Best VPNs for Windows PC in 2025

Windows isn’t perfectly secure—your ISP can track your activity, hackers target unsecured networks, and some sites restrict content based on location. A VPN for Windows, however, encrypts your data, thus letting you bypass geo-blocks, prevent throttling, and torrent privately.

In April 2025, I tested over 20 VPNs to find the best Windows VPN for speed, streaming, security, and ease of use. I aimed to see which Windows VPN software delivers fast VPN Windows connections while keeping your data safe. Only five VPNs passed all my tests. Are you curious which ones? Keep on reading and find out!

🏷️ LIMITED OFFER: Get 77% OFF + 3 extra months! 🏷️

Best Windows VPN software

1. NordVPN

   the overall best VPN service in 2025
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   the fastest VPN for Windows PC at an affordable price
   9.5
3. Proton VPN

   a secure VPN app for Windows with a free plan
   8.6
4. TotalVPN

   the cheapest Windows VPN with a user-friendly interface
   8.2
5. IPVanish

   a reliable VPN for unblocking content on Windows
   8.4

The best VPNs for Windows analyzed

My team and I independently test and review Windows VPN software based on security, speed, unblocking capabilities, and pricing. Our rankings are regularly updated to reflect the latest findings. In April 2025, I re-tested over 20 VPNs for Windows PC, which led to changes in our recommendations. ExpressVPN and CyberGhost were removed due to inconsistent speeds and weaker unblocking—instead, ProtonVPN and TotalVPN secured their spots due to strong security and superior streaming capabilities. We also regularly update our in-depth Windows VPN reviews, thus ensuring that you get the most accurate recommendations based on real-world testing.

1. NordVPN - overall best VPN service in 2025

NordVPN is the overall best VPN for Windows in 2025. It offers outstanding security, top-tier speeds, and seamless unblocking. NordVPN uses advanced AES-256 encryption, has an independently audited no-logs policy, and uses obfuscated servers to bypass geo- or content restrictions. Whether you're streaming, gaming, or working, its Windows VPN software ensures a fast, private, and unrestricted experience.

Key features

I recognize NordVPN's advanced security as a standout feature. It employs AES-256 encryption and WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol, thus ensuring unmatched security and speed. The provider is developing an even more robust post-quantum encryption protocol called NordWhisper, which will make NordVPN invincible in the VPN market.

I tested NordVPN for Windows PC in real-life conditions, and its kill switch, split tunneling, and malware protection outperformed all the competitors. Unlike many other Windows VPN software, NordVPN offers specialty servers (Double VPN, Onion over VPN) for extra security. From a technical standpoint, NordLynx significantly boosts speed, making NordVPN the fastest Windows VPN for streaming and gaming.

Streaming and unblocking

I tested NordVPN on Windows with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ESPN+, and YoutubeTV—it unblocked all platforms instantly. Unlike some VPNs for Windows PC, NordVPN maintained fast VPN Windows speeds even on distant servers. Having tested over 20 VPN providers this month alone, I strongly recommend NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature, which bypasses tough geo-blocks without extra configuration. While other Windows VPN software struggles with specific platforms, NordVPN consistently unblocks regional content. Therefore, it is ideal for international streaming, offering low-latency, high-speed connections on over 7400 servers worldwide.

App support and pricing

NordVPN's Windows VPN software is intuitive, featuring one-click Quick Connect, customizable settings, and a robust security dashboard. Having tested various VPNs for Windows over time, I found NordVPN’s interface among the easiest to use, even for beginners. NordVPN offers consistent updates, 24/7 live support, and dedicated Windows features. Its pricing starts at $3.09/month, making it one of the best value propositions on the market. From a technical standpoint, NordVPN balances affordability and performance, which makes it the very best VPN for Windows in 2025.

Still not convinced? Read our in-depth NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark - best Windows VPN for fast speeds and effective unblocking

Surfshark stands out as one of the best VPNs for Windows PC due to its blazing-fast speeds, effective unblocking, and unlimited device connections. It leverages the WireGuard protocol for superior performance while maintaining strong security with AES-256 encryption. Surfshark effortlessly bypasses geo-restrictions, making it a top-tier choice for Windows streaming, gaming, and privacy.

Key features

Having tested multiple VPN providers, I recommend Surfshark for its exceptional balance of speed and security. As mentioned, it utilizes WireGuard and AES-256, thus ensuring robust privacy and lightning-fast connections.

I tested this VPN service in real-life conditions. Its CleanWeb feature effectively blocked ads and trackers, reducing loading times on Windows. Unlike some VPNs for Windows PCs, Surfshark offers NoBorders mode, which bypasses strict censorship, making it ideal for restricted networks such as the ones in China, India, or Iran.

From a technical standpoint, Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol delivers some of the fastest speeds among today’s VPNs, outperforming providers that still rely on OpenVPN. If you're looking for fast, secure, and budget-friendly Windows VPN software, Surfshark is an excellent choice.

Streaming and unblocking

I tested Surfshark for Windows with Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, and it successfully unblocked all these platforms without buffering. After extensive in-house testing, I recommend Surfshark for its Smart DNS feature, which allows streaming even on devices that don’t support VPN apps.

Unlike some competing Windows VPN software with a smaller server fleet, Surfshark boasts an incredible 3200 servers in 100 countries’ network. This ensures a wide selection of reliable streaming servers. From a technical standpoint, WireGuard’s efficiency minimizes speed loss, making Surfshark one of the fastest Windows VPNs for streaming. In my experience, Surfshark’s unblocking capabilities rival top-tier VPNs like NordVPN, making it a splendid Windows VPN for international content access.

App support and pricing

Surfshark’s Windows VPN software is intuitive, featuring a one-click Quick Connect, an easy-to-navigate dashboard, and an automatic kill switch for additional security. Having tested various VPNs for Windows, I found Surfshark’s app to be one of the most user-friendly, regardless of your experience with VPNs.

Unlike most competitors, Surfshark offers Unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an excellent value for families or multiple-device households. Surfshark’s pricing starts at $1.99/month, making it one of the most affordable premium VPNs.

From a technical standpoint, Surfshark’s commitment to transparency, including independent security audits, makes it a trustworthy choice for Windows users looking for affordability and robust performance.

Still not convinced? Read our in-depth Surfshark review

3. Proton VPN - best open-source VPN for Windows with a free plan

Proton VPN stands out as the best open-source VPN for Windows. It offers top-tier security, a strict no-logs policy, and a free plan with unlimited data. Its open source ensures transparency, and advanced features like Secure Core provide additional protection. If privacy is your priority, Proton VPN is a solid choice.

Key features

Proton VPN offers robust security with Secure Core servers, which route traffic through privacy-friendly countries for added anonymity. Having experience with all the leading VPN providers, I really appreciate its open-source transparency, which sets it apart from many competitors.

In April 2025, I tested Proton VPN service in real-life conditions, and its WireGuard protocol delivered fast and stable connections on Windows. Proton VPN’s NetShield feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, improving browsing security. Unlike some other providers, it maintains a strict no-logs policy and is independently audited to ensure compliance.

From a technical standpoint, Proton’s kill switch and Always-On VPN features prevent accidental data leaks, making it an excellent choice for privacy-focused users. While its free plan has limited servers, the premium plans provide access to impressive 9900+ servers in 117+ countries worldwide.

Streaming and unblocking

During testing, Proton VPN successfully unblocked Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ on Windows. Its Stealth VPN feature helped bypass VPN blocks, making it a great choice for streaming in restricted regions.

I confidently recommend Proton VPN for its fast WireGuard connections, which ensure smooth HD streaming without buffering. Compared to Surfshark and NordVPN, it has fewer streaming-optimized servers, yet its premium plans reliably access all major platforms.

From a technical standpoint, ProtonVPN’s Secure Core servers add extra privacy by routing traffic through high-security locations. This is especially useful for unblocking geo-restricted content while maintaining anonymity. However, note that the free plan does not support streaming, so you’ll need a Plus or Visionary plan for full access.

App support and pricing

Proton VPN offers a dedicated Windows app with an intuitive interface. The app allows easy server selection and quick connection. In my experience, the app runs smoothly and includes features like split tunneling, a kill switch, and NetShield for ad and malware blocking.

After extensive research and testing of all major VPN providers, I genuinely appreciate ProtonVPN’s commitment to open-source transparency. Unlike some competitors, this service is fully transparent about its data handling practices.

ProtonVPN’s pricing includes a free plan with unlimited data but limited servers. Paid plans start at $3.59/month, offering 9900+ servers in 117+ countries. While its premium pricing is higher than Surfshark, the strong privacy features and no-logs policy make it a worthwhile investment for security-conscious users.

Still not convinced? Read our in-depth Proton VPN review.

4. TotalVPN - best VPN for Windows for its cheap and user-friendly app

TotalVPN stands out as one of the most affordable VPNs for Windows, offering a straightforward app with a simple one-click connection. It’s ideal for beginners looking for fast servers, solid encryption, and seamless browsing. While it may lack advanced features, it delivers great value for budget-conscious users.

Key features

I tested TotalVPN service in real-life conditions, and this provider impressed me with its no-fuss Windows app, designed for quick and easy connections. Unlike some competitors, it prioritizes simplicity over complexity, making it an excellent choice for casual users.

From a technical standpoint, TotalVPN offers AES-256 encryption and multiple protocol options (including OpenVPN and IKEv2) to balance security and speed. However, compared to the top competitors like NordVPN, it lacks advanced privacy tools such as obfuscation or dedicated IPs.

I recommend TotalVPN for its straightforward functionality and budget-friendly pricing. However, it’s best suited for users who need basic security and unrestricted browsing rather than power-user features.

Streaming and unblocking

I tested TotalVPN’s streaming capabilities on a Windows PC. It successfully unblocked Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu but struggled with Amazon Prime Video and Disney+. Its optimized servers ensure smooth playback, though speeds can be inconsistent compared to premium VPNs like NordVPN. I understand the technical intricacies of geo-restriction bypassing, and while TotalVPN gets the job done for major platforms, it lacks Smart DNS or dedicated streaming servers.

From a technical standpoint, TotalVPN’s server count is lower than competitors, which may lead to congestion during peak hours. However, its affordability makes it a solid entry-level option for casual streaming on Windows.

App support and pricing

TotalVPN offers native apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Its minimalist interface prioritizes ease of use. I recommend TotalVPN for users who want a simple app without overwhelming settings or configurations.

In my experience, its one-click connect feature is ideal for beginners, though it lacks advanced settings like split tunneling, which is found in competitors like Surfshark or CyberGhost.

Pricing-wise, TotalVPN is one of the cheapest VPNs available, with plans starting at just $1.59/month. Unlike some competitors, TotalVPN’s pricing structure is transparent despite the limited free trial, which is, in fact, a 30-day money-back guarantee. Therefore, if you’re looking for an affordable VPN for basic use on Windows, it’s a decent option.

Still not convinced? Read our in-depth TotalVPN review.

5. IPVanish - the best Windows VPN with a vast server network for unblocking

IPVanish is a standout VPN for Windows users. Its vast server network makes it ideal for bypassing geo-restrictions. Strong encryption, fast speeds, and a no-log policy offer a solid solution for privacy-conscious individuals and users needing access to content worldwide.

Key features

IPVanish stands out with its powerful security features, including AES-bit 256 encryption and an invincible no-logs policy, thus ensuring user privacy. During in-house testing, the service provided robust protection on Windows, even on public networks. I recommend IPVanish for its reliability and advanced security protocols like IKEv2, which offer fast enough speeds while maintaining privacy. IPVanish's automatic kill switch protects your data, even if the connection drops.

Streaming and unblocking

IPVanish excels in unblocking geo-restricted content. I tested this VPN service in real-life conditions, and it easily bypassed restrictions on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. IPVanish uses high-speed servers that ensure smooth streaming with minimal buffering. IPVanish's vast server network consistently outperformed many competitors, including ExpressVPN, in unblocking content.

App support and pricing

IPVanish offers user-friendly apps for Windows, Android, and other platforms, ensuring a relatively seamless experience. Pricing is competitive, starting at $2.19/month, thus offering excellent value compared to premium VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark. I found IPVanish apps responsive and easy to navigate, making it equally convenient for both beginners and experienced users. I recommend IPVanish for its versatility and pricing plans, which provide great options without compromising features.

Still not convinced? Read our in-depth IPVanish review.

Windows VPNs comparison table

How to choose the best VPN for Windows: our methodology

At VPNpro, my team and I have been thoroughly reviewing VPN providers for years, thus ensuring that we provide the most reliable recommendations. We’ve tested most VPNs on the market to find the very best Windows options, and this process took several weeks to ensure that every detail was covered.

The information you see here is constantly updated to reflect the latest VPN performance and features. Our testing criteria are extensive, focusing on the most critical factors for Windows users:

• Top-notch security. My team and I look for Windows VPNs with robust encryption and privacy features. We pay close attention to VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, which offer the highest levels of protection.
• Streaming capabilities. I test how effectively each VPN unblocks popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. All VPNs I reviewed for this article easily bypassed geo-restrictions, allowing seamless access to content worldwide.
• Speed. Speed matters greatly when choosing a VPN, especially for streaming and online gaming. While writing this text, I personally ran over 10 speed tests per VPN provider and tested various server locations to gauge performance.
• Device compatibility and cost. My team and I evaluate device compatibility on Windows, ensuring each VPN works smoothly with all versions. We also analyze pricing to ensure users get great value for their money.

While all the VPNs I shortlisted in this article performed well enough, the most important thing is to choose one that suits your individual needs, whether it's security, streaming, or speed. Below are my top recommendations based on different user preferences:

• Best for security: NordVPN
• Best for budget: Surfshark
• Best for privacy: ProtonVPN
• Best for speed: TotalVPN
• Best for streaming: IPVanish
  

How to set up a VPN on Windows

Setting up a VPN on Windows is quick and straightforward, but there may be slight differences depending on your Windows version. Windows 10 and 11 have built-in VPN support, allowing manual configuration, while older versions might require additional steps or third-party software.

Installing a VPN on Windows - an easy method:

1. Choose a VPN provider – pick a reliable VPN like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ProtonVPN
2. Download the app – visit the provider’s website and download the Windows application.
3. Install the VPN – run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Log in – open the app and sign in with your credentials.
5. Connect to a server – select a server location and click “Connect.”
6. Enjoy secure browsing – your connection is now encrypted, and your IP is hidden.

Manually Setting Up a VPN on Windows

If you prefer a manual setup, Windows allows you to configure a VPN via built-in settings:

1. Go to “Settings” > “Network & Internet” > “VPN.”
2. Click “Add a VPN connection.”
3. Enter your VPN details (server address, protocol, and login credentials).
4. Save and connect.

For the best experience, try NordVPN for Windows with a 7-day free trial for Android users and a 30-day money-back guarantee. It offers military-grade security, blazing speeds, and seamless streaming support.

Do VPNs support older Windows versions?

VPN support for older Windows versions is diminishing as Microsoft and VPN providers focus on newer operating systems. Microsoft has ended support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, meaning these systems no longer receive security updates, making them more vulnerable to threats. Consequently, many VPN providers discontinue support for these legacy systems to maintain security and performance standards.

VPN providers' support for older Windows versions:

• NordVPN. As of August 2024, NordVPN announced it would stop updating its Windows 7 and 8.1 apps due to Microsoft's lack of security updates.
• Surfshark. In August 2024, Surfshark decreased support for legacy Windows systems, including Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, to improve app performance and security.

• Microsoft is discontinuing its Defender VPN service across all platforms, including Windows 10 and 11, effective February 28, 2025.

Therefore, if you're using an older version of Windows, consider the following steps to maintain security and VPN compatibility:

1. Upgrade your operating system. Updating to Windows 10 or 11 ensures you receive the latest security updates and broader VPN support.
2. Choose VPNs supporting legacy systems. Some VPNs may still support older Windows versions, but this support is dwindling. For instance, AirVPN is noted to support Windows 7, though such support may not be indefinite.
3. Manual configuration. If a VPN app doesn't support your OS, consider manual configuration using built-in Windows VPN settings or third-party clients compatible with your system.
4. Enhance security measures. To mitigate risks associated with unsupported operating systems, ensure your system has the latest updates, use reputable antivirus software, and practice safe browsing habits.

Why you should use a VPN on Windows

A VPN for Windows enhances your privacy, security, and freedom online. By encrypting your internet connection, it prevents ISPs, hackers, and advertisers from tracking your activity. It also hides your IP address, making it appear like you're in another city or country, which allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and censorship worldwide.

Additionally, with a reliable VPN, you can securely access region-locked streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and others, even when traveling. A reliable VPN is also helpful in avoiding network restrictions in workplaces or schools. Finally - VPNs protect against bandwidth throttling, ensure safe torrenting, and prevent DDoS attacks during online gaming.

For top-tier privacy, blazing speeds, and reliable streaming access, NordVPN is the best choice for Windows users. With military-grade encryption, 7400+ servers worldwide, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, it ensures a seamless and secure browsing experience.

---

---

FAQs about Windows VPN

Does Windows have a built-in VPN?

Yes, Windows includes a built-in VPN client, but it requires manual configuration and doesn't offer encryption. Moreover, Microsoft is discontinuing its Defender VPN service across all platforms, including Windows 10 and 11, effective February 28, 2025. Therefore, to secure your connection, you need a reliable third-party VPN provider, such as NordVPN.

Is Windows VPN any good?

Windows’ built-in VPN is functional but lacks strong security features and ease of use. It’s better to use a premium VPN like NordVPN or Surfshark, which offers industry-leading encryption, faster speeds, and reliable access to geo-restricted content. If you opt for an entirely free VPN, I recommend Proton VPN’s free plan with limited features.

What is the safest VPN for Windows?

NordVPN, Surfshark, and ProtonVPN are the safest VPNs for Windows. They use AES-256 encryption, have independently audited no-logs policies and advanced security features, such as kill switches and split tunneling.

What is the fastest VPN for Windows?

NordVPN and Surfshark are the two fastest VPNs for Windows on the market. NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol significantly boosts performance, making it the speediest VPN for streaming, gaming, and browsing on Windows.

How to use a VPN on Windows?

To use a VPN on Windows, simply download and install a VPN app, log in, and connect to a server. Alternatively, you can manually configure a VPN in Windows settings, though this requires extra steps and lacks encryption. I recommend NordVPN, which has user-friendly apps for all major operating systems, including Windows.