Download Free VPN for Windows PC 2024
Numerous free VPNs make grand promises but fall short in delivering. Our mission is to distinguish truth from exaggeration. After evaluating multiple VPNs featuring free versions or trials, we've identified the best free vpn for pc. Starting with the top Windows 11 VPNs that offer free trials, let's delve into the details.
1. Proton VPN
Servers/countries: 3000+ servers in 69 countries
Free version: Yes
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Proton vpn free download link:
Download
Proton VPN stands out as an excellent choice among free VPNs for Windows 11, primarily because proton vpn free version imposes no monthly data caps. With this, you can freely utilize the service as much as you need, without the concern of encountering unexpected restrictions or lockouts.
Emphasizing security and privacy, the free plan incorporates robust AES-256 encryption and utilizes the WireGuard protocol. Additionally, the provider upholds a meticulously audited no-logs policy, ensuring that there is no sensitive information to be shared. The commitment to privacy is reinforced by the provider's choice of jurisdiction in Switzerland, known for its privacy-friendly stance, and the use of open-source software.
When it comes to streaming, it's worth noting that the free version lacks the capability to bypass geographical restrictions for exclusive movies and TV shows on online streaming services. Additionally, non-paying users are unable to utilize Proton VPN for peer-to-peer (P2P) activities.
Speed is a standout feature as the free application incorporates the high-performing WireGuard protocol, ensuring minimal slowdowns. Noteworthy is the inclusion of the VPN Accelerator technology, exclusive to the provider, which optimizes data packet delivery by eliminating inefficiencies.
In terms of pricing, while the free version offers robust functionality, the paid alternative unlocks additional premium features such as Tor over VPN, Secure Core servers for enhanced traffic encryption against potential snoopers, and the NetShield malware and ad blocker. All these extras are available for a reasonable proton vpn price $4.99 per month. Furthermore, the provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing added assurance to users.
Advantages:
- Unlimited data usage
- Impressive speeds
- Highly customizable, audited, and open-source applications
- Dependable kill switch functionality
Disadvantages:
- Limited to 3 server locations
- Supports only 1 simultaneous connection
2. Nord VPN
Servers/countries: 5900+ servers in 60 countries
Free trial: Yes, 7-days
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
Nord vpn free download link: Download
NordVPN stands out as a premier choice among free trial VPNs for Windows 11. Renowned for its extensive server network, exceptionally high speeds, and robust security measures, the provider offers a top-tier experience.
Ensuring security and privacy, every NordVPN subscription incorporates the formidable Threat Protection feature, effectively preventing ads, trackers, and malware. The inclusion of AES-256 encryption and robust DNS leak protection guarantees users protection against intrusions and data leaks. Furthermore, the service upholds a stringent zero-logs policy, independently reviewed three times by auditors, instilling confidence in user privacy.
In the realm of streaming, this provider emerges as a formidable choice, a fact substantiated by our testing. We successfully circumvented geographical restrictions, unlocking access to the expansive content libraries of major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and numerous others.
Speed is a forte of NordVPN, attributed to its exclusive NordLynx protocol that maintains approximately 90% of the original speed when connecting to various locations. With a vast network of over 5900 servers spanning across 60+ countries, users have the flexibility to select from a multitude of servers, ensuring consistently optimal connectivity regardless of location.
In terms of pricing, while a free version may not be available, the provider extends a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users ample time to explore the service risk-free. Furthermore, the paid subscription is exceptionally reasonable, priced at just $2.99 per month.
Advantages:
- Comprehensive and feature-rich 7-day free trial
- 30-day money-back guarantee for added assurance
- Consistently fast speeds and a stable connection
- Extensive server network
- Effectively unlocks a majority of geo-restricted content
Disadvantages:
- Absence of a free plan
3.HotSpot Shield
Servers/countries: 3200+ servers in 80 countries
Free trial: Yes, (15 GB/month)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
HotSpot shield vpn free download link: Download
Hotspot Shield presents users with a generous daily data allowance of 500MB, accumulating to a total of 15GB of free VPN data each month. This offering stands out as one of the most substantial free data allocations available in the market alongside the complimentary software.
Powered by the Catapult Hydra protocol, this robust VPN software ensures swift and stable web browsing. Its reliability makes it an excellent choice for online gaming or streaming activities.
Hotspot Shield is a safe VPN service from a technical standpoint. No DNS leaks, strong encryption, and proprietary tunneling protocols guarantee your security.
Advantages:
- Generous daily data allowance of 500MB (15GB in total)
- Utilizes Catapult Hydra protocol for improved speeds and stable connections
- Includes malware protection for enhanced security
- User-friendly interface for ease of use
- Access to 24/7 customer support
Disadvantages:
- Limited server locations in the free version
- The data cap might be insufficient for heavy VPN users
4.Express VPN
Servers/countries: 3000+ servers in 94 countries
Free: Yes
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
Express vpn free download link: Download
ExpressVPN stands out as the premier freemium solution for safeguarding online privacy and security. Tailored for Windows 11 laptops, this robust application ranks among the top free VPNs, delivering accessible protection against third-party intrusions without unduly draining your device's battery.
The expansive global server network guarantees seamless browsing sessions and bolsters the overall speed of your internet connection, regardless of the chosen server.
In a holistic overview, the user-friendly interface simplifies navigation with just a few clicks, ensuring accessibility for both novice and experienced users alike.
Advantages:
- Exceptional browsing speeds ideal for streaming and general use
- Robust encryption protocols ensuring powerful security
- Extensive server network providing access to a diverse range of IP addresses
- User-friendly interface enhancing ease of navigation
- Cross-platform compatibility for versatile use
Disadvantages:
- Limitations on simultaneous connections in the free version
- Access to premium features necessitates a subscription
5. WindScribe
Servers/countries:500+ servers in 20 countries
Free: Yes (10GB/month)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
WindScribe vpn free download link: Download
Windscribe proves to be an intriguing free VPN option for PC users in 2023, offering a lot for those with modest needs. The Windows application boasts an appealing design, and users will find navigating its minimalistic interface hassle-free.
With a network encompassing over 500 servers across 20+ countries, free users can anticipate a robust experience. The VPN is renowned for its robust security, employing encryption and a dependable kill switch to ensure constant protection and prevent potential IP leaks.
Windscribe supports both WireGuard and OpenVPN, allowing users to customize their experience to suit individual preferences. Despite being based in Canada, akin to TunnelBear, Windscribe maintains a crystal-clear no-logs policy.
Windows users will appreciate the commendable speeds offered, a surprising attribute for a free VPN, albeit constrained by a 10 GB monthly data limit. This limitation, however, may pose challenges for bandwidth-intensive activities like torrenting or streaming.
While Windscribe is P2P-friendly as a free VPN, the limited bandwidth may restrict users. Notably, dedicated Netflix servers are reserved for paid users, meaning free users should not expect compatibility with Netflix US or other streaming platforms.
Advantages:
- Robust server network for a free VPN
- Strong security measures and a no-logs policy
- Support for WireGuard
Disadvantages:
- Limited to 10 GB of monthly bandwidth
- Operates under Canadian jurisdiction
- Artificial live chat support
- Inadequate for streaming
- Torrenting capabilities constrained by the bandwidth cap
6.TunnelBear
Servers/countries:500+ servers in 47 countries
Free: Yes (1GB/month)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
TunnelBear vpn free download link: Download
TunnelBear has already established itself as a well-known free VPN for Windows. While it may not claim the top spot, this provider offers several commendable features. Notably, it boasts a substantial server network for a free VPN, encompassing approximately 500 servers worldwide.
The server distribution is noteworthy, with TunnelBear providing access to around 30 server locations. The Windows app stands out for its unique design, featuring a prominent world map and a distinctive brown bear symbolizing VPN connection and disconnection.
Despite its Canadian jurisdiction, TunnelBear prioritizes security, employing robust encryption and incorporating features like VigilantBear and GhostBear to navigate censorship challenges. Surprisingly, the VPN upholds a no-logs policy, a commitment proven over TunnelBear's extensive existence.
However, certain drawbacks may dissuade even staunchly free users. Notably, there's a limit of 500 MB of monthly bandwidth, which can be extended to 1 GB by sharing a Tweet about the provider. The limitations in bandwidth pose a significant hindrance.
Like many free VPNs for Windows, TunnelBear struggles with bandwidth-intensive activities. Torrenting is not viable, and streaming on platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, and similar services is not supported.
Advantages:
- Visually appealing applications
- Extensive network with 500+ servers
Disadvantages:
- Limited to 500 MB of monthly bandwidth
- Customer support responsiveness concerns
- Inability to stream on Netflix
- Canadian jurisdiction (part of the 5 Eyes alliance)
- Reported connection issues
7.hide.me VPN
Servers/countries: 2100+ servers in 79 countries
Free: Yes (10GB/month)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
Hide.me vpn free download link: Download
Hide.me takes the lead as an excellent VPN software, presenting users with a monthly 10GB data allocation. Despite not being entirely free, this feature makes it a practical choice for users who prefer not to pay for such services.
Employing robust encryption and diverse VPN protocols, this software guarantees fundamental protection throughout your online activities. While the connection speeds may not be top-tier, the extensive global server coverage establishes it as a dependable VPN service.
Advantages:
- Incorporates various security protocols and robust encryption
- Compatible with nearly every platform
- Ideal for users seeking fundamental online security with light VPN usage
Disadvantages:
- Connection speeds are moderate in comparison to other software
- Imposes limitations on intensive streaming and torrenting activities
8.CyberGhost VPN
Servers/countries: 3100+ servers in 91 countries
Free Trial: Yes (24 Hours)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
CyberGhost vpn free download link: Download
CyberGhost secures its position as the prominent choice on the list of the best freemium Windows 11 VPNs for a compelling reason. Its extensive range of features distinguishes it from the competition, and the user-friendly interface guarantees that users can leverage this technology regardless of their proficiency levels.
The software incorporates military-grade encryption and an automatic kill switch, reinforcing security measures. Additionally, the company adheres to a strict no-logs policy, providing users with the confidence to explore the web without any concerns.
Advantages:
- User-friendly interface catering to all levels of users
- Features automatic kill switch and robust encryption
- Adheres to a no-logs policy
- Extensive server coverage facilitating access to geo-restricted content
- Permits multiple simultaneous connections
Disadvantages:
- Varied speed levels among servers
- Limitations in the free version necessitate upgrading to the premium plan for resolution.
9.SurfShark
Servers/countries: 3200+ servers in 100 countries
Free trial: Yes, 7-days
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
SurfShark vpn free download link: Download
Due to its rapid speeds, extensive security features, and unrestricted connections, Surfshark rightfully claims a prominent position among the best VPNs for Windows 11 offering a free trial.
Security and privacy are paramount. The provider employs 100% RAM-only servers, ensuring complete data erasure upon server restarts or disconnections. Furthermore, a meticulously audited no-log policy is in effect. Surfshark goes beyond with built-in antivirus, an adblocker, MultiHop servers, Smart DNS, and split tunneling features.
In the realm of streaming, Surfshark's 3200+ servers across 100+ countries provide unparalleled access to geo-restricted content. Our tests successfully unblocked leading platforms such as Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Max, and Apple TV+.
Speed is a consistent feature, thanks to the incorporation of WireGuard. This protocol enables the VPN to retain approximately 86% of the initial speed during connections.
While Surfshark doesn't offer a free version, the 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial allow worry-free exploration. Moreover, the monthly rate starts at just $1.99.
Advantages:
- Impressive WireGuard speeds for rapid connections
- Successfully unblocks Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus
- Efficient and responsive live chat support
- Unrestricted simultaneous connections
Disadvantages:
- Absence of a free plan
10.Speedify
Servers/countries: 59+ servers in 47 countries
Free trial: Yes (2GB/month)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
Speedify vpn free download link: Download
Speedify offers a complete free version that grants users VPN access without requiring email or sign-up. However, it comes with a 2GB monthly data cap, realistically providing about a day's worth of usage.
During my experience with Speedify's free version, I was impressed by its speed, a notable departure from the generally slower performance of many free VPNs. This emphasis on speed in the free tier may be Speedify's strategy to showcase the VPN's fast performance, prioritizing speed over providing more data for regular use.
Speedify's free version could prove beneficial for sporadic instances where basic VPN protection is needed.
Advantages:
- Demonstrates commendable speed and performance.
- Features a free version.
- Distinctive multi-internet bonding capability.
- Permits cellular network sharing among Speedify users.
Disadvantages:
- Absence of an independent audit.
- Does not include OpenVPN or WireGuard security protocols.
- The free version is restricted to 2GB per month.
- Limited privacy and security features.
- Logs an excessive amount of data, which raises concerns.
11.Atlas VPN
Servers/countries: 1000+ servers in 42 countries
Free version: Yes (5 GB/month)
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Fire Stick
Atlas vpn free download link: Download
Atlas VPN stands out as one of the rare services offering a genuine free version compatible with Windows 11. However, it's crucial to note that this plan comes with a 5 GB monthly data cap, making it less suitable for downloading or streaming large media files.
Security and privacy are prioritized in the Atlas VPN free version, incorporating features like the kill switch, WireGuard, AES-256 encryption, and P2P support. The robust no-logs policy ensures costless confidentiality for your connections.
For streaming, the limited 3 server locations (Amsterdam, Los Angeles, New York) in the free version may not be optimal, making it unlikely to unblock streaming content effectively.
Connection speeds have potential as WireGuard powers Atlas VPN's free version. However, the challenge lies in the limited number of servers and locations, making it more difficult to find an optimal connection point.
In terms of pricing, the Atlas VPN free version may seem restrictive when compared to premium plans, which unlock benefits like an ad blocker, unlimited device connections, top-notch streaming performance, and more. You can explore these perks risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee or opt for a subscription starting at only $1.64 per month.
Advantages:
- Operational 100% free plan
- Incorporates the WireGuard protocol
- Swift performance for a free Windows 11 VPN
Disadvantages:
- Limited to 3 server locations
- Minimal security features
- 5 GB/month data cap