We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

5 Best VPNs for Ireland 2024: Streaming, Speed & Security

Husain Parvez Updated on 10th January 2024 Cybersecurity Researcher

Many international sites and services aren’t accessible in Ireland. Cyber threats (for example, ransomware attacks) are on the rise, especially when using public WiFi networks. So, keeping your online activity secure can also be difficult unless you use a VPN.

My team and I tested over 80 VPNs and found the best ones for Ireland. Each one offers global servers to avoid server congestion and Irish servers to access sites buffer-free. These VPNs have strong security features to protect your online data from snoops, too.

My top choice for Ireland is ExpressVPN. It comes with an extensive server network and blazing-fast speeds to access the content you need without buffering. The VPN also has military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy for safe web browsing. You can try ExpressVPN for Ireland without risk, since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Get the Best VPN for Ireland >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Ireland in 2024

  1. Editor's Choice
    ExpressVPN
    ExpressVPN
    Top choice for Ireland: vast network, high speeds for smooth streaming. Risk-free trial.
    70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN
  2. CyberGhost VPN
    CyberGhost
    Excellent security measures to safeguard your online activity in and outside of Ireland.
  3. Private Internet Access
    Private Internet Access
    Fast speeds for buffer-free Irish shows, but US-based, less privacy-friendly.
  4. IPVanish VPN
    IPVanish
    Covers all devices with multiple connections, but may not support some streaming platforms.
  5. PrivateVPN
    PrivateVPN
    P2P-enabled Irish and international servers for reliable torrenting, but has a smaller network.
Disclaimer: My team and I firmly stand against any breaches of copyright. The VPN services we recommend uphold strict policies against logging data, ensuring that your online behavior remains untracked and unmonitored. This means you bear responsibility for how you use your VPN, and it is imperative to comply with all applicable regulations.

Best VPNs for Ireland — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

All VPNs on my list provide an Ireland IP address with a global server network that helps you stay safe online. You also get reliable security features to maintain your online privacy.

The apps are easy-to-use, compatible with many devices, and come with professional live chat support. The best part is each service offers a reliable money-back guarantee, so you can try them without risk and easily get a refund.

1. ExpressVPN — Massive Global Network for Browsing Irish and Global Sites Without Slowdowns

  • Server speed and location: The fastest VPN I tested, with 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including Ireland
  • Security and privacy: Military-grade encryption, multiple security protocols, and TrustedServer technology
  • Simultaneous device connections: 8
  • Works with: Netflix (US & Ireland), Virgin Player, Disney+, TG4, Amazon Prime Video, All 4, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, ESPN+, ITV Hub, RTÉ Player, and more
  • Compatible with: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and more

ExpressVPN has a vast server network in 105 countries. This helped me watch shows and browse sites without running into slowdowns. While testing ExpressVPN, I used Irish servers to quickly stream on my streaming platforms in HD, like Netflix Ireland and Virgin Player. I also securely accessed my Sky Go, ITV Hub, and RTÉ Player accounts on public WiFi networks.

Lightning-fast speeds are ideal for buffer-free streaming. I tested the Irish servers and recorded 83.2 Mbps of average download speed — only a 5% drop compared to my base speed. This allowed me to binge-watch and browse without interruptions (just 25 Mbps is required for UHD streaming).

P2P-enabled servers allow torrenting, and thanks to unlimited bandwidth, you can download without data limits. There’s also split-tunneling to choose which apps should go through the VPN tunnel and which should use your regular internet connection. So, I downloaded files safely with the VPN while making video calls using my usual Irish connection.

Advanced security protocols such as Lightway and OpenVPN protect you online. Lightway offers robust security without compromising on speeds, and OpenVPN is the industry standard for online safety. Plus, the Network Lock feature (kill switch) safeguards your personal data from accidental exposure if the VPN connection suddenly drops — but it didn’t happen during my tests.

Your online activity is secured from snoops. Perfect Forward Secrecy frequently changes your encryption keys, making your data unreadable to hackers. The military-grade encryption also scrambles your data so no one can intercept it. My actual IP address wasn’t revealed either, thanks to the DNS/IPv6 leak protection. You can pay with Bitcoin for an additional layer of privacy.

The VPN doesn’t share your sensitive information with any third party. It’s based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances (a pact of countries exchanging information on their citizens) — in the British Virgin Islands. Plus, all data is wiped with every reboot, as VPN servers run on RAM only (TrustedServer technology), so nothing remains on a server. The VPN also follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t collect or sell your data.

A straightforward interface makes the apps beginner-friendly. It took me less than 5 minutes to download and set up ExpressVPN on my Linux PC. MediaStreamer lets you stream content interruption-free on devices that aren’t usually compatible with a VPN, too (like Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV/Stick, and gaming consoles). If you have questions, you can conveniently reach out to customer support via the 24/7 live chat or email ticket system.

I was disappointed that subscriptions are quite expensive, starting at $6.67/month. However, ExpressVPN regularly offers significant discounts. I got 49% off my 12-month plan and 3 extra months of use for free.

There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee backing the service. Getting a refund is hassle-free if the VPN doesn’t suit you. I tested this policy by contacting customer support through the live chat and answering a few basic questions. The money was credited back to my PayPal wallet within 3 days.

ExpressVPN Offer March 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 49% off! Don't miss out!

2. CyberGhost — Robust Security Features for Private Web Browsing in Ireland and Abroad

  • Server speed and location: Super-fast speeds on 11,690 servers in 100 countries, including Ireland (Dublin)
  • Security and privacy: AES 256-bit encryption, WiFi protection, and a no-logs policy
  • Simultaneous device connection: 7
  • Works with: Netflix (US & Ireland), Virgin Player, Disney+, TG4, Amazon Prime Video, All 4, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, ESPN+, ITV Hub, RTÉ Player, and more
  • Compatible with: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and more

CyberGhost safeguards your online activity even on public WiFi networks thanks to the automatic WiFi protection. I safely logged in to my AIB banking app without worrying about snoops. Your connection is also encrypted with AES 256-bit. I ran WebRTC/DNS/IPv6 leak tests on CyberGhost’s US servers and didn’t detect any. Plus, a kill switch protects your sensitive information against unexpected VPN drops.

A built-in ad and malware blocker identifies and blocks security risks and annoying pop-ups. I didn’t see any of them while browsing The Irish Times. Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost is based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances — in privacy-friendly Romania. The service also has a verified no-logs policy and a Bitcoin payment option.

Some servers are specially optimized for a better streaming experience on selected platforms, like RTÉ Player and Sky Go UK. With a network across 100 countries, the VPN offers you worldwide coverage. I had no problem securely accessing my bank account and shopping sites. I also streamed on online services (such as Virgin Media Player and TG4) without interruptions.

Watching the Premier League without buffering isn’t an issue, as the speeds are super-fast. My average download speed was 67.4 Mbps on the Ireland server. There are also P2P-optimized servers for fast torrenting. CyberGhost doesn’t have any bandwidth limits either, letting you download as much as you want.

The apps are easy-to-use and compatible with many devices — including routers, Amazon Fire TV, and gaming consoles. CyberGhost offers 24/7 live chat that's easy to reach if you run into any problems. I also chose the websites I didn’t want to pass through the VPN tunnel by adding a URL under the smart rules menu (in a section called “Exceptions”) on my Windows PC.

Monthly subscriptions are expensive and have short money-back guarantees (only 14 days). However, the long-term plans are cost-effective starting at $2.03/month. They also offer an extended refund period. I recommend getting the 3-year subscription as it’s the most affordable option in the long run.

A 45-day money-back guarantee lets you test CyberGhost for free. I canceled and applied for the refund through the online web form. The process wasn’t complicated, and the money was transferred to my bank account in just 4 days.

March 2024 Deal: CyberGhost is currently offering 83% off its most popular plan! Take advantage of this offer now and save more on your CyberGhost subscription.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Excellent Speeds to Watch Irish Shows Interruption-Free

  • Server speed and location: Impressive speeds with 29,650 servers in 91 countries, including Ireland
  • Security and privacy: Automatic kill switch and a built-in ad/malware blocker
  • Simultaneous device connections: Unlimited
  • Works with: Netflix (US & Ireland), Virgin Player, Disney+, TG4, Amazon Prime Video, All 4, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, ESPN+, ITV Hub, RTÉ Player, and more
  • Compatible with: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and more

Private Internet Access offers high-speed connections for watching your favorite shows in UHD. You can stream Shamrock Rovers’ matches on Sky Sports without buffering, as well. I ran multiple speed tests on PIA’s servers with great results. My average download speed on the Ireland server was 54.5 Mbps. Unlimited bandwidth also lets you stream as much as you want. Plus, the VPN allows P2P file sharing on all its servers.

A large server network across 91 countries allows you to bypass server congestion. I browsed, streamed, and downloaded online hassle-free without long loading times. Thanks to the Irish servers, I also securely accessed my Virgin Media Player buffer-free. It’s possible to get a dedicated IP that only you can use (for example, US or UK), which helps avoid VPN blocks, but it requires an extra fee.

The VPN lets you personalize the security settings according to your needs. You can choose between secure AES 128-bit encryption with an emphasis on speed and AES 256-bit (for even better protection). I also added an extra layer of safety by activating multi-hop and rerouting my VPN traffic through the SOCKS5 proxy. There are various security protocols available too, like OpenVPN and WireGuard (great for streaming as it’s speedy and secure).

One drawback is that PIA is based in the US (a core member of the 5 Eyes Alliance). However, the VPN offers a solid no-logs policy, so your personal information can’t be collected or shared. Like CyberGhost, PIA has a built-in ad and malware blocker (MACE) that prevents annoying ads from popping up. DNS/IPv6 leak protection and a kill switch also prevent accidental data exposure.

You can get PIA for as low as $2.03/month. As all plans come with the same features (including 24/7 live chat), I recommend the 2-year subscription as the most economical.

With a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s easy to get a full refund. I contacted customer support by email. My request was processed quickly by the support team, and I received the money in my PayPal account after 5 days.

March 2024 Update: PIA doesn't usually have deals or discounts (it's already so affordable), but right now you can get a new subscription for a crazy 82% off!

4. IPVanish — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Cover All Your Devices in Ireland and Beyond

  • Server speed and location: 2,400 fast servers in 90 countries, including Ireland (Dublin)
  • Security and privacy: AES 256-bit encryption and leak protection
  • Simultaneous device connections: Unlimited
  • Works with: Netflix (US & Ireland), Virgin Player, Disney+, TG4, All 4, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, ESPN+, ITV Hub, RTÉ Player, and more
  • Compatible with: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, routers, and more

IPVanish allows connecting all your devices at the same time. It’s compatible with major operating systems, routers, and media streaming devices like Amazon Fire TV and Kodi. During my IPVanish tests, I installed it on my Linux PC in just a few minutes. The apps are straightforward to use, but you can contact customer support through a 24/7 live chat if you require assistance.

Rapid connection speeds enable seamless HD content streaming without buffering and delay-free downloading of sizable files. Additionally, a SOCKS5 proxy contributes to speeding up torrenting activities. I noted an average download speed of 48.9 Mbps on the Irish servers, representing less than a 30% reduction from my baseline speed.

The VPN owns its entire network with no outsourced servers, so no third party can access them. Your personal data is safe with AES 256-bit encryption and top security protocols (OpenVPN and WireGuard). Thanks to the DNS/IPv6 leak protection, my actual IP address remained hidden. A kill switch further safeguards your data, and a zero-logs policy ensures IPVanish doesn’t log any personally identifiable information.

A small concern is that the VPN doesn’t work with all streaming services, such as Amazon Prime Video. However, ample servers located in 90 countries allow you to access major streaming platforms safely. I also streamed on my Netflix Ireland and RTÉ Player accounts buffer-free. Plus, Virgin Player worked without issues, and I watched Harlots in HD.

I find subscriptions very reasonably priced — the most affordable plan starts at only $2.75/month. It’s worth considering the yearly plan, as the monthly subscriptions come with significantly higher prices and no additional benefits.

You can test IPVanish for free thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee. I canceled my subscription effortlessly using the form on the VPN’s website. Afterwards, I just needed to follow up with a message to the support team. The money was back in my bank account in 7 days.

5. PrivateVPN — P2P-Friendly Servers for Quick Torrenting in and Outside of Ireland

  • Server speed and location: Decent speeds on 200 servers in 63 countries, including Ireland (Dublin)
  • Security and privacy: A kill switch and a no-logs policy
  • Simultaneous device connections: 10
  • Works with: Netflix (US & Ireland), Virgin Player, Disney+, TG4, Amazon Prime Video, All 4, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, ESPN+, ITV Hub, RTÉ Player, and more
  • Compatible with: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, routers, and more

PrivateVPN is good for reliable torrenting on all its servers and is compatible with major P2P clients. A SOCKS5 proxy and port forwarding also make your downloads faster. During PrivateVPN tests, it proved reliable for torrents. I downloaded a 2 GB file in just 6 minutes — plus, the VPN doesn’t have the bandwidth or data caps so you can torrent without limits.

There’s AES 256-bit encryption along with perfect forward secrecy to protect your data from cyber threats. The VPN follows a proven no-logs policy and comes with a kill switch. I didn’t detect any DNS/WebRTC/IPv6 leaks either. You can even sign up using a disposable email address for extra privacy and use Bitcoin for payments.

The customer support team can remotely install the VPN on your Windows, Mac, and Linux devices. The apps are user-friendly and come with 22/7 live chat — actual developers can answer any technical questions. The website also has an extensive knowledge base, including setup guides and tutorials. I quickly found how to set up the VPN on my Asus router.

One issue is that PrivateVPN has a relatively small server network. However, servers in 63 countries let you stay safe across the globe. You get Irish servers as well to access Virgin Media Player and All 4 in HD without interruptions.

You can get PrivateVPN for only $2/month. I find the 3-year plan the best option, as it has the same features as short-term plans but a lower price.

A 30-day money-back guarantee covers the VPN. Getting your money back is straightforward if you’re unsatisfied with the service. I contacted customer support through a live chat, and my credit card was reimbursed within 9 days.

Quick Guide: How to Set Up a VPN for Ireland in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN, with its vast server network (including Ireland) and reliable security features. You can try ExpressVPN with confidence as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Connect to a server. Choose a server in Ireland. Nearby servers offer you the fastest speeds.
  3. Start browsing. Now, you can safely access sites and stream content without interruptions.
Note: While you can use a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions on stream platforms from outside Ireland, this can go against the T&Cs of the streaming platform you’re using and could amount to copyright infringement.

Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Ireland

My recommended VPNs are an excellent choice for bypassing geo-blocks, buffer-free streaming, and safe browsing. However, if you want to make your own tests, you can use my checklist to pick the best VPN according to your needs:

  • Global server network (including Irish servers) — Pick a VPN with a global server network and Irish IP address to access your favorite sites without long loading times.
  • Fast speeds — Try to pick a VPN that doesn’t cut your speed by more than 50% to maintain buffer-free streaming.
  • Strong security and privacy features — Choose a VPN with AES 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, and leak protection to safeguard your online activity.
  • Easy-to-use apps — Select a service with a straightforward interface, an easy setup (for all major platforms like Android, iOS, and Windows), and live chat support.
  • Trustworthy money-back guarantee — Make sure the VPN you’re considering offers a tried-and-tested money-back guarantee to easily get a refund if you’re not 100% happy with it.

FAQs on Using a VPN for Ireland

Is it legal to use a VPN for Ireland?

Yes, using a VPN is legal in most countries, including Ireland (as long as you use it for legitimate purposes). A reliable VPN protects you online and keeps your data private.

However, some countries (like Russia and China) restrict or ban VPN use. So make sure you're up to date on the latest rules and regulations about VPNs in your location as they often change.

Which VPN is best for torrenting in Ireland?

All the VPNs on the list are great for torrenting. They have fast speeds and P2P-enabled global networks. Make sure you pick a torrent-friendly VPN with unlimited bandwidth to download as much as you want.

However, bear in mind that downloading copyrighted material is illegal in most countries, and we at vpnMentor don’t condone this. You may be able to access sites like The Pirate Bay and Mininova while using a VPN, but be wary of the files you choose (they may be copyrighted or harmful).

Why do I need a VPN for Ireland?

A VPN lets you access the content you need. This means you can use services from Ireland without interruptions. Some streaming services (like Virgin Media) block VPN use, but top VPNs let you easily stream online without interruptions. Simply connect to a server in Ireland to start streaming buffer-free.

Thanks to a VPN, your online traffic is also encrypted, so hackers can’t intercept your personal information. Some VPNs have built-in ad blockers to prevent annoying pop-ups. Plus, they allow you to safely access your e-banking services (for example, Bank of Ireland, Allied Irish Banks, or Citibank) even on unsecured public WiFi networks.

Can I use a free VPN for Ireland?

You can use a free VPN, but it’s not recommended. Using free VPNs may put your online privacy at risk as they often lack sufficient security measures. With cyber threats on the rise, it’s safer to use a trustworthy VPN with a money-back guarantee.

Many free VPNs are also known to store cookies on users’ devices to spy on their internet activities and sell data to third parties. Some even install malware on your device. Plus, most free services can’t reliably unblock geo-restricted content as their server network is limited. Many deliberately restrict their services (including speed, bandwidth, and servers), so you’re forced to upgrade to a paid version.

The Bottom Line

A VPN with a global server network lets you access Irish content without slowdowns. Fast speeds are necessary for seamless streaming and torrenting in Ireland. VPNs also keep your browsing activity private from prying eyes.

My top choice for Ireland is ExpressVPN. It has an extensive server network (including Ireland) and excellent security features. Plus, it offers lightning-fast speeds for interruption-free streaming. You can try ExpressVPN for Ireland risk-free as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Ireland

Rank
Provider
Our Score
Discount
Visit Website
1
medal
9.9 /10
9.9 Our Score
Save 49%!
2
9.7 /10
9.7 Our Score
Save 83%!
3
9.5 /10
9.5 Our Score
Save 82%!
4
9.4 /10
9.4 Our Score
Save 78%!
5
9.3 /10
9.3 Our Score
Save 85%!
Privacy Alert!

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 49% off.

Visit ExpressVPN

We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

Husain Parvez is a Cybersecurity Researcher and News Writer at vpnMentor, focusing on VPN reviews, detailed how-to guides, and hands-on tutorials. Husain is also a part of the vpnMentor Cybersecurity News bulletin and loves covering the latest events in cyberspace and data privacy.

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