How to Safely Access Instagram From Anywhere in 2024

Instagram has been banned in many countries around the world, and it's also blocked on some public networks, so safely accessing the platform has become tricky for many people. While there are a few methods you can use with Instagram, most of them don’t offer the security you need, or their layers of security slow down your browsing, so the platform takes a long time to load.

However, there’s one method that stands out — a tried-and-tested VPN gives you secure access to Instagram from anywhere without slowing your connection. VPNs work by changing your real IP address with a new one from a location of your choice. Not only that, it prevents prying eyes from snooping on your browsing, so your Insta activity remains private.

After testing 40+ VPNs with my team, my top choice is ExpressVPN. It has the fastest speeds we tested and automatic obfuscation, so you can safely access Insta and Threads even via tough network blocks. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free. It’s backed by a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to request a full refund if you’re not satisfied. 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.

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

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.

How to Safely Access Instagram From Anywhere With a VPN: The Ultimate Guide

Accessing Instagram securely is crucial, especially when using public or untrusted networks. A VPN plays a vital role here, enhancing your privacy by masking your real IP address and encrypting your data. This helps keep your browsing safe from prying eyes, regardless of whether you're on a smartphone, tablet, or PC.

It’s really easy to set up a VPN to access Instagram safely. Here’s how:

1. Get a VPN

Choose a reliable VPN provider. I recommend ExpressVPN since it has the best speeds we’ve tested, allowing Instagram photos and Reels to load immediately. Plus, it has automatic obfuscation on every server, so you can access Insta even over the tough blocks you might find on public WiFi, workplace, or college networks.

It took me less than 5 minutes to set up an account

2. Download and Install the App

After selecting a VPN, download the app from the provider’s website. I recommend this method since you’ll be directly protected by the manufacturer’s money-back guarantee, but you can also download one from a trusted app store. Installation typically involves following easy on-screen instructions, setting the stage for enhanced online security.

Like all the VPNs below, ExpressVPN has a reliable money-back guarantee

3. Configure the App

While optional, configuring your VPN app can optimize its performance. Tweaking settings like choosing your protocol can help in balancing speed and security, which you might want to adjust based on the network you’re using to access Instagram.

Certain settings can also help you bypass VPN detection and avoid blocks, which will help you safely access Instagram, even on restrictive networks. You can also enable Connect on Startup, so your Insta sessions are always protected by the VPN.

Network Lock prevents your real IP leaking in case the VPN connection drops out

4. Connect to a Nearby Server

Connecting to a server close to your location often ensures the best speed and stability. This is critical for streaming and uploading content to Instagram smoothly and without interruptions.

Depending on the server you connect to, you may also see additional Instagram Music options for your stories.

You can connect to a server with 2 clicks with our recommended VPNs

5. Go to Instagram and Log In

Finally, open Instagram and log in. With the VPN active, your connection is now secure and encrypted.

This means you can enjoy browsing, interacting, and posting on Instagram and Threads with enhanced privacy, even on restrictive networks that block the app.

The whole process took less than 5 minutes in our tests

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.

Best VPNs to Safely Access Instagram From Anywhere in 2024

We only selected reasonably priced VPNs with large global server fleets. We made sure each one was fast enough for instant lag-free video while also offering enough connections for Insta fans with many devices. Finally, we checked that each money-back guarantee was legit.

1. ExpressVPN — Extremely Fast Speeds to Instantly Load Any Instagram Post

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested December 2024

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN has extremely fast speeds, meaning that you won’t have to deal with annoying interruptions while you browse through your friends’ Insta stories. During our tests, ExpressVPN had speeds way in excess of what’s needed for Insta, with an average drop of 4% (247 Mbps). We didn’t have any issues safely watching IGTV or Reels from anywhere, even on college WiFi networks that block social media.

This VPN is compatible with most operating systems, so you’ll be able to use it with Instagram on your smartphone, tablet, and computer. To keep all your devices protected, you can also set it up on your router. I followed the guides on its website and had it set up on my router in about 10 minutes. This way, I didn’t have to worry about connecting to the VPN every time I wanted to access Instagram with extra safety.

ExpressVPN’s only downside is that its prices are a bit high – starting at $4.99/month. However, I got a 61% discount when I signed up for a long-term plan, along with 3 months of free service. Plus, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

2. CyberGhost — No-Spy Servers Keep Your Instagram Activities Private

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost has a large number of NoSpy servers that keep all your Instagram activity secure. These are privately owned in Romania, outside the 5/9/14 Eyes data sharing alliances, and maintained by its own engineers to prevent third-party interference. I was also impressed that the server load remained below 70% during our tests, so we had no lag from overcrowding.

The only downside is the high price for the monthly subscription, which also only carries a 14-day money-back guarantee — shorter than ExpressVPN’s. However, you can get a long-term plan for as little as $2.19/month, which also has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can try CyberGhost for free for longer than most services on the market.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Large Server Network to Safely Access Instagram From Anywhere

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA has a massive server network around the world, allowing secure access to Instagram from anywhere. We tested PIA’s servers in the UK, US, Australia, and Canada, and all of them gave instant and safe access to the platform. This way, you won’t have to miss any news and posts from your favorite influencers.

My only concern is that its app may be a little confusing for beginners; it’s definitely more complex than CyberGhost and ExpressVPN. But, despite all the impressive tech, prices are remarkably competitive, starting at $2.19/month.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Instagram

We evaluated each VPN's ability to work with Instagram, focusing on speed tests and assessing security features. Speed was paramount, as Instagram's media-heavy content requires a robust connection to function seamlessly. Security features were scrutinized for their effectiveness in protecting your digital footprint, ensuring your online actions remain private.

For a comprehensive understanding of our testing procedures, we invite you to explore our methodology page. Here, you will find details compiled by our international team of experts who’ve meticulously tested VPNs to determine their efficacy. Feel free to use this deep dive into our methods as the basis for your own testing.

Other Methods to Safely Access Instagram From Anywhere

In scenarios where a VPN might not be preferred, there are other effective methods to access Instagram. However, it’s worth noting that these methods aren’t always reliable or secure and may already be blocked on certain networks.

• Use a proxy. Proxy servers mask your real IP and replace it with one from another location, similar to how a VPN works. However, unlike VPNs, most proxies do not encrypt your traffic, which means they offer limited security and privacy. There’s also a good chance that a managed network, like those at work or school, already blocks proxies.
• Tor browser. The Tor browser is designed for anonymous web surfing. It routes your traffic through multiple nodes, significantly obscuring your original IP address and location. While Tor provides a high degree of anonymity, its layered relays often result in slower browsing speeds, so it’s not always the best choice for Instagram. It can also cause suspicion from your ISP as Tor is used to access the dark web.

Tips to Keep Your Instagram Account Safe

Maintaining the security of your Instagram account involves more than just setting a decent password. Various strategies can be employed to safeguard your privacy and data, ensuring that your experience on the platform remains secure and enjoyable. Here are some basic tips to protect your Instagram account:

• Use a VPN. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, masking your IP address while you’re using Instagram. This prevents snoopers and potential attackers from spying on your activities and location, particularly if you’re using unsecured public WiFi networks.
• Use a private browser. Accessing Instagram through a private or incognito browser mode can help prevent the storage of cookies and browsing history, minimizing the risk of privacy breaches.
• Use two-factor authentication (2FA). Two-factor authentication adds an additional layer of security by requiring a second form of verification (like a text message or authentication app code) to access your account, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
• Don’t click links in unfamiliar DMs. Exercise caution by not clicking on links received in direct messages from unknown or untrusted sources, as these could lead to phishing sites intended to steal your credentials. Also, consider using a VPN’s malicious content blocker or antivirus software.
• Keep your profile private. By setting your profile to private, you can control who sees your posts and interacts with you, adding an extra layer of privacy. This is particularly vital if you post on your stories a lot, as this could give away your real-time location to strangers.
• Don’t allow data from partners. Restrict data sharing settings to prevent Instagram partners from accessing your personal data, thereby enhancing your privacy.
• Use a complex username. Opt for a username that isn’t easily guessable, which can deter attempts to hack or target your account.
• Use a password manager. Employ a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. This ensures that all your accounts, including Instagram, have a strong, unique password that’s hard to crack.
• Opt out of politically sensitive content. Insta now automatically opts users out of receiving politically sensitive content, which many feel leads to a healthier browsing experience. However, you may choose to opt in if you prefer.

FAQs on Accessing Instagram From Anywhere

Is using a VPN with Instagram legal?

Using a VPN with Instagram is generally legal, although it can depend on local laws in specific countries. Most nations allow VPN usage because it’s a tool for ensuring online privacy and security. However, countries like China, Russia, and Iran have restrictions or outright bans on VPNs. You should check your country's laws to avoid any legal issues.

Additionally, while it is not illegal to use a VPN with Instagram under most circumstances, it can violate Instagram’s Terms of Service, which may risk your account being temporarily blocked if detected.

Can Instagram detect the use of VPNs?

Instagram can potentially detect the use of VPNs. The platform has sophisticated algorithms designed to identify IP addresses and patterns typical of VPN usage. When a cluster of accounts logs in from the same IP address, which is common with VPN servers, Instagram may flag this as suspicious activity. To minimize this risk, it's advisable to use a reputable VPN service that regularly switches its IPs to ensure they're working.

This doesn't mean your account will be automatically banned, but Instagram might temporarily limit or restrict access to certain features as a security measure.

Is it possible to safely access Instagram from anywhere with a free VPN?

Accessing Instagram from anywhere with a free VPN is possible, but it comes with limitations and risks. Free VPNs often have fewer servers, which can lead to overcrowded connections and slower speeds. I recommend using premium VPN services that ensure faster connections, which will let you upload and enjoy content on Instagram with no delays.

There are also concerns about privacy with free VPNs, as some providers may log user activity or bombard you with ads. Some have even been found to be poorly disguised scams with hidden malware, which can compromise your Instagram account and your whole device.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs to safely access Instagram from anywhere...

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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