5 Best VPNs for Alaska — Fast and Secure in 2025

Alaska's remote location and unique internet infrastructure present specific challenges that most VPNs can't overcome. From satellite internet compatibility to maintaining stable connections during extreme weather, you need a VPN with many nearby servers to work reliably in the Last Frontier.

With fewer ISPs dominating the market, Alaska residents don't have many choices regarding how their data is handled. A good VPN encrypts your traffic and hides your browsing activity from ISPs, advertisers, and other third parties, which is especially important in rural areas where alternative networks or privacy tools may not be readily available.

To find the best VPNs for Alaska, we tested over 50 VPNs. Our team evaluated each server network to confirm that they have locations in Alaska or nearby for optimal speeds. We also tested their privacy policies and measured latency on popular gaming servers. Our recommended VPNs can also securely access Amazon Prime Video from anywhere. Below, you can read about their pros and cons.

Best VPNs for Alaska — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest VPN for the Best Connections in Alaska

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Tested June 2025

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www.expressvpn.com

The Lightway protocol was specifically designed to provide incredible speeds while reducing battery drain as it uses less code. During our testing, ExpressVPN consistently maintained high performance, enabling HD streaming and gaming without lag. While testing various US servers, our speeds never dropped below 175Mbps (with a base connection of 238Mbps). We watched Alaska Anchorage vs Alaska Fairbanks on FloHockey without buffering.

ExpressVPN can automatically connect you to the fastest available server

You can use ExpressVPN on restricted networks, as automatic obfuscation is applied to all servers, including those located on the West Coast and in Canada. This means you can use the VPN at school, work, and public libraries without it getting blocked. While it doesn’t offer a physical server within Alaska, its nearby options in Seattle and Vancouver provide low-latency alternatives that provide a stable connection on GCI and Starlink.

TrustedServer technology means that all servers run on RAM only, meaning your data is never written to a hard drive. This, combined with its military-grade encryption, gives me peace of mind, knowing that what I do online remains private and anonymous. ExpressVPN's built-in Network Lock (kill switch) prevents any data leaks if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops, although this never happened during our tests.

While it may cost more than some alternatives, ExpressVPN often offers generous discounts on long-term purchases. Plus, it offers 30-day money-back guarantee*, so you can test it risk-free. If you’re not satisfied, obtaining a refund is quick and easy.

Useful Features

• Smart Location. Automatically selects the fastest available server, optimal for minimizing latency while maintaining good speeds.
• Easy-to-use apps. ExpressVPN offers native apps for all major operating systems, as well as custom router firmware. Installing it on my Windows PC and iOS phone only took a few minutes.
• Split tunneling. Allows routing local Alaska traffic directly while protecting sensitive work or personal data through the VPN tunnel, which can increase your speeds and prevent VPN flagging on official state websites, as not all traffic is encrypted.
• 24/7 customer support. Live chat support is available around the clock, so you can reach out to them anytime you encounter trouble with the VPN.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Uninterrupted Gaming and Streaming in and Outside Alaska

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www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost's streaming-optimized servers work great with many US and international platforms. The VPN team regularly tests and monitors these servers to confirm they provide optimal speeds. During our tests, we were able to connect to the Netflix US, Hulu, and Prime Video servers with just a few clicks. We also had no problem watching Musher on the YouTube TV optimized server. Its gaming-optimized servers are ideal for playing Fortnite as they minimize latency issues — servers are labeled with their ping times, making it easy to find the best one.

You can favorite a server by clicking the star next to it

Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost offers solid privacy features. The VPN keeps your online activity safe with AES 256-bit encryption and HTTPS protection that redirects you to the most secure versions of web pages. Multiple security protocols are also available, including OpenVPN and WireGuard, which are high-speed and secure.

Smart Rules enable you to tailor CyberGhost's behavior for various apps and websites. You can create automations so that certain apps automatically launch a VPN connection, while others (such as some local banking apps that don't work well with VPNs) can bypass the tunnel. It’s especially helpful when managing slower rural connections or apps that require precise routing. This feature is currently available on Windows and Android.

The primary limitation is slower performance on servers located at a great distance. However, the US servers delivered stable and reliable connections at only a 5 to 20% speed drop. Plus, you can test CyberGhost risk-free for 45 days using a long-term offer.

Useful Features

• Leak protection. Prevents your IP address and DNS requests from being exposed, keeping your data secure even on less stable internet connections in Alaska. It’s especially useful when using public WiFi or remote networks.
• Independently audited no-logs policy. CyberGhost’s strict no-logs policy has been verified by third-party audits, giving you peace of mind that your online activity isn’t tracked or stored.
• Block Content feature. Filters malicious domains and ads, which can improve loading speeds on Alaska's often-limited bandwidth connections.

3. Private Internet Access — Provides an Alaska IP Address To Access Local Websites Reliably

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www.privateinternetaccess.com

Having servers in Alaska gives PIA a unique advantage over many other VPNs. Physical servers in Alaska offer the best possible speeds for accessing local content and services with Alaska IP addresses. PIA also has streaming servers located in the US for secure access to Amazon Prime Video, ESPN+, and more. Which 53 US server location, you don't have to worry about overcrowding slowing you down. We recorded 122.08Mbps testing servers in New York.

To choose a server to connect to, scroll down in the main view until you find the “VPN Server” option

The extensive customization options help optimize performance for Alaska's diverse internet infrastructure. You can adjust the encryption level between 128-bit (faster on satellite internet) and 256-bit (most secure) when using the OpenVPN protocol. Still, the WireGuard protocol generally provided us with the best balance of speed and security.

PIA's MACE feature offers crucial protection against malicious websites. It blocks ads and trackers while improving loading speeds, particularly noticeable on satellite connections where every byte counts. The feature works system-wide, protecting all your Alaska internet activity without requiring separate ad-blocking software.

While the advanced customization options can initially seem overwhelming. However, apps come preconfigured with optimal settings that work well for most users in Alaska. You can try PIA risk-free, thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Unlimited device connection. All your household members can securely stream and game under one account.
• Advanced kill switch. Blocks all internet traffic until VPN connection is established, preventing any data leaks during the unstable connections common with Alaska's weather-dependent internet.
• Multi-hop servers. Route your traffic through a server and a proxy, making it harder for others to track your online activity and identity. It also hides the fact that you’re using a VPN to avoid ISP throttling.

4. NordVPN — Advanced Security Features for Privacy Protection in Alaska and Abroad

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www.nordvpn.com

Threat Protection blocks malicious websites and downloads before they reach your device. It’s an essential protection given Alaska's smaller online ecosystem, which makes it easier for bad actors to target local users. During tests, Threat Protection effectively blocked all ads on akbizmag.com. This feature works well in conjunction with the Dark Web Monitor, which alerts you if your credentials appear in data breaches.

You can add up to 50 email addresses to the monitoring list

Similar to ExpressVPN, NordVPN also has a proprietary protocol, NordLynx. Built on WireGuard technology but enhanced for privacy, NordLynx automatically adjusts to network conditions, helping maintain consistent performance. During our test, NordVPN maintained stable speeds, allowing for secure streaming and browsing with no interruptions.

One minor drawback is that Threat Protection Pro can sometimes block legitimate websites, like YouTube. However, switching to Threat Protection often resolves the issue and may contribute to better speeds. Thanks to its money-back guarantee, you can try NordVPN risk-free for 30 days.

Useful Features

• Double VPN servers. Route traffic through two servers for double encryption, which is particularly valuable for handling sensitive information.
• Onion Over VPN. Combines VPN encryption with Tor routing for maximum privacy when accessing sensitive resources or conducting research.
• Meshnet. This feature is particularly valuable for Alaska's remote work challenges. It creates secure tunnels between your devices, allowing you to access your office computer from anywhere, whether at home or while traveling.

5. Surfshark — Easy-to-Use VPN to Start Using It in Alaska in No Time

Available on:

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Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark is a well-rounded and easy-to-use VPN. It has a clean, modern design, and installation is quick and easy on all major operating systems. Simply launch the app, type your preferred server location into the search bar, and click to establish a secure connection from Alaska. Unlimited device connections are also ideal for large families on a budget. During our testing, we connected Surfshark to 8 devices simultaneously without any performance issues.

In the main view, you can also pause the VPN for a certain amount of time, instead of disconnecting

Like PIA and NordVPN, Surfshark also has an ad blocker. CleanWeb provides valuable protection by blocking ads, trackers, and malware. The feature is particularly effective at filtering the aggressive advertising that can consume significant bandwidth on limited connections.

The main limitation is that some servers take longer to establish initial connections, which can be noticeable when switching locations frequently. However, once connected, Surfshark maintains a stable performance, and we were able to stream Amazon Prime Video in HD.

Useful Features

• IP Rotator. Automatically changes your IP address every 5-10 minutes without disconnecting, making it harder to track your online activity.
• Camouflage Mode. Makes VPN traffic appear as regular internet activity, which can be useful on restricted networks, such as those found in schools or public libraries.

Quick Comparison Table: Alaska VPN Features

Here's how the top VPNs for Alaska compare on the features that matter most for the state's unique challenges. This table focuses on server proximity, connection stability, and the specialized features needed for Alaska's satellite internet, institutional networks, and remote locations.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Our Testing Methodology for Alaska VPNs

We conducted extensive testing specifically focused on Alaska's unique internet challenges and infrastructure. We tested connection stability, latency to popular gaming servers, and verified that speeds were enough for streaming without buffering. We also looked for VPNs offering strong server coverage in North America and the ability to provide a reliable US IP address so that it’s possible to access both local and broader US content reliably.

We examined each VPN’s encryption strength, DNS and IP leak protection, and no-logs policies to confirm that your data remains secure in and outside Alaska. Streaming performance was tested across platforms popular in Alaska, including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, PBS, and FloHockey, with a focus on live streaming ice hockey matches with minimal buffering. We also checked if the VPNs work well on popular operating systems.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues in Alaska

Satellite Internet Optimization

If you rely on satellite internet, choose VPN servers located as close as possible geographically, such as those in Anchorage (if available), Seattle, Portland, or Vancouver, to help reduce latency.

Lightweight VPN protocols, such as WireGuard and ExpressVPN's Lightway, are ideal because they offer faster performance and lower overhead, which is crucial for high-latency satellite connections. When available, enable data compression features to help improve speeds, especially for activities like browsing and messaging.

Weather Impact Mitigation

Alaska’s severe weather can cause temporary outages or unstable internet connections. To mitigate this, enable automatic reconnection in your VPN settings to restore the connection if it drops.

Use a kill switch to prevent IP or DNS leaks during interruptions. It's also smart to download essential content for offline access ahead of storms or outages, as VPN and internet performance may be affected.

Rural Connection Stability

In areas with limited bandwidth or slower DSL connections, split tunneling can optimize performance by routing only sensitive or external traffic through the VPN while allowing local services (e.g., Alaska government or university portals) to bypass it. This preserves bandwidth and improves usability.

FAQs on VPNs for Alaska

Which VPN servers are closest to Alaska?

The closest VPN servers to Alaska are typically located in Seattle, Vancouver, and the US West Coast. Private Internet Access is unique in offering servers physically located in Alaska, providing excellent connections and an Alaska IP address. For most VPNs, Seattle servers offer the optimal balance of speed and latency for Alaska users, typically providing slightly better performance than those on the East Coast.

Are there free VPNs that work well in Alaska?

Free VPNs generally perform poorly in Alaska due to server limitations and data caps. Alaska's remote location and challenging internet infrastructure necessitate robust server networks and specialized features that are typically only available in premium VPNs. You’ll be better off using a premium VPN with a money-back guarantee to test performance in your specific Alaska location.

Can I use a VPN for University of Alaska resources?

Many VPNs may work with the University of Alaska systems, but configuration requirements vary by campus. Look for VPNs with obfuscation features and secure protocols for use on restricted networks, such as schools. Some university systems may require specific server locations or protocols, so check with your campus IT department for approved configurations.

Get the Best VPN for Alaska

Alaska's unique internet challenges require VPNs specifically designed to handle satellite internet, weather-related interruptions, and the long distances to server locations. The VPNs on our list have all proven reliable for Alaska's demanding conditions, whether you need secure access to state networks, stable gaming connections, or high-quality streaming.

ExpressVPN stood out as the best overall choice for Alaska. It delivered the fastest speeds in our tests and offers servers in 30 US locations, including several strategically located on the West Coast, ideal for minimizing latency in Alaska. Its robust security features also help protect your privacy and prevent ISP throttling.