5 Best VPNs for Austria in 2023 — Global Streaming & Security

Geo-restrictions on streaming sites can stop you accessing international content when you're in Austria. In addition, Austrian sites like ORF Sport+ impose geoblocks, making it hard to stream local content from overseas too.

A VPN with a global server network can easily help unblock content anywhere. Advanced VPNs also employ strong security and privacy measures so you get extra protection against snoops and cyber threats.

My team and I tested 70+ VPNs, and ExpressVPN is my recommended service for Austria. Its servers are spread worldwide (including Austria) for seamlessly bypassing geo-restrictions, and they’re also super-fast for smooth UHD streaming. Plus, the VPN uses robust military-grade encryption and a no-logs policy to help maintain your online privacy. You can test ExpressVPN for Austria risk-free because it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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The Best VPNs for Austria — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)

The VPNs I’ve shortlisted for Austria provide fast global (and Austrian) servers. You can use them to access geo-restricted content or services in many locations. Besides, they all have AES encryption and provide robust protection against cyber threats.

I tested customer support for each of these services and got quick responses. The VPNs support multiple connections, too. Best of all, they all have trustworthy money-back guarantees so you can test them out with confidence.

1. ExpressVPN — Servers in Many Locations for Hassle-Free Content Access in Austria

ExpressVPN is excellent for bypassing global geoblocks, with a reliable server network across 94 countries. While testing ExpressVPN from Austria, I had no issues accessing Ozark on my Netflix US account. Equally, I accessed live streams on my ESPN and Comedy Central subscriptions. There are also multiple servers within Austria — you can swiftly unblock Austrian shows like SOKO Kitzbühel on ORF 1 or shop on Zalando from abroad.

The VPN’s servers are super-fast for streaming. My connection reached 47 Mbps, enabling smooth 4K streaming on my Netflix US account. Plus, unlimited bandwidth means ExpressVPN won’t cap your downloads or throttle your connection. That’s perfect for torrenting because you can download large files uninterrupted. I recommend using the VPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol, which offers great speeds without compromising security.

Of all the services I tested, ExpressVPN was the most secure. Military-grade encryption (also used by the NSA for communications) scrambles your traffic so that anyone trying to access your data can’t read it. Perfect Forward Secrecy keeps changing encryption keys to protect your browsing sessions from hacking. The protocols in place — like OpenVPN and Lightway — are super-safe for tunneling traffic. Plus, Network Lock (a kill switch) blocks internet access if the VPN connection accidentally drops (which I didn’t experience).

Privacy is enhanced by ExpressVPN’s strict no-logs policy. The VPN doesn’t store sensitive information that third parties can use to track you, like your online searches or location. Also, TrustedServer tech (RAM-only servers) wipes any data from the servers during regular reboots. The British Virgin Islands, where ExpressVPN is based, isn’t a member of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. Thus, the VPN isn’t bound by any data retention laws. My actual IP address was never exposed throughout my tests, thanks to the VPN’s IP/DNS leak protection.

Plus, the minimalistic design of the apps makes it easy to use the VPN. The MediaStreamer feature even allows you to stream US content on non-VPN-compatible devices like Smart TVs and gaming consoles. Moreover, live chat support is provided 24/7 in case you need assistance.

A minor con of the service is its pricey plans — the lowest subscription is $6.67/month. But there are also frequent giveaways and discounts offered by ExpressVPN. For instance, I got 49% off when I purchased the yearly plan.

Additionally, a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee supports ExpressVPN. When I canceled my subscription (by contacting a rep via live chat), my first payment was refunded back to my PayPal account within 3 days.

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2. CyberGhost — Ample Austrian Servers for Streaming Local Content From Abroad

CyberGhost offers hundreds of servers in Austria alone, enabling you to easily unblock local content while abroad. There are even streaming-optimized servers for Austrian channels like ORF and Servus TV. I accessed Österreich vom Feinsten when I tested CyberGhost’s dedicated ORF streaming servers. These optimized servers also work with popular sites like Netflix US, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Therefore, you can swiftly unblock US services in Austria.

Server speeds are fast and steady for activities like streaming and gaming. During my tests, the Austrian servers reached 42 Mbps, allowing me to stream in UHD without buffering. I had the same results with the US servers too. Even torrenting is well supported, thanks to the P2P-optimized servers offered in many locations (including Austria).

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.

A zero-logs policy helps to conceal your private data from snoops too. CyberGhost is based in privacy-friendly Romania (outside of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance), so your data can’t be shared with authorities. For a layer of extra privacy, you can upgrade to the NoSpy servers managed solely by the VPN’s in-house team. Moreover, CyberGhost has an ad/tracker/malware blocker that keeps troublesome ads away and warns you of malicious websites while browsing.

Thanks to the intuitive design, I needed only 3 minutes to install and get the VPN running on my smartphone. You can even reach out to customer reps 24/7 on live chat if you need help with anything.

Unfortunately, the monthly subscription is more than I’d like. Luckily, the longer plans are affordable, starting from just $2.19/month. I recommend extended plans, like the 3-year subscription, since they're the most pocket-friendly.

You can test CyberGhost for free in Austria, courtesy of the 45-day money-back guarantee policy. When I filled out the contact form on the support page to ask for a refund, my money was easily returned to my bank account within 4 days.

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3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Tough Safety Features for Extra Privacy on Austrian Public WiFi

With PIA’s advanced encryption features, you get good security while browsing in Austria. There are 128-bit and 256-bit encryption levels, so you can customize the VPN to suit your needs. The default 128-bit encryption was faster (while still secure) when I tested PIA. However, 256-bit encryption offers the best protection while using Bank Austria apps and public WiFi. I enabled the kill switch and secure protocols like OpenVPN while using the internet in a coffee shop in Vienna.

The VPN’s strict no-logs policy also helps to safeguard your data. Like CyberGhost, PIA offers a built-in ad and malware blocker (MACE) to give you peace of mind while browsing. IPv6/DNS leak protection conceals your identity on any websites you visit.

Unblocking international streaming accounts is easy due to PIA's large server network coverage. I easily accessed multiple episodes of Peaky Blinders on my BBC iPlayer account while in Austria. Its Austrian servers can give you IP addresses for watching local shows on your ATV or RTL+ accounts while traveling overseas too.

My streaming experience went smoothly because PIA remained fast throughout. Server speeds ranged between 36 and 40 Mbps, allowing buffer-free viewing. It also supports torrenting on all servers, with the SOCKS5 proxy and port forwarding to increase file transfer and download speeds.

Due to the many advanced settings offered by PIA, inexperienced VPN users might find the apps a bit confusing. However, it comes already configured and optimized, so you don't need to tweak anything unless you want to. Customer support is also available 24/7 on live chat to answer any questions.

You can get PIA’s protection from as low as $2.19/month. Though it offers a variety of plans, longer ones (like 3 years) are preferable since they’re cheaper. I also like that it accepts Bitcoin payments to enhance privacy.

PIA has a tried-and-tested 30-day money-back guarantee. I canceled my subscription by submitting a ticket on the support page. Shortly after, the refund was processed and the money appeared in my bank account within 5 days.

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4. IPVanish — Easy-To-Use Apps for Straightforward Connections While in Austria

IPVanish offers user-friendly apps across popular operating systems like Windows and Android. Using “Quick Connect” on the home screen, you can instantly launch servers in any location where you want to access content. I even tested IPVanish’s 24/7 live chat support and had a response within 20 seconds. Hence, there's ready assistance if you encounter any difficulties with the apps.

I didn’t experience geoblocks when I watched Stargate SG-1 on my Netflix US account from Austria. The server network spans 75 countries to help with bypassing global geo-restrictions. There are also 13 servers in Austria for unblocking your Netflix Austria, ORF Sport, or ZDF accounts if you aren’t in the country.

Plus, the VPN is more than fast enough for UHD streaming — I clocked 36 Mbps despite connecting multiple devices. It doesn’t limit bandwidth either, so you don’t have to worry about throttling or download restrictions while torrenting.

Safety on the internet is provided by AES 256-bit encryption (with Perfect Forward Secrecy) and a kill switch. Plus, the VPN supports secure protocols like OpenVPN and L2TP/IPsec. I didn't detect any data exposure, which indicates that its IP and DNS leak protection works well.

Privacy concerns may arise because the VPN is based in the US, a member of the 5 Eyes Alliance. However, I dug into the terms and conditions and I discovered that the VPN has a strict no-logs policy in place to protect your data. That means it doesn’t have anything to share with US authorities even if formally requested.

The lowest IPVanish plan is only $3.99/month. I recommend the yearly plan for a comparably better price than the monthly subscription.

You can try IPVanish for free using its 30-day money-back guarantee. If it doesn’t meet your expectations, claiming a refund is straightforward. I got mine by clicking the “I wish to cancel my subscription” option from my account dashboard. The money was returned to my PayPal account within 6 days.

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5. PrivateVPN — P2P-Optimized Servers for Efficient Torrenting in Austria

PrivateVPN offers useful torrenting features, including P2P servers with unlimited bandwidth for limitless file sharing. Also, port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxy support help to boost speeds for large downloads. It took me about 8 minutes to download a 1.8GB file when I tested PrivateVPN with uTorrent. The speeds, reaching 33 Mbps, enabled me to stream in UHD too.

Like PIA, the VPN has 128-bit and 256-bit encryption options — allowing you to choose between faster speeds or improved security. Added to that are a kill switch and the OpenVPN protocol. Your privacy is well protected too, thanks to a strict no-logs policy and DNS leak protection.

The simple user interface is convenient even for beginners. A team of experienced developers is on standby (22 hours a day) to assist with anything you need, including free remote installation.

A slight drawback is that the server network is relatively small. However, the VPN is reliable for accessing geoblocked shows like NCIS on Netflix US (or any streaming accounts you have). Its Austrian servers work well with local platforms like ATV, ORF 1, and ORF 2, too.

Subscriptions for PrivateVPN start from $2/month. The 3-year plan is the most economical; shorter ones are comparatively higher without offering any extra features.

There’s a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee backing the service. I submitted a refund request by filling out the contact form on the support page. My credit card was reimbursed the same week.

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Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Austria

Each VPN on this list had to meet my strict testing criteria — they all excel at bypassing geo-restrictions, 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 bypass geoblocks on certain sites, for example your Netflix and Amazon Prime Video accounts.
• Local (Austrian) servers — These help to access geo-restricted Austrian content or services when traveling overseas.
• Fast speeds — The VPN shouldn't noticeably compromise your speeds so you can stream buffer-free, torrent quickly, or game online without lag.
• 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.
• Easy to use — The design of the apps should be simple and intuitive. Plus, reliable customer support should be in place.
• 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.

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FAQs on Using a VPN for Austria

Why do you need a VPN in Austria?

Due to geo-restrictions, some content and services online might be out of reach if you travel to or out of Austria. However, a VPN with global and Austrian servers can easily help bypass geoblocks in countries around the world. This means you can access sites like your Netflix US account in Austria, and Austrian streaming sites like ORF1 from abroad.

Also, cyber crime is increasing in Austria. Hackers particularly target internet users on public WiFi hotspots. A VPN helps to protect you against cyber attacks by encrypting all your traffic and keeping your identity and online activity hidden.

Are VPNs legal in Austria?

Yes, using a VPN is permitted in Austria. As with most locations, you can unblock content on your subscriptions like Netflix US with a VPN, or even protect your privacy when using Austrian public WiFi.

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.

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 geoblocked content in many locations, plus unthrottled speeds for smooth streaming. You get robust security features too.

Most free VPNs can’t help with bypassing geo-restrictions or streaming because of limited server access and 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 do I do if my VPN is slow, or isn't working in Austria?

You can try using an alternative server. Speeds and functionality of VPN servers may vary, but the shortlisted VPNs deliver reliable speeds and are proven to work in Austria. A well-established, reliable VPN is the best option to help you bypass geoblocks while in Austria.

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The Bottom Line

Bypassing global geoblocks in Austria is easy with a VPN. You can unblock content on your Netflix US or Hulu accounts from Austria (or even Austrian shows from abroad) without problems. Also, VPNs encrypt your data and communications to protect you against cyber threats.

ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Austria. Its fast servers in many locations (including Austria) let you smoothly stream content anywhere. Military-grade encryption and a no-logs policy also help to keep you safe online. Plus, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free because it’s covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Austria