The Best Free VPN Services of 2025
In 2025, finding a free VPN that balances security, speed and usability has never been more important. With online privacy concerns at an all-time high and streaming platforms tightening regional restrictions, many users are turning to free VPN services as an accessible way to protect their data. This guide explores the best free VPNs available in 2025, what they offer and what you can realistically expect from them.
1. Proton VPN Free
Widely regarded as the top free VPN, Proton VPN Free stands out because it offers unlimited data, a strict no‑logs policy and strong privacy protections with independent audits to back it up, all without intrusive ads or hidden fees.
Users can expect:
- Open-source apps and audited security protocols (AES‑256, OpenVPN, WireGuard, plus “Stealth Protocol").
- No data limits and reliable speeds.
- A limited free server network (around 5 locations globally), and restrictions such as one simultaneous device and no explicit streaming or P2P support.
It's best suited for privacy-focused users who need continuous protection without bandwidth worry, but don’t rely on streaming or torrenting.
2. PrivadoVPN Free
PrivadoVPN Free is a robust runner-up. It's praised for offering a generous 10 GB/month of high-speed data. It also covers 13 server locations globally and is capable of unblocking streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer and ITV in testing.
That said, after the 10 GB threshold, speeds throttle significantly and there’s no independent privacy audit yet. It's ideal for those wanting to stream occasionally and enjoy decent device flexibility (up to 10 simultaneous connections), all for free.
3. CyberGhost Free (Browser Extension)
CyberGhost offers a unique free solution via its browser extension. Key features include:
- No data caps.
- A no‑logs policy with an independent audit.
- Available for Chrome and Firefox, granting access to a limited pool of VPN servers (typically eight across four countries).
It's great for casual web browsing with minimal setup, though it lacks broad functionalities found in full VPN apps and may struggle with streaming unblocking.
4. Windscribe Free
Windscribe Free shines for speed and device flexibility. It offers fast connections that is almost on par with its paid tier, and allows unlimited simultaneous connections across devices.
The trade-offs include an unclear monthly data cap (some sources support 10 GB/month) and inconsistent streaming/unblocking results.
5. Other Noteworthy Mentions
Hotspot Shield Basic is the fastest free VPN (just ~2–3% speed loss) and includes malware/ad blockers, but collects some user data.
TunnelBear is loved for its whimsical, user‑friendly interface and independent audits, though it offers only 2 GB/month and limited control over server choice.
Additional options like Hide.me and ZoogVPN are recognized for niche strengths—security and beginner-friendly designs, respectively—but generally fall behind the leading options.
For technically inclined users in high-censorship regions, Amnezia VPN offers an open-source, self‑hosted framework that uses advanced protocols like AmneziaWG to evade deep censorship. However it demands more technical setup and isn’t a typical consumer-grade option.
Risks of Using a Free VPN
1. Limited Bandwidth & Server Access
Many free VPNs impose strict data caps—2 GB/month (like TunnelBear) or 10 GB/month (PrivadoVPN or Windscribe)—and throttle speeds once caps are reached. ProtonVPN’s unlimited access is the rare exception.
2. Fewer Servers and Lesser Access
Free VPN tiers restrict server choices and locations, compromising your ability to reliably access geo‑restricted content or maintain fast connections. ProtonVPN limits users to only ~5 managed locations; others like CyberGhost offer even fewer.
3. Privacy and Trust Concerns
Not all free services are equally trustworthy. Some may log or sell user data to monetize the free tier. Top10VPN even warns that 88% of tested free VPNs leak identifiable information.
4. Weak Streaming and P2P Support
While PrivadoVPN allows some streaming, others like ProtonVPN Free and CyberGhost browser extension don’t reliably unblock Netflix or support torrenting.
5. Limited Features & Support
Free VPNs typically lack advanced protections—like multi‑hop routing, ad‑blocking, DNS leak protection or responsive customer support—and rely heavily on basic documentation or forums.
Enjoy Your Options
In 2025, there are more free VPN options than ever, but only a select few provide the right mix of security, speed and usability. Services like Proton VPN, PrivadoVPN, CyberGhost and Windscribe stand out as the best free VPN choices, each with unique strengths and limitations. Still, free plans inevitably come with trade-offs: restricted data, fewer servers and sometimes weaker privacy protections. Review your options and pick whatever best suits your personal needs.
Keep reading to learn about affordable connectivity program providers.