Top10VPN's most recent report states that 31% of the world's internet users used a VPN, and with 5.52 billion internet users globally, this translates to over 1.7 billion VPN users worldwide.
Many internet users have encountered various online threats, including hacking, personal data leaks, and geographical restrictions. As the internet becomes a major part of daily life, ensuring online privacy and security and overcoming location-based restrictions have become even more important. This is where VPNs come into play!
Virtual private networks (VPNs) are tools for protecting personal data and online activities and bypassing geographical content restrictions. A VPN conceals your online activities from third parties such as your Internet Service Provider (ISP), government agencies, and cybercriminals.
While paid VPN services exist, free options are also available for various operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac, and Chromebook. If you're wondering where to start, this article will walk you through the best free VPNs for PC and highlight their compatibility with different operating systems.
Key Takeaways
- A VPN masks your real IP address and location, making your online activities private,. It alsoallows you to access ccontentfrom several regions by connecting to servers in those locations.
- A VPN is software that creates a secure connection between your computer and the internet by running your online traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a server in a remote location
- The limitations of free VPNs include limited server options, speed reduction, data caps, and limited features.
- When choosing a VPN, take your time to analyse your specific needs. Consider factors like data limits, server locations, streaming capabilities, and privacy policies.
- Some free VPNs may compromise safety by collecting and selling user data, so always research the provider's reputation before use.
Understanding free VPNs
A VPN is software that creates a secure connection between your computer and the internet by running your online traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a server in a remote location. It works by encrypting the data transmitted over your network connection, making it unreadable to intercept. This encrypted traffic is then routed through a secure server before reaching the website you want to access.
Benefits of using a VPN
- A VPN masks your real IP address and location, making your online activities private.
- Allows you to access contents from several regions by connecting to servers in those locations.
- It protects sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, and sensitive data from hackers.
Limitations of free VPNs
- Limited server locations: Free VPNs typically offer a limited number of servers, which can affect your ability to access content in specific regions.
- Speed reduction: Free VPNs may have slower connection speeds because many users share limited bandwidth.
- Data caps: Many free VPNs impose data caps, limiting the amount of data you can use each month. This can be a problem for streaming or heavy browsing.
- Limited features: Free VPNs typically offer a basic set of features that may not be sufficient to meet your privacy and security needs. They often lack advanced features like dedicated IP addresses.
- Free VPNs may experience connection instability or frequent disconnections because of limited resources and server overload.
- Some free VPNs may only support specific platforms or devices, reducing compatibility with your preferred system.
Top free VPNs for PC
Proton VPN
Proton-free VPN is a good option for users who value privacy and seek a VPN for basic browsing and security. It has unlimited data usage, but with limited server locations and moderate speeds. The speed may not be good enough for those looking to bypass geo-restrictions or need faster connections for streaming and downloading.
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Features | Description |
Compatibility | Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac, Chromebook |
Servers location | Limited servers include the Netherlands, Japan, Romania, Poland, and United States |
Bandwith limit | Unlimited |
Speed | Medium |
Encryption protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec |
Device connections | 1 device |
DNS leak protection | Yes |
Ads | No Advertisements |
Data privacy | Based in Switzerland with strict privacy laws |
Kill switch | Yes (disables the internet if VPN disconnects unexpectedly) |
Pros
- No data caps.
- Strong privacy protections.
- Secure encryption.
- Offers essential VPN features without any cost.
- Robust privacy policies.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons
- Limited server locations.
- Connection speeds are moderate, which may impact streaming or downloading
- Supports only one connected device at a time.
Windscribe
Windscribe Free VPN provides strong security, useful features, and ease of use. While the data cap is a significant limitation, it offers valuable features like access to servers in 10 countries, unlimited device connections, and a tracker blocker for added protection.
Features | Description |
Compatibility | Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac, Chromebook |
Servers location | Servers in 10 countries. |
Bandwidth limit | 10GB monthly data allowance |
Speed | Good |
Encryption protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec |
Device connections | Unlimited |
DNS leak protection | Yes |
Ads | No |
Data privacy | Strict No-logs Policy |
Pros
- Provides access to servers in many countries.
- Additional privacy features, including tracker blocker.
- User-Friendly Interface.
Cons
- Inconsistent speed on free servers
- 10GB data cap, which may not be enough for heavy internet users.
- Performance may reduce in the case of multiple simultaneous connections.
PrivadoVPN
Privado VPN free version is good for users that value privacy and moderate usage. It may not be suitable for heavy users or those that prefer multiple server options and reliable streaming.
Features | Description |
Compatibility | Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac |
Servers location | Access to 12 server locations |
Bandwidth limit | 10GB monthly data |
Speed | Good |
Encryption protocols | AES-256, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
Device connections | 1 |
DNS leak protection | Yes |
Ads | No |
Data privacy | No-logs policy |
Kill switch | Yes |
Pros
- Users can connect to servers in 12 locations.
- It has a strict no-logs policy to ensure user privacy.
- Strong encryption.
- Supports streaming.
- Located in Switzerland, known for strong privacy laws.
Cons
- The 10GB monthly data cap may limit heavy users or streamers, with bandwidth reduced to 1 Mbps afterward.
- Limited server access.
- Inconsistent streaming access.
- Free users may experience slower speeds.
- Single device connection on free plan
Hide.me
Hide.me is another VPN with a free version, providing users with unlimited data and strong security. However, its drawbacks include limited server options and unreliable streaming.
Features | Description |
Compatibility | Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac, Chromebook |
Servers location | 8 server locations |
Bandwidth limit | Unlimited |
Speed | Moderate speed (only for basic tasks) |
Encryption protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec |
Device Connections | One device at a time. |
DNS leak protection | Yes |
Ads | No ads or tracker |
Data privacy | No-logs policy |
Kill switch | Yes |
Pros
- No Data caps
- Strong privacy policy
- Secure encryption
- Works with some streaming platforms like Netflix and amazon
- Users-friendly Interface
- It does not display ads.
Cons
- Free users have access to only eight server locations
- Allows only one device connection.
- Speeds may vary depending on server load and location.
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield Free is another free VPN suitable for users seeking decent speed for basic browsing. However, it has a data limit, limited server access, and controversial privacy concerns, including allegations in 2017 of monitoring user activity and selling data to advertisers.
Features | Description |
Compatibility | Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac |
Servers location | Access to one U.S. server |
Bandwidth limit | 500 MB daily |
Speed | Decent speed |
Encryption protocols | Hydra (proprietary), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec |
Device connections | One device |
DNS leak protection | Yes |
Ads | Ads-supported |
Kill switch | No |
Pros
- Decent speed, which is suitable for browsing and light streaming.
- Strong Security.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons
- Limited server access
- Data cap may be restrictive for streaming
- Displays ads.
- Privacy concerns.
Best free VPNs for specific operating systems
Best free VPN for Windows 10 and Windows 11
Recommendation: Proton VPN
Justification: Proton VPN is recommended for Windows 10 and 11 users because of major features, like unlimited data and strong security features.
Features | Benefits for Window 10 and 11 users |
Strong Security (AES-256, ChaCha20, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2) | It provides privacy protection by securing user data and online activity. |
Unlimited data | Provides unlimited data and consistent browsing for everyday use. |
Kill switch | It prevents your IP address from getting exposed. |
Best free VPN for Mac
Recommendation: Windscribe VPN
Justification: Generous data allowance and compatibility with macOS.
Features | Benefits for macOS users |
Device connections | Allows you to connect all your devices at the same time. |
Dedicated macOS App | Offers a user-friendly interface and seamless integration with macOS. |
Kill switch(firewall) | It prevents your IP address from getting exposed. |
Tracker blocker | For added protection. |
Best free VPN for Chromebook
Recommendation: Hide.me
Justification: Easy setup on Chrome OS and reliable performance.
Features | Benefits for Chromebook users |
Reliable performance | Hide.me offers reliable connections and adequate speeds for everyday web browsing on Chromebooks |
Easy setup on Chrome OS | The Android app (for Chromebooks) is user-friendly and easy to set up. |
Kill switch | It prevents your IP address from getting exposed. |
How to choose the right free VPN for your PC
Security and privacy
Since one of your reasons for using a free VPN is to ensure privacy and online safety, choose a free VPN with strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy to protect your data and keep your activities private.
Data limits
Consider your internet usage when choosing a VPN. Select one with a higher data allowance or unlimited bandwidth for streaming or heavy use.
Server locations
A VPN with many server locations helps you access geo-restricted content, bypassing regional blocks on websites, streaming platforms, and apps.
Compatibility
Ensure that the VPN supports your operating system, whether it’s Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac, or Chromebook, and is easy to install.
FAQs
Are free VPNs safe to use?
Free VPNs can be safe if you choose reputable providers like Proton VPN or Windscribe with user privacy, strict no-logs policies, and strong encryption. However, some free VPNs may compromise safety by collecting and selling user data, so always research the provider's reputation before use. For instance, Hotshield has a history of privacy concerns.
Can free VPNs be used for streaming?
You can use free VPNs for streaming, but they often have limitations. They may struggle to bypass streaming platform restrictions, and data caps can make extended streaming almost impossible. You can try Windscribe light streaming.
Do free VPNs work on all PCs?
Most free VPNs work with major operating systems like Windows and macOS. However, some may not support specific devices, such as Chromebooks. Always review the VPN's compatibility list to ensure it works for your PC.
Can I use a free VPN on multiple devices?
Some free VPNs, like Windscribe, allow unlimited device connections.
How do free VPNs make money?
Free VPNs make money through various strategies, such as displaying ads or selling anonymized usage data. Try to choose transparent providers and value data protection.
Conclusion
Summary of top free VPNs for PC
As the internet becomes a major part of daily life, ensuring online privacy and security and overcoming location-based restrictions have become even more important, necessitating the need for VPN. Meanwhile, choosing the right VPN requires proper and careful research. Let’s concisely recap the recommended VPNs and their key features.
Proton VPN offers unlimited data and strong security but has limited servers/locations and moderate speeds.
Windscribe has a user-friendly interface with a built-in firewall and unlimited simultaneous connections. The cons include a data cap, inconsistent speeds, and limited free server locations.
Privado VPN has strong encryption and supports streaming on some servers. However, it has a 10GB data cap, limited server access, and a single device connection.
Hide.me has unlimited data, a strong privacy policy, and secure encryption, but with limited server options and one device connection at a time.
Hotspot Shield has a decent speed for basic browsing but is very restrictive with a 500MB daily data cap, limited to one US server, and displays ads. It also has a history of privacy concerns.
Final recommendations
When choosing a VPN, take your time to analyse your specific needs. Consider factors like data limits, server locations, streaming capabilities, and privacy policies. Understanding these aspects will help you select a VPN that suits your requirements and meets your needs. Also, you need to understand that not all free VPNs are safe, but you can choose reputable providers like Proton VPN or Windscribe with user privacy, strict no-logs policies, and strong encryption.
Disclaimer!
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