Chrome browser has many extensions, all of which serve numerous unique purposes. An extension is a software module that allows for smooth functionality between your browser and that software. The module acts as a “handshake,” permitting the software to work with the browser.
However, you cannot trust the safety of your Chrome browser to be 100%, and this is by no means a jab at the developers – it is more a security issue with using the internet at large. So, what do we do to ensure your Chrome browser is entirely safe, and how can extensions help?
VPN extensions are reliable, but the wrong one can spell doom for your browser and device. This article will detail the best free VPN Chrome extensions to help you determine the best and safest ones to install.
Top free VPN Chrome addons – Quick list
- ExpressVPN – A popular VPN service reputable for its excellent speeds and strong encryption, perfect for your privacy.
- Proton VPN – A privacy-focused VPN service offering standard encryption and has a free and paid options.
- VeePN – This is a user-friendly VPN with solid encryption and a larger server network, making it an ideal VPN for Chrome.
- Hotspot Shield – Known for its relatively fast speeds and strong security features for your utmost security and privacy.
- Hide.me – Highly performing VPN provider with top-security features ideal for privacy and anonymity.
- CyberGhost – Known for its user-friendly interface and wide server network, making it a suitable choice for most online activities.
- Windscribe – Offers a generous free plan, extensive server network, and exceptional security features for versatile protection.
Why should you use free Chrome VPN extensions?
You are not alone if you are curious about why you should use a free Chrome VPN extension. The extension offers the same features, such as changing your location on Chrome. It also protects you online as the actual VPN software would do on your device and browser.
It means your IP address is masked, blocked sites are free to access, and a solid layer of encryption protects your internet activity. As a result, your browsing is safe, downloads are faster, your browser is protected from harmful sites, and all of this is free and without even installing the VPN itself.
Another reason a browser extension is a great idea is if you often forget to turn on your VPN service before opening your browser. The extension comes on automatically when you launch your browser, keeping it safe perpetually.
We must add that while the extension works like the actual VPN, it is incomparable, and if you want the whole experience, you can check out a premium VPN service. Premium VPNs offer the best online privacy and security browser extensions.
Seven best free VPN Chrome extensions – Detailed list
Our article here lists the best VPNs for Chrome. But below are the top-notch choices if you’re specifically looking for free VPN extensions for your Chrome browser.
1. ExpressVPN
- Download: ExpressVPN Chrome extension
Features
- DNS leak protection
- WebRTC blocking
- Open-source
- Location spoofing
- AES 256-BIT Encryption with RSA-4096 and SHA-512 HMAC authentication
- Network Lock kill switch
- Split-tunneling
Unlike most other extensions, the ExpressVPN extension heavily depends on the native software or application. As a result, you can only use the extension if the VPN is installed and the installed application controls the extension.
It is free to use and masks your online activity, which includes your location, targeted sites, IP address, and traffic. With servers in over 100 countries, you can instantly switch from one to a better option when you need a faster connection. The VPN aids this switch with its “Smart Location” feature.
ExpressVPN has one of the largest server banks in the world, ensuring its users always have lightning-fast connection speeds and a secure and private internet experience. In addition, the ExpressVPN extension adds an extra layer of security to your browser. Its feature allows it to reroute you to only the secure versions of websites you wish to visit – filtering out any mirror or scam sites for you.
It is also interesting to mention that the extension is designed for users who are just using VPNs and their extensions. At its core is precise attention to detail and ease. The interface is simple enough for beginners, easy to navigate, and comes in multiple languages, so no one is left out. Furthermore, you can customize it to your taste, even in the free app version, further reiterating their commitment to user ease.
And if you have any complaints or need support, ExpressVPN has 24/7 customer service.
- Large server network
- Fast speeds
- Advanced privacy features
- No phone support
- You need to have the native app installed to work
- Limited configuration
How to add ExpressVPN on Chrome
- First, download the ExpressVPN app.
- Go to the Chrome extension homepage.
- Search for “ExpressVPN extension.”
- Click to add.
- Pin for easy access.
2. Proton VPN
- Download: Proton VPN Chrome extension
Features
- Strict no-logs policy
- Secure Core architecture
- AES 256-bit encryption is used
- Uses IKEv2/IPSec and OpenVPN protocols
- Kill switch
This VPN extension makes our list despite not being a strictly free-to-use VPN. The community-based extension performs just as well as the others on this list and sometimes better, even before paying for the premium version.
The VPN offers users a 30-day free trial for all its exclusive features. Swiss-owned, it operates under very air-tight privacy laws, ensuring its users enjoy maximum security and privacy at all times. In addition, Proton VPN is open-source, which is good because it means the community handles updates and tweaks instead of the primary developer.
In addition, it makes for more user-focused software and assures users of regular free updates and solutions to all problems they encounter using the software. When you sign up to use Proton VPN, you get unlimited data and an immensely high speed of up to 10GB.
This service is tightly knit under a no-logs policy, so your internet surfing, location, and traffic remain private. Thanks to its Perfect Forward Secrecy feature, your sensitive data is protected when you go on streaming platforms such as Netflix and HBO Max. If you cannot access those where you are, it can unblock them for you and ensure no IP/DNS/WebRTC leaks.
- Very secure and private
- Open-source software
- Free premium features
- No live customer service
- Torrenting is only available in four locations
- A small network of servers
How to add Proton VPN on Chrome
- Go to the Chrome extension homepage.
- Search for “Proton VPN extension.”
- Click to add.
- Pin for easy access.
3. VeePN
- Download: VeeVPN Chrome extension
Features
- Limitless bandwidth and speed
- Kill switch feature
- 256-bit encryption
- DNS leak prevention
- Uses OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols
- Unlimited server switching
The VeePN Chrome extension is free and unlimited, which is a doozy feat. Moreover, this nifty extension operates using over 2,500 servers worldwide, which allows it to ensure the users a secure and private internet experience every time.
The service is unrestricted and thus allows users to access websites or platforms previously blocked majorly due to geo-restrictions. In addition, you don’t have to stress about the risks of accessing restricted websites; your IP address is always obscured, and you’re protected from any malware that might be the site’s way of deterring restricted users.
With the VeePN extension, you are assured total anonymity, instant switching between servers so that you always get the best connection speeds, and you can now access previously blocked content.
For functionality and user experience, VeePN is also decent. Its interface is easy to use and has a user-friendly design. In addition, it is compatible across multiple platforms, has a strict zero-logs policy, and can even automatically configure itself. As a result, you do not have to rack your brain on the best settings.
Thanks to its WiFi security feature, it can protect users from threats while using their routers or public WiFi. As a result, your browsing is safe, secure, and, most significantly, private.
- WiFi secure feature keeps you completely safe
- Lightning fast speeds
- Easy-to-use interface
- Not a lightweight extension
- IKEv2 might be banned in certain countries
- Connection speed was reduced because of the server load
How to add VeePN on Chrome
- Go to the Chrome extension homepage.
- Search for “VeePN extension.”
- Click to add.
- Pin for easy access.
4. Hotspot Shield
- Download: Hotspot Shield Chrome extension
Features
- A WebRTC blocker to hide your IP from websites
- Unlimited VPN access
- Secure AES-256 Encryption
- Access to geo-restricted content
- Secures your online activities
- Websites and advertisers blocking trackers
Hotspot Shield is undoubtedly one of the most popular VPN providers, with over 650 million downloads, and its extension is also equally in this category. In addition, this VPN service is fast and has even been awarded the world’s fastest VPN award; an award is given to the best performing VPN in the speed and AV tests.
The speed of the VPN can be attributed to its proprietary encryption protocol – the “Catapult Hydra,” but it’s not all speed with this one. Security-wise, the Hotspot Shield has its encrypted channel, which it uses to mask or change your device’s IP address, allowing you to access sites with blocks while hiding your identity and recording your site activities.
Since the Chrome browser has an impressive download functionality, it would make sense that you need an extension that either improves on it or keeps it running smoothly, and Hotspot Shield does both. It also has an impressive download speed and even comes with free 500MB data.
Hotspot Shield is user-friendly, which explains its immense popularity, but it is also safe, with IP/DNS/WebRTC leak protection. Users are also afforded an extensive server network spanning over 80 countries for smooth and fast connection speeds.
- High download speeds
- Unmatched connection speed
- User data is shared with sponsors if you use the free version
- Only the premium version works with torrenting platforms
How to add Hotspot Shield on Chrome
- Go to the Chrome extension homepage.
- Search for “Hotspot Shield extension.”
- Click to add.
- Pin for easy access.
5. Hide. me
- Download: Hide.me Chrome extension
Features
- 256-bit AES encryption.
- No-logs policy
- Kill switch
- Split tunneling
- Multi-hop
This VPN extension works just like a proxy; it allows you to unblock restricted websites and keep your IP address hidden. But because it functions as a proxy, you can’t use the killswitch or split-tunneling features.
The Hide. me free plan offers users unlimited data, making this extension an excellent option for streaming any blocked content without worrying about restrictions. With Hide.me, you can unblock the popular streaming platforms; though it might take some time for some, the result is the same. So we can conclude that it has a fair unblocking ability.
Users of Hide. me can toggle on or off the WebRTC, SOCKS, or proxy settings. Though limited, the option to customize these settings is welcomed plus to this Chrome extension.
- Ten simultaneous connections
- Cutting-edge tunneling protocols
- Unblocks most streaming services
- Expensive
- The kill switch could be improved
- Basic mobile apps
How to add Hide. me on Chrome
- Go to the Chrome extension homepage.
- Search for “Hide. me extension.”
- Click to add.
- Pin for easy access.
6. CyberGhost
- Download: CyberGhost Chrome extension
Features
- Kill switch
- Dedicated streaming servers
- Ethereum blockchain network
- WiFi protection
- No-logs policy
- 256-bit AES encryption
This Chrome extension has both free and paid versions. The free version works reasonably well, giving you borderless internet access. With this extension, you can eliminate online surveillance, keeping your data, traffic, IP address, and online activity secure and private.
Want to access blocked sites? Then, this is your best bet. CyberGhost helps with unblocking any digital censorship thanks to its over 6,300 servers. This VPN service currently has the largest network of servers, which are reliable and very fast, ensuring that users can always enjoy smooth streaming and an endless option pool to switch to if connection quality dips.
CyberGhost also offers you high value for money since, with one subscription, you can have seven simultaneous connections. Furthermore, if you are still deciding to commit to it long-term, you have a 45-day money-back guarantee, 15 more days than any other VPN service offers.
Lastly, with this Chrome extension, you can rest assured of secure internet access, whether using your remote router or connecting to a public WiFi source.
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Large server network
- Limited bandwidth
- Insufficient WebRTC leak prevention
How to add CyberGhost on Chrome
- Go to the Chrome extension homepage.
- Search for “CyberGhost extension.”
- Click to add.
- Pin for easy access.
7. Windscribe
- Download: Windscribe Chrome extension
Features
- Stealth mode
- AES-256 cipher with SHA512 auth and a 4096-bit RSA key is used
- Kill switch
- 100% transparent operations
- Static IPs
- Uses OpenVPN, IKEv2, TCP, UDP, and SOCKS5 protocols
- Split tunneling technology
The Windscribe extension is one of the Chrome browser’s best and arguably the best option for most browsers. While it is still a bit new on the market, it does not lack the qualities expected of VPN browser extensions.
It has an excellent unblocking feature, properly hides your IP address, and adds a nifty ad-blocker feature. In addition, you can get almost all the incredible features in the free version, making it budget-friendly.
Windscribe offers its free users premium, high-quality security features and is user and budget-friendly, offering up to 10 GB of free data each month — unprecedented in the industry.
It grants access to blocked sites and platforms like foreign streaming giants like Netflix, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime. Its unblocking feature is made ever so efficient thanks to its super-fast servers in over 60 countries and 110 locations. Lastly, your data is kept private and secure thanks to the zero-logs policy and leak protection.
- Free premium features
- Excellent unblocking ability
- High-quality security features
- No-logs policy
- Risk of data leaks
- Low internet speed
- Not all servers function
- Customer service run by bots
How to add Windscribe on Chrome
- Go to the Chrome extension homepage.
- Search for “Windscribe extension.”
- Click to add.
- Pin for easy access.
How we tested these free Chrome extensions
These are some factors we considered when testing the free Chrome extensions.
- Genuine free service: No need to commit to a subscription right away. All the VPNs discussed in our article are either completely free or offer a reliable money-back guarantee.
- Robust security and privacy: Opt for a VPN that employs AES 256-bit encryption and provides IP/DNS leak protection to safeguard your personal data. Rest easy knowing that the VPNs listed here prioritize your security and don’t store any identifiable information. Remember that using a VPN app is typically safer than relying on a Chrome extension, as most VPN extensions primarily function as proxies.
- Fast speeds and sufficient data: To browse the web seamlessly on Google Chrome, selecting a VPN with good speeds and ample data is essential. We have assessed the data limits and tested the speeds of each VPN on this list to ensure smooth web surfing without long loading times.
- Chrome Compatibility: Ensure your chosen VPN can protect most of your Chrome-enabled devices. If you use Chrome OS, ensure the VPN’s Android version is compatible. All the free VPNs on this list offer native Mac, iOS, Windows, and Android apps. Additionally, many of them also provide a dedicated browser extension for Chrome. Remember that while multiple devices may be compatible, most free VPNs only permit one simultaneous connection.
- Responsive Customer Support: Prompt assistance should be available if you encounter any questions or issues with the VPN. While 24/7 live chat support is ideal, it is vital to note that most free VPNs do not offer this feature. That is why we ensured that all the VPNs on this list offer customer support or comprehensive knowledge bases to address your concerns in a timely manner.
Paid VPNs, free VPN vs. proxies
This comparison is unavoidable since most VPN Chrome extensions function the same as a proxy. The difference, however, is that the extensions are much more reliable than the proxies. We can give you some details as to why this is true and why you are better off using a VPN extension.
Geo-restriction
VPN and proxy can grant you access to blocked websites, but they achieve this with different methods. VPNs encrypt your connection, maintaining anonymity and security, but proxies do not, exposing you. Free VPN extensions are usually good enough to access blocked free streaming sites but might not be suitable for more intense activities like gaming.
Security
Regarding security, the comparison shifts from VPN vs. proxy to paid VPN vs. free VPN – since we know that proxies are notoriously unsafe to use because they lack encryption. As an internet user, you should take encryption and, as such, security very seriously.
Thus, if you need a secure and reliable option to keep you safe while using the internet, your best bet is a paid VPN. That is because, unlike the free version, you can access all its features without restrictions and not for a limited trial period.
When you want to use VPNs, do adequate research before choosing one. Most free VPNs are insecure; some even masquerade as secure but come with malware.
Risks of free Chrome VPNs
Free VPNs pose significant risks to your privacy if used irresponsibly. Here’s why:
- Selling private data: Some untrustworthy free VPNs can collect personal information and sell it to third parties for profit. On the other hand, premium VPNs usually have a clear and audited no-logs policy that promises your privacy.
- Malicious ads: Free VPNs may share your personal data with advertisers who target you with annoying and sometimes malicious ads. On the other hand, paid VPNs offer ad and malware blocker features that protect you from such intrusive ads.
- Trackers: Some free VPNs install trackers that target your search history, location, and other sensitive data. Paid VPNs like ExpressVPN offer security features that block trackers.
- Obsolete software: Free VPNs often have outdated software since the providers don’t profit from them, making them vulnerable to many online threats. So, a paid VPN with updated software will protect you from hackers and government surveillance.
As a safer alternative, we recommend choosing a freemium VPN for Chrome. These are free versions of premium VPN providers, so you can trust their legitimacy. However, beware that they are limited in terms of servers, speed, and security features, among other aspects.
Free Chrome VPNs to avoid
While free Chrome VPNs may sound tempting, there are various options you should avoid at all costs. These VPNs engage in questionable practices that might land you in problems or compromise your privacy and security. They include:
- INinja VPN: The provider has been found to collect significant amounts of private user data such as activity logs, timestamps, and location.
- SuperVPN: It claims to have a no-logs policy but was later found to be collecting user data. The service hides its data collection practices in the privacy policy.
- Hoxx VPN: Operates from a Five-Eyes country and collaborates with the government. It was reported to collect and sell user data and provide it to official institutions.
FAQs
Not really. While VPN extensions do a great job of protecting and securing your browser, they cannot be compared to the actual VPN software. The extensions only protect browser traffic, leaving the private data on the device vulnerable to intrusion.
Yes. A Free VPN slows down your internet speed because they have limited servers and tend to be overcrowded. Tunneling your traffic through secure tunnels also contributes to slow speeds.
No. Incognito mode cannot be a replacement for VPN. Your ISP can still monitor and track your web activity in incognito mode. Unlike a VPN, the incognito mode doesn’t encrypt your traffic but only deletes your cache, history, and cookies.
No, Google Chrome or Chromebook lacks an in-built free VPN. However, you can install third-party VPN extensions or apps on Google Chrome and Chromebook.
