Linux is an operating system for desktop and laptop, often used as a popular alternative for Windows or macOS. There are many reasons why users opt for Linux over more mainstream operating systems, but the biggest appeal is the fact that it is free. Unlike a license with Windows, which can set you back a couple of hundred dollars per device, Linux costs nothing. To run Linux in a user-friendly way on a device, you will need what’s known as a Linux distributor. That brings us to the purpose of this article, Ubuntu, and using it safely with a VPN.
Using Ubuntu on Linux allows you to download your favorite software and browse the web freely, including Netflix and other streaming services, thanks to its in-built repository. As with any internet connection or browsing activity, you want to ensure complete protection 100% of the time. This is why using an Ubuntu VPN is important, as it will provide you with all of the great tools and security of a VPN on any other operating system.
The main issue you will run into is finding a VPN software that works on Linux, as not all do. Not just that, but with so many VPNs to choose from, it can be difficult to decipher which is the best of the bunch. We have created this helpful guide to make the process easier for you, and below, you will find a list of the best Ubuntu VPN options that work perfectly on Linux. Keep reading to find out more! Show more
Now that we’ve given you an overview of why you need a VPN for Ubuntu and exactly what we look for in our reviews let’s get into more detail. Below, you will find the final list of the best VPNs for Ubuntu, tried and tested by our expert team.
| Max Speed: | 115000 Mbps |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dedicated |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 6 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 12 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
Ultra-fast connection
No-logs policy
5400 servers in 54 countries
Limited payment options
No Split Tunneling on desktop
Only 6 simultaneous connection
NordVPN is renowned for being one of the most powerful VPN services in the world. Jam-packed with security services and tools to keep you protected, it’s the perfect add-on for Ubuntu. Its command-line app is quick and equally as reliable as a VPN on any other operating system.
Thanks to its many tight security protocols, NordVPN is a great choice for both your computer at home and your laptop on the go. Whether you’re in a hotel, coffee shop, or any other public wifi space, NordVPN has you covered. First and foremost, the kill switch is in place, which will temporarily stop your internet if the VPN connection drops. This means that your network activity or private information is never exposed. Each of the servers is protected by 256-bit AES encryption, which is the most powerful system security available on any VPN.
Unlike some VPNs that use shared IP addresses, NordVPN provides every user with a dedicated IP while connected to the server. This is perfect for streaming content on Netflix, as you’re never sharing resources with somebody else and can benefit from optimum speeds.
The command line VPN app for Ubuntu is easy to set up, and users will become familiar with the terminal and package in no time. The whole platform is user-friendly for both beginners and advanced users. NordVPN also supports 6 simultaneous connections, so you can protect your computer, phone, console, or any other device on the same subscription, whether it’s Windows, Linux, Android, or iOS.
NordVPN is available as low as $3.71 per month over a 2-year period. A 6-month subscription costs $9, whereas a month at a time is $11.95. Whichever you choose, you are protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
| Max Speed: | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dedicated |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 7 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 4 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
Servers in unusual countries
Great support options
Great blog and guide universe
Limited payment options
Poor press area for affiliates
Few Netflix libraries
CyberGhost is a powerful VPN that can be easily used on Ubuntu. Not only is the command-line app easy to install on Linux, but the software comes with a configuration guide and step-by-step instructions to get you started. CyberGhost really is the full package.
CyberGhost has long been a popular VPN with gamers, developers, and self-proclaimed internet nerds. Because of this, it is no surprise that it’s also a popular choice for Ubuntu, as the two often go hand-in-hand. Although there are many reasons why CyberGhost VPN is a great product, the global server coverage is one of the most impressive features. With over 7,000 servers to choose from, you will never feel restricted by blocked content on Netlflix or any streaming service again.
It’s not just the sheer volume of servers, but just how much they can handle too. You can connect to up to seven devices simultaneously, all benefitting from unlimited bandwidth. This means that users are never slowed down, regardless of their activity. There is a huge list of great security features, including the reliable kill switch, which will turn off your internet if the VPN connection drops. The 256-bit AES encryption on all servers and a strict no-logs policy are just some of the reasons why CyberGhost is one of the most powerful VPNs for Ubuntu.
CyberGhost also goes above and beyond many of its competitors when it comes to value for money. A one-month subscription costs $12.99, but there are substantial savings when committing to a longer period. You can get an 18-month plan for as little as $2.49 per month. The best part? There’s a 45-day money-back guarantee, where you can claim a hassle-free refund if you’re not satisfied.
| Max Speed: | 58000 Mbps |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dedicated |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 5 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 12 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Android, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows |
Tons of payment options
24-hour live chat suppot
30-day money back guarantee
More expensive than competitors
Only 5 simultaneous connections
No servers in Russia
ExpressVPN sells itself as one of the fastest VPN products there is. This means unlimited Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other popular streaming services, without ever being slowed down. As well as handling a lot of traffic, ExpressVPN has many other impressive perks.
ExpressVPN really sets the bar when it comes to VPN network speeds. Tried and tested, it sports the fastest VPN servers, even with high-traffic activities like gaming, streaming, and file sharing. It can handle anything from Netflix and BBC iPlayer to Twitch, large file downloads, and much more. The network manager gives Ubuntu users over 3,000 servers to choose from, unlocking all of the content from across the world.
ExpressVPN isn’t just about power and server speeds, though. It also comes with a lot of high-quality system security, starting with 256-bit AES encryption. DNS leak protection, a kill-switch, and split tunneling are just some of the other notable features of this VPN. Simply register with ExpressVPN, download the files, and follow the configuration steps. It’s effortless, and you’ll be protected in no time.
The pricing is very similar to much of the others in this list. A one-month plan with ExpressVPN costs $12.95, whereas 6 months costs just $9.99 and 12 months is $8.32. A 30-day money-back guarantee protects all packages if it does not meet all of your expectations.
| Max Speed: | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Shared |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | Unlimited |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 15 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
Full 15 Netflix Libraries
Tons of server locations
Great deal on 24 months
No Apple Pay Payment Option
Very expensive monthly
Allows P2P from all servers
Surfshark is well-known for its easy-to-use app, and the command line version on Ubuntu is no exception to the rule. Getting started and protected on Linux is simple, which is one of the many benefits of using Surfshark, but there are many more.
If you’re looking for a VPN that works seamlessly with Ubuntu and can protect an unlimited number of devices, look no further than Surfshark. You read that right; Surfshark can be connected to all of your devices at once, whether it be a computer, phone, or tablet. Each user can benefit from unlimited bandwidth, with no throttling, ever. This, paired with the huge amount of servers, means that you can enjoy unlimited Netflix streaming and unblock content from all across the world.
Getting Surfshark installed on your Linux system takes just a few seconds, and detailed configuration steps are provided if you’re a beginner to a VPN or network manager. If you have any issues, there is a helpful tutorial available and a 24/7 customer support team on hand. A new version is released regularly, easy to update, and always full of brand new features. All you need is an email address and payment method to get started with Surfshark.
One of the cheapest options over a 2-year subscription, you can get Surfshark for just $2.49 per month over 24 months. Otherwise, there is also a 12-month option at $6.49 or a monthly price at 12.95. As you would expect, each package is protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
| Max Speed: | 10000 Mbps |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dynamic |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 10 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | Not available |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, Boxee Box, Chromecast, FreeBSD, iOS, Linux, macOS, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Roku, Windows, Xbox 360, Xbox One |
Most server locations in the business
Supports almost all devices
30 day money back guarantee
Few payment methods
Very expensive monthly plan
No bitcoin payment option
PureVPN is a lesser-known VPN but is still packed with all of the fantastic features one would expect from a high-quality provider. From top-level security to a huge variety of servers and a seamless Linux app, there’s a lot to like.
The PureVPN slogan is ‘the best VPN money can buy,’ which is a big statement to make. We have to admit, though, with all of its powerful features and cheaper-than-average price, the service is great value for money. Whether you want to browse the web, file share, or enjoy high-definition streaming, you can do all of that and more with PureVPN.
It’s not unusual for a VPN service or app to work on many different devices, but the impressive list of over 20 compatible devices is something you don’t see very often. PureVPN can be installed on Linux, Windows computers, gaming consoles, mobile phones, and many others.
If you want an alternative to installing OpenVPN from the Ubuntu repository, PureVPN is a great option. Installation takes just a few minutes, and the command-line terminal is easy enough when you have read the user tutorial. The best part of all? PureVPN is one of the only services that provide a 7-day trial for just $0.99. This way, you can enjoy all of the premium features of PureVPN for a week, and it will cost you next to nothing.
If you choose to commit for a longer period, OpenVPN costs $10.95 per month or $3.33 over a 2-year period. Each comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee, and almost every payment method imaginable is supported.
| Max Speed: | 300000 Mbps |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dynamic |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 5 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 12 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Android, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
No-log policy
Unlimited Bandwidth
Free version available
No dedicated IP option
Only 5 simultaneous devices
Few payment options
ProtonVPN is another VPN that has high-speed and powerful servers. Its apps are open-source and so popular with Ubuntu users, and the installation is quick and easy. It comes with all of the things you would expect from great VPNs.
ProtonVPN is the perfect solution for Ubuntu users that use a lot of internet traffic. Whether that be downloading files, streaming on Netflix, or gaming, ProtonVPN is designed to handle it seamlessly. Installation is easy, and as soon as you’re connected, you can enjoy some of the tightest security available from any VPN app. This includes 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and complete DNS protection. The network manager has over 1,200 servers to choose from, and you can opt for a certain location or even a specific server name if you have a preference.
As well as being a command-line app with easy terminal configuration, the ProtonVPN software is completely open-source. This marries perfectly with the Ubuntu platform which entire ethos is based around free and open-source software for everybody. Simply download the file package, complete the configuration in a few quick steps, choose your server, and you’re ready to get started with ProtonVPN. If you need any help, the customer support team is available 24/7, and there is a great installation tutorial on the website.
The ProtonVPN pricing is where it gets a little complicated. There are 4 plans to choose from in total; free, basic, plus, and visionary. The free option is great to have, but it is extremely limited. You’re paying nothing, but you can only choose from 3 server countries and only 1 VPN connection at a time. Basic costs $5, plus costs $10, and visionary costs $30 per month. Each additional tier allows for more connections and faster speeds.
The answer to this question is almost identical to why you would use a VPN on any other platform. The same rules apply to Ubuntu. First and foremost, you want to browse the internet with peace of mind, knowing that your personal information or browsing history is not at risk of being compromised. Although Ubuntu does a pretty good job of combating malware and hackers, the extra security of a VPN server guarantees your protection. It means that your true IP address will never be revealed, and your activity remains completely anonymous. This is particularly helpful in public wi-fi spaces which aren’t as secure as your home connection.
Another common reason for an Ubuntu VPN is for bypassing geo-restrictions and blocked content. Regardless of the operating system of software, browsing sites like Netflix and BBC iPlayer can still restrict specific content based on your location. There’s nothing more frustrating than being locked out of your favorite movies or TV shows just because of where you are.
Using a VPN on Ubuntu adjusts your network settings and IP address and changes your device’s location. All you have to do is connect to the VPN, and you’re good to go, with a world of content available to you.
You may simply just want to disguise your location, creating the impression that you’re in a different country. A prime example of this would be for business purposes when pitching to a client abroad. Whatever your reason for wanting to use a VPN with Ubuntu, the providers on our shortlist have you covered.
Not all VPN software is made equal, meaning that some are much easier and better to use on Ubuntu than others. The VPNs on this page have all been tried and tested on Ubuntu and have passed our strict review criteria to make the shortlist. We apply the same method every time to ensure that our reviews are consistent. There are several important factors and steps we look at every time we assess VPN products, and these include:
We look for a large number of VPN servers in various locations so that users have plenty of choices. This allows browsing from almost anywhere in the world and thousands of IP addresses. Extra points are rewarded for multiple servers in the same country, across different cities, for example.
Security features are the most important aspect of any VPN solution. It should protect the user, regardless of device or web browser. We look for security tools like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, dedicated IP addresses, and others. Only the VPNs that have these get recommended by us.
A strong and stable VPN connection is a requirement for uninterrupted internet usage. We don’t just look at the connection stability but also test network speeds to ensure the servers can handle streaming and file sharing. Only the fastest VPNs with the best speeds make it onto our shortlist.
First and foremost, the VPN needs to work on Linux and have regular releases to keep up to date with new Linux versions. We also check whether or not the VPN has an app, and it can be used on other computer and mobile devices, in case you ever decide to move away from Linux and Ubuntu. Extra points are rewarded for compatibility with Windows, iOS, and Android devices.
Having to subscribe to multiple VPN plans is frustrating and expensive. Each provider will allow for a different number of simultaneous server connections, from 2 to 6. We look out for those offering the most connections and provide top marks for those that offer unlimited.
Not only do we want to see a friendly and professional customer support team, but there should be plenty of ways to contact them too. Live chat is always the preference, but telephone and email are great alternatives. Many of the best VPNs provide 24/7 customer support, and so we award extra points if this is available.
Good service and customer support go a long way and should not be underestimated. A money-back guarantee plays a key part in the entire experience. Any good VPN provider, confident in its product, will offer users a money-back guarantee if they are not 100% satisfied. This is available as standard from each VPN listed on this page, and there is no hassle involved.
OpenVPN is a very popular VPN option for Ubuntu, so you may be wondering why we left it until last on the list. The answer is simple; it’s a little more complicated to set up and install OpenVPN, and we would recommend it only for more advanced Linux users. OpenVPN actually already exists in the Ubuntu open-source software repository, so there’s no need to download an additional app or software.
Although the repository provides everything you need to install OpenVPN on Ubuntu, installation and configuration require Linux knowledge. You will be required to configure the networks yourself, setting up a hostname and VPN settings manually. However, once this is done, the user-friendly VPN client can be launched whenever you need it.
If you are confident with network configuration or follow the detailed steps to install OpenVPN, this could be the option. However, many opt for the easier choice of downloading a third-party app, not in the Ubuntu repository, as these tend to come already configured.
Each VPN listed on this page is legitimate, established, and reliable. We would never recommend anything to our readers that would compromise their security, and we promise that you can trust each of our Ubuntu VPN suggestions.
Keep in mind that we can only vouch for the VPNs that made the shortlist, and we only recommend downloading one recommended by us. Not all software is safe, and some could be a risk to your device.
A command-line application looks very different from what you get in the app store. Instead of specifically designed interfaces where you click through certain settings and options, with a CLI, you interact with text commands. This is known as the terminal or command box.
They may not look as great as you’re used to, but they’re straightforward to use. If you are a regular Linux user, you will be very familiar with a command-line application; if not, they may take some getting used to.
Firstly, the main benefit of open-source software is that it is usually free. As it’s not owned by anybody looking to make a profit, it’s offered to users free of cost and with the added option to customize it how you like.
With Ubuntu, in particular, it’s designed to overcome many of the frustrations of the main operating systems, such as limited translations and flexibility. This means that you can enjoy the software how you like it, and you can tailor it to your uses.
If you’re having any issues with installation or setup, each VPN on our list has a comprehensive setup guide, including specific instructions for getting started on Ubuntu. The good news is that customer service teams are also available 24/7 to help with any technical queries so that you can get additional help from there.
If your question is Ubuntu-specific, the software has a wealth of FAQs on its site and a ticket support system.
Yes, you are not compromising on security or privacy when it comes to using an Ubuntu VPN. Everything from a kill switch to military-grade encryption, leak protection, no-logs policies, and many other premium features can be found on all of these products.
The only real difference is that these VPNs have been configured to work on Linux and Ubuntu, but the network security and configuration remain the same as any other.
Each VPN protocol has its very own perks and features, but all are equally as safe as each other. The thing that can change quite a lot between protocols is the connection speed. OpenVPN UDP is one of the fastest VPN protocols available, whereas OpenVPN TCP can be slower.
L2TP is also beaten by IKEv2 when it comes to speed. Most good VPNs will offer all of these protocols, which can be changed in the configuration settings.
Although these VPNs have been specifically picked for those using Ubuntu on Linux, they also work on other devices. This is what makes them even better value for money, so if you ever do change to another system or device, you won’t need to register or pay for another VPN service.
Remember that many of the products on this page also support simultaneous connections so that you can protect your Ubuntu device and your others without the need for multiple VPNs.
You may be thinking that a money-back guarantee is too good to be true, but it isn’t. Each VPN listed on this page provides a 100% hassle-free refund if you’re not satisfied with their product, and we have made sure of it. The steps are simple; just get in touch during the guarantee period to initiate your refund.
Ubuntu always has been and always will be a completely free open-source software. Nobody owns Ubuntu, and it's a combined effort from developers across the world who wanted to create an operating system better and more flexible than Windows or macOS. Although installation and setup may seem complicated at first, once you familiarise yourself with Linux and Ubuntu, it's likely that you will never go back.
The Ubuntu repository refers to software already available within the Ubuntu platform. Many different pieces of software come pre-packaged with Ubuntu, from web browsers to streaming apps and more. Using files within the repository eliminates the need for any external or third-party downloads. Every program within the Ubuntu repository is open-source, so you're free to make any code edits or changes you wish.
No, not every VPN is compatible with Ubuntu or Linux. If you're already using a VPN and switch to Ubuntu, you will need to check if what you're using is compatible. Every VPN on this list has been 100% confirmed for usage with Ubuntu, but we cannot vouch for compatibility with other VPNs.
Hi there! I'm Monique, and I am a writer at VPNSurfers. I live in New York, but I'm originally from Delware. I love traveling, but the US will always be home to me.
I have more than 5 years of experience using VPNs, and I ha...
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