5 Best Free VPNs for PC: Safe for Windows 10 & 11 (2025)

Most free VPNs for PC do more harm than good to your online security. Some secretly log and sell your data or simply don’t work as they claim. Your PC also faces daily risks from hackers and malware, not to mention Microsoft's own telemetry collection. A reliable free VPN can protect sensitive data and provide secure access to the internet from anywhere.

Free Windows VPNs typically offer slow speeds, weak security, and limited data. Many lack support for streaming services, block torrenting completely, or don’t work with native Windows features. My team and I tested 70+ free VPNs on Windows 10 and 11 and listed options that actually work without compromising your security. While these VPNs are safe and perform well, they still may limit you in some of the other ways I mentioned above.

That's why I recommend a paid VPN like ExpressVPN instead. It offers fast speeds, a vast server network, excellent streaming capabilities, and a built-in ad blocker. It even works in countries with strict internet controls, like Iran and Russia. ExpressVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee*, so you can test it risk-free and get a refund if you’re not satisfied.

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

1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest Paid Windows VPN Without Sacrificing Security

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Tested July 2025

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ExpressVPN is the fastest paid VPN we’ve tested, and it far outperforms free VPNs when it comes to high-bandwidth usage on PC. During our tests, we could always easily watch in full HD (1080p) or even 4K UHD without added buffering or pixellation. We recorded a download speed of 163.49Mbps across near and far servers. Plus, with many server locations, it's easier to find one nearby for the best speeds. Free VPNs’ smart locations will tend to be further away.

Watching the Taylor vs Serrano live event went without issues

The server network is reliable, too — ExpressVPN could safely access more streaming platforms from anywhere than any free VPNs we tried. We could seamlessly stream on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Max, and other sites. With more resources, ExpressVPN frequently updates its larger IP pool, so fewer of them get blocked. Plus, all servers use obfuscation to hide VPN traffic and avoid restrictions when streaming on your laptop at work or the library, for example.

Windows lets you run virtually any software (from modern apps to decades-old programs), making your PC versatile but also a prime target for malicious actors. ExpressVPN's Threat Manager actively blocks dangerous domains and trackers that often target Windows users through seemingly harmless apps and sites. Plus, its built-in ad blocker is impressive — during my tests, it removed all the ads on news websites, making browsing much cleaner and safer.

Although ExpressVPN isn’t free, it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can test it risk-free and get a refund if you’re not happy with the service. I put this policy to the test using ExpressVPN’s 24/7 live chat support and had my money back in just a few days.

Useful Features

• Strong focus on privacy. It uses TrustedServer Technology (RAM-only servers), which ensures that your data is completely wiped with every server reboot. Plus, ExpressVPN's no-logs policy has been proven in a real-world scenario. When Turkish authorities seized one of its servers, they couldn't find any user data to collect.
• Lightway protocol. ExpressVPN's proprietary protocol uses fewer system resources than traditional VPN protocols while delivering faster speeds on Windows. This means your PC runs smoother even with the VPN active, and it will consume less battery and resources on laptops or low-power devices that run ARM64.
• P2P-friendly. Many free VPNs block P2P traffic, but ExpressVPN permits torrenting across its entire server network. That way, you can connect your PC to any server and enjoy fast, secure file sharing without issues.
• Strong security. In addition to IP/DNS leak protection and a kill switch, ExpressVPN offers AES 256-bit encryption with perfect forward secrecy to protect your data on Windows. This advanced security feature ensures that even if one of your sessions is compromised, your past and future sessions remain secure.

2. Proton VPN — Free Windows VPN With Unlimited Data for a Smooth Online Experience

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protonvpn.com

Proton VPN is a 100% free Windows VPN that doesn't restrict your data usage. Unlike many free VPNs that cut you off after hitting a monthly cap, you can browse, stream, and download without restrictions. During our tests on Windows 11, we streamed Lost on Netflix Netherlands in HD without any connection drops or speed throttling. We used over 50GB of data in a week without hitting any caps or slowdowns.

The speeds were stable too; we were never throttled

Although not as fast as ExpressVPN, Proton VPN is one of the fastest free options we tested on Windows. We only experienced a 30% speed loss, while other free VPNs can drop it by over 60%. It offers 6 locations, including the US, Japan, and the Netherlands, more than most free VPNs, so there’s one in most regions. While you can’t manually select servers, you can change the location to a different one randomly by clicking the Change server button.

Like all of Proton VPN’s apps, its Windows app is open-source and independently audited, which gives you complete transparency about what's running on your PC. Proton VPN's Swiss jurisdiction and verified no-logs policy ensure your online activities stay private. The app also includes IPv6 and DNS leak protection to prevent unwanted data leaks.

The biggest drawback is that P2P traffic isn't allowed on free servers, so you can't use it for torrenting on your Windows PC. However, it does come with all the essentials to protect your PC online, like a kill switch to prevent any unsecured data transfer if the VPN connection drops. It also uses the same AES 256-bit military-grade encryption as premium VPNs.

Useful Features

• Split tunneling. With this, you can route specific Windows apps through the VPN while others use your regular connection. This is particularly useful when you want to protect sensitive applications like banking apps while maintaining fast speeds for local services.
• Decent option for streaming. We could stream Netflix US and Disney+ in HD, though it didn't work with Max, Hulu, or Amazon Prime. However, since you can't manually select the server, there's no guarantee you'll be able to get it to work with region-specific services.
• Protocol support. The free PC app lets you choose between all protocols, including Stealth, WireGuard, and OpenVPN. The Stealth protocol obfuscates your traffic to avoid DPI and other censorship measures.
• Windows system tray controls. This gives quick access to common VPN functions without opening the full application.

3. Avira Phantom VPN — Easy-to-Use Free VPN for Windows Beginners

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www.avira.com

Avira Phantom VPN offers the simplest Windows setup process among free VPNs. Installing Avira took us just 2 minutes on Windows 11 during testing. It has a clean interface, and you just have to click the Secure My Connection button to enable the VPN. Plus, you don’t even need to provide an email or sign up to use it, which is great for privacy.

We were connected to Avira's Ireland server

The free Windows app comes with strong security to protect your online activity. It uses AES-256 encryption (same as premium VPNs) and basic malicious‑site blocking that prevents access to sites in Avira’s threat database. While the free version lacks a kill switch (a feature exclusive to the Pro tier), it comes with built‑in leak protection that blocks DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks.

Like Proton VPN, you can’t manually choose servers — the Windows app automatically connects you to the optimal server based on your location. The VPN works with Netflix and Disney+, but with limited data and random server location, it’s not the best streaming option. That said, Avira’s free mobile apps give you access to servers in 36 countries.

The biggest limitation is the tiny data allowance — just 500MB monthly, or 1GB if you create an account. While you can use the VPN on unlimited devices, the data cap means that if you use it for data-intensive activities, you'll burn through your allowance in minutes.

Useful Features

• Data monitor. Since the data limit is so small, it tracks how much data you’ve used up and shows that info on the app so you know how long you can use it within the month.
• Automatic WiFi protection. The VPN activates automatically on public/unsecured networks or when you switch on your PC to encrypt traffic and keep your data safe on your Windows computer.

4. hide.me — Customizable Security Features to Optimize Your Connection on Windows

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www.hide.me

hide.me puts you in complete control of your Windows VPN with advanced settings not common in free apps. Its app lets you customize everything from VPN protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, SoftEther) to network settings, including the choice between IPv4 and IPv6 connections. During our tests, IPv6 delivered lower latency than IPv4. This helped us balance speed and security — I used WireGuard for gaming and OpenVPN for maximum protection.

You can also fine-tune the MTU packet size to an exact number

Free users get access to servers in 8 locations, including the Netherlands, the US, and Germany. Unlike most free VPNs, hide.me lets you manually select a server — but this option may be temporarily disabled during peak times, defaulting to automatic selection. Officially, the free version doesn’t support streaming, but we did get it to work with some Netflix libraries.

The VPN supports the SoftEther protocol, which is especially useful for overcoming VPN blocks on restrictive networks like schools and offices. It’s one of the few free VPNs that may work in China, for example, but like any VPN, 100% uptime isn't guaranteed due to the changing internet landscape and limited server options.

The main drawback is that the free servers can get a bit crowded at times. And it’s much slower than other VPNs on this list. For instance, on some occasions, we experienced a speed loss of up to 78%. However, connecting to a different server often resolves the issue.

Useful Features

• Stealth Guard. This feature blocks selected apps from accessing the internet unless the VPN is connected, providing an extra layer of privacy protection. For example, you can set this up with your BitTorrent client or crypto wallets so that you never use them unprotected.
• Lock App. This feature is available on Windows, and it allows you to create a PIN that will keep unwanted users from accessing your hide.me app.

5. Hotspot Shield — No-Registration Free VPN for Fast and Private Online Access

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www.hotspotshield.com

With no sign-up required, you can get connected faster without having to create yet another online account. This is even more ideal than most free trials for trying a VPN out for the first time. Plus, the Windows app is pretty intuitive, with a one-click-connect design and modern interface. During our test, we could get the Hotspot Shield app up and running in just a few minutes.

The IKEv2 protocol is only available with the paid plan

Hotspot Shield openly admits to throttling the speeds of its free users — often being twice as slow as paid servers in our tests. However, the ability to manually select the server of your choice, a quick connect feature, and an in-app speed test help you find the best location for your needs. Thanks to its optimized Hydra protocol, we could still stream in HD content and download P2P files relatively quickly.

Unlike its mobile versions, which bombard you with ads for connection time, the Windows app is completely ad-free. You get unlimited connection time without interruptions, making it ideal for long gaming sessions or remote work on your PC. But it’s not suitable for streaming — it only worked with Peacock and Max, and we couldn’t stream on other platforms.

The major concern is Hotspot Shield's logging policy — it collects your real IP address and connection data. For Windows users already dealing with Microsoft's telemetry, adding another layer of data collection defeats the purpose of using a VPN for privacy.

Useful Features

• Decent Windows security. The kill switch and leak protection work seamlessly with Windows' networking, ensuring your connection stays secure even when your PC goes to sleep or switches networks. Plus, PKI encryption secures your connection by enabling mutual validation between your device and VPN servers.
• Keyboard shortcuts. This lets you quickly execute common VPN actions without having to click or navigate around the app. For example, Ctrl+Shift+C will connect or disconnect the VPN.

Quick Comparison Table: Free Windows VPN Features

The table below compares the essential features of the best free VPNs for Windows. I've included information on whether each VPN offers a free plan or a money-back guarantee, as well as details on speeds, the number of free server locations, and monthly data allowances.

These factors are crucial to consider when choosing a free VPN that meets your needs, whether that's streaming, torrenting, or general browsing. I've also noted whether you need to sign up for an account to use the free VPN on your Windows PC, which is important if you value privacy and ease of setup.

Editor's 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.

Our Methodology for Testing Free Windows VPNs

Our testing approach for free Windows VPNs on versions 11, 10, 8.1, and 7 was to assess security, speed, and ease of use. We started with thorough speed tests across different servers to see how each VPN impacts your connection while running common Windows programs. This tells us which free VPNs can handle resource-heavy tasks like HD streaming without slowing down your system and which ones will interfere with your everyday Windows activities.

When choosing a free VPN for PC, make sure it’s compatible with your version of Windows (especially older systems). Look for services that offer strong encryption (like AES-256), built-in DNS and IP leak protection, and a clear no-logs policy. Some may also offer some of their more advanced premium features for free. For a complete breakdown of our testing process, check out our VPN testing methodology page.

Expert Tip: Most Free VPNs for Windows Aren't Safe

Free VPNs can introduce serious vulnerabilities to your Windows system. We've tested dozens of free VPNs and found that many contain malicious code, track user activity, or have critical security flaws that put your data at risk. Plus, they could clash with your built-in Windows Security features or firewall, potentially causing vulnerabilities on your device.

Common dangers of unsafe free VPNs for Windows include:

• Hidden malware. Many free VPNs bundle their Windows apps with spyware or keyloggers. These can steal your passwords, credit card details, and other sensitive data directly from your system.
• Privacy violations. Instead of protecting your data, some free VPNs actually collect and sell your browsing history, application usage, and other personal information to third parties.
• Security holes. Free VPNs often skip crucial security features like proper encryption and leak prevention. Our testing revealed multiple free VPNs that exposed users' real IP addresses on Windows.
• Servers on blocklists. Many free VPNs use servers that end up on security blocklists due to malicious activity. When connecting through these flagged servers, you risk having your online accounts flagged for suspicious behavior or your banking transactions blocked for security reasons.

Free VPNs to Avoid

• Hola VPN. It uses your Windows PC as part of a peer-to-peer network, letting strangers route traffic through your device.
• Betternet. Multiple security audits have found malware and tracking code in its Windows app.
• TouchVPN. Known for weak encryption and data leaks on Windows systems.
• SuperVPN. Contains tracking libraries and has suffered multiple security breaches.

Free VPNs vs Paid VPNs: Which Should You Choose for Windows?

If you're only using a VPN for basic web browsing, checking emails, or securing public WiFi, a free VPN may work. But once you start streaming, gaming, torrenting, or working remotely, the limitations — slow speeds, data limits, and unreliable connections — will quickly become painfully frustrating. That could cause you to stop using the free VPN altogether, leaving you vulnerable to online threats.

Free VPNs offer a good starting point, but paid VPNs for Windows deliver the performance, security, and reliability needed for intensive use. If you value consistent protection, faster speeds, securing multiple devices, and full access to features designed to integrate seamlessly with the Windows OS, they are the better option.

Here are the main free PC VPN limitations you need to be aware of and how they compare to premium VPNs:

FAQs on Free VPNs for Windows

Are free Windows VPNs safe?

Most free VPNs for Windows pose significant security risks, but a select few are safe to use. The free VPNs I've recommended in this article are all freemium services backed by reputable companies with proven track records. They maintain strict no-logs policies and implement strong security features like military-grade encryption and leak protection.

However, many other free VPNs for Windows can compromise your security by collecting and selling your data, injecting malware, or leaking your real IP address. Some have even been caught embedding cryptocurrency miners in their Windows apps.

Are there free VPNs for Windows with P2P/torrenting support?

Yes, but I don't recommend them. Most free VPNs prohibit torrenting on their servers, and those that do allow it may not be safe or reliable. It's better to opt for a low-cost premium VPN that offers a money-back guarantee, so you can torrent securely and without restrictions.

If you're set on using a free VPN, the #4 and #5 VPNs on this list are decent options for torrenting on Windows. However, keep in mind that their server networks are limited compared to paid VPNs. If you can't connect to a server near your location, you may experience slower speeds, which can impact your torrenting performance.

Are there free VPNs for Windows without registration?

Yes, both Avira and Hotspot Shield allow you to use the VPN without signing up. However, some free VPNs, like Avira, offer extra benefits for registering, like doubling your data allowance or giving temporary access to premium features when you register with an email address.

Is there a free unlimited VPN for Windows?

Yes, Proton VPN, hide.me, and Hotspot Shield have no data caps. Among them, our #2 VPN is the best 100% free VPN we found without a data cap. However, like all free VPNs, it has other limitations. In this case, a smaller server network and the inability to select the location you want. Others, like Hotspot Shield, may instead limit speeds, especially after you go over a certain allowance.

Do free PC VPNs work with Windows Security?

Yes, all the VPNs I recommended integrate smoothly with Windows Security. They're designed to work alongside Windows Defender, Firewall, and other built-in security features without causing conflicts. Their Windows apps automatically configure Windows settings and don't trigger false positives.

But proper configuration is important. On rare occasions, you may need to add the VPN app to Windows Security's allowed applications list. However, this is mostly the case with little-known free VPNs that Windows might flag as suspicious.

Does Windows have a built-in VPN?

Windows includes a VPN client but not a VPN service. You'll still need to buy a VPN and manually configure the connection — which is time-consuming and lacks important security features like a kill switch or leak protection. You're better off using a dedicated VPN app that offers one-click protection and additional security features.

Can I use a free Windows VPN for Netflix and other streaming platforms?

Free Windows VPNs struggle with streaming because their servers are often shared by thousands of users, making them easy for streaming services to detect and block. It’s much better to use a premium VPN for a reliable streaming experience.

Besides active VPN blocking, there are practical reasons free VPNs aren’t great for streaming. For example, some VPNs on this list offer unlimited data but use automatic server selection, so you might not connect to the country you want. Most also limit your data to 500MB–10GB monthly, barely enough for a couple of hours of streaming.

Do free Windows VPNs work in countries with strict internet controls?

It's very rare to find a free VPN that works reliably in countries with strict internet controls like China, Russia, and Iran. However, the #4 VPN on this list does work on restrictive networks and can be a viable option.

For the most reliable experience, though, the #1 option on this list is your best bet. Its advanced obfuscation helps it work more consistently in these countries, and while it's not free, you can test it risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Are free VPNs compatible with Windows 7 and older versions?

All VPNs listed in this article are compatible with Windows 7 and newer versions. However, if you're using a very old Windows version, you can still use these VPNs through manual OpenVPN configuration. Simply download the OpenVPN client, get the configuration files from your chosen VPN provider, and follow their setup guides.

Using VPNs on unsupported Windows versions creates additional security risks. Many VPN providers have dropped Windows 7 support since Microsoft ended security updates, making them vulnerable to exploits that VPNs can't fully protect against.

Can I play online games on PC with a free VPN?

Yes, but you'll likely experience high ping and occasional lag. The biggest issue is that free VPNs tend to have limited server locations, forcing you to use servers further away. This is the main cause of lag. Instead, I recommend a premium VPN with worldwide servers and no speed caps.

Most free VPNs also lack gaming-specific features like DDoS protection and optimized routing. That being said, the free VPNs on this list might suffice when connected to nearby servers.

How do I maximize my free VPN bandwidth on PC?

Use split tunneling to route only essential traffic through the VPN. This feature, a number of the free VPNs we have here provide split tunneling, allowing you to choose which apps or sites use the VPN connection. So, you can limit VPN use to sensitive/low-bandwidth services, like online banking or crypto wallets, while excluding resource–hungry activities like streaming, gaming, or Windows updates. This may also help you improve free VPN speeds on your PC.

Get the Best FREE VPN for Windows

Free Windows VPNs often compromise your security to generate revenue. Many collect and sell your browsing data or display intrusive ads that can contain malware. Even the trustworthy free VPNs we've tested on various Windows versions have some drawbacks — they restrict your data usage, limit server options, or throttle connection speeds on Windows devices.

That's why I recommend a paid service, like ExpressVPN, for Windows users. Its Windows app offers strong security features, unlimited data, and speeds fast enough for streaming in 4K. While it’s a paid service, the investment gives you access to premium security features and global servers. You can test ExpressVPN risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not happy, it’s easy to get a refund.