Virtual private network (VPN) services are great resources for protecting privacy and encrypting device communications online. Many people use a VPN to get around regulations like the UK's new age verification requirements because the services have the ability to alter the location of your IP address. These services aren't free to operate, though. Because many "free" plans are shady, so one should always proceed with caution.
If you're looking for a free VPN that offers long-term security and privacy protections, there are some options available.Here are some top pick for free VPNs available in 2025-
Proton VPN
Proton will be suitable for many users who do not want to subscribe. Many helpful features of Proton VPN's free version are available through other services and VPN subscribers. As it offers a level of security and data protection that some dubious services do not, this is significant when it comes to free VPN services.
Proton VPN lets you browse without being interrupted because it doesn't sell your information or use advertisements to profit from its free apps. You don't have to worry about going over your monthly data limits because it doesn't cap bandwidth.
Windscribe
Windscribe is another great free VPN choice because, like Proton VPN, you can do a lot with the app without paying for it. You can access free servers in 10 countries, allowing you to change locations. The free servers also support streaming across multiple popular platforms. You can use Windscribe on various devices, including Amazon Fire TV and browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. There are many customizable settings, including an ad-block feature, split tunneling, and a firewall to prevent personal data leaks.
Tunnelbear
Tunnelbear comes under the same tier, but the only significant limitation of their free VPN plan is the 2GB monthly bandwidth cap, which diminishes TunnelBear's usefulness for regular content streaming and makes it best suited for occasional users. You also can't roll over this amount. If you plan to stream or use your VPN daily, 2GB is not a lot of bandwidth, and this option isn't right for you. Consider Proton VPN or another one of my recommended VPNs, instead.
PrivadoVPN
This is the best free VPN for streaming. Unlike many services that only support streaming with a premium account, PrivadoVPN allows you to watch content online with the free tier plan. You can access servers in 13 countries, including the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. -- for example, for watching BBC iPlayer -- but you won't have access to the complete 49-country network unless you're a paying subscriber.
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield's proprietary protocol allows users to connect and benefit from respectable speeds at no cost. HotSpot Shield Hydra protocols, such as ExpressVPN's Lightway and NordVPN's NordLynx, are known for their quick service. Hydra functions on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android and can manage connections up to 1Gbps. It would have been easy for Hotspot Shield Basic to be included on any list of the fastest VPNs. Despite its speed, server restrictions may impact connection speeds, and you won't have access to servers that are optimized for streaming.
Still, you should be careful
Typically, free VPN usage is discouraged because these solutions can impact your online safety and privacy.
Some free VPNs are in no way actually free, they obtain payment in ways other than cash. There are free VPNs that secretly collect your personal data, digital footprints. Typically, free VPN usage is discouraged because these solutions can impact your online safety and privacy.
