The Best Linux VPNs: Expert Tested and Reviewed for 2025

Linux is widely celebrated for its open-source nature, stability, and enhanced security features compared to proprietary operating systems. Its command-line interface (CLI) and granular control offer unparalleled power to users who value customization and transparency. However, even the most secure operating system isn't immune to online threats and privacy concerns. Your internet traffic can still be monitored by Internet Service Providers (ISPs), governments, or malicious actors, and your IP address remains visible, potentially revealing your location and online activities. This is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) becomes an indispensable tool for Linux users.

A VPN encrypts your internet connection, routing your data through a secure server operated by the VPN provider. This process effectively masks your real IP address and makes your online traffic unreadable to anyone trying to intercept it. For Linux users, integrating a VPN adds a critical layer of privacy and security, protecting sensitive data and preventing tracking. Furthermore, a VPN can help bypass geographical restrictions, allowing access to content and services that might otherwise be unavailable in your region.

The challenge for Linux users often lies in finding a VPN provider that offers dedicated, well-maintained software for their specific distribution. Many providers prioritize Windows and macOS, leaving Linux users with complex manual configurations or outdated command-line tools. While CLI-based VPNs are powerful for experienced users, a user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) can significantly simplify connection management and access to advanced features for everyone.

When selecting the best VPN for Linux, several factors come into play:

• Native Linux Support: Does the provider offer a dedicated application for Linux? Is it GUI-based or CLI-based? Does it support common distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Mint, and Arch?
• Ease of Installation and Use: How straightforward is the installation process? Is it available via standard package managers or requires manual setup? Is the interface intuitive?
• Security and Privacy Features: Does it offer strong encryption (AES-256)? Does it support modern protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN? Are essential features like a kill switch and DNS/IPv6 leak protection included and functional on Linux? Does the provider have a strict, audited no-logs policy?
• Performance: How does the VPN affect connection speeds and latency on Linux? Is it suitable for bandwidth-intensive tasks like streaming, torrenting, or online gaming?
• Server Network: Does the provider have servers in locations you need? A wider network offers more options for bypassing geo-restrictions and potentially better speeds.
• Customer Support: Is technical support available and knowledgeable about Linux-specific issues?
• Pricing and Value: Is the service affordable, and does it offer a money-back guarantee or free trial to test its Linux client?

At ZDNET, we've conducted extensive testing of VPN services, and for the Linux ecosystem, we've focused on providers that meet these criteria, offering reliable performance and user-friendly options for this powerful operating system.

What is the best Linux VPN right now?

Based on our testing and evaluation, Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out as our top recommendation for Linux users in 2025. PIA offers a rare combination of a full-featured GUI application for Linux, extensive customization options, and a commitment to privacy, all at a competitive price point. While its speeds can sometimes be inconsistent compared to the absolute fastest providers, its overall package for Linux users makes it the best choice.

Also: The best Linux laptops we've tested

The Best Linux VPNs in 2025: Our Top Picks

Here are the VPNs that performed best in our testing for Linux, balancing features, performance, ease of use, and privacy.

Private Internet Access (PIA) | Best Linux VPN overall

Private Internet Access (PIA) consistently ranks high in our overall VPN evaluations, and its support for Linux is particularly noteworthy. Unlike many competitors who offer only a command-line interface or require complex manual setups, PIA provides open-source GUI applications for a variety of popular Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian, Mint, Fedora, and Arch. This makes installation and daily use significantly easier for users who prefer a visual interface over the terminal.

For power users, PIA doesn't neglect CLI support either, offering the `piactl` command-line tool for scripting and automation. Manual configurations using OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols via the network manager are also fully supported, providing flexibility for different use cases and distributions.

PIA's Linux app is highly customizable, mirroring the rich settings available on its Windows and macOS clients. Users can choose between AES 128-bit and 256-bit encryption, configure split tunneling to route specific application traffic outside the VPN, and rely on a robust kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops. IPv6 leak protection is also standard. Advanced users can automate connections with custom scripts or optimize performance by tunneling traffic through specific ports, which can be particularly useful for activities like torrenting or online gaming. The ability to modify MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) settings within the Linux app can further enhance connectivity on unstable networks or during peer-to-peer file transfers.

With a vast server network spanning 91 countries, PIA offers ample options for obtaining IP addresses globally, including extensive coverage across all US states. In our speed tests on Linux, PIA delivered middling performance, generally experiencing no more than a 15% speed drop on nearby servers when using either WireGuard or OpenVPN protocols. While not the absolute fastest, this performance is more than adequate for most browsing, streaming, and torrenting activities.

A point of consideration for privacy-conscious users is PIA's headquarters in the United States, a member of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. However, PIA maintains a strict, audited no-logs policy, which has been proven in court multiple times when authorities requested user data that PIA simply did not possess. This commitment to not storing user activity logs helps mitigate concerns about its jurisdiction.

PIA stands out for its generous allowance of unlimited simultaneous connections across all its plans, making it an excellent value for individuals or families with multiple devices running various operating systems, including Linux. Pricing is competitive, especially on longer-term plans. A three-year plan costs $79 (approximately $2.03 per month), a one-year plan is $39 ($3.33 per month), and a monthly subscription is $11.95. PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test its Linux performance risk-free, and a 7-day free trial is available on Android and iOS.

Review: Private Internet Access

PIA Specs:

• Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
• Kill switch: Yes
• Countries: 91
• Jurisdiction: US
• Logging: Audited no-logs policy
• Platforms: Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Fire TV, browsers, routers
• Money-back guarantee: 30 days
• Trial: 7 days on Android and iOS

Pros:

• Full Linux GUI app available for popular distros
• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Highly customizable settings on Linux client
• Includes MACE ad/malware blocker

Cons:

• Speeds can be inconsistent
• US jurisdiction may be a concern for some

Mullvad VPN | Best speed- and privacy-focused VPN for Linux

Mullvad has built a strong reputation for its unwavering commitment to user privacy and security, and this philosophy extends robustly to its Linux support. Mullvad offers a lightweight yet effective GUI application for Linux, with repositories available for Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora. For users on other distributions, standard .deb files facilitate straightforward installation. The focus is on core VPN functionality without unnecessary complexity, making it appealing to Linux users who value minimalist, functional software.

One of Mullvad's most compelling features is its speed performance on Linux. In our tests, Mullvad delivered speeds that were remarkably close to those of industry leaders like ExpressVPN and NordVPN. We were particularly impressed by its performance over long distances, where it maintained minimal lag, a common challenge for many VPNs on Linux. This makes Mullvad an excellent choice for activities requiring low latency and high bandwidth.

Mullvad's privacy features are second to none. Account creation requires no personal information like email addresses; you are simply assigned a random account number. Payments can be made anonymously using cryptocurrencies or even cash mailed to their headquarters. This level of anonymity is a significant advantage for Linux users prioritizing privacy above all else. Mullvad also incorporates unique anti-tracking technologies, including built-in defense against AI-guided traffic analysis (DAITA) and support for the quantum-resistant WireGuard protocol, which is fully functional on its Linux client.

While Mullvad's server network is smaller than some competitors, with just over 720 servers in 49 countries, the quality and performance of these servers are consistently high. The focus is on providing reliable connections rather than sheer numbers. Mullvad supports both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols on Linux, along with essential features like a kill switch and split tunneling.

Mullvad's pricing model is unique and user-friendly: a flat rate of €5 per month (approximately $5.40), regardless of the subscription duration. This transparent pricing appeals to users who dislike tiered plans or auto-renewal price hikes. However, it does limit the number of simultaneous connections to five, which might be restrictive for users with many devices. Another limitation is the lack of port forwarding support.

Overall, Mullvad is an exceptional choice for Linux users who prioritize speed, privacy, and a straightforward, no-nonsense VPN experience. Its strong performance and commitment to anonymity make it a standout option.

Review: Mullvad VPN

Mullvad Specs:

• Simultaneous connections: Five
• Kill switch: Yes
• Countries: 49
• Jurisdiction: Sweden
• Logging: Audited no-logs policy
• Platforms: Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, browsers
• Money-back guarantee: 14 days
• Trial: No

Pros:

• Excellent speeds, especially over long distances
• Requires no personal information for account creation
• Strong privacy features, including WireGuard and DAITA defense
• Simple, flat-rate pricing
• Dedicated GUI app for major distros

Cons:

• Smaller server network compared to some competitors
• Limited to five simultaneous connections
• No port forwarding

NordVPN | Best Linux VPN for streaming and geo-restrictions

NordVPN is a household name in the VPN industry, known for its strong security features and extensive capabilities in bypassing geo-restrictions. For Linux users, NordVPN provides a robust solution, particularly if your primary use case involves accessing streaming services or content from different regions.

NordVPN excels at unblocking popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer, consistently providing access regardless of your location. Its vast server network, the most extensive on this list with over 7,600 servers in 118 countries, offers unparalleled options for obtaining IP addresses worldwide, making it ideal for global content access.

While NordVPN offers a GUI application for some Linux distributions, it's often considered a hybrid client. Many advanced features and configurations, such as setting up the Meshnet networking feature or utilizing obfuscated servers, still require interaction via the command-line interface. The CLI tool is powerful and well-documented, but users who prefer a purely GUI experience for all settings might find this a drawback.

NordVPN includes advanced security features like obfuscated servers and the proprietary NordWhisper protocol, designed to disguise your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. This is particularly useful for bypassing strict network firewalls or VPN blocks often encountered on school, corporate, or public Wi-Fi networks. The VPN also supports setting up a VPN gateway on Linux, allowing you to route traffic from other devices on your network through the secure VPN tunnel. The innovative Meshnet feature enables secure, direct connections between devices, facilitating file sharing, remote access, and even low-latency online gaming with friends globally.

NordVPN supports the WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol, known for its speed and security, alongside OpenVPN. It includes a reliable kill switch and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Performance is generally excellent, with high speeds suitable for streaming in high definition and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.

NordVPN's pricing structure offers tiered plans based on duration and features. A 24-month plan costs $81.36 (approximately $3.39 per month), a 12-month plan is $59.88 ($5 per month), and a single month costs $13. While competitive, users should be aware of potential price increases upon auto-renewal after the initial term. NordVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, plus a 7-day free trial on Android.

Review: NordVPN

NordVPN Specs:

• Simultaneous connections: 10
• Kill switch: Yes
• Countries: 118
• Jurisdiction: Panama
• Logging: Audited no-logs policy
• Platforms: Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Fire TV, browsers, routers
• Money-back guarantee: 30 days
• Trial: 7 days on Android

Pros:

• Extensive server coverage globally
• Highly effective at accessing streaming services and bypassing geo-restrictions
• High-speed connections with NordLynx protocol
• Advanced security features like obfuscated servers and Meshnet

Cons:

• Some features require CLI setup on Linux
• Auto-renewal prices can increase

IVPN | Most user-friendly Linux VPN

IVPN is a lesser-known but highly capable VPN service that puts a strong emphasis on privacy and user control, with excellent support for the Linux platform. IVPN distinguishes itself by offering multiple installation methods for Linux, catering to various user preferences and technical skill levels. You can install it from their official repository, using binaries, compiling from source code, or even via the Snap Store. This flexibility makes it one of the most accessible VPNs to get up and running on different Linux distributions.

Once installed, IVPN's Linux client is remarkably intuitive and minimalist. It provides a clean graphical interface that allows for easy connection management and configuration without needing to delve into the command line or network manager settings for basic operations. This user-friendly design makes IVPN an excellent choice for Linux users who are new to VPNs or simply prefer a straightforward experience.

Despite its simplicity, IVPN doesn't compromise on security or features. It supports the industry-standard WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, includes a reliable kill switch, and offers robust AntiTracker, DNS, and IPv6 leak protection. Useful functionalities like VPN pause, split tunneling, and the ability to "allow LAN traffic" (which lets you access local network resources while connected to the VPN) are also available and easily configurable through the GUI.

Similar to Mullvad, IVPN prioritizes user privacy by allowing account creation without requiring an email address. This focus on anonymity is a significant plus for privacy-conscious Linux users. IVPN also offers Multihop servers, which route your traffic through two VPN servers for an extra layer of encryption and anonymity.

IVPN's server network is relatively small compared to PIA or NordVPN, with just over 77 servers in 35 countries. While sufficient for basic privacy and security, this limits its effectiveness for bypassing geo-restrictions on a wide range of content. Pricing is also on the higher side. Plans start from $2 for one week, offering great flexibility for short-term use. Annual subscriptions cost $60, two years are $100, and three years are $140. The more affordable Standard plan is capped at only two simultaneous connections, which is quite restrictive; the Pro plan allows seven connections but is more expensive.

Despite the higher price and smaller network, IVPN's excellent Linux support, user-friendly GUI, and strong privacy features make it a compelling option, particularly for users who value ease of use and anonymity on their Linux machines.

IVPN Specs:

• Simultaneous connections: Varies (two on Standard, seven on Pro)
• Kill switch: Yes
• Countries: 35
• Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands
• Logging: Audited no-logs policy
• Platforms: Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, routers
• Money-back guarantee: 30 days
• Trial: No

Pros:

• Multiple flexible installation options for Linux
• Intuitive and minimalist GUI client
• Minimal signup information required
• Strong privacy features and Multihop servers

Cons:

• Limited server network
• More expensive than many competitors
• Standard plan has a low connection limit

Proton VPN | Best free Linux VPN

Finding a truly reliable and secure free VPN for Linux can be challenging, as many free services come with significant limitations or questionable privacy practices. Proton VPN stands out as an exception, offering a secure and functional free tier with dedicated Linux support. Developed by the team behind ProtonMail, Proton VPN is known for its strong focus on privacy and security, based in Switzerland.

Proton VPN provides a sleek GUI application for Linux, compatible with GNOME desktop environments on distributions like Debian, Ubuntu, and Fedora. This makes it easy to connect and manage settings without relying solely on the command line. For users who prefer it, a robust CLI tool (`protonvpn-cli`) is also available, offering advanced control and scripting capabilities.

The free tier of Proton VPN is particularly generous, offering unlimited bandwidth. This is a significant advantage over most free VPNs, which often impose strict data caps (commonly 10GB per month). While the free plan has limitations, such as access to servers in only three countries (US, Netherlands, Japan) and support for only one device, the unlimited bandwidth makes it viable for regular browsing and light streaming.

Proton VPN is open-source and has undergone independent security audits, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and privacy. It adheres to a strict zero-logging policy, ensuring your online activities are not recorded. The free version includes essential security features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection.

Upgrading to a paid plan unlocks Proton VPN's full potential, including access to a much larger server network (over 12,000 servers in 117 countries), support for P2P traffic, streaming-optimized servers, and advanced features like Secure Core (which routes traffic through hardened servers in privacy-friendly countries) and VPN Accelerator (technology designed to boost connection speeds). Paid plans also support port forwarding, a feature often desired by Linux users for torrenting or hosting services.

While Proton VPN's paid plans are not the cheapest on the market, they offer excellent value given the feature set and strong privacy credentials. Pricing for paid plans includes $107.76 for 24 months (approximately $4.49 per month), $59.88 for 12 months ($5 per month), and $10 for a single month. Paid plans allow up to 10 simultaneous connections and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For Linux users seeking a reliable free VPN or a premium service with a strong privacy focus and excellent Linux client support, Proton VPN is a top contender.

Review: Proton VPN

Proton VPN Specs:

• Simultaneous connections: 1 (Free), 10 (Paid)
• Kill switch: Yes
• Countries: 3 (Free), 117 (Paid)
• Jurisdiction: Switzerland
• Logging: Audited no-logs policy
• Platforms: Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, browsers, routers
• Money-back guarantee: 30 days (Paid)
• Trial: No (Free plan available)

Pros:

• Secure and reliable free Linux app with unlimited bandwidth
• P2P support on paid plans
• Strong privacy features, including Secure Core (paid) and full disk encryption
• Open-source and audited
• Dedicated GUI app for major distros

Cons:

• Limited customer support options
• Paid plans are relatively expensive
• Free plan has limited server locations and devices

Best Linux VPNs Compared

	Private Internet Access (PIA)	Mullvad	NordVPN	IVPN	Proton VPN
Native GUI app for Linux?	✅ Full GUI (GTK)	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
CLI app support	✅ piactl	✅ mullvad	✅ nordvpn	✅ ivpn-cli	✅ protonvpn-cli
Simultaneous connections	Unlimited	Five	10	Varies (two to seven)	10
Budget plan (approx.)	$2.03 per month (3 yrs)	$5.40 per month (flat)	$3.39 per month (2 yrs)	$3.89 per month (3 yrs)	$4.49 per month (2 yrs)
Network	Over 20,000 servers in 91 countries	Over 720 servers in 49 countries	Over 7,600 servers in 118 countries	Over 77 servers in 35 countries	Over 12,000 servers in 117 countries
Specialized servers	Streaming, dedicated IP	None	P2P, obfuscated, Onion Over VPN, double VPN	Double VPN	Streaming, Secure Core, P2P, dedicated IP
Split tunneling?	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Port forwarding?	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes
Jurisdiction	US	Sweden	Panama	British Virgin Islands	Switzerland
Data privacy	No-logging policy (audited)	No-logging policy (audited)	No-logging policy (audited)	No-logging policy (audited)	No-logging policy (audited)

Which Linux VPN is Right for You?

Choosing the ideal VPN for your Linux system depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

Choose this Linux VPN	If you want...
Private Internet Access	A highly adaptable app to customize your VPN experience on Linux, with unlimited devices.
Mullvad	The right combination of speed and privacy for secure and lag-free browsing, with strong anonymity features.
NordVPN	Strong geo-access capabilities to unlock content anywhere in the world, plus advanced networking features like Meshnet.
IVPN	Straightforward Linux installation options plus an intuitive GUI app for easy control and a focus on privacy.
Proton VPN	A reliable free VPN service for Linux without bandwidth restrictions, or a premium service with excellent privacy credentials.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Linux VPN

Selecting the right VPN for your Linux distribution requires careful consideration of several key factors to ensure it meets your security, privacy, and usability needs. Linux users often have unique requirements compared to users of other operating systems, particularly regarding installation methods and interface preferences.

• Native Linux Support: This is perhaps the most critical factor. Many VPN providers offer only generic OpenVPN configuration files for Linux, requiring users to set up the VPN manually through the command line or network manager. While this is feasible for experienced users, it can be daunting for beginners and often means missing out on advanced features managed through a dedicated client. Look for providers that offer a native Linux application. Ideally, this would be a GUI application that provides an easy-to-use interface for connecting, changing servers, and configuring settings. Providers like PIA, Mullvad, IVPN, and Proton VPN offer GUI clients for common distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora. If you're comfortable with the terminal, a robust CLI tool is also valuable for scripting and automation, offered by all the VPNs on our list.

• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Ensure the VPN supports your specific Linux distribution. While many providers focus on Debian and RPM-based systems (like Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora, CentOS), support for Arch Linux, openSUSE, or other less common distros might vary. Check the provider's website for specific compatibility details and installation instructions. If your distribution isn't explicitly supported with a native client, confirm that manual configuration via OpenVPN or WireGuard is well-documented and supported.

• Security and Privacy: A VPN's primary purpose is to enhance your online security and privacy. On Linux, this means ensuring the client software is well-integrated and implements robust security measures. Key features to look for include: AES 256-bit encryption, considered the industry standard; support for modern, secure protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN; a reliable kill switch that automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN tunnel drops, preventing accidental data leaks; and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, which could reveal your real IP address. Crucially, the VPN provider must have a strict, independently audited no-logs policy, meaning they do not collect or store information about your online activities. Providers like Mullvad, PIA, NordVPN, IVPN, and Proton VPN have undergone such audits.

• Speed and Performance: Using a VPN inevitably adds some overhead, potentially reducing your internet speed. However, the best VPNs minimize this impact. Test the VPN's performance on your Linux system with different servers and protocols. Look for providers known for high speeds, especially if you plan on streaming high-definition video, downloading large files via P2P, or engaging in online gaming. Protocols like WireGuard are generally faster than OpenVPN, so ensure the client supports it and performs well.

• Streaming and Torrenting: If accessing geo-restricted streaming content (like Netflix libraries from other countries) or engaging in peer-to-peer file sharing (torrenting) is important to you, confirm that the VPN provider explicitly supports these activities on their network and with their Linux client. Some providers offer specialized servers optimized for streaming or P2P. NordVPN is particularly strong for streaming, while PIA and Proton VPN offer P2P-optimized servers and features like port forwarding (on paid plans for Proton VPN), which can improve torrenting performance.

• Customer Support: Even with user-friendly clients, technical issues can arise. Reliable customer support is essential. Look for providers offering 24/7 support via live chat or email. It's also beneficial if their support staff are knowledgeable about Linux-specific issues and can provide guidance on installation, configuration, and troubleshooting on various distributions.

• Reasonable Pricing: VPN services come in various price ranges. While free VPNs like Proton VPN's free tier can be useful for basic needs, paid services generally offer better performance, more features, and a larger server network. Compare pricing plans, focusing on longer-term subscriptions which typically offer significant discounts. Look for providers that offer a free trial or a money-back guarantee (like the 30-day guarantee offered by PIA, NordVPN, IVPN, and Proton VPN) so you can test the service on your Linux setup before committing financially.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a Linux VPN that provides the optimal balance of security, privacy, speed, and usability for your specific needs.

How We Test VPNs

At ZDNET, our VPN testing methodology is comprehensive and designed to evaluate services across various platforms and use cases. To determine the best VPNs for Linux, we adapted our standard procedures to specifically address the unique aspects of this operating system.

Our process begins by selecting a pool of reputable VPN providers known for their strong security practices and stated Linux support. We then install and test these services on multiple popular Linux distributions, including Debian, Ubuntu, and Arch Linux, using both GUI and CLI methods where available. We assess the ease of installation, the stability of the client software, and its integration with the system, such as compatibility with the network manager.

Security and privacy are paramount. We use network protocol analyzers like Wireshark to capture and inspect VPN connection packets, verifying that all data transmitted is properly encrypted and unreadable. We rigorously test the kill switch functionality by intentionally disrupting the VPN connection to ensure it effectively blocks internet traffic and prevents data leaks. We also conduct random leak tests across various server locations to confirm that the VPN successfully masks the user's real IP address and prevents DNS or IPv6 leaks.

Performance testing is conducted using tools like Ookla's CLI speed test. We first establish baseline speed readings without the VPN connected. Then, we repeat the tests with the VPN connected to nearby and distant servers using different protocols (primarily WireGuard and OpenVPN) to measure download speeds, upload speeds, and ping response times. This allows us to evaluate the VPN's impact on performance and identify services that maintain high speeds and low latency on Linux.

For streaming and geo-restriction bypassing, we test the VPN's ability to access popular streaming platforms from different regions. We connect to servers in various countries and attempt to stream content from services like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer to confirm their effectiveness.

Finally, we evaluate the user experience, including the intuitiveness of the client interface (GUI or CLI), the availability and helpfulness of customer support, and the clarity of documentation for Linux users.

This multi-faceted testing approach ensures that our recommendations for the best Linux VPNs are based on real-world performance, robust security, and practical usability on the Linux platform.

Disclosure: Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.

FAQs on Linux VPNs

Here are answers to some common questions about using VPNs on Linux.

Why should I use a VPN on Linux?

While Linux is known for its security, it doesn't inherently protect your online privacy or shield you from monitoring. Your internet traffic can still be intercepted and analyzed by your ISP, network administrators, or other third parties. A VPN encrypts your connection, making your data unreadable and hiding your IP address, which prevents tracking and enhances your anonymity. It's essential for protecting sensitive information, preventing ISP throttling based on your activity (like torrenting), and securely accessing public Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, a VPN allows you to bypass geographical restrictions to access content and services from around the world.

Does Linux have a built-in VPN?

No, Linux operating systems do not come with a built-in VPN service in the way that some commercial operating systems might offer basic VPN client functionality. However, Linux distributions have robust networking tools and support for standard VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard built into the kernel and network management utilities. This allows you to configure a VPN connection manually using configuration files provided by a VPN service provider. While manual setup is possible, using a dedicated VPN client application from a provider is often easier and provides access to more features like a kill switch, split tunneling, and server selection.

Is there a VPN with a full GUI app for Linux?

Yes, several VPN providers offer full graphical user interface (GUI) applications for Linux, making them much easier to use than command-line-only clients or manual configurations. Private Internet Access (PIA) is a prime example, offering a comprehensive GUI client for various distributions. Mullvad, IVPN, and Proton VPN also provide dedicated GUI applications. Some providers, like NordVPN, offer GUI clients, but certain advanced features may still require using the command-line interface for configuration.

Can I use a VPN on any Linux distribution?

Yes, you can generally use a VPN on most modern Linux distributions. The most popular distributions, such as Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Mint, and Arch, are typically well-supported by VPN providers with dedicated client applications or easy-to-use installation packages (like .deb or .rpm files). For less common distributions, or if a provider doesn't offer a specific client, you can almost always configure a VPN connection manually using the built-in networking tools and standard protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard. This usually involves importing configuration files provided by your VPN service into your system's network manager or using command-line tools.

What is the best VPN for Kali Linux?

Kali Linux, being a Debian-based distribution focused on penetration testing and digital forensics, is fully compatible with VPNs that support Debian. All the VPNs recommended in this guide – PIA, Mullvad, NordVPN, IVPN, and Proton VPN – can work on Kali Linux. Providers that offer a Debian package or support manual OpenVPN/WireGuard configurations are suitable. PIA, Mullvad, and Proton VPN offer native clients that can be installed on Kali. For any VPN, you can download the OpenVPN configuration files (.ovpn) from the provider's website and set up the connection manually using the Network Manager GUI or the `openvpn` command-line tool in Kali.

Other VPNs for Linux

While the VPNs listed above are our top recommendations, several other reputable providers offer solid Linux support worth considering depending on your specific needs.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service known for its high speeds and strong security. It offers a robust command-line client for Linux that is well-maintained and functional across various distributions. While it lacks a GUI, its CLI is powerful and reliable. ExpressVPN is an excellent option for users who frequently dual-boot between Linux and Windows, as it provides seamless, high-performance support on both platforms. A 12-month plan costs $8.32 per month (billed annually), and a 6-month plan is $9.99 per month. A two-year plan costs $5 per month.

View at ExpressVPN

Surfshark

Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that offers unlimited simultaneous connections and a feature-rich service. It provides a command-line interface client for Linux that is compatible with major distributions. Surfshark includes features like NoBorders mode and Camouflage mode, which are designed to help bypass VPN restrictions in countries with strict internet censorship, making it a good alternative for Linux users who travel frequently. The Starter plan costs $2 per month for two years.

View at Surfshark

IPVanish

IPVanish offers a command-line interface client for Linux and provides detailed setup guides for manual OpenVPN configurations on various Linux-based systems, including Raspberry Pi OS. Known for its strong speeds and unlimited connections, IPVanish is a solid choice for Linux users comfortable with CLI or manual setup, particularly if OpenVPN is your preferred protocol. The two-year introductory bundle starts from $2.19 per month.

View at IPVanish