Linux users value privacy, security, and customization, and a reliable VPN for Linux enhances these benefits by protecting your online activities from snoopers, hackers, and even your Internet Service Provider (ISP). However, not all VPNs are created equal, and some services are better suited for Linux than others.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best VPN Linux, their features, and why using a VPN on your Linux machine is essential for maintaining your online privacy.
Why Use a VPN on Linux?
While Linux is considered more secure than other operating systems, it isn’t immune to online threats. Using a VPN for Linux provides the following advantages:
- Privacy Protection: A VPN hides your real IP address, ensuring that your location and personal data remain private.
- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Access blocked websites, streaming platforms, or services restricted by geographic location.
- Secure Public Wi-Fi: A VPN encrypts your connection, making it harder for hackers to intercept your data when connected to public Wi-Fi.
- Avoid ISP Throttling: Some ISPs slow down your internet when they detect certain activities like streaming or torrenting. A VPN masks your activities and helps prevent throttling.
What Makes a VPN Good for Linux?
When choosing the best VPN Linux, you need a service that offers compatibility, performance, and strong security features. Here are some criteria to consider:
- Linux Compatibility: Native Linux apps are essential for a smooth experience. Choose a VPN that provides easy-to-install software for popular Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, and others.
- Strong Encryption: Look for VPNs that offer AES-256 encryption, DNS leak protection, and support for secure protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard.
- No-Logs Policy: Choose a VPN that has a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t store any information about your online activities.
- Good Speed: A VPN should provide fast connection speeds, so it doesn’t slow down your browsing, streaming, or gaming activities.
- Customer Support for Linux: Many VPNs focus on Windows or macOS, but solid customer support for Linux-specific issues is a must for a good experience.
Best VPN for Linux: Top 5 Picks
Here are the best VPNs for Linux that offer excellent security, performance, and easy installation.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the top choices for Linux users, offering excellent security, fast speeds, and a user-friendly command-line app for Linux. With support for OpenVPN and the next-generation WireGuard-based protocol, NordLynx, NordVPN ensures privacy without compromising speed.
Key Features:
- AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN and NordLynx protocols
- Strict no-logs policy
- Over 5,400 servers in 60 countries
- Double VPN feature for extra security
- Easy-to-use command-line app for Linux
Pros:
- Strong encryption and privacy features
- Fast speeds with NordLynx protocol
- Wide server network for bypassing geo-blocks
- Excellent customer support for Linux
Cons:
- No graphical user interface (GUI) for Linux
- Can be pricier compared to some competitors
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is renowned for its excellent speed and top-notch security features, making it a great choice for Linux users. It offers a simple command-line interface and supports OpenVPN, ensuring seamless connection on all major Linux distributions.
Key Features:
- AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN protocol support
- 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
- No-logs policy independently audited
- Network Lock (kill switch) for Linux
Pros:
- Fast speeds and reliable performance
- Strong privacy and security features
- Network Lock (kill switch) available for Linux
- Excellent customer support
Cons:
- More expensive than some alternatives
- No dedicated Linux GUI
3. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused VPN service that offers a free plan with unlimited data, making it ideal for Linux users who prioritize security and privacy. ProtonVPN supports the OpenVPN protocol and provides a detailed setup guide for various Linux distributions.
Key Features:
- AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN and WireGuard support
- Strict no-logs policy
- Servers in 60+ countries
- Free plan with unlimited data (but limited to specific servers)
Pros:
- Strong focus on privacy and security
- Unlimited free plan for casual use
- Fast and reliable speeds on paid plans
- Native Linux support
Cons:
- Free plan has limited server locations
- No GUI for Linux users
4. Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is one of the most privacy-focused VPN services, offering complete anonymity by allowing users to sign up without an email address. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard, making it an excellent choice for Linux users who value security and simplicity.
Key Features:
- AES-256 encryption and WireGuard support
- No-logs policy with anonymous account setup
- Over 800 servers in 40+ countries
- Native Linux app with a simple user interface
Pros:
- Strong focus on privacy with anonymous payments
- Simple, native Linux app with GUI
- Supports advanced protocols like WireGuard
- Affordable flat-rate pricing
Cons:
- Smaller server network compared to competitors
- No advanced features like split tunneling
5. Surfshark
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that offers powerful features and great performance for Linux users. It supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it perfect for users who want to protect multiple devices with a single account.
Key Features:
- AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN and WireGuard support
- Over 3,200 servers in 100 countries
- No-logs policy
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
Pros:
- Budget-friendly with unlimited devices
- Strong security features
- WireGuard protocol for fast speeds
- Easy setup and command-line app for Linux
Cons:
- No native GUI for Linux
- Occasionally slower speeds on certain servers
6. X-VPN
X-VPN is a user-friendly VPN service that offers strong encryption and fast connections. While it doesn’t provide a native Linux app, X-VPN can be configured manually on Linux using OpenVPN. It’s a solid choice for users looking for a simple VPN solution with decent privacy protections.
Key Features:
- 5,000+ servers in 50+ locations
- AES-256 encryption
- 9 different VPN protocols (can be manually configured on Linux)
- No-logs policy
Pros:
- Easy to configure with OpenVPN on Linux
- Large server network for global access
- Flexible and user-friendly interface
Cons:
- No native Linux app (requires manual configuration)
- Free version has limited server access and features
- Speeds may vary on free servers
How to Set Up a VPN on Linux
Setting up a VPN on Linux can be straightforward, especially if the VPN provider offers native apps. Here’s a general guide on how to install and use a VPN on Linux:
1. Download and Install the VPN
Most VPNs for Linux provide a command-line app that you can install easily using terminal commands. Follow these steps:
- Go to the VPN provider’s website and download the Linux installation package.
- Open your terminal and follow the installation instructions. This usually involves running a few terminal commands such as:
3. kotlin4. sudo apt-get install <VPN-package>5.
- Authenticate with your VPN account details (username and password).
2. Connect to a VPN Server
Once installed, you can connect to a VPN server through the command-line interface. The exact command may vary depending on the VPN provider, but a common one is:
arduinosudo vpn-cli connect
You can also specify a particular server or region.
3. Test the VPN Connection
After connecting, ensure your VPN is working properly by checking your IP address using a website like WhatIsMyIP.com. This will confirm that your real IP is hidden, and you’re connected through the VPN server.
Conclusion
Finding the best VPN for Linux depends on your specific needs, whether you prioritize speed, privacy, or ease of use. NordVPN and X-VPN are excellent choices for overall performance and security, while ProtonVPN and Mullvad cater to privacy enthusiasts. For users looking for a budget-friendly option, Surfshark delivers great value with unlimited device connections.
Whether you’re securing your browsing, streaming content from another country, or protecting yourself on public Wi-Fi, these VPNs provide solid protection and seamless integration with Linux. By choosing one of the VPNs mentioned above, you can enjoy fast, secure, and private internet access on your Linux device.
Dariel Campbell is currently an English instructor at a university. She has experience in teaching and assessing English tests including TOEFL, IELTS, BULATS, FCE, CAE, and PTEG. With over a decade of teaching expertise, Dariel Campbell utilizes his knowledge to develop English lessons for her audience on English Overview.
