3 Best Free VPNs for Linux in 2025 — Ubuntu & Other Distros

Most free VPNs treat Linux as an afterthought, offering poorly maintained packages or no dedicated support for Ubuntu. They also limit your data usage, restrict server access, or worse, log your online activities and sell the data to advertisers.

After we tested 45 VPNs, I identified the most secure free options available. These VPNs provide proper Linux integration through official repositories or well-maintained packages. However, they still have restrictions, such as limited protocol selection and fewer server locations. If you need a VPN without limitations, consider a premium service.

Quick Comparison Table: Free VPNs for Ubuntu

Here's a detailed comparison of the best free VPNs for Ubuntu, highlighting key features that matter most for Linux devices. I've included information about terminal support, GUI interfaces, and server locations to help you choose the right VPN for your needs. All these VPNs are safe, privacy-friendly, and they’re some of the fastest VPNs around (with their premium apps).

Most Affordable Premium VPN

Our Score: 9.3

Our free VPN recommendations are based on services we have personally used and trust. Still, even the best free VPNs have drawbacks such as reduced speeds, limited servers, and strict data allowances. If you prefer a smoother and more secure online experience, Surfshark is an affordable option worth considering. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, with pricing starting from $1.99/month for long-term options. It also works reliably for web browsing, streaming content, torrenting, and gaming, all without imposing data limits. You can also use it on unlimited devices at once.

Our Score: 9.3

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Best Free VPNs for Linux — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. Proton VPN — Free VPN With an Easy-to-Setup GUI

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested August 2025

Available on:

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Try Proton VPN >

protonvpn.com

Proton VPN offers a full-featured native GUI client for Ubuntu through its official.deb package. During our tests, installing it was as simple as downloading the package and running “sudo apt install./protonvpn.deb”. The interface integrates perfectly with Ubuntu's desktop environment. I could connect to VPN servers directly from the system tray, just like using any other native application.

You can right-click the top of the app to resize

Proton VPN also supports the WireGuard protocol, which is known for delivering faster speeds and better performance compared to older protocols like OpenVPN. WireGuard uses modern cryptography, which not only boosts efficiency but also enhances security. This is especially important for Linux users who prioritize privacy without sacrificing connection quality.

The free version provides access to servers located in the Netherlands, Japan, Romania, Poland, and the US. When we selected a server, the app automatically chose the WireGuard protocol for optimal performance, and we opted for a nearby location in the US for faster speeds. During our tests, these high speeds enabled us to stream YouTube videos smoothly with extremely short load times.

One concern is that its sister company, Proton Mail, has cooperated with the Swiss Authorities in the past, sharing personal customer data with them. However, Proton VPN has never been involved in a controversy like this, and its Linux app is fully open-source, which is rare even among paid VPNs. You can verify the code yourself on GitHub, and independent security audits have confirmed there are no backdoors.

Useful Features

• Unlimited Data. Even with a free account, you can use as much data as you want. Some free VPNs offer as little as 500MB per month, making this a significant perk and one of the best free options for safe streaming.
• NetShield Adblocker. Very few Linux VPNs offer blockers for ads, malware, and malicious websites. Even though Linux is considered one of the safest operating systems, you’ll still want protection from hackers who try to trick you into sharing your data. This is a premium feature, but it’s available for its Ubuntu apps.
• Split tunneling. Route specific applications through the VPN, while others use your regular connection for better speed control. I also love using this to quickly check my bank account without getting flagged.

2. PrivadoVPN — Reliable Performance for Your Linux Activities

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try PrivadoVPN >

https://privadovpn.com/

PrivadoVPN offers the same speeds on its free plan as you get with the premium version, which is rare among free VPNs. In our tests, we began with a baseline speed of 219.70Mbps and saw only a 29% drop when connected to a nearby US server. If your regular speeds are good, that’s excellent for smooth HD streaming, quick downloads, and browsing without added buffering or lag.

Faraway servers had slower speeds

Your data is protected with robust security features. It uses AES-256 encryption and includes a reliable kill switch, so your real location stays protected even if the connection drops. Plus, my leak tests on Ubuntu showed no DNS or IP leaks.

One limitation is that there’s no official Linux GUI app, so you'll need to configure connections manually in your Linux terminal or network manager. Also, the free plan only provides 10GB of data per month. However, PrivadoVPN supports any Linux distribution that can run OpenVPN or WireGuard via manual configuration.

Useful Features

• Multiple protocol support. You can choose from OpenVPN (TCP/UDP) or WireGuard, depending on whether you want maximum speed or stronger security. All are supported on Linux and can be configured through the CLI.
• P2P Support. Privado lets you torrent and share files safely on Linux without speed caps or ISP throttling. All your P2P traffic is encrypted, so your activity stays private from start to finish.

3. hide.me — Best Terminal-Based Free Option for Ubuntu With Easy CLI Setup

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try hide.me VPN >

www.hide.me

hide.me offers complete terminal integration for Ubuntu users who prefer working from the command line. During my tests, I found its CLI tools particularly useful for headless Ubuntu server setups. The VPN clearly lists the terminal commands on its site, making it easy to configure. It offers more intuitive commands than Proton VPN, but Proton obviously has GUIs to counter this.

The free version allows you to access servers in 8 locations via its terminal interface. While testing from our Ubuntu 22.04 system, we could easily switch between servers using the command: “hide.me connect ”. You simply enter the special code for each location, enclosed in brackets, to specify your chosen location.

The Linux CLI is open-source, so it's constantly tested for vulnerabilities

One drawback is that hide.me's free plan limits you to a single connection at a time. However, you can work around this by setting up the VPN on your Ubuntu router — this protects all devices on your network while only counting as one connection.

Useful Features

• Kill switch. This crucial security feature is often overlooked in Linux apps, so it’s great to see it implemented here. It'll block your internet connection if the VPN disconnects for any reason, ensuring you always stay protected.
• Multiple protocols. You can connect to every protocol hide.me offers with its free Linux app. The best options for Ubuntu are WireGuard and OpenVPN, with WireGuard being the faster option and OpenVPN being the safer protocol available.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Ubuntu

We primarily focused on testing each VPN's compatibility with various Ubuntu versions, ranging from 20.04 to 24.04 LTS. Our team evaluated both GUI and terminal-based installation methods to accommodate different user preferences. We also assessed repository integration and package manager compatibility to ensure smooth updates.

Security was another crucial factor, so we tested encryption protocols, DNS leak protection, and kill switch functionality specifically within the Ubuntu environment. Since many free VPNs have limitations, we carefully documented data caps, speed restrictions, and server availability to help you make an informed choice.

Expert Tip: Why Most Free VPNs Aren't Safe for Ubuntu

Free VPNs can pose significant risks to the security and privacy of your Ubuntu system. While the options I've listed here have proven safe in my testing, many free VPNs available for Linux systems come with serious security concerns. This is particularly important for Ubuntu users, as compromised VPNs can interfere with system-level security features. Generally, the best free VPNs offer premium options that enable them to generate revenue legitimately, so look for those first.

Common risks I've identified with unsafe free VPNs on Ubuntu include:

• Malicious package dependencies. Some free VPNs bundle harmful dependencies that can compromise your system. For example, Hola VPN's Linux implementation was found to include packages that could grant unauthorized root access.
• Network manager exploitation. Many unreliable free VPNs improperly configure Ubuntu's NetworkManager, which can potentially expose your DNS queries and traffic. I've seen services like Betternet fail to handle IPv6 leaks on Ubuntu systems properly.
• Data logging and selling. Free VPNs often monetize by collecting and selling user data. On Ubuntu, this can be especially dangerous as these VPNs may access system-level information beyond just browsing data.

The free VPNs I've recommended adhere to proper Linux development practices, utilizing open-source components that you can audit and verify. They integrate correctly with Ubuntu's security architecture and utilize standard package management systems, unlike many questionable alternatives that could compromise your system's security.

It’s also a good idea to check out the best premium VPNs for Linux, as they often offer money-back guarantees that allow you to test them risk-free.

FAQs on Free VPNs for Ubuntu

Can I use a VPN through Ubuntu's terminal?

Yes, you can use VPNs directly through Ubuntu's terminal for enhanced control and automation. The best VPNs for Linux offer CLI options alongside their GUI apps. The terminal setup provides more granular control over your connection, allowing you to create custom scripts for automated VPN management. A good choice for terminal users is hide.me, as it offers excellent documentation and a simple command syntax.

However, terminal setup requires basic command line knowledge and manual configuration of OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols. You'll need to be comfortable working with config files and network settings.

Does Ubuntu 24.04 have built-in VPN support?

Ubuntu 24.04 includes basic VPN functionality through NetworkManager, but it's limited. While you can configure OpenVPN and WireGuard connections manually, you won't have access to advanced features such as kill switches or split tunneling. The built-in options are functional, but they can be cumbersome to set up compared to dedicated VPN apps. A dedicated VPN service offers additional security features not available in the built-in option.

Which free VPNs work with Ubuntu server?

Proton VPN, PrivdoVPN, and hide.me offer reliable server implementations for Ubuntu. These VPNs support headless installation and can be managed entirely through the command line. During testing, hide.me performed exceptionally well in server environments due to its lightweight design and excellent documentation.

However, free server implementations have limitations. You'll get restricted bandwidth and fewer server locations compared to premium options. For production servers, consider a paid VPN with dedicated IP addresses for enhanced security and reliability.

How do I set up OpenVPN on Ubuntu?

The easiest way to use OpenVPN on Ubuntu is through your VPN provider's native app. Most VPNs on this list automatically handle OpenVPN setup. However, if you prefer manual configuration, install OpenVPN and your provider's config files. Proton VPN's OpenVPN setup process is exceptionally straightforward on Ubuntu.

Are free VPNs safe for Ubuntu?

Free VPNs from established providers can be safe on Ubuntu. Freemium VPNs, such as Proton VPN, maintain high security standards even on their free plans. They use the same encryption and privacy protections as their paid versions. However, most entirely free VPNs should be avoided since they often compromise security to cut costs.

Do free VPNs work with Ubuntu's Network Manager?

Ubuntu's Network Manager supports free VPN connections, but with limitations. While you can configure basic VPN connections through NetworkManager, you'll miss features like split tunneling and specialized protocols. Tests showed that using dedicated VPN apps provides better functionality and an easier setup.

For the best experience, use your VPN provider's official app rather than relying on NetworkManager integration.

How much data do I get with free Ubuntu VPNs?

Free VPN data limits range from 500MB to unlimited monthly. Proton VPN is one of the most generous, with unlimited data on free accounts. Other providers typically cap data usage between 2 and 10GB per month. For basic web browsing and email, even limited plans should suffice.

Which Ubuntu versions support VPN connections?

All current Ubuntu versions (20.04 LTS and newer) support VPN connections. The top VPNs for Linux are compatible with Ubuntu 20.04, 22.04, and 24.04 LTS releases, working reliably. Each one offers consistent performance, though newer releases often provide better protocol support.

Older Ubuntu versions might have compatibility issues with newer VPN protocols like WireGuard.

Get the Best Free VPN for Ubuntu

I found some free VPNs that offer basic Linux functionality. Still, they come with significant limitations as they lack proper Linux integration and reliable terminal support, making them frustrating to use on Ubuntu systems.

Proton VPN works well on Ubuntu, with an official Linux CLI app, full terminal support, and easy setup through Network Manager. The free plan gives you solid security with AES 256-bit encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and access to servers in three countries. Although you won't get the full speed or server variety of the paid version, it remains one of the most reliable free VPN options available for Linux.