Is it safe to install a VPN on Linux?

Yes. Although Linux is safer than Windows, you will still need a VPN. In fact, a VPN will change your IP address and encrypt your web traffic. This will protect you and your Linux device from malicious actors like hackers, government agencies, and advertising companies.

Are VPNs for Linux legal?

Yes. Currently, there isn’t any regulation that prohibits the use of VPNs on Linux. However, some countries either restrict or ban VPNs for censorship purposes. Therefore, confirm the laws in your country before installing a VPN on your Linux.

How can I download a free Linux VPN?

We strongly advise against completely free VPNs because they can compromise your security and privacy. So, if you are on a budget, you can use the money-back guarantee of premium providers to use the VPN for free. All the services we have recommended on this list support Linux with guarantees of up to 30 days.

How do I set up an L2TP VPN connection on Linux?

First, ensure the VPN you use offers L2TP/IPSec protocol. The provider will give you the necessary connection details, including the username, password, and a shared secret. Also, you may be required to install L2TP from the command line and then add a connection using Linux Network Manager.

Can I connect a VPN automatically on Linux?

All the VPNs recommended here offer native apps with an option to connect automatically. For example, you can set it to connect whenever you are in a public or unfamiliar network.

Will a VPN help me avoid viruses when downloading torrents on Linux?

Most malware targets Windows OS, so you are less likely to get infected with a virus when using Linux. Nonetheless, taking the necessary precautions to stay utterly safe is essential since malware exists in different forms. By encrypting your traffic and hiding your IP address, a VPN will help to keep your torrenting activities private.

Will a VPN affect my internet speed?

Usually, any VPN will cause your speed to slow down to some extent. There are two main reasons why your speed will decrease when using a VPN. First, the VPN has to encrypt outgoing and incoming data, which causes delays. Second, it routes your traffic through servers in different regions, even far away from your location. However, the difference is barely noticeable with premium services like NordVPN.

Is VPN integrated into Linux?

The answer is No. Linux does not have a built-in VPN. Most Linux distros, like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and even IPSec, support tunneling decorum. You will still need an outdoor server for connection.

What is the recommended VPN encryption that I can use for my Linux?

You tell the strength of the encryption by looking at the number of bit counts. The higher the bit count, the best. For instance, AES 256 bit is less than AES 512. Therefore, AES 512 encrypts stronger. The longer the block size, the longer it takes to break the encryption.

Which Linux distro is most safe to use on Linux?

I recommend using Ubuntu. Several VPNs work well with Ubuntu that you can select from. Even though Linux is safer than Mac and Windows, hackers can still access your information if you don’t incorporate VPN. Using Ubuntu with a VPN will make it impossible for a third party to access your data.

Can I use an OpenVPN on my Linux without a VPN provider?

Yes, it is possible, but not recommended. Though Linux does not have built-in VPNs, you can manually set up an OpenVPN and other protocols like WireGuard on your Linux desktop. However, the setup process could be more varied and safe. You will still need safer servers that are offered by VPNs. OpenVPN uses free servers that do not guarantee safety.

5 Best VPNs for Linux in 2023

Sneak peek at Linux VPNs

Linux is the most secure and highly customizable operating system for privacy and security enthusiasts. The less vulnerability to hacking, malware, and cyber-attacks makes Linux a top choice among Windows and macOS. However, your ISP and third parties can still monitor your online activities. That’s why you need a reliable VPN to enhance your online security and anonymity. Moreover, a quality VPN will also help you bypass geo-restrictions. Amongst a large number of VPNs available today, only top-notch VPN providers offer dedicated Linux clients along with compatibility with other operating systems. Here you can find those best Linux VPNs.

Linux is a free operating system that is a top choice for people concerned about privacy. This is because it is open-source and highly customizable. Also, it is considered more secure against cyber threats than other platforms like Windows and macOS.

However, your internet service provider (ISP) and other third parties can still access your data. That is why you must install a virtual private network (VPN) on your Linux OS. Unfortunately, the choices are limited, as only a few quality VPNs support Linux.

In this guide, we’ll look at the top 5 VPN services for Linux, how to install a VPN on Linux, and much more.

Best Linux VPNs – The quick list

Are you short on time? Here is a sneak peek of the top VPNs for Linux.

ExpressVPN – Compatible with various Linux distros. Also, it bypasses even the most stubborn geo-blocks, has fast-speed servers, and uses advanced security features.
NordVPN – It is easy to install and use, great at unblocking streaming websites, and offers solid security.
Surfshark – Does not limit the number of connections. Moreover, it provides high-speed, dependable security features, and affordable packages.
ProtonVPN – Best free VPN for Linux. The app is exceptionally effortless to use, secure, and excellent for unblocking geo-blocked content.
IPVanish – Budget-friendly VPN for Linux. It offers high-speed connections on selected servers and an impressive privacy and security features list.

The top Linux VPNs comparison

Service Provider	ExpressVPN	Surfshark	CyberGhost	NordVPN	PIA
Number of Servers	300+ in 94 countries	3200+ in 100 nations	8900+ in 91 countries	5000+ in 59 countries	35000+ in 80 countries
Devices Supported	Mac OS & iOSAndroid Windows Linux Microsoft	Mac OS & iOSAndroid Windows Linux	Mac OS & iOSAndroid WindowsLinux	Mac OS & iOSAndroid Linux	Mac OS & iOSAndroid Linux
Maximum Connection	5	Unlimited	7	6	unlimited
GUI Client	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Subscription Cost	$6.67/month	$ 2.05/month	$ 2.03/month	$ 3.69/ month	$ 2.03/month
Security	AES 256 bit	AES 256-bit encryption	AES 256-bit encryption	AES 256-bit encryption	AES 256-bit encryption

Why should you use Linux?

Linux has adversely gained fame as many clients move from other operating systems like Windows and macOS. Linux is far better than other OS due to its added security features. It can detect viruses that mainly target operating systems.

The Linux operating system provides you with the ability to take control of your devices as well as the data. You can select your operating system from Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Kali, Fedora, Mint, and OpenSUSE.

Reports show that Microsoft and Apple collaborate with NSA to create backdoors that help them snoop through your privacy.

Although Linux improves your privacy, The OS can only protect your data within the device, but once the data routes into the internet, you will need a VPN to help encrypt the traffic data. In addition, it is necessary to use a VPN if you want to hide your web traffic from your Internet Service Provider, government, and other third parties. Another remarkable feature of Linux is its ability to bypass geo- restrictions on sites while providing online privacy. With Linux only, you can unblock streaming sites like Netflix, Access gaming sites like BBC iPlayer from any location. With the best-recommended VPN, you can also torrent quickly and safely.

Benefits of a Linux VPN

Linux does better than other operating systems regarding protection against malware and viruses. However, you still need a VPN if you are a Linux user. Here is why.

Maintain your obscurity

Although Linux can detect and prevent malware attacks, it is not equipped to encrypt your web traffic. Here is where VPN comes in. The VPN will Cipher your internet traffic and mask your IP address, making it impossible for other users to access your online activities.

Unblock geo-restrictions

Due to licensing and copyright issues, many websites, applications, and other online services restrict their services to specific areas. However, with a VPN, you can bypass the restrictions and access the services anywhere. For instance, you can connect to a U.S. server from China.