As one of the most popular distros for Linux, it’s no surprise users are searching for the best Ubuntu VPN. Although switching to Linux software, like Ubuntu, is the first step into taking complete control of your device, many users still want the added protection that a VPN brings.
Fortunately, there are many Ubuntu VPNs that will keep you safe on your Linux machine. We’ve created a list of the best VPNs for Ubuntu users, as well as a guide on how to set up a VPN on Linux. Keep reading this article to find out everything you need to know about using a VPN on your Ubuntu machine.
Most VPNs will offer command-line apps for Ubuntu, which makes the setup process slightly different. However, NordVPN’s setup process for Linux distros like Ubuntu is a good indication of what to do.
First, you’ll need to open the Ubuntu terminal and enter the download command. This will differ depending on the VPN you use, and you can find it on the VPN website.
After this, you’ll need to follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. Once setup is complete, you’ll be able to control the VPN via the terminal with the relevant commands. Again, each VPN has different commands, so you’ll need to check out your VPN provider’s website to use these.
Most Ubuntu VPNs don’t offer apps with graphical interfaces, so this is something to keep in mind when choosing one. All of the VPNs below have command-line interfaces, meaning the setup process is slightly different to a VPN on a Windows or Mac system.
However, the VPNs below all offer excellent security and privacy features that will keep you safe on your Ubuntu distro. We’ve listed the best VPNs for Ubuntu so that you can immediately start protecting yourself on your distro.
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 6 |
|---|---|
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, Boxee Box, Chromecast, ChromeOS, FireOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Roku, Windows |
| Streaming: | Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouSee, DR TV, Disney+, Plex, Kodi, NBC, ESPN, BBC iPlayer, TV Player, HBO Go, HBO Max, Apple TV |
| Browser Extentions: | Firefox, Safari, Chrome |
Pros:
Fast connection
Zero-log policy
More than 5000 worldwide servers
Cons:
Few payment options
Split tunneling unavaible
6 Devices Maximum
Capabilities:
Unlimited Bandwidth
Kill Switch
Split Tunneling
Zero Data Logging
Free Version / Trial
Mobile App
Browser Extention
Netflix Approved
Firestick Compatible
NordVPN boasts an extensive list of high-quality features for Ubuntu users. There is a Double VPN encryption feature that will re-route your data through two different VPN server locations, for an additional layer of security. There is also the option to connect to an obfuscated server location that will mask the fact that you are using a VPN connection to overcome any VPN-bans.
When you install the command-line app for Ubuntu, you’ll also be protected by an integrated kill switch that you can activate in the VPN settings. The kill switch will ensure your web access remains protected even if the VPN connection drops for any reason. If the VPN fails, the kill switch will cease the transfer of any unencrypted file or information so that nothing is ever exposed.
Like all of the best VPNs, once installed, you’ll be protected by military-standard AES-256 bit encryption with secure protocols, including the open-source OpenVPN protocol. There is also support for Tor over VPN to send your data through the encrypted anonymous Tor network for access to Onion sites.
NordVPN even comes with a strict no-logging policy that renowned security company PricewaterhouseCoopers have independently audited. This means you can rest assured that your private data will never be misused or shared when using the Ubuntu VPN.
Nord operates on its own proprietary NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard software and is optimized to provide superfast server connection speeds. This means that you’ll get reliable connection speeds of up to 350Mbps, which is more than enough for most online activities. There is excellent streaming support, too, and the VPN can access the most popular streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more.
When it comes to device support, a NordVPN subscription comes with protection for up to 6 devices simultaneously, slightly more than the industry average.
There is a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the product with Ubuntu before committing to a paid plan. Configure and test the VPN on your Ubuntu device, and if you’re not completely happy, request a refund within the first 30 days.
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 5 |
|---|---|
| OS support: | Android, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
| Streaming: | |
| Browser Extentions: |
Pros:
Plenty of payment methods
24 hours live chat support
30 days money back guarantee
Cons:
More expensive than competitors
Only 5 simultaneous connections
No servers in Russia
Capabilities:
Unlimited Bandwidth
Kill Switch
Split Tunneling
Zero Data Logging
Free Version / Trial
Mobile App
Browser Extention
Netflix Approved
Firestick Compatible
ExpressVPN is arguably the best overall VPN service on the market, and it is no different when it comes to Linux distros like Ubuntu. The company is one of the longest-established in the VPN industry, and it is still one of the most popular among users. There is an extensive range of remote servers across 94 countries, powerful security features, an independently audited no-logs policy, and reliable streaming performance.
ExpressVPN also offers first-rate apps for Android and iOS and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox that work on Ubuntu. You can also manually select any of its servers across more than 94 countries using a command on the Ubuntu terminal. If you need assistance while setting up the Ubuntu VPN, there is 24/7 live chat and email support.
ExpressVPN comes with a host of advanced features, including a reliable integrated kill switch. There is military-grade AES-256 bit encryption and a 4096-bit RSA certificate and support for a host of powerful protocols.
Users will also have access to Perfect Forward Secrecy technology and use of ExpressVPN’s RAM-only servers, which are built on TrustedServer technology, to ensure no data is ever stored.
The company is based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, a country that does not impose strict data retention laws, which is a real draw for any user that wants to remain completely anonymous online. ExpressVPN also offers an independently audited no-logs policy for even more peace of mind. The policy states that the VPN will never monitor or save user activity data or any other personal information, which is good to know.
If you need an Ubuntu VPN for accessing geo-restricted content on sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more, ExpressVPN is an excellent and reliable option. Connection speeds are great, too, meaning that you can stream and game in high-definition on your Ubuntu device, without the need to worry about lagging or buffering.
The only real negative is the cost, which is significantly higher than some of its competitors, but it does arguably make up for that with its first-rate service. There is, unfortunately, no free trial, but there is a hassle-free 30-day money-back guarantee for all of ExpressVPN’s long-term plans.
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
| Streaming: | |
| Browser Extentions: |
Pros:
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Unblocks streaming services
Based in privacy-friendly country
Cons:
No phone support
No 12 month plan
Few payment methods
Capabilities:
Unlimited Bandwidth
Kill Switch
Split Tunneling
Zero Data Logging
Free Version / Trial
Mobile App
Browser Extention
Netflix Approved
Firestick Compatible
Surfshark is an excellent choice with its long-term plans starting at just $2.49 a month if you are looking for a more affordable VPN option. Fortunately, the low price does not mean there is a lack of features either.
Surfshark delivers a command-line-based OpenVPN product for Linux users. There is an impressive policy that supports an unlimited number of VPN connections too. This means that you can protect your Ubuntu, Windows, macOS, and iOS devices at the same time and even share the product with your friends and family too.
The VPN delivers all of the basics that we have come to expect from a premium VPN service, including military-standard AES-256 bit encryption and over 3000 secure remote servers across more than 65 countries. There is a MultiHop feature, too, that will allow you to reroute your data through multiple servers simultaneously for additional security.
Ubuntu users will also enjoy some advanced settings, including the protection of Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature that blocks malware and ads while you are browsing the web. There is also the option to use the VPN in obfuscation mode to hide the fact that you are using an encrypted VPN connection.
Surfshark offers a transparent no-logs policy that assures the VPN will never store or monitor user activities. Moreover, the company is based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, a real positive for security-conscious users.
The VPN is an excellent choice for streaming fans thanks to its support for all popular services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more. There is torrenting support, too, across most, although not all, servers. Connection speeds are impressive, especially if you connect with WireGuard, meaning you can stream and game on Ubuntu without lagging or buffering.
Unfortunately, not all of Surfshark’s features are available on Linux distros. Split tunneling is not available, which is disappointing.
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, ChromeOS, FireOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox 360, Xbox One |
| Streaming: | |
| Browser Extentions: |
Pros:
Unlimited simultaneous connections
24/7 customer support
Unblocks Netflix
Cons:
Based in US (Five Eyes)
Limited payment options
Doesn't unblock BBC iPlayer
Capabilities:
Unlimited Bandwidth
Kill Switch
Split Tunneling
Zero Data Logging
Free Version / Trial
Mobile App
Browser Extention
Netflix Approved
Firestick Compatible
Unlike many other Ubuntu VPN services, IPVanish does not limit the number of devices you can protect at one time. This is a major benefit if you own multiple devices, or you want to protect your partner’s or children’s devices too. The VPN offers support for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices too. There is support for secure VPN protocols and a network of servers spread across more than 50 countries.
Connection speeds are decent and sufficient for streaming in high-definition and even 4K without lag or buffering. There is also unlimited bandwidth, so you don’t need to worry about how much data you are consuming while watching your favorite overseas Netflix shows.
However, unlike some of the best Ubuntu VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, IPVanish’s Linux app is relatively simple and does not come with many advanced settings. For example, there is no kill switch to protect your data if the VPN connection drops for any reason or VPN obfuscation to mask the fact that you are using a VPN. Linux users cannot access LAN blocking or the OpenVPN Scramble feature that prevents firewalls from preventing VPN connections.
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 5 |
|---|---|
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
| Streaming: | |
| Browser Extentions: |
Pros:
Free version
Fast server speeds
Unblocks Netflix
Cons:
Expensive paid plan
Based in USA (5 Eyes)
Only 5 simultaneous connections
Capabilities:
Unlimited Bandwidth
Kill Switch
Split Tunneling
Zero Data Logging
Free Version / Trial
Mobile App
Browser Extention
Netflix Approved
Firestick Compatible
With servers across more than 80 countries, Hotspot Shield users have a wide choice when picking a location. The VPN operates on its own proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol, which is one of the fastest available. This means that it is an excellent choice for streaming in high-definition or 4K.
Although Hotspot Shield offers an excellent free VPN, there is no support for Linux on the free version. This means that if you wish to test the product, you’ll need to utilize the generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
There are a few downsides to Hotspot Shield, which may put off Ubuntu users. Unfortunately, many of Hotspot Shield’s settings and features are also not available for Ubuntu users, such as split tunneling. Moreover, the VPN claims that it does not monitor or store any user information; however, its privacy policy has not received an independent audit by a third party, which is slightly concerning.
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 7 |
|---|---|
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, iOS, Linux, macOS, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Roku, Windows, Xbox 360 |
| Streaming: | |
| Browser Extentions: |
Pros:
Located in privacy-friendly Romania
Accepts Bitcoin as a payment option
NoSpy server network
Cons:
Limited Netflix unblocking capability
No phone support
Uses virtual servers
Capabilities:
Unlimited Bandwidth
Kill Switch
Split Tunneling
Zero Data Logging
Free Version / Trial
Mobile App
Browser Extention
Netflix Approved
Firestick Compatible
CyberGhost is one of the most popular VPNs on the market. It delivers excellent streaming performance, reliable connection speeds, and some powerful security features.
If you don’t want to manually install OpenVPN on your Linux device, you can also utilize CyberGhost’s browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox on your Linux device. This will allow you to alternate between browsers and switch between security protocols with ease. There are apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Android TV, and Chrome.
CyberGhost is an excellent choice if you want to install a secure VPN to protect your online activities. There is a strict no-logging policy, military-standard AES-256 bit encryption, and the choice of IPSec/L2TP, OpenVPN, and PPTP protocols. Although it has not yet completed an independent audit, CyberGhost offers a reassuring privacy policy as well as a transparency report which states that it will never store or share customer web data.
Prices start at just $2.25 a month, as long as you are ready to commit to a longer-term subscription plan. You will get a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Although Linux distros like Ubuntu are way ahead of other operating systems in terms of privacy, they still benefit from a VPN. If you are an Ubuntu user then you definitely should be using a VPN. Firstly, you’ll get an additional layer of privacy for all your internet activities. Whether you’re streaming, torrenting, sending emails, or simply browsing the web, no third parties will be able to see what you’re doing.
Moreover, you’ll be able to unblock geo-restricted content from anywhere in the world with a VPN. You’ll just need to enter the server command in your Ubuntu command-line app to change your geo-location.
The OpenVPN Linux project delivers a new open-source client built on the OpenVPN Core Library, which is used across different OpenVPN Connect clients and OpenVPN for Android. Here’s how to install OpenVPN on Ubuntu.
To set up OpenVPN configuration on Ubuntu, you’ll need to use the integrated Network Manager. Go to your menu bar, click on the network icon, and then click “Settings.” On the VPN section, click “+.” Then, you’ll need to tap “Import from File.” Generate your OpenVPN configuration, leave the configuration as default, select your location, and enter your port/encryption before clicking “Generate” to download the configuration.
The OpenVPN configuration should now be in your download files. Change the configuration name to your desired connection name. Then enter your VPN username and password before clicking “Add” at the top right corner of your screen to finish the configuration and add your connection. Once you have added the connection configuration, click to manually connect to the VPN.
Not many VPNs offer support for Linux, and even fewer free VPNs support Linux and its distros such as Ubuntu. However, if you come across a free Ubuntu VPN, you may be tempted to install it and we’d advise that you don’t. A free VPN comes with many risks that outweigh the monetary savings you’ll enjoy.
Free VPNs lack secure privacy and security features. Even free services need to create money somehow, and many do so by storing and selling private user data to third parties. Free VPN services also offer poor unblocking performance, so you might not be able to unlock geo-restricted content. On top of that, free VPNs almost always come with a meager data bandwidth limit, making them suitable for little more than the simplest of browsing activities.
If you really want a free VPN for Ubuntu, then we recommend using ProtonVPN or PrivadoVPN. While both Hola VPN and Tuxler VPN offer good free community-powered services, these may lack the privacy features that Ubuntu users are looking for.
ProtonVPN offers an excellent free VPN for Ubuntu and other Linux distros. The VPN offers a graphical user interface for Ubuntu users, and a simpler setup process. Moreover, there is unlimited bandwidth with the free VPN, access to servers in three server locations, and similar security features as on the premium plan. The only downside to ProtonVPN’s free plan is that it permits one device connection, meaning you won’t be able to use the VPN on other devices simultaneously.
PrivadoVPN is another reputable free VPN service that works with Ubuntu. Its free plan comes with access to servers in twelve countries. There is also advanced security and privacy protection with AES-256 bit encryption, strong protocols, and a no-logs policy. Unfortunately, the free VPN has a monthly data limit of 10GB, which may not be enough for Ubuntu users.
Hi, I'm Cliff. I'm based in Cleveland, Ohio, with my wife and two kids.
I have a keen interest in cybersecurity and have been writing about it for around a decade now. Due to my background in computer science, I am familiar ...
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