5 Best Free India VPNs for Speed and Security in 2024

Finding a reliable free VPN for India isn’t easy. Many free VPNs come with a host of limitations, like slow speeds, weak security, and small server networks. Some log your online activity or bombard you with invasive ads, compromising the very privacy you're seeking to protect. And with India's increasingly strict data retention laws driving many VPNs to exit the country, the pool of trustworthy options has only shrunk further.

My team and I tested 40+ services to find the best free VPNs for India. All these VPNs will keep you safe and won't collect or share your personal information. But all truly free VPNs have restrictions, like small server networks, lack of Indian IP addresses, and limited data. If you don’t want any restrictions, consider using a premium VPN.

My top recommended India VPN is ExpressVPN. It has strong security features and a strict no-logs policy to keep your online activity private. Plus, it has a reliable server network (including virtual Indian servers) that can safely access streaming sites like Hotstar and Netflix in HD. While it’s not 100% free, it does offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without financial risk. Editors' Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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

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

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Virtual Indian Servers for Lag-Free Streaming From Anywhere

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Tested July 2024

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www.expressvpn.com

If you're looking for a VPN that won't slow you down, ExpressVPN is hard to beat. During my tests from India, it outperformed every other VPN (free and paid) that I tested. On its nearby India servers, I experienced a barely noticeable 4% drop in speed. This means you can stream your favorite shows in high definition without any annoying lag or buffering interruptions.

ExpressVPN can easily access the most popular streaming sites from anywhere in HD quality, something that most free VPNs struggle with. When I connected to its India (via UK) server from Delhi, I had no trouble streaming Hotstar, SonyLiv, Zee5, Alt Balaji, and Netflix India. The connection remained stable as I streamed the IPL on JioCinema, with no sudden drops or slowdowns.

I watched Hotstar in full HD using ExpressVPN's virtual Indian server

On the privacy front, ExpressVPN goes above and beyond. Instead of physical servers, it offers virtual Indian IP addresses hosted in secure offshore locations. This keeps your data safe and out of reach of India's invasive data retention laws. Plus, it has a strict no-logs policy that's undergone third-party audits multiple times by firms like Cure53 and KPMG, which is something that free VPNs can't afford.

The only downside is that ExpressVPN isn't free. However, you can get a few months free when you sign up for an annual plan. Plus, every subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try ExpressVPN risk-free and get a full refund if you're not satisfied. I tested this myself and had the money back in my account within 2 days of requesting a refund via 24/7 live chat.

Useful Features

• Lightway protocol. This is ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol optimized to provide fast and stable connections without compromising security. It’s lightweight and consumes less battery, so it’s ideal for mobile devices. My ping was below 20ms when playing BGMI on its virtual Indian server.
• TrustedServer technology. ExpressVPN uses RAM-only servers that automatically erase all user data after every reboot, ensuring your online activity is private. Plus, it’s based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, so it’s not obligated to hand over user data even if the Indian government requests it.
• Strong security. ExpressVPN offers AES 256-bit encryption, the same military-grade encryption used by banks and governments. It also uses Perfect Forward Secrecy, a feature that generates a unique encryption key for each session. This means that even if a hacker manages to compromise one session key, they can't use it to decrypt past or future sessions.

2. Proton VPN — Unlimited Data for an Uninterrupted Online Experience in India

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protonvpn.com

Proton VPN’s free plan offers unlimited data and bandwidth, which is impressive for a free VPN. This means you can endlessly scroll through Instagram reels, binge-watch content, or download large files without worrying about hitting a cap. It's also handy if your ISP throttles your bandwidth for certain online activities. During my tests in India, I used Proton VPN to safely stream YouTube videos for hours without interruptions.

Even with unlimited data, I never experienced bandwidth throttling

The free version of Proton VPN offers servers in 6 locations: the Netherlands, Japan, Romania, Poland, and 2 in the US. However, you can't manually select a location; the app automatically connects you to the fastest available server based on your location. Our tester in the US got connected to its free US server — they reported that they could stream Disney+, Max, and Netflix US.

Despite being free, Proton VPN doesn't compromise on security. It offers robust features like military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. These work together to ensure your data remains private when you visit your favorite sites, such as news portals, dating apps, or social media services.

One limitation of Proton VPN's free plan is that it lacks Indian IP addresses, so it can’t access Indian content. Plus, the free version doesn't support P2P traffic, so torrenting is off the table. The only way to eliminate these restrictions is by upgrading to one of Proton VPN's paid plans.

Useful Features

• Split tunneling. You can exclude certain apps from using the VPN connection, which improves speed since not all traffic will be encrypted.
• No ads. The free plan is funded by Proton VPN’s paying users, so you won’t be served any ads in the app. That means you can be sure your data won’t be sold to third-party advertisers for a profit.
• VPN Accelerator. With this feature, you can boost your speeds in India instantly with just a click. My speeds were 10% faster when the VPN Accelerator was enabled.

3. hide.me — Customizable Security to Optimize Your Connection in India

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www.hide.me

With hide.me, you can adjust your VPN settings to have more control over your connection in India. For example, you can choose between 5 VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. You also have the option to switch between IPv4 and IPv6 connections. In my tests, IPv6 was around 5% faster and delivered a slightly lower ping.

You get strong security features to protect you from online tracking and surveillance in India. Like any good free VPN, hide.me offers military-grade encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. I was impressed that it passed every leak test I ran using an online tool — not many free VPNs can do the same.

I tested 4 different servers for leaks and never found any

The free version offers servers in 8 locations spread across Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the UK, and the US. Our tests showed that its US servers work well with Disney+, Funimation, and Crunchyroll. However, like other free VPNs, it doesn’t have any Indian servers.

One thing to keep in mind is that the free servers can get overcrowded, which can lead to some slowdowns. For example, when I connected to the free Netherlands server, my speed dropped by a whopping 58%. If your base internet speed is fast, though, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

Useful Features

• Privacy-focused. The VPN is based in privacy-friendly Malaysia and has a strict no-logs policy, which has been verified by third-party audits. So, you can rest assured that hide.me doesn’t store identifiable data.
• Supports torrenting. Unlike Proton VPN, all of hide.me’s free servers are P2P-friendly. You can also use its Stealth Guard feature to stop your torrenting client from connecting to the internet unless hide.me is turned on. This is ideal for downloading files while you’re in India.

4. Hotspot Shield — Hydra Protocol for Speedy and Stable Connections

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www.hotspotshield.com

Hotspot Shield is a solid free option if you want speedy connections. Its proprietary Hydra protocol is designed to deliver fast connections, even on its long-distance servers. During my tests, I connected to its free US server, which is located over 5,000 miles away from India. Despite the distance, I only experienced a 32% speed drop.

It offers strong security features to keep your data safe. Military-grade encryption and leak protection safeguard your information, while the Auto-protect feature automatically secures your connection on public WiFi networks. This means you can safely use social media platforms (like Facebook and Instagram) on unsecured networks, whether you’re in India or abroad.

You'll find this option under Advanced settings

The free plan offers access to 5 server locations, which I found pretty reliable. Connecting to a server took no more than 3 seconds in my tests. Additionally, when I connected to a nearby Singapore server for gaming, I had a ping of 35ms. This allowed me to play games without any noticeable lag.

Just like Proton VPN and hide.me, Hotspot Shield now offers unlimited data, a significant upgrade from its previous 500MB daily limit. However, unlike some other “freemium” VPNs, Hotspot Shield’s free plan is ad-supported — so it collects some non-identifiable data.

Useful Features

• No signup needed for mobile devices. Hotspot Shield is super easy to set up and use on mobile devices — you don’t even need to create an account. Simply install the app, click Proceed with Basic, and you’re all set.
• Built-in speed test tool. This lets you check your download and upload speeds for the server you're connected to without leaving the app.

5. Speedify — Free India VPN With a Large Server Network for Reliable Connections

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www.speedify.com

Speedify has the largest server network of any free India VPN I tested. You get access to servers in 35 countries. With so many servers spread across the globe, you can always find a fast, nearby connection, no matter where you are. During my tests from India, I didn't run into overcrowded servers, even on the free plan.

The server network is pretty reliable too — I didn't experience connection drops

When it came to speed, Speedify didn’t disappoint. My speed only dropped by 17% while I was connected to nearby servers, which is better than what I got with most other free VPNs. It lets you choose between three bonding modes: Speed, Redundant, and Enhanced Streaming. I found that Speedify’s Speed mode lived up to its name, giving me a boost in performance.

You only get 2GB of data with Speedify’s free plan. If you're planning on streaming a lot of HD content, you will burn through that pretty quickly. But the good news is that Speedify doesn't make you sign up to use the free version. So, you can install it on all your devices, and each one will get its own 2GB allowance.

Just like the other free VPNs on this list, Speedify doesn't offer servers with Indian IP addresses, but it’s still a great choice for online security.

Useful Features

• Strong encryption. Speedify uses AES-256-GCM encryption to keep your data safe and secure. However, the free version doesn't include a kill switch. This means that if your VPN connection drops for any reason, your data could be exposed until the VPN reconnects.

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

Quick Comparison Table: Free India VPN Features

The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of the key features offered by the best free India VPNs. I've included information about their free trials or money-back guarantees, so you can test them out without risk. Plus, you’ll find details on their speeds, monthly data allowances, and the number of simultaneous connections permitted.

I've also indicated which VPNs offer Indian IP addresses. This way, you won’t lose access to Indian content while securing your connections from within the country. Lastly, I've included information on whether registration is required to use each free VPN service.

Tips on Choosing the Best Free VPNs for India

When searching for the best free VPN for India, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you're getting a safe and reliable service. With many free VPNs available, not all of them meet the necessary criteria. I tested various VPNs based on the following features and ranked them accordingly:

• No commitments. A free India VPN shouldn’t require you to commit to a subscription. The VPNs on this list are either completely free or offer a trustworthy money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free.
• Works in India. Due to India's more recently introduced data collection regulations, many VPNs have discontinued their services in the country. As of writing this article, all the VPNs mentioned here are still operational in India.
• Fast speeds and sufficient data. When choosing a free VPN for India, look for one with fast connection speeds. For smooth browsing and streaming, it should ideally have a speed loss of less than 40% on nearby servers. Plus, the VPN should provide enough data for your needs. All VPNs on this list offer sufficient data for at least a few hours of streaming.
• Decent server network. A good free VPN should have a wide range of servers so you can find speedy and reliable connections. The recommended free India VPNs all offer at least a few server locations.
• Strong security and privacy features. Look for features that will protect your data, like military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Some VPNs even block known malicious sites designed to compromise your device or steal sensitive info, so malware protection is a bonus. I've selected VPNs that offer crucial security features and adhere to strict no-logs policies to ensure your online activities remain private.
• Servers in India. If you want to securely stream Indian content from within the country, look for a VPN that offers Indian IP addresses. I couldn't find a 100% free VPN that provides Indian IP servers, but the #1 VPN on this list does.

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

Free VPNs often come with severe limitations like slow speeds, weak security, and small server networks. However, the most concerning aspect of many free VPNs is the potential risks they pose to your privacy and safety. Rest assured, the free India VPNs recommended in this list have undergone rigorous testing to ensure safety and reliability.

When considering a free VPN, be aware of the following potential risks:

• Data selling. Free VPNs need to generate revenue somehow, and some resort to selling user data to third parties. Before installing any free VPN, carefully review its privacy policy to understand how your data will be handled and protected.
• Weak security measures. Many free VPNs lack essential security features such as military-grade encryption, automatic kill switches, and DNS/IP leak protection. This can put your online privacy at risk. Ensure your chosen VPN offers robust security measures to keep your online activities private.
• Malware and virus risks. Some free VPNs have been found to contain malware or viruses embedded within their apps. This can put your devices and personal information at risk. Always download VPNs from trusted sources and stick with reputable providers.

Free India VPNs to Avoid

During my testing, I discovered several VPNs marketed that pose significant risks to users' privacy and security. It is strongly recommended to avoid the following VPNs:

1. Hola Free VPN. Hola's free VPN service uses a peer-to-peer model, turning its users' devices into endpoints. This allows other users to route their traffic through your device, effectively using your IP address. If someone engages in illegal activities while using your IP, you could face serious consequences.
2. BetternetVPN. This VPN fails to block IPv6 traffic, which can lead to data leaks. Additionally, its privacy policy is ambiguous, stating that it may use your information to prevent fraud without providing clear details. In 2016, BetternetVPN's Android app was found to contain malware.
3. Psiphon. Psiphon maintains an alarming amount of identifiable logs, including browsing history, region identifiers, and connection timestamps. Even more concerning, the VPN shares this data with third-party advertisers, putting your privacy at risk.
4. TouchVPN. TouchVPN logs user data to target individuals with advertisements. This practice undermines the fundamental purpose of a VPN, which is to protect your privacy and keep your online activities anonymous.

Popular Free VPNs That Don’t Work in India

As stated above, the Indian government's recent introduction of strict data storage regulations has forced several popular VPN providers to discontinue their services in the country. These new rules require VPNs to store and share user data with authorities upon request, which goes against the core principles of privacy and anonymity that many VPNs strive to uphold.

The Indian government implemented these regulations in an effort to combat cybercrime and enhance national security. However, critics argue that the move could lead to increased surveillance and potential misuse of user data. VPN providers that fail to comply with these regulations may face legal consequences and could be banned from operating in India.

Here are some popular VPNs that decided to pull their operations from the country as a result of these developments:

1. Avira Phantom VPN. This popular free VPN service shut down its servers in India, stating that complying with the data storage requirements would compromise its commitment to user privacy. To top it off, Avira also mentioned that users won't be able to connect to the VPN at all if they're physically in India.
2. TunnelBear. This is another popular provider that shut down its servers in the country and stopped serving customers in India altogether.

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

FAQs on Free VPNs for India

Can I watch Netflix India and Hotstar with a free VPN?

I didn't find any free VPNs that offer servers with Indian IP addresses — without this, a VPN won’t be able to work with platforms like Netflix India and Hotstar. However, the #1 VPN on our list does offer virtual Indian servers. It’s also super reliable and can securely access popular global and Indian platforms from anywhere while providing HD-friendly speeds.

While it's not free, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can test it out risk-free and see if it meets your streaming needs. If you're not satisfied, you can easily request a full refund within the guarantee period.

Is there a free VPN with Indian servers?

Unfortunately, I have not found any safe free VPNs with Indian IP servers. The 100% free VPNs in this list are safe to use but don’t offer Indian IP addresses. Your best option is to use a low-cost premium VPN with Indian virtual servers that offers a free trial or money-back guarantee. That way, you can use the VPN without any financial risk.

Can I use a free VPN for PUBG and BGMI?

Yes, but I wouldn't recommend it. It's better to opt for a low-cost premium VPN that offers a money-back guarantee.

None of the free VPNs I tested provide Indian IP address servers. This means that while you can use them to play PUBG, you won't be able to use them to play BGMI.

Plus, free VPNs usually have a limited server network. That makes it difficult to find a server close to your location, resulting in higher ping times and potential lag during gameplay. With a premium VPN, you'll have access to a larger server network, increasing your chances of finding a nearby server for a smoother gaming experience.

Why do I need a VPN for India?

There are several compelling reasons to use a VPN in India, especially given the country's increasingly strict data surveillance laws. A VPN not only lets you stream your favorite content in HD and bypass ISP throttling but also adds a layer of privacy when you browse the web. Let’s look at some of the major benefits:

1. Protection from data surveillance. A reliable India VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your online activities from prying eyes, including the government.
2. Secure online transactions. When using financial apps, online banking, or crypto exchanges, a VPN adds an extra layer of security, safeguarding your sensitive information from hackers, cybercriminals, and other third parties.
3. Guarding against data theft. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for hackers to steal your personal information, especially when using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.
4. Privacy protection from sites that collect data. Many sites gather user data without explicit consent. A VPN can prevent these apps from tracking your online activities and collecting your personal information.

Is using a VPN legal in India?

Yes, but it’s a bit complicated. At the time of writing, there are no laws that ban VPN use in India, so using a VPN is legal. However, the legal landscape surrounding this could change since the government implemented laws requiring VPN services to store users’ personal data. So, I recommend double-checking the most recent laws, just to be safe.

In addition, you may get into trouble if you’re using a VPN to perform illegal activities, like downloading copyrighted content. I don’t condone using a VPN for illegal activities, so make sure to check the most up-to-date local laws to ensure you’re not breaking any rules.

Can I use Indian channels and sites while using a free VPN?

Yes, but it’s not as straightforward. If you're trying to watch Indian channels and the content on the site is not geo-restricted, then you can use any server location offered by your free VPN. However, if the content is region-locked to India, the VPN must have Indian IP address servers. Unfortunately, none of the 100% free VPNs I’ve tested currently offer that option.

That said, the #1 VPN on this list does offer virtual Indian IP servers, meaning it can access Indian content from anywhere in HD. The only problem is that it’s not entirely free, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee that lets you test it for streaming without financial risk.

Is it worth getting a free VPN Chrome extension for India?

It’s complicated. A free VPN Chrome extension is helpful if you just want to mask your IP and add a level of protection against hackers and online trackers. However, the VPN extensions are usually just proxies and do not offer the same level of encryption as the VPNs listed in this article. Plus, they offer limited servers and do not secure your traffic outside Chrome.

For maximum protection, it’s better to use a full VPN app instead. That way, you get faster speeds, more servers, advanced security features, and full device protection.

Get the Best FREE VPN for India

Free VPNs often don’t have servers with an Indian IP address, so they can’t securely access Indian content and sites. Plus, they can be dangerous and lack important security features, failing to keep you safe. You’re better off using a premium VPN with robust encryption, a no-logs policy, and reliable Indian virtual servers.

All the free VPNs in this list are safe to use. However, ExpressVPN is my favorite for India because it has virtual Indian servers and strong security to keep you safe online. While it’s not 100% free, it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try ExpressVPN risk-free and get a full refund if you don’t like it.

Can’t find a suitable free VPN? Here are the best premium alternatives…

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