personal information with anyone.

There's also a 30-day guarantee, so getting a refund is painless if you’re not 100% happy with the VPN. I canceled by emailing support and got confirmation after 2 hours. You can also use its 24/7 live chat. My card was credited with the total amount within that same week.

Useful Features

• P2P support. You can use its torrenting servers to share large files without interruptions. Simply enter “nordvpn connect P2P” on the Ubuntu VPN client to connect to a P2P server.
• Speed. When our American tester connected t the US servers while in New York, he recorded a 15.5% reduction from his base connection speed of 126.2Mbps. He could stream in UHD on Hulu, Binge, and HBO Max with these results.
• Auto Connect. Once enabled, NordVPN will establish a VPN tunnel when you connect to a network, including mobile networks, WiFi, or Ethernet. This means you don’t have to worry about remembering to switch the VPN on every time.
• Obfuscated servers. They offer a reliable way of avoiding Firewall and network bans, granting you access to websites and content that may otherwise be restricted.

5. Surshark — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Protect Your PC and All Other Devices

Available on:

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Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Great for large households, as you can protect all devices with one Surfshark subscription. My connection remained stable even when connecting multiple devices at once. I tested Surfshark by streaming my local Netflix library on my Ubuntu PC, various smartphones, and tablets simultaneously. I averaged 100Mbps — only a 19.7% drop from my non-VPN speed of 124.6Mbps — fast enough for HD streaming.

With Surfshark, I could stream local content on many devices without delays

Similar to PIA, Surfshark also offers a Linux GUI, removing the necessity of typing any commands into the terminal. The application offers features nearly identical to what is available on the Mac and Windows versions. However, the initial setup does necessitate the use of the terminal. Thankfully, Surfshark makes this process easier by supplying the required command.

A minor downside is that the Camouflage mode, designed to disguise your VPN traffic as regular browsing, is confined to OpenVPN (UDP or TCP). Nevertheless, this doesn't pose a significant issue, as the speed-focused WireGuard protocol is compatible with advanced functions in Ubuntu, such as MultiHop, which adds a double layer of encryption to your data.

A 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test all of Surfshark's features risk-free. I canceled my subscription via the 24/7 live chat. The refund took about a week to hit my bank account.

Useful Features

• MultiHop. This feature allows you to route traffic through 2 servers instead of one. This adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your data twice.
• Strong security and privacy features. AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS/WebRTC leak protection are in place to keep your activity private.

Quick Comparison Table: Ubuntu VPN Features

The table below shows a quick side-by-side comparison to help you decide which VPN is best for you. I paid specific attention to Linux app type, security, and speed.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Linux Ubuntu

I ensured that each VPN I carefully selected satisfies my rigorous standards to qualify as the best VPNs for Ubuntu. You can employ the checklist below to identify the one that most closely aligns with your requirements:

• Linux app. The easiest way setup and use a VPN on this operating system is to get one with a native Linux app.
• Easy to use. Protect your PC right away by choosing a VPN with an intuitive command line or GUI-based interface. The ability to use the service simultaneously on multiple devices is also a great advantage to your online security.
• Robust security features. Keep your online identity and activity private while using Ubuntu by choosing a VPN that comes with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a no-logs policy.
• Fast speed. Stream and torrent without delays when choosing a VPN that doesn’t drop your speeds by more than 20% on nearby servers. The best Ubuntu VPN makes the speed drop unnoticeable.
• Global network. Plenty of server locations worldwide mean you can always find one near you for the best connection. It also allows you to easily access geoblocked websites from across the world. Additionally, choosing a provider that supports P2P activity on its servers can greatly enhance your torrenting speed.
• Reliable money-back guarantee. Choose a provider with a trustworthy refund policy, so you can easily get your money back if you're unsatisfied. At minimum, look for 30 days.

FAQs on VPNs for Ubuntu

How do I choose the best VPN for Ubuntu?

Prioritize selecting a VPN that offers a dedicated client for Ubuntu and provides a user-friendly or comprehensive command-line interface, like ExpressVPN. To enhance your online privacy, look for a provider that offers robust encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection and follows a no-logs policy. Also, ensure speed and performance are sufficient for your needs, with a good network of servers worldwide.

How do I install a VPN on Ubuntu?

The easiest way is to choose a VPN that offers a native app for Ubuntu. Some will allow you to configure and use the VPN with the command line, while others offer a graphical user interface. That way, you can install your Ubuntu VPN in a couple of steps.

You can also connect to a VPN using the Network Manager in Ubuntu, which supports protocols like OpenVPN. It provides an excellent GUI to configure your network settings and manage your VPN connections. VPN clients for Ubuntu, like AnyConnect and OpenConnect can also assist with manual installation. The exact configuration steps can vary slightly depending on your preferred client, VPN provider, and protocol you choose to use.

Will using a VPN on Ubuntu slow down my internet speed?

Using a VPN on Ubuntu will always impact your speed to some extent due to factors such as encryption and routing of internet traffic through a private server network. However, the best VPNs for Ubuntu make the speed reduction unnoticeable — you won’t even know you’re using a VPN. To maintain a seamless online experience on Ubuntu, I recommend you choose a server close to your location.

Are Ubuntu VPNs legal?

Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN with Ubuntu, but the legality of VPNs can vary depending on your country. So it's crucial to check your local rules and regulations to avoid accidentally breaking them. But using them is legal in most countries, including the US, the UK, and Australia since VPNs are legitimate tools designed to protect your privacy online, prevent unauthorized access to your data, and enable you to access the internet freely.

Which VPN for Ubuntu is the cheapest?

The cheapest option may vary depending on the provider's available discounts and deals. Most top VPNs have a trustworthy money-back guarantee so that you can test them risk-free. Currently, PIA is the most affordable at $6.67/month and can be used on unlimited devices with one subscription.

Can I use a free VPN with Ubuntu?

I don't recommend using a free VPN as most of them are risky. These services often lack important security and privacy features, forcing you to upgrade to unlock their full potential. On top of that, free services have limited servers, slow speeds, and cap bandwidth, making them unsuitable for streaming, gaming, or torrenting. It’s better to use a low-cost premium VPN that takes your online privacy seriously.

Some free VPNs may even sell your data to third parties and ad networks to make money. Worse, others are laden with malware and trackers that can expose you to hackers and snoops. They also don’t offer custom apps for Ubuntu and rarely provide any support. So you’re always left to fend for yourself if you run into any problems.

Get the Best VPN for Ubuntu

There are a few high-quality VPNs that are compatible with Linux-based systems. The ones on my list are easy to use with Ubuntu (with a command line or GUI-based interface), have robust security features and won’t compromise speed.

My top recommendation for Ubuntu is ExpressVPN. Its custom CLI client for Linux makes it straightforward to use on Ubuntu to protect your online privacy. Plus, its impressive speeds are ideal for uninterrupted streaming, torrenting, and gaming. There's also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Ubuntu...

Rank

Provider

Our Score

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1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 49%!

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2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

Save 84%!

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3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 83%!

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4

9.4 /10

9.4 Our Score

Save 69%!

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5

9.3 /10

9.3 Our Score

Save 85%!

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