5 Best VPNs for Austria in 2024: Fast & Secure Servers
Many international websites aren’t accessible in Austria, and cyber threats, such as ransomware attacks, are increasingly prevalent, particularly on public WiFi networks. Therefore, maintaining online security in Austria can be challenging without a VPN.
My team and I evaluated over 80 VPNs and identified the top options for Austria. Each recommended VPN boasts a wide array of global servers to prevent server overload and Austrian servers for smooth, buffer-free access to local content. These VPNs also feature robust security measures to safeguard your online data from unauthorized access.
My preferred choice for Austria is ExpressVPN. It offers exceptional speeds for gaming and torrenting without delays. It’s also equipped with military-grade encryption and adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring secure internet browsing. You can test ExpressVPN in Austria risk-free, thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. 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.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Austria in 2024
- Editor's ChoiceExpressVPN
Best for Austria with fast global servers; robust protection; 30-day trial.70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN - CyberGhost
Specialized servers in Austria for gaming, streaming, and torrenting. - Private Internet Access
Strong security for browsing in Austria; advanced settings may overwhelm new users. - NordVPN
Secure servers in Austria for privacy and torrenting; limited country coverage. - Surfshark
Intuitive apps for Windows, Android, iOS; based in 9 Eyes Alliance Netherlands.
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.
The Best VPNs for Austria — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Fast Servers for Buffer-Free Streaming While in Austria
Tested October 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including Austria |
Security and Privacy | 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, kill switch, split tunneling, IP/DNS leak protection, OpenVPN and Lightway protocols |
Simultaneous Device Connections | Allows you to protect 8 devices at the same time |
Works With | Netflix, Disney, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN, Hulu, Sling TV, HBO Max, Sky Sports, ORF 1, ORF 2, ORF Sports+, RTL, Servus TV, and more |
ExpressVPN is excellent for watching local content securely and without interruptions. While testing ExpressVPN from Austria, it works well with my Netflix Austria account. Similarly, I watched live F1 streams on my ORF Sports+ account and SOKO Kitzbühel on ORF 1 in HD buffer-free. Lastly, shopping securely on Zalando was a breeze as well.
Its servers are consistently fast, too. My local VPN server connection reached 47Mbps, enabling smooth 4K streaming on my Servus TV account and fast torrenting downloads. With most Austrian servers, my latency was only around 50ms — low enough for lag-free gaming. I recommend using the proprietary Lightway protocol because it gave me the fastest speeds without compromising security.
ExpressVPN’s minor con is only allowing 8 simultaneous connections, although it should still be enough for all your personal devices. Plus, the minimalist app design makes it easy to use on any platform, including Android, iOS, or Chrome. It’s also the only VPN on this list with dedicated router firmware to easily overcome the device limit and secure all your Wi-Fi-connected devices.
ExpressVPN offers frequent giveaways and discounts. I was able to get its longest plan for $6.67/month. Additionally, there’s a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee. When I canceled my subscription for testing, my first payment was refunded back to my PayPal account within 3 days.
Useful Features
- TrustedServer Technology. ExpressVPN’s server technology has been independently audited by KPMG. All servers are RAM-only and undergo frequent restarts and fresh operating system installs to ensure all user data is wiped. So, your personal data and online activity in Austria will never be exposed.
- Based in the British Virgin Islands. The British Virgin Islands have strong user privacy laws and aren’t a part of any international intelligence-sharing alliance. This means your data will never be shared with the Austrian authorities or any other government.
- 24/7 Customer Support. ExpressVPN’s helpful and highly-trained support staff are always available, even at odd hours.
- MediaStreamer. This is ExpressVPN’s Smart DNS, which allows you to prevent ISP throttling on non-VPN-compatible devices like smart TVs and gaming consoles.
2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Reliable Streaming, Gaming, and Torrenting in Austria
Best Feature | 11,690 servers in 100 countries, including specialized locations mostly for entertainment purposes |
Security and Privacy | Based in Romania, zero-logs policy audited by Deloitte, ad/malware/tracker blocker, perfect forward secrecy |
Simultaneous Device Connections | You can connect up to 7 devices at the same time |
Works With | Netflix, Disney, Amazon Prime Video, Sky Sports, ORF 1, ORF 2, ORF Sports+, Servus TV, Puls 4, and more |
CyberGhost offers servers optimized for different online activities, which gave me fast and reliable connections during testing. There are streaming-optimized servers for platforms like ORF and Servus TV, so you can use them for reliable streaming while in Austria. You can even find Austrian servers for torrenting. Gamers can use nearby servers in Frankfurt. On average, I got 42 Mbps, which was a bit lower than ExpressVPN, but still fast enough.
The VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption, giving you high-end protection online. Robust protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 also provide safe tunneling for your data. There's a kill switch to prevent data leaks if a connection fails, plus DNS/IP protection to hide your online identity. Additionally, the "WiFi Auto-Protect” feature automatically activates VPN protection on new networks to keep you safe on any public hotspot in Austria.
I was disappointed to learn that CyberGhost no longer offers 24/7 chat support, so you’ll mostly have to use the chatbot or email. However, it’s easy to navigate, and you don’t need to configure specific settings to start using it in Austria. Optimized servers are clearly labeled, too. Plus, it has clear and comprehensive documentation to get you up to speed with its apps.
CyberGhost’s longer plans are very affordable, starting from just $2.19/month. and they come with a longer 45-day money-back guarantee. This means you can test CyberGhost risk-free in Austria and get a refund if you’re not satisfied.
Useful Features
- NoSpy Servers. By paying a little extra, you can use CyberGhost’s in-house managed servers. On top of added privacy, these servers also have premium hardware and dedicated uplinks, so you’ll have better speeds in Austria or abroad.
- Smart Rules. These settings automate VPN connections based on triggers, such as connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks or specific websites. So, you don’t always have to manually connect the VPN when in Austria.
- Privacy Guard. This feature provides additional protection by blocking online trackers, ads, and malicious websites in Austria. It also reduces distractions and provides a more streamlined browsing experience.
- Private Browser. This is an anonymous browser built into CyberGhost’s VPN apps, protecting users in Austria from online tracking, cookies, and potential security vulnerabilities.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Advanced Settings to Optimize Speed and Performance in Austria
Best Feature | Customize your security settings per your own liking and needs |
Security and Privacy | RAM servers, IP/DNS leak prevention, app/website/IP split tunneling, multiple protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec) |
Simultaneous Device Connections | Unlimited to protect all your devices with one subscription |
Works With | Netflix, Disney, Amazon Prime Video, Sky Sports, ORF 1, ORF 2, ORF Sports+, Servus TV, Puls 4, and more |
PIA’s customizable settings let you fine-tune it for your needs. The default 128-bit encryption was faster for streaming. During testing, I got good speeds overall, ranging from 36–40 Mbps. The 256-bit encryption offers the best protection for using Bank Austria or public Wi-Fi. You can also change the packet size, VPN protocol, and more.
Due to its many advanced settings and customizability, PIA can be confusing if you’re new to VPNs. However, it comes pre-configured and optimized, so you don't need to tweak anything unless you want to.
Using my streaming accounts was easy due to PIA's large network of 29,650 servers in 91 countries. Specifically, CyberGhost's servers in Austria ensure smooth HD streaming of local shows on ATV or RTL+ without ISP throttling concerns. This capability extends globally — our UK team watched Peaky Blinders on BBC iPlayer with ExpressVPN UK servers in HD buffer-free.
You can get PIA’s protection from as low as $2.19/month, with its long-term plans being much cheaper. It also backs its services with a tried-and-tested 30-day money-back guarantee. You can get a refund just by contacting customer support via the 24/7 live chat.
Useful Features
- Independently audited no-logs policy. PIA’s no-logs policy has been audited by Deloitte and was confirmed in two court cases. So even though this VPN is based in the US (the heart of the 5 Eyes Alliance), which is a bit of a con, you don’t have to worry about your data being shared with third parties.
- Advanced Kill Switch. This feature safeguards you in Austria by ensuring privacy and preventing data exposure. Unlike a normal kill switch, it doesn’t only work during interruptions or when changing servers. Instead, it cuts off all internet access until you connect to PIA.
- MACE. MACE protects you online in Austria by blocking ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. This enhances online security and provides a seamless browsing experience.
- Smart DNS. Similar to ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer, PIA’s Smart DNS enables users to avoid ISP throttling on devices that don’t support native VPN apps. So, you can catch F1 in Austria on your smart TV, streaming device, or gaming console without speed reductions.
4. NordVPN — Specialized Servers to Enhance Your Privacy in Austria and Abroad
Best Feature | 6,310 servers in 111 countries, including specialty servers for different online purposes |
Security and Privacy | 256-bit AES encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, split tunneling, independently-verified no-logs policy |
Simultaneous Device Connections | Allows 10 connections at the same time, no matter where you are |
Works With | Netflix, Disney, Amazon Prime Video, Sky Sports, ORF 1, ORF 2, ORF Sports+, Servus TV, Puls 4, and more |
NordVPN offers a variety of advanced servers to enhance your security in Austria. You can get an extra layer of privacy through Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers. The Onion over VPN servers let you use the Tor browser to further protect your data. Its Obfuscated servers conceal VPN traffic, so it can’t be detected by Austrian ISPs.
The only drawback is that NordVPN has trouble working with YouTube or Reddit when Threat Protection is enabled. That said, the issue goes away when you turn this feature off.
NordVPN was a joy to use thanks to its intuitive apps. Whether you're using Android, iOS, or Chrome, you won’t have any issues getting to grips with it. Its visual world map and organized server list help you effortlessly find the best servers. You can also use the Quick Connect button or click on a country name, and NordVPN will automatically use the fastest option.
It offers a variety of plans, starting at $3.09/month. You can also try NordVPN risk-free using its 30-day money-back guarantee. Thanks to its excellent 24/7 live chat support, refunds are handled swiftly.
Useful Features
- P2P-optimized servers. All NordVPN servers support torrenting, but it also offers P2P-optimized options, including one in Austria. Using these servers will improve your download and seeding speeds.
- NordLynx. NordVPN's proprietary VPN protocol, built on WireGuard, allows you to enjoy smooth streaming, rapid downloads, and uninterrupted browsing in Austria while benefiting from enhanced security. On average, my speeds were above 40 Mbps.
- Threat Protection. This feature safeguards against malicious websites, ads, and malware, protecting your personal data from cyber threats in Austria. The Lite version only works when the VPN is connected, so it doesn’t use up your resources.
- Headquartered in Panama. Panama falls outside the jurisdiction of major surveillance alliances and has robust data privacy laws. Users in Austria can trust that their online activities and personal information are kept confidential.
5. Surfshark — Intuitive App With a Speed Test Tool Helps You Find the Fastest Servers in and Near Austria
Best Feature | Straightforward app design, which is similar across multiple devices |
Security and Privacy | Automatic protocol selection, 256-bit AES encryption, static and dedicated IP servers, kill switch (soft and strict), NoBorders mode, and Camouflage mode for obfuscation |
Simultaneous Device Connections | No limitations, so you can protect all your household devices simultaneously |
Works With | Netflix, Disney, Amazon Prime Video, Sky Sports, ORF 1, ORF 2, ORF Sports+, Puls 4, and more |
Surfshark's user-friendly apps make connecting to servers a breeze, especially on Android and iOS. The mobile apps feature clean and minimal designs that are intuitive even for new VPN users. I like the in-app speed test on Windows that allowed me to quickly check server speeds and choose the optimal one. Servers can be filtered by region with this tool, making them even easier to find. My speeds were above 30 Mbps on average.
Although Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is in the 9 Eyes Alliance, it has robust privacy in place. Its no-logs policy has been independently verified by Cure53, ensuring that it doesn’t store any personal information. Plus, all its 3,200 servers across 100 countries are RAM-based, meaning no data stays on them for long as they’re rebooted. I also tested it for IP/DNS leaks many times while in Austria, but they always came back clean.
You can try out Surfshark in Austra with the 30-day money-back guarantee backing the service. Subscriptions start from $2.19/month for a long-term plan.
Useful Features
- MultiHop. Similar to NordVPN’s Doube VPN, these servers route your traffic through multiple VPN locations, enhancing your security in Austria.
- CleanWeb. When enabled, CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, providing a cleaner and safer browsing experience in Austria without unwanted content or cyber threats.
- Rotating IP. This feature constantly changes users' IP addresses, making it harder to track them in Austria. It keeps you connected to the same server location for an uninterrupted experience.
- Bypasser. This is a highly customizable split tunneling feature, allowing you to protect your sensitive Austrian apps with a VPN connection while keeping the rest of the connection on your regular internet.
Quick Guide: How to Set Up a VPN for Austria in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because of its reliable server network and fast speeds for high-quality streaming within Austria. You can test ExpressVPN risk-free (it’s covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee).
- Connect to a local server. To get the best speeds, connect to the nearest server location.
- Start browsing. You can now enjoy safe browsing from Austria.
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.
Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Austria
A good VPN for Austria needs to work with your local sites, delivering top speeds and maintaining your privacy. If you want to do your own tests, the following checklist may help:
- Global servers — You need a VPN with global server coverage to access certain services, like government websites and banking apps, when you’re traveling to Austria.
- Local (Austrian) servers — These help to access Austrian services (like your Erste Bank und Sparkasse account) when traveling overseas.
- Fast speeds — The VPN shouldn't noticeably compromise your speeds while connecting to Austria, so you can stream buffer-free, torrent quickly, or game online without lag within the country.
- Strong security and privacy features — Military-grade/AES 256-bit encryption, secure protocols (like OpenVPN), a kill switch, and a no-logs policy help maintain your online privacy in Austria or abroad.
- Easy to use — The design of the apps should be simple and intuitive and should be available on all devices you use, e.g., Windows, Android, iOS, or even browser extensions, like Chrome. Plus, reliable customer support should be in place.
- Reasonable price — Balancing prices and features ensures reliable and secure protection, as the cheapest (or free) options may lack essential security tools.
- Trustworthy money-back guarantee — You should have the option to try the VPN risk-free and easily get refunded if it doesn’t please you.
FAQs on Using a VPN for Austria
Can I use a VPN for Austria on Android or Chrome?
Yes, all of the shortlisted VPNs feature apps for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, and browser extensions for Chrome. Keep in mind that some features, like split tunneling and kill switches, are usually not supported on iOS. Others, like the available VPN protocols, may also differ between apps. Some providers, like ExpressVPN, offer official APK downloads from their websites so you can safely bypass the Play Store if you need to.
Are VPNs legal in Austria?
Yes, using a VPN is permitted in Austria. All you need to do is connect to a server of your choice.
However, it’s also important to point out that VPNs are restricted or banned in some countries (like China, Russia, and Belarus). Always update yourself on the VPN laws in your area to avoid getting in trouble.
Can you legally torrent in Austria?
Yes, you can freely torrent while in Austria. It’s recommended you use a VPN to keep your connection private and avoid cyber threats.
Just bear in mind that downloading copyrighted content is illegal in the country (like most places), and the team at vpnMentor doesn’t condone doing this. Austrian ISPs are even forced to block some torrenting sites, like The Pirate Bay, which is frequently used for illegally sharing copyrighted material.
Is it safe to use a free VPN in Austria?
No, using a free VPN for Austria isn’t recommended — such services often come with server, speed, or security restrictions. A premium VPN gives you unrestricted access to its server network, speeds, and security features.
Most free VPNs can’t be used for streaming because of limited server speeds. Also, they have weak security and privacy measures, so you don’t get any protection from cyber attacks. Some free VPNs even inject malware into your device or collect your data to sell to marketers.
What can I watch in Austria using a VPN?
You can privately watch most local streaming platforms. That said, you will need a VPN with servers in Austria and fast speeds to watch local channels securely and buffer-free. This inlcudes:
- ATV
- ORF 1
- Puls 4
- Servus TV
- Kanal Telemedial
- Melodie Express
- ZDF
- Prosieben Austria
While, theoretically, you could use a VPN to obtain an Austrian IP address and watch Austrian streaming platforms abroad, this action may constitute a copyright infringement. You’re responsible for how you choose to use a VPN, so please be sure to follow all applicable rules and regulations.
Why is my Austria VPN not working, and how can I fix it?
First, you should try using an alternative local server. Speeds and functionality of VPN servers may vary, but the shortlisted VPNs deliver reliable speeds and are proven to work in Austria.
To ensure your VPN is working properly in Austria, use an online IP checker to confirm if your IP address matches the server location and an online DNS leak test to ensure DNS queries are routed through the VPN and not leaked. A reliable VPN with built-in leak protection, military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy should prevent any of your activity and identifiable private data from leaking or data theft.
Get the Best VPN for Austria
Using a VPN to secure your browsing and protect online banking while in Austria is a simple process. A VPN lets you effortlessly bypass ISP throttling and prevent hacker attacks with highly secure and fast servers. That said, finding one that’s suitable for the job can be difficult.
ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Austria. Its fast servers in many locations (including Austria) let you smoothly browse Austrian sites. Military-grade encryption and a no-logs policy also help keep you safe online. Plus, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free because it’s covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Austria...
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.
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