In today’s digital world, protecting your online activity on a PC is more crucial than ever. With increasing cyber threats, data tracking, and geo-restrictions, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) offers a reliable shield by encrypting your connection and masking your IP address.
Whether you’re browsing the web, streaming global content, or accessing confidential information, a VPN ensures greater privacy and unrestricted access. It also helps in maintaining anonymity, avoiding ISP throttling, and securing data over public Wi-Fi. Choosing the right VPN enhances your internet experience by combining speed, security, and ease of use-making it a valuable tool for any PC user.
In this blog, we will take a look at 10 Best VPNs for PC.
Why you need a VPN for Windows
- Online Privacy & Anonymity: A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your data, protecting you from hackers, ISPs, and government surveillance.
- Secure Public Wi-Fi Usage: Prevents cyber threats when connected to public networks in cafes, airports, or hotels.
- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Access streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer from anywhere.
- Enhanced Security: Protects sensitive information from cyber threats, especially during online transactions.
- Avoid ISP Throttling: Prevents internet slowdowns caused by ISP bandwidth restrictions.
- Safe Torrenting: Ensures anonymous and secure P2P file sharing.
- Access Restricted Content: Helps bypass firewalls in workplaces, schools, or countries with censorship.
- Secure Remote Work: Protects business communications from cyber threats.
- Prevents Tracking: Stops websites from collecting personal data and browsing habits.
- Better Online Gaming: Reduces lag, prevents DDoS attacks, and allows access to region-locked game servers.
List of Top VPNs for PC
1. NordVPN
NordVPN delivers trusted VPN solutions together with secure data encryption and fast connection speeds. Users benefit from AES-256 encryption and the implementation of Double VPN and Onion over VPN technology as well as a total no-logs policy.
Through its network of 5,000+ servers across 60+ countries NordVPN enables a superior streaming experience with extraordinary gaming capabilities alongside advanced torrenting functionality. Users can access its Windows application for easy VPN use and establish many simultaneous connections at the same time.
Advanced Threat Protection together with Meshnet capabilities make this VPN the top choice for everyday users and professionals alike. The combination of superior security together with dependable connection speeds and geographical restriction bypass make NordVPN one of the top VPN solutions worldwide.
Features:
- 5,400+ servers in 60+ countries
- AES-256 encryption with Double VPN & Onion over VPN
- NordLynx protocol for enhanced speed and security
- No-logs policy, independently audited
- CyberSec (ad & malware blocker), Kill Switch, and Split Tunneling
Pros:
- Strong security features with advanced encryption
- Excellent speed for streaming and gaming
- Works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and more
- 24/7 customer support and user-friendly apps
Cons:
- No free version available
- Some specialised servers may be slower
Pricing:
- Complete – $5.39/mo
- Plus – $4.39/mo
- Basic – $3.39/mo
2. Surfshark
Surfshark’s budget-friendly VPN solution caters to families and multiple-device users because it provides unlimited simultaneous connections. The VPN system provides AES-256 encryption as well as a kill switch and CleanWeb functionality blocks ads while fighting malware attacks.
Its 3,200+ server locations across 100+ nations enables fast streaming and torrenting capabilities. NoBorders mode is one of the features found in the Windows application that helps users bypass censorship blocks.
Surfshark secures online connections through WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols providing users with a seamless browsing experience. Users seeking both reliability in performance and budget-friendly options will find this provider an ideal solution because it provides high quality characteristics at cost-effective prices.
Features:
- 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
- AES-256 encryption with CleanWeb (ad, tracker, and malware blocker)
- WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- NoBorders mode for bypassing censorship
Pros:
- Affordable with unlimited connections
- Works well for streaming (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+)
- Strong privacy protection with a strict no-logs policy
- Intuitive, lightweight Windows application
Cons:
- Some servers may be slower during peak hours
- Doesn’t offer dedicated IPs
Pricing:
- Surfshark Starter – $2.19/mo
- Surfshark One – $2.69/mo
- Surfshark One+ – $4.29/mo
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN offers high-speed performance through its military-grade encryption combined with intuitive user-friendly applications. Through its 3,000 server network distributed in 105 countries the service lets users stream Netflix along with Hulu and BBC iPlayer without interruption.
Users can benefit from a straightforward Windows app interface which combines a kill switch function with split tunneling options and Threat Manager security controls. The proprietary Lightway protocol from ExpressVPN delivers increased speed performance together with better reliability.
The service follows a strict no-logs policy while operating from the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands. With premium attributes and robust encryption features the VPN offers exceptional value at a slightly higher price point than others on the market.
Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
- AES-256 encryption with proprietary Lightway protocol
- No-logs policy, independently audited
- Threat Manager, Kill Switch, and Split Tunneling
- 24/7 customer support
Pros:
- Ultra-fast speeds for gaming and streaming
- Reliable access to Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer
- Strong security with privacy-focused headquarters (British Virgin Islands)
- Easy-to-use Windows app
Cons:
- More expensive than competitors
- No dedicated IP option
Pricing:
- Free Trial – 7 Days
- 2 Years + 4 Months FREE – $ 4.99/ month
- 12 Months + 3 Months FREE – $6.67/ month
- 1 Month – $ 12.95/ month
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost provides VPN services that offer easy access to new users and maintains separate server networks for streaming content and downloading torrents alongwith playing games. Users benefit from more than 9000 servers distributed across 90+ countries to achieve fast speeds without latency issues.
Users of Windows can access three key features in the app through its automatic kill switch and split tunneling combined with Wi-Fi protection. CyberGhost protects user information through extensive no-logs policies while employing AES-256 encryption to secure data.
The VPN provides servers which specifically optimise streaming on Netflix and Amazon Prime as well as Disney+ platforms. CyberGhost provides a powerful VPN service with user-friendly features at affordable prices while offering a 45-day money-back guarantee and round-the-clock live chat support.
Features:
- 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries
- AES-256 encryption with NoSpy servers
- OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 protocols
- Dedicated streaming and torrenting servers
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Pros:
- Easy-to-use with dedicated servers for Netflix, Hulu, and more
- Strong security with NoSpy servers for extra privacy
- Affordable long-term plans
- Reliable speeds and unlimited bandwidth
Cons:
- Doesn’t work well in countries with strong censorship
- Short-term plans are expensive
Pricing:
- Free Trial is available.
- 2 Years + 2 Months – ₹175/mo
- 6 Months – ₹560/mo
- 1 Month – ₹965/mo
5. Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA delivers customisable VPN services through its extensive server choices and comprehensive security capabilities. The VPN network includes more than 1000 servers distributed among 80+ countries which enables stable system operations.
Users can customise their encryption through the Windows app while selecting a WireGuard or OpenVPN protocol and enabling port forwarding features. PIA uses an unconditional log-free structure and implements blocking functions against advertisements.
Despite torrenting and streaming capabilities PIA has issues with some geo-restricted content access. PIA provides users with unlimited simultaneous connections at affordable rates which makes it a dependable option for people seeking flexible privacy features.
Features:
- 10,000+ servers in 80+ countries
- AES-128/256 encryption with custom security settings
- WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Shadowsocks support
- No-logs policy, independently audited
- Unlimited device connections
Pros:
- Highly customisable security settings
- Affordable with unlimited connections
- Strong privacy policy with open-source apps
- Works well for torrenting and private browsing
Cons:
- Inconsistent speeds on some servers
- Struggles to unblock certain streaming services
Pricing:
- 3 Years + 3 Months – ₹ 150.08/mo
- 1 Year – ₹250.83/mo
- 1 Month – ₹900.79/mo
6. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN focuses on privacy and security, developed by the creators of ProtonMail. It features Secure Core servers, AES-256 encryption, and a strict no-logs policy. With 3,000+ servers in 65+ countries, ProtonVPN provides reliable speeds and strong protection.
The Windows app includes advanced security features like NetShield (ad blocker), a kill switch, and Tor over VPN. ProtonVPN supports streaming and P2P traffic but is slightly slower than competitors.
It offers a free plan with limited servers and a premium version with high-speed access. Based in Switzerland, ProtonVPN is ideal for users who prioritise strong privacy and data protection.
Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 65+ countries
- AES-256 encryption with Secure Core servers
- OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 protocols
- No-logs policy and based in Switzerland
- Free plan available with limited servers
Pros:
- Strong focus on privacy and security
- Secure Core servers for added protection
- Free version with no data caps
- Works well with Tor and P2P
Cons:
- Premium plans are expensive
- Speeds may be slower on free servers
Pricing:
- 2-year – €4.49 /month
- 1-year – €4.99 /month
- 1-month – €9.99 /month
7. TorGuard VPN
TorGuard is a VPN designed for advanced users, offering robust security and customisation. It supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and stealth VPN protocols, making it highly effective against firewalls and censorship.
With 3,000+ servers in 50+ countries, TorGuard ensures stable and secure connections. Its Windows app provides dedicated IP addresses, kill switch, and strong encryption options.
While great for torrenting and bypassing restrictions, it requires manual configuration, making it less beginner-friendly. TorGuard is popular among tech-savvy users who need high-security VPN solutions, especially for streaming and private browsing without sacrificing speed or performance.
Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 50+ countries
- AES-256 encryption with stealth VPN protocols
- OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Shadowsocks support
- Dedicated IPs available for streaming
- Customisable security settings
Pros:
- Strong security with multiple protocol options
- Works well for torrenting and bypassing censorship
- Allows dedicated IPs for streaming access
- Good customer support
Cons:
- Complicated setup for beginners
- Some features require additional payment
Pricing:
- Anonymous VPN – $10.99/month
- Pro VPN – $14.29/month
- Business VPN – $32.99/month
- Anonymous Email – $3.29/month
8. hide.me
hide.me is a privacy-focused VPN offering strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and fast speeds. It has 2,000+ servers in 75+ locations, ensuring stable performance for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.
The Windows app features a kill switch, split tunneling, and Stealth Guard, which adds an extra security layer. hide.me supports multiple protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, for enhanced security.
The VPN has a free plan with limited data and a premium version with unlimited bandwidth. With strong security, good speeds, and a transparent privacy policy, hide.me is a great choice for users who value anonymity.
Features:
- 2,000+ servers in 75+ locations
- AES-256 encryption with Stealth Guard
- OpenVPN, WireGuard, and SoftEther protocols
- Free plan with 10GB monthly data
- Ad blocker and kill switch included
Pros:
- Free version available with solid security features
- Strong privacy policy with no logs
- Good speeds for streaming and gaming
- Supports torrenting and bypassing geo-blocks
Cons:
- Free version has limited server options
- Paid plans are slightly expensive
Pricing:
- 2 years + 2 months – $2.69/mo
- 1 year – $4.57/mo
- 1 month – $9.95/mo
- Free – $0.00
9. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is known for its fast speeds, thanks to its proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol. It has 3,200+ servers in 80+ countries, providing stable connections for streaming and gaming.
The Windows app is easy to use and includes a kill switch, split tunneling, and automatic Wi-Fi protection. Hotspot Shield offers a free plan with limited data and a premium version with unlimited bandwidth.
It works well with Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming platforms. While it logs minimal user data, its speed and performance make it a strong choice for users looking for a reliable VPN with gaming-friendly speeds.
Features:
- 3,200+ servers in 80+ countries
- Proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol for fast speeds
- AES-256 encryption with kill switch and split tunneling
- Free plan with limited data (500MB/day)
- 24/7 customer support
Pros:
- One of the fastest VPNs for streaming and gaming
- Free version available with limited access
- Works well with Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer
- Easy-to-use Windows app
Cons:
- Free plan has ads and data limits
- Some logging concerns in past reports
Pricing:
- Free Plan – 500MB/day
- Monthly – $9.99/mo
- Yearly – $6.66/mo
10. IPVanish
IPVanish is a well-rounded VPN offering solid security, fast speeds, and unlimited device connections. It operates over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations and provides AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy.
The Windows app is user-friendly, with features like split tunneling and SOCKS5 proxy support. IPVanish is excellent for torrenting and secure browsing but may struggle with some streaming services.
It includes 250 GB of encrypted cloud storage, adding extra value to its subscription. With strong security features and reliable performance, IPVanish is ideal for users who need a balance of privacy, speed, and affordability.
Features:
- 2,200+ servers in 75+ locations
- AES-256 encryption with WireGuard protocol
- No-logs policy and unlimited device connections
- 250GB encrypted cloud storage included
- Split tunneling and kill switch
Pros:
- Strong security with unlimited connections
- Ideal for torrenting with SOCKS5 proxy
- Reliable speeds for streaming and gaming
- Includes free encrypted cloud storage
Cons:
- Struggles with some streaming platforms
- No dedicated IP option
Pricing:
- Advanced – £2.39 /mo
- Essential – £1.58 /mo
Ending Thoughts
Using a VPN for Windows is essential in today’s digital landscape, offering enhanced privacy, security, and unrestricted access to online content. Whether you’re browsing, streaming, gaming, or working remotely, a VPN safeguards your personal data from cyber threats, government surveillance, and ISP tracking. It ensures secure connections, especially on public Wi-Fi, while bypassing geo-restrictions and censorship.
Additionally, a VPN prevents bandwidth throttling and protects against potential cyberattacks, making it a valuable tool for both personal and professional use. With numerous VPN providers available, choosing one with strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and fast speeds can significantly improve your online experience. Investing in a reliable VPN is a smart decision for anyone looking to maintain digital privacy and freedom.
FAQs
Why should I use a VPN on my computer?
Using a VPN protects your data from hackers, prevents online tracking, helps bypass geo-restrictions, and secures public Wi-Fi connections.
Are free VPNs safe to use on a PC?
Some free VPNs may lack proper encryption or sell user data. It’s safer to choose reputable providers, even if paid.
Can a VPN slow down my internet speed?
Yes, VPNs can reduce speed slightly due to encryption, but top providers minimise this with optimised servers and advanced protocols.
Do VPNs work with streaming services on PC?
Yes, many VPNs unblock content on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and other streaming platforms by bypassing geo-restrictions.
