Best VPN for Windows 11 in 2025

Upgrading to Windows 11 entails some exciting new features. However, some things remain unchanged, such as a lack of online privacy when using the operating system. Thankfully, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is the perfect solution for this problem.

A Windows 11 VPN will reroute your connection through a server in a remote area. That way, your actual location is hidden, your online activities encrypted, and geographical restrictions are gone. Of course, not all providers are compatible with the latest version of Windows. That is why we tested some of the most popular services to see which work seamlessly with the upgraded version.

Best VPN for Windows 11: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   The best VPN for Windows 11
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Windows 11 VPN with unlimited connections
   9.5
3. PrivateVPN

   Streaming VPN for Windows 11
   8.7
4. PureVPN

   Windows 11 VPN with the largest server network
   8.5
5. IPVanish

   Windows 11 VPN with bonus features
   8.4

Why do you need a VPN for Windows 11 in 2025?

Although the Windows operating system went through multiple iterations over the years, there are still areas that you can improve with third-party apps. One such area is privacy. Luckily, VPN software excels in this regard and provides much-needed confidentiality when using Microsoft’s operating system.

In a nutshell, a VPN works by redirecting your web traffic through an encrypted server in another location. This connection allows you to circumvent geo-blocks while keeping your browsing habits and identity secure. Not even your ISP will know what you’re up to online and won’t be able to perform data throttling when you’re streaming or torrenting.

Besides geographical restrictions, a virtual private network is also helpful in other cases. For example, it can improve your latency if you experience lagging while playing online video games. Gamers can also use a gaming VPN if a particular video game is subjected to geographical limitations and is unavailable in your region.

Furthermore, a VPN can supplement your Windows 11 device with additional protection against viruses, online trackers, ads, and malware. However, not every VPN service is equipped with the necessary tools against all online dangers. That’s why it’s essential to look at thorough descriptions of VPN services to see what benefits they offer.

Best VPNs for Windows 11: overview

A VPN needs to fulfill specific requirements to be considered worthwhile. After all, it should be versatile and valuable in many different scenarios. As such, we’ve highlighted 5 VPNs for Windows 11 that have:

• VPN kill switches
• Expansive server networks
• Modern tunneling protocols
• Affordable VPN prices
• Trustworthy privacy practices
• 24/7 customer support
• Ability to get around geo-blocks
• Immunity to DNS leaks

Below you will find a thorough exploration of each VPN provider and what benefits they offer.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for Windows 11

The best tool for keeping your Windows clear of security and privacy breaches is NordVPN. It’s ridiculously fast, has a vast selection of features, and is quite affordable.

For starters, NordVPN is equipped with 7100+ servers in 118+ countries. What’s noteworthy is that many of these servers utilize RAM-only technology to avoid storing data on hard drives. Meanwhile, lag-free browsing is ensured with the proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol, which is based on the open-source WireGuard.

NordVPN is frequently used to circumvent geographical restrictions by popular streaming services, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and many more. Plus, it guarantees excellent performance and security with the SmartPlay feature. Otherwise, the service is compatible with Amazon Fire TV Stick, Android TV, Roku, and Kodi.

Confidentiality is guaranteed thanks to NordVPN’s jurisdiction in Panama. Additionally, it went through multiple third-party audits of its no-logs policy to verify compliance. Lastly, privacy enthusiasts can minimize the amount of personally identifiable information shared by paying for the service anonymously using cryptocurrencies.

A single NordVPN account allows you to connect 10 different devices simultaneously. If that’s not enough, you can set up the VPN on a router. Then all devices on a single network are secured with a VPN connection.

If you’re not ready to commit, NordVPN offers a 7-day free trial on the Google Play Store. Alternatively, you can grab a subscription for $3.39/month and utilize the 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with the product.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – Windows 11 VPN with unlimited connections

Surfshark VPN is ideal for users with an entire data center filled with Windows 11 devices. It provides Unlimited simultaneous connections, reliable security, and outstanding performance.

First, Surfshark has 3200+ servers in 100+ countries. Unlike its predecessor, 100% of its network uses RAM-only server technology. Furthermore, customers can optimize the connection to meet their needs by alternating between WireGuard and IKEv2 tunneling protocols.

Movie connoisseurs will be glad to hear that Surfshark can unlock more content on streaming platforms like HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, and more. You can even use the service on devices that don’t support VPN software natively with the Smart DNS feature. For example, you can get around geo-blocks on gaming consoles and various smart TVs.

Surfshark is located in the Netherlands, a country without any data retention laws. Additionally, it went through numerous audits of its server infrastructure to obliterate any potential flaws in the system. Moreover, anonymity can be guaranteed by purchasing a subscription anonymously using cryptocurrencies.

Surfshark sets itself apart from the VPN industry by including antivirus software. It can be claimed as an optional bonus package that protects against malicious files, secures your browsing activities, and provides data breach monitoring.

You can get a taste of Surfshark by claiming the 7-day free trial on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. It includes all features except Surfshark One. Otherwise, subscription plans start at $2.19/month and are secured with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. PrivateVPN – streaming VPN for Windows 11

If you’re using your desktop as part of a home theater setup, you’ll need a Windows 11 VPN for streaming. PrivateVPN fills this role perfectly with its streaming servers and excellent geo-unblocking capabilities.

PrivateVPN runs a network of 200+ servers in 63+ countries. By retaining complete ownership of the server hardware, the service can prevent third parties from intercepting user connections. Speaking of which, customers can facilitate a VPN connection with the tried and trusted OpenVPN tunneling protocol.

When it comes to streaming, PrivateVPN is an ideal choice for unearthing more TV shows and movies on Disney Plus, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other platforms. Plus, you’ll have no trouble using this VPN on Android TV, Amazon FireOS devices, or Kodi.

PrivateVPN picked Sweden, a member of the Five Eyes alliance, as its home base. Luckily, it follows a strict zero-logs policy and keeps its users safe with many security features, such as Stealth VPN and split tunneling.

A single PrivateVPN account enables you to secure 10 different devices simultaneously. If you need more, you can configure a router manually with a VPN. This allows you to protect an entire household of devices with just one connection.

You can get started with PrivateVPN by grabbing a 7-day free trial on its official website. After that, pricing starts at $2.00/month and is protected with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.

4. PureVPN – Windows 11 VPN with the largest server network

Your selection of at-home devices may include various operating systems besides Windows 11. In such cases, PureVPN is the VPN to go with, thanks to its exceptional device compatibility.

To start, PureVPN runs a network of 6500+ servers in 71+ countries. If you’d prefer to have an IP address exclusive to your needs, you can grab a dedicated IP from seven locations (Singapore, Malta, Germany, Canada, UK, Australia, USA). And if you’re feeling adventurous, the WireGuard tunneling protocol is available to Windows users, but it’s still in the beta phase.

Any streaming fan will find PureVPN is an excellent supplement to a healthy content diet, thanks to its ability to get around geographical restrictions. For example, it can access more shows on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney Plus, and countless other platforms. Furthermore, the VPN works reliably on Raspberry Pi, Chromecast, Android TV, and Microsoft Surface.

After a long time in Hong Kong, PureVPN changed its jurisdiction to the privacy-oriented British Virgin Islands. It also completed two independent audits of its no-logs policy if that wasn’t enough. Unsurprisingly, you can reinforce your anonymity with this service by paying for it with cryptocurrencies.

One PureVPN subscription enables you to secure up to 10 different devices simultaneously. If even that’s not enough, you have the option to set up a router with a VPN. This allows you to secure an entire network with one connection while also trying out the DD-WRT applet.

You can test out PureVPN for 7-days for a small sum of $0.99. And once you’re ready to commit, subscriptions start at $2.16/month and are insured with a 31-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of PureVPN, read our PureVPN review.

5. IPVanish – Windows 11 VPN with bonus features

IPVanish is a service that aims to cover all aspects of digital security. In addition to a VPN, it can include online cloud storage or antivirus protection capabilities.

In terms of servers, IPVanish owns 2200+ in 51+ countries. It ensures top-notch performance by retaining complete control over the infrastructure and not relying on third-party vendors. Additionally, wicked-fast connection speeds are guaranteed when you enable the open-source and modern WireGuard tunneling protocol.

IPVanish is pretty capable in the geo-unblocking department and can provide more content when using Disney+, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming platforms. Additionally, it has dedicated apps for Android TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and ChromeOS.

Users seeking flawless anonymity might be disappointed to hear that IPVanish is based in the United States, a founding member of the Five Eyes alliance. And although the service claims to follow a zero-logs policy, there are no independent audits to prove that. Furthermore, there are no anonymous payment methods.

Besides the VPN, IPVanish offers two packages that include bonus cybersecurity features. One contains 500GB of secure cloud storage, while the other provides tools for protection against viruses.

Unlike the rest on this list, IPVanish does not offer a free trial. Thankfully, it’s still secured with a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to try out the service risk-free. Plus, subscription plans start at a mere $2.19/month.

For a deeper investigation of IPVanish, read our IPVanish review.

The best aspect of each Windows 11 VPN

These are the most stand-out features that make each Windows 11 VPN worth checking out.

Best VPN for Windows 11: video review

If you’d prefer to watch (or even listen) to our top VPNs for Windows 11 recommendations, check out our dedicated video on this topic. We swiftly cover the main benefits of each provider and whether they’re worth your time.

What to look for in a VPN for Windows 11?

There are numerous VPN services out there that you can choose from. If you decide to look for alternatives from the ones mentioned above, pay attention to these crucial aspects.

• Servers. A virtual private network is nothing without its servers. Although the number of available servers and countries is essential, check who owns the hardware and the underlying technology.
• Privacy. Not all VPN services are known for keeping your data private. Ensure the provider is located in a privacy-respecting jurisdiction, has an audited no-logs policy, and accepts anonymous payments.
• Speed. A VPN connection inevitably reduces your connection speed. To mitigate this, choose a provider that offers modern tunneling protocols, such as WireGuard. Additionally, you can see how different VPNs perform using our list of the fastest VPN providers.
• Security. Besides the essentials (kill switch, leak protection), VPN software can contain extra features against ads, phishing, trackers, and malware. If that’s crucial to you, check if the service provides such features for your OS.
• Price. Generally speaking, free VPN services are not worth the risk. However, good-quality service shouldn’t cost a fortune either. Ideally, the cost should be around $4/month on a long-term contract.
• Compatibility. VPN services are usually compatible with the most popular platforms (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android). Choose a provider that works with a wide range of platforms for better versatility.
• Customer support. It might be challenging to understand why a VPN isn’t working in a particular scenario if you’re not tech-savvy. That’s why it’s paramount to opt for a service that offers 24/7 customer support.

Should I pick a free VPN for Windows 11?

Whether you should pick a free VPN provider for Windows 11 depends on your use case. For example, free services aren’t recommended if you’re after data security and privacy. Meanwhile, they might be okay for getting around geographical restrictions. However, in most cases, free plans can’t compete with premium providers because they are bogged down by:

• Monthly data caps
• Abysmal bandwidth
• Miniscule server selection
• Poor security and significant vulnerabilities
• Inability to get around geo-blocks

Overall, your best bet is to try out a free plan of a premium service, such as Proton VPN. Alternatively, VPNs with free trials are worth a shot as well.

Bottom line

Upgrading to Windows 11 and staying on the cutting edge of technology could mean that your old apps aren’t compatible anymore. That is why we tested some of the best VPN services to see which work reliably on the newest version of Windows. Ensure that your online activities remain private by using a reliable VPN for Windows.

Have you upgraded to Windows 11? Which VPN are you using with it? Let us know by leaving a comment!

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FAQ

Does Windows 11 have a VPN?

Yes, it’s possible to configure a VPN connection manually in Windows 11 without requiring an external app. However, you will miss out on bonus features that the best VPN services package with their applications.

Does NordVPN support Windows 11?

Yes, NordVPN works with Windows 11 whether you want to use the dedicated app or configure the connection manually.

Which VPN is best for Windows?

The best VPN for Windows is NordVPN. First, it’s exceptionally fast with its proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol. Secondly, it has an extensive network of 5100+ servers in 60+ countries. It can also circumvent geographical restrictions easily and hide your online activities from your ISP.

Which free VPN is best for PC?

Free VPNs aren’t our first choice when it comes to online security. However, freemium services are quite reliable, even if they offer a limited set of features. Our top free VPN recommendation for PC is Proton VPN. the free plan provides 10GB/month of data, fast connections, a kill switch, and three different server location choices.