How to Get a Free US IP Address Using a VPN

Most Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) come with a large choice of US VPN server locations. In fact, US-based VPN servers are the most frequently connected to, with users from all over the world using VPNs to get a US IP address.

With a US VPN, not only can people from around the world access US-restricted content; US residents can also protect their browsing data from US Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and government agencies.

While many VPN services come with US server location options, some offer better server coverage than others. Moreover, not all VPN services are equal in terms of providing good security features, and some are far superior regarding user privacy.

To help you get the most out of using a VPN for the US, we’ve compiled a list of the best US VPN services. Find out everything you need to know about US VPNs and which providers rank the highest. Show more

Roundup - The Best US VPNs

What is a US VPN?

So, what exactly is a US VPN? Essentially it is a VPN that operates servers in the US and provides users with access to US geo-restricted content. A US VPN should also offer the highest security standards, especially so that US-based users can protect their data from the many prying eyes that float around on US networks.

Many people may think that US VPN refers to VPN providers that are incorporated in the United States. While there are many VPN companies that are based in the US, our list isn’t exclusively limited to these VPNs.

What is the Best US VPN in 2024?

If you want to protect your internet traffic or unblock US content, then you definitely need a Virtual Private Network. The best VPN services for the US all come with USA servers, incredible speeds, security features, and additional tools for an overall excellent internet experience. Here’s what you need to know about each VPN below.

#1

VPN Service: NordVPN

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
Using VPN on Smartphone
  • proiconUltra-fast connection
  • proiconNo-logs policy
  • proicon5400 servers in 54 countries
  • coniconLimited payment options
  • coniconNo Split Tunneling on desktop
  • coniconOnly 6 simultaneous connection

NordVPN

The best VPN service for the US is NordVPN. In its large server network, which consists of more than 5,200 servers, there are over 1,970 USA VPN servers. These servers are spread across 15 cities, with coverage in many states, including California, Florida, and Texas.

NordVPN’s US servers are the best in terms of supporting the various types of VPN activity. For example, all of the US-based servers support obfuscation which means that your VPN traffic is disguised as regular traffic. This makes it easier to access websites that have VPN firewalls in place.

The most common sites that have VPN blocks are streaming sites. Fortunately, NordVPN can unblock many US-based streaming services. From Netflix to Hulu, and everything in between, Nord will be able to provide you with a local IP address to watch your favorite US TV shows.

There is torrenting support on every US NordVPN server, which is good news for P2P file-sharers. Being able to access torrent platforms with a US IP address may allow users to connect with more users and use different torrenting services.

NordVPN is one of the best VPN providers for torrenting since it has many privacy features to hide your actual IP address and activity. For example, there is AES-256 bit encryption securing every VPN connection as well as excellent tunneling protocols, including NordLynx.

As well as the above, all users can employ the Double VPN feature when connecting to a US server, sending their traffic via another country first to change the IP address twice. This adds another layer of online privacy protection for users connecting to a US VPN server.

Other great security features include an automatic kill switch and private DNS on every server. NordVPN also operates a no-logs policy, meaning no user VPN activity will be stored on the company’s server network. Best of all, NordVPN is incorporated in Panama, meaning that it can enjoy the privacy-friendly data laws that the country offers and doesn’t need to share its customers’ information with the government.

If you opt for a NordVPN plan, you’ll be able to use the VPN on multiple devices since it offers six simultaneous connections. There are also native apps for many operating systems, which makes NordVPN a good choice if you want to use the VPN on your mobile phones, computers, smart TVs, or tablets.

NordVPN also offers excellent customer support; there is 24/7 live chat support on the website homepage as well as a highly informative help section. Overall, this VPN provider is an optimal choice for use in the US.

Price Starting At: 3.29 $ / monthly 39.48 $ / annually
For New Users: 30 days free trial + 30-day money-back guarantee
Number of servers: 5400+
#2

VPN Service: Surfshark VPN

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
Macbook Pro VPN
  • proiconFull 15 Netflix Libraries
  • proiconTons of server locations
  • proiconGreat deal on 24 months
  • coniconNo Apple Pay Payment Option
  • coniconVery expensive monthly
  • coniconAllows P2P from all servers

Surfshark

Surfshark and its top-of-the-line VPN software make it an excellent USA VPN choice. The server network consists of more than 3,200 VPN servers overall, and there are over 600 servers in the US alone, spread across 23 cities. Users can get an IP address from Boston, Chicago, or New York with Surfshark.

Surfshark VPN is one of the best VPN services in terms of unblocking restricted content, especially within the US. Firstly, all of its servers come with the super ‘Camouflage Mode,’ a type of obfuscation that allows users to bypass geo-blocks. This enables users to unblock streaming content on US Netflix and 14 other Netflix catalogs. Surfshark VPN can also bypass restrictions on other streaming service platforms like Amazon Prime Video, NBC, and Hulu.

If you live in or visit a country with heavy internet restrictions on social media sites, then you can use Surfshark. Surfshark can provide access to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and more social sites that allow you to share your thoughts and connect with others.

Not only does Surfshark unblock a load of internet content, but it also provides exceptional security and privacy to users. There is DNS leak protection on all of its US servers and also the option to use the secure OpenVPN TCP/UDP and IPSec/IKEv2 protocols, among many others.

The excellent security features don’t stop there; there is an automatic kill switch available and CleanWeb, an anti-malware, ad, and tracker feature. There is also IPv4 leak protection but, unfortunately, no IPv6 leak protection.

VPN activity won’t be monitored or stored by Surfshark. The provider doesn’t log anything to do with VPN usage meaning you can stay totally anonymous while using Surfshark. On top of this, Surfshark VPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, meaning it doesn’t have to follow any mandatory data logging laws.

The above is great news for torrenting fans who may want to use Surfshark to download files. Surfshark will mask your activity and won’t store any of your history meaning you won’t be linked to any activity that could get you in trouble.

Without a doubt, the best thing about Surfshark VPN is the unlimited simultaneous connections policy it operates. Users don’t need to worry about choosing which devices they can protect with the VPN since they can connect it to all of their devices at once. So, if you want a US VPN service that protects all of your and your family and friends’ devices, Surfshark is an excellent option.

Price Starting At: 1.85 $ / monthly 49.93 $ / annually
For New Users: 30 days free trial + No money-back guarantee
Number of servers: 1040+
#3

VPN Service: Cyberghost VPN

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
using vpn
  • proiconServers in unusual countries
  • proiconGreat support options
  • proiconGreat blog and guide universe
  • coniconLimited payment options
  • coniconPoor press area for affiliates
  • coniconFew Netflix libraries

CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN is one of the best US VPN options simply due to the number of servers it offers in the USA. Out of the mammoth-sized network consisting of over 7,400 servers, there are more than 1,200 servers in the US across 11 cities. Best of all, CyberGhost is always adding servers to its network, including locations in the US.

All of CyberGhost’s USA servers are physically located in the country, which is great news since physical servers are more powerful and often provide faster connection speeds. CyberGhost also employs some of the fastest VPN protocols in the business, such as WireGuard and OpenVPN, for consistently fast VPN speeds.

The VPN protocols don’t just offer speed but also a secure connection. Combined with advanced encryption, CyberGhost VPN users can rest assured that they will enjoy privacy and security at all times.

Other great features include an automatic kill switch and split tunneling. Split tunneling is an excellent feature since it allows you to visit some websites via the VPN and others via your regular network. This means you can encrypt certain activities while connected to a US server without tunneling all of your data via a VPN tunnel.

CyberGhost VPN works with many different devices and offers seven simultaneous connections on all of its VPN subscriptions. The long list of compatible devices includes Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Users can also connect the VPN to their Android TV, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV. You can even connect the VPN to your PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles via your home router. This means you can play against gamers in the US and protect yourself from DDoS attacks.

Like all of the best US VPN services, CyberGhost provides access to many US streaming services and can even help sports fans enjoy live streams. CyberGhost can help you watch live NBA playoffs, NFL games, and UFC matches.

For more security, users can even purchase a dedicated IP address from the US as an add-on. A static IP allows users to have the same IP every time they launch a VPN connection, meaning they don’t have to use shared IPs; this makes it easier to bypass restrictions on US sites that can easily detect US IPs.

All CyberGhost plans come with a 45-day money-back guarantee, which is one of the longest in the industry. This essentially acts as a free trial and allows users to test out the VPN for over a month with no strings attached. We recommend taking advantage of this excellent refund policy and seeing whether or not CyberGhost is a good US VPN for you.

Price Starting At: 2.25 $ / monthly 29.25 $ / annually
For New Users: 45 -day money-back guarantee
Number of servers: 7200+
#4

VPN Service: PureVPN

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
  • proiconMost server locations in the business
  • proiconSupports almost all devices
  • proicon30 day money back guarantee
  • coniconFew payment methods
  • coniconVery expensive monthly plan
  • coniconNo bitcoin payment option

PureVPN

PureVPN rivals CyberGhost thanks to its large number of servers which sits at over 6,500. In North America alone, PureVPN operates more than 2,200 servers, with server locations across the US and also in Canada.

Not only does PureVPN offer a large number of servers, but it also manages and owns all of its servers. This is incredibly impressive for two reasons; firstly, many other VPNs rent servers meaning they have less control over them. Secondly, managing a server network allows PureVPN to notice and quickly resolve security issues if they occur.

PureVPN is excellent for users who are searching for the fastest VPN server in the US. This is because PureVPN’s servers and apps are optimized for a fast connection speed. Moreover, Pure provides unlimited bandwidth and dedicated streaming and torrenting servers so that users can enjoy a stable connection and fast download speeds during these data-heavy activities.

Bypassing online blocks to access geo-restricted content in the US is easy with PureVPN. You can watch live sports streams on ESPN and unblock TV shows and films on US Netflix and Hulu.

With PureVPN, users can hide their network data from their US Internet Service Provider to avoid having their online movements monitored. Military-grade encryption masks your online activity, making Pure a great option for use on US public wi-fi networks as well.

There are no logs recorded with PureVPN, meaning you can use the VPN safe in the knowledge that the VPN company is not monitoring what you’re doing on the internet. This is reassuring, mainly since PureVPN is based in the US and therefore would have to hand over data from its servers if ordered to.

All PureVPN users can enjoy ten simultaneous connections at a time and enjoy a dedicated VPN app for many operating systems in Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS. There are also browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. While PureVPN isn’t a free VPN, users can try out the VPN for 31 days with no strings attached.

Price Starting At: 2.91 $ / monthly 44.95 $ / annually
For New Users: 31 -day money-back guarantee
Number of servers: 6500+
#5

VPN Service: ExpressVPN

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
VPN on Macbook
  • proiconTons of payment options
  • proicon24-hour live chat suppot
  • proicon30-day money back guarantee
  • coniconMore expensive than competitors
  • coniconOnly 5 simultaneous connections
  • coniconNo servers in Russia

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN has 160 server locations worldwide, with 14 in the US alone. You can get IP addresses from cities such as Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Seattle and disguise your actual geo-location as well as unblock US streaming content and more.

ExpressVPN is one of the best streaming VPNs; it can provide access to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, and more. Moreover, it offers a MediaStreamer DNS tool that can be implemented on Smart TVs and allows users to unblock all streaming content easily; however, this tool comes without security encryption.

Fortunately, ExpressVPN offers plenty of great security and privacy features; there is military-grade encryption, private DNS on all servers, and the Network Lock, which is ExpressVPN’s kill switch. This makes ExpressVPN a great choice for use on public wi-fi network hotspots in the US since it offers everything you need to hide your data.

As well as the above, ExpressVPN uses RAM-only servers. While this may not seem like an important factor for a US VPN, it is. With RAM servers, VPN users can enjoy more security since all data from the servers is wiped when these are shut down. This means ExpressVPN can quickly protect its users’ privacy if there is a breach on its network.

ExpressVPN also operates a strict no-logging policy, and like Surfshark, it is based in the British Virgin Islands. This means that if the US government subpoenas ExpressVPN for access to data on one of its servers, ExpressVPN won’t have anything to hand over.

Every ExpressVPN connection comes with five simultaneous connections, which isn’t a lot. However, ExpressVPN offers support for routers and even comes with a router applet, making it super easy for users to protect their entire home network and ensure everyone in their household can access content in the US. ExpressVPN makes using a VPN extremely easy, thanks to its intuitive VPN client software and mobile apps.

If you’re searching for a fast internet speed, then ExpressVPN is a great option. It offers its proprietary VPN protocol, Lightway, for secure yet speedy server connections. Moreover, ExpressVPN can connect you to the fastest US server and run a server speed test to find the best connection.

Overall, ExpressVPN has everything you need for a US VPN, including 24/7 customer support. While more costly than other VPNs on this list, it is worth the high price point.

Price Starting At: 8.32 $ / monthly 99.95 $ / annually
For New Users: 30 days free trial + 30-day money-back guarantee
Number of servers: 3000+
#6

VPN Service: Hotspot Shield VPN

Max Speed: Unlimited
Type of IP offered: Dynamic
Simultaneous connections / Users: 5
Number of Netflix Libraries: 13
Information sharing: 14 Eyes Member
OS support: Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows
  • proiconLightning fast VPN
  • proiconOptimized for streaming
  • proiconPayPal payment option
  • coniconPoor support
  • conicon14-eyes VPN
  • coniconOnly 5 devices

Hotspot Shield VPN

Another fast VPN for the US is Hotspot Shield. This VPN employs the Catapult Hydra protocol, which has been proven to provide fast server speeds, even on long-distance connections. This means if you’re connecting to a US server from outside the country, your internet connection won’t be slowed down too much by physical distance.

There is plenty of choice when it comes to servers in the US. Hotspot Shield offers coverage in a whopping 27 cities. This means you can stream as much US content as you wish to, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and HBO Max.

Not only is there dedicated streaming support, but Hotspot Shield is also an excellent option for gaming and torrenting. This is because the VPN software comes with plenty of tools needed for these activities, including incredible speeds, high-end encryption, a kill switch, and a zero-logs policy.

If you’re looking for a free VPN to use in the US, then you’re in luck! Hotspot Shield offers a free VPN that comes with access to just one server in the US. Unfortunately, there are data limits on the free VPN plan up to just 500MB per day. However, users can take advantage of the free service to test out the VPN or the 7-day free trial.

Hotspot Shield is compatible with many devices, although it only offers five simultaneous connections per premium plan. Fortunately, there is a 45-day money-back guarantee with every paid plan, which means you can get a refund if you are not happy with the service.

Price Starting At: 7.99 $ / monthly 95.88 $ / annually
For New Users: 45 -day money-back guarantee
Number of servers: 3200+
Table of content

How to Get a US VPN

So, how do you get a US VPN and a US IP Address? It is actually easier than you think.

Is There a Free US VPN?

Yes, there are many free US VPNs. As mentioned above, Hotspot Shield offers a free VPN service that helps users connect to a server in the US.

However, massive drawbacks come with using Hotspot Shield’s free service, the foremost being that minimal user data is logged to provide tailored in-app ads for users. Moreover, the total no-logging policy that Hotspot Shield employs doesn’t entirely apply to free users; this is bad news since Hotspot Shield is based in the US, which could be worrying for users if their data is shared.

Fortunately, there is another great free US VPN option. ProtonVPN offers one of the best free US VPNs on the current market for many reasons. Firstly, it provides access to a decent number of servers in the US (as well as Japan and the Netherlands) and also comes with unlimited bandwidth for free users. This is more than what many free VPNs offer.

We recommend only using free VPN plans that are offered by reputable VPN companies like the two above. This is because many free VPNs misuse your data and profit from selling your browsing history.

One of the most frequently asked questions online is, “is it illegal to use a VPN in USA?” Fortunately, using a Virtual Private Network is completely legal in the US.

While there are no laws against using a VPN in the US, VPN users must not misuse the VPN to carry out illicit activities online. If it is illegal without a VPN, it is still illegal with the VPN. Moreover, since no VPN service can promise 100% anonymity at all times, there is still a tiny chance you could get caught if you use a VPN for illegal activities.

Which US VPN is Fastest?

All of the VPNs on our list above are extremely fast, but Hotspot Shield and ExpressVPN are frequently dubbed the fastest due to their proprietary protocols. However, some things can make your connection faster.

Firstly, choose server locations wisely; connect to a US server that is closest to your actual location so that the data doesn’t have to travel as far.

You can also enable features such as split tunneling so that only data on certain websites goes through the VPN connection. In doing so, you can ensure that you have a faster connection since not all network activity will go through the VPN tunnel.

Can You Watch Netflix with a US VPN?

If you want to watch US Netflix from outside the US, you can do so by using a VPN. Simply open up your VPN app and connect to a US VPN server to change your IP address.

Once your IP address has changed, when you visit Netflix, it should have changed to the US version. If it hasn’t, disconnect the VPN and connect to a different US server location.

Can You Be Tracked if You Use a VPN for US?

If you use a VPN for the US, then you technically shouldn’t be tracked. Assuming the VPN operates a no-logs policy, uses AES-256 bit encryption, and has strong security protocols, your online activity shouldn’t be monitored by third parties.

However, VPNs are not effective 100% of the time. Sometimes DNS or IP leaks can reveal your online activity and cause third parties to track your activity. This is why you should look for a VPN that offers leak protection.

The Benefits of a US VPN

There are many benefits of a US VPN, the main which include:

The Drawbacks of a US VPN

Of course, nothing is perfect, and there are also downsides to a US VPN:

The Bottom Line

A US VPN is an excellent idea for many reasons; firstly, it provides you access to a world of American content and allows you to make it seem as though you're based in the US. Moreover, a VPN protects you from the strict data retention laws in the US and the fact that the US is a part of the Five Eyes.
Pros

Pros

  • US IP addresses
  • Privacy in the US
  • Easy to use
Cons

Cons

  • Expensive services
  • Not all US states are covered
  • Free US VPNs are limited

FAQs

Do I Need a VPN in the US?

Yes, a VPN is a great cybersecurity tool for use in the US. It provides privacy from US network providers and government agencies, keeping you safe online at all times.

How Can I Watch US Netflix outside the US?

A US VPN allows you to watch Netflix US in and outside of the US. If you're traveling in Europe and want to catch up on your favorite US series, you can quickly and easily do so by using a US VPN, and connecting to an American server.

How Do I Get a US IP Address?

It's incredibly easy to get a US IP address since most VPNs operate servers in the US. Once you have set up a VPN on your device, you can connect to a US server via the VPN app, and you'll be able to browse the web under a US IP address.

Author Madeleine Hodson

I’m Madeleine, and I'm a writer that specializes in cybersecurity, tech products, and all things related to the internet. I have a keen interest in VPNs and believe that everyone deserves internet freedom and security. I wr...
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VPNSurfers » 10 Best VPNs in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks » How to Get a Free US IP Address Using a VPN
Last updated: July 6, 2022