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5 Best Free VPNs for Windows in 2026
Our experts have reviewed 53 VPN providers, which were put through extensive rounds of testing. To learn more about that process, here’s how we review VPNs, where we explain our criteria and our policy of being fully transparent.
Most Windows users want to enhance their overall security and privacy by preventing data theft and logging as well as third-party monitoring. Plus, people traveling abroad may want to access geo-restricted sites and streaming services. Gamers seek to access bot lobbies, lower ping, avoid DDoS attacks, and unblock games that are unavailable in certain regions.
Luckily, we have a solution for these hurdles: the best free VPN for Windows. The catch is that most free VPNs come with drawbacks like limited bandwidth, slow speeds, and weak security. Therefore, we recommend getting a free trial of the best VPN for Windows to bypass geo-blocks, protect your privacy, and enjoy consistently fast connections.
In this article, we’ll reveal the top free VPN for Windows 11/10/8/7 providers, as well as teach you how to get a free trial from a premium VPN. Then we’ll explain how to choose the best VPN and why you might need one. We’ll also discuss the limitations of free VPNs, why they might be dangerous, whether it’s safe to use them, and much more.
Best Free VPNs for Windows - Our Shortlist
- NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN Free Trial for Windows
- Surfshark – Best Windows VPN Trial with Incredible Speeds
- Proton VPN – Best Free VPN for Windows
- Windscribe – Free VPN with Robust Security Features
- Atlas VPN – Free VPN with Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
How to Get a Free VPN Trial for Windows?
To get a free VPN trial for Windows, you need to find a provider with a reliable money-back guarantee that supports Windows OS. Then download and install it on your device. Here are more thorough steps to follow:
- Get a free trial of a Windows VPN (we recommend NordVPN’s 30-day risk-free trial).
- Download and install the VPN software on your preferred Windows device.
- Open the VPN app and log in or create an account.
- Connect to a server that provides access to your desired activities.
- That’s it! You can now access the Internet with free VPN protection on Windows.
To set up a VPN on Windows devices, you can follow three methods. The first one requires installing your VPN’s native software, as instructed above. The second method involves manual setup using the OpenVPN Client, and the third option is to configure your VPN manually via the built-in Windows client.
The Best Free VPNs for Windows
To find the best free VPN for Windows, follow the criteria we established in our guide to choosing the top free VPN. Most importantly, the VPN must offer native software for Windows and other devices, like phones, computers, and tablets that run on different OS. Next, it should have either unlimited bandwidth or a generous data allowance.
Regarding security, your chosen VPN should come with strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, a reliable kill switch, and secure VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. Additionally, the VPN needs to have a big server fleet with servers spread across many countries.
Moreover, it’s best if your free VPN client is fast with consistent performance. It should also allow numerous simultaneous connections. Keep in mind that if you go for a premium VPN with a free trial, it needs to offer a money-back guarantee. Last but not least, make sure the provider has helpful customer support.
Based on these criteria, here are the top 5 free Windows VPNs:
1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN Free Trial for Windows
NordVPN is the best free VPN trial for Windows. It has native software for Windows and other devices, like tablets, phones, and computers. Even better, this provider allows you to test it on any device risk free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. It also offers a 7-day free trial for Android. Both options include unlimited bandwidth and unrestricted feature access.
This VPN has 5,800+ servers located in 60 countries around the globe. Regardless of the server you connect to, you’ll enjoy fantastic security practices, such as a kill switch that cuts your connections and prevents data leaks, AES 256-bit encryption, and an audited no-logs policy. NordVPN also has industry-leading protocols: NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec.
Another area in which NordVPN excels is its speed. As we briefly mentioned, NordVPN has unlimited bandwidth and a huge server network, which allow it to provide lightning-fast speeds and reliable performance even on longer distances. It allows 6 simultaneous connections, so you can install NordVPN on Windows PC along with other devices without an issue.
NordVPN never fails to impress its users. The 30-day free trial we mentioned enables you to try the provider and get a full refund if you decide not to use it any further. Ultimately, this VPN cares for your experience and comes with 24/7 customer support via live chat to assist you with even the smallest issue.
PROS
- Suitable for all Windows versions
- Impressive security features
- 5,800+ servers in 60 countries
- Extraordinary speeds and stable performance
- 30-day refund period
CONS
- Only 6 simultaneous connections
2. Surfshark – Best Windows VPN Trial with Incredible Speeds
The second-best free Windows VPN trial is Surfshark. It has native apps for Windows and other devices, such as phones, tablets, and laptops. You can test it on any device for 30 days and get a refund if you don’t like it. Plus, there is a 7-day free trial for Android, iOS, and macOS. Similar to NordVPN, both versions offer unlimited bandwidth and no features are restricted.
What’s more, you will benefit from the next-level security features that Surfshark implements, such as a kill switch, AES 256-bit encryption that makes your traffic unreadable, and VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, that ensure fast transmission of data. On top of that, you will be able to connect to any of its 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.
Surfshark also has blazing speeds and stable performance. If the server you’ve chosen is far away from you, your speeds will still be amazing. But speed isn’t the only thing that Surfshark doesn’t impose any limits on. You will be allowed to make unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can use Surfshark on many devices.
Thanks to the aforementioned 30-day money-back guarantee, you can thoroughly test Surfshark for yourself and make an informed decision. If it’s not suitable for you, you can easily get a refund. Lastly, Surfshark has reliable customer support that you will be able to contact at all times via live chat.
PROS
- Compatible with Windows devices
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- High-end security measures
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
CONS
- iOS app can be slow
3. Proton VPN – Best Free VPN for Windows
Proton VPN is the best free VPN for Windows, and while it is entirely free, it has many premium features. For example, this provider gives you unlimited bandwidth. On top of that, it has native apps for PC devices running Windows, and it offers software for many other devices, too. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to configure it on a router or a gaming console.
This free VPN app for Windows excels when it comes to security, with AES 256-bit encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a reliable kill switch. Proton VPN even has industry-leading protocols: WireGuard, Stealth, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. Unfortunately, its free server network is limited to only 100+ servers in 3 locations (the US, Japan, and the Netherlands).
Due to this, its medium connection speeds will decrease from time to time, as premium customers are prioritized and servers will be overcrowded. That said, you will observe mostly dependable performance. Another downside is you won’t be able to use the Proton VPN app on multiple devices, as you’re allowed only 1 connection at a time with the free version.
Fortunately, Proton VPN has knowledgeable customer support that you can reach for help with any issues. But unless you change your mind and decide to become a premium subscriber, you can only contact support via email.
PROS
- Has an app for Windows
- Strong security features
- Unlimited bandwidth
- Stealth VPN protocol
- Knowledgeable customer assistance
CONS
- Doesn’t work on routers
- Servers in 3 locations only
- No live chat customer support
4. Windscribe – Free VPN with Robust Security Features
Our next top free VPN is Windscribe. While this provider has native software for Windows and other devices (with the exception of routers), it has limited bandwidth. Its data allowance starts at 2 GB/month, but you can get up to 10 GB/month by registering your email address, recommending the VPN, or tweeting about it.
Another perk if you download Windscribe is its broad range of security features. It has military-grade encryption, a strong kill switch (Windscribe Firewall) that prevents data leaks, and many VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, Stealth, and Wstunnel. However, even though it says it has a no-logs policy, it collects anonymized data logs.
On Windscribe’s free plan, it has limited servers in 11 countries: the US, Canada, the UK, Hong Kong, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Norway, Romania, and Turkey. If you go for this version, you’ll enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections, but be prepared for only moderate speeds and decently steady performance.
If Windscribe is not connecting on Windows, you can try out the tips in our guide. It will help troubleshoot the free VPN on Windows. Otherwise, you will receive reliable customer support for any issue that arises. You can only contact them through email, though. Live chat is not available to free subscribers.
PROS
- Native Windows VPN software
- Unique Wstunnel protocol
- Excellent security features
- Allows unlimited simultaneous connections
- Moderate speeds and stable performance
CONS
- Limited bandwidth
- Available only in 11 countries
- Support via email only
5. Atlas VPN – Free VPN with Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
The last completely free VPN for Windows on our list is Atlas VPN. Like Windscribe, this free Windows VPN comes with bandwidth restrictions—it’s limited to 5 GB per month, to be exact. The provider tries to make up for this by offering native software for Windows and other devices. Unfortunately, it is not compatible with routers at all.
Regarding security, if you use Atlas VPN to download a free VPN for Windows, you will benefit from a no-logs policy, a reliable kill switch to cut your Internet if the VPN connection fails, AES 256-bit encryption, and strong VPN protocols, such as WireGuard and IPsec/IKEv2. Therefore, your privacy will be protected at all times.
With the free version of Atlas VPN, you’ll get a very limited free VPN server range. It offers only 4 server locations—1 each in the Netherlands and Singapore and 2 in the US. Therefore, you’ll observe relatively slow speeds with frequently laggy performance, especially as your distance from the server increases. Luckily, there are unlimited simultaneous connections.
Atlas VPN has a very knowledgeable customer support team, but it’s only reachable via email, and it’s unfortunately not available 24/7. That said, if you don’t need immediate assistance, it is quite helpful.
PROS
- Apps for Windows devices
- Unlimited simultaneous connections allowed
- Top-notch security measures
- Industry-leading protocols
CONS
- Slowest free VPN speeds
- Can’t be installed on routers
- 5 GB monthly bandwidth limit
Best Free Windows VPNs - Compared
How to Choose the Best Free VPN for Windows
To choose the best free VPN for Windows, make sure it satisfies some crucial criteria, such as native software for Windows, strong security, and a large server network. Here are all the criteria you should consider in a free Windows 11/10/8/7 VPN:
- Native Software for Windows and Other Devices – Your chosen provider must have VPN software for different OS versions, such as Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7, as well as various devices like phones, tablets, and computers.
- Data Allowance – Almost all free VPNs come with data restrictions, limiting your VPN usage. Make sure to get a free provider with a sufficient data allowance so you don’t face any interruptions.
- Security and Privacy – The VPN must come with robust security features, like strong protocols (WireGuard and OpenVPN), military-grade encryption, and a no-logs policy.
- Server Network Size and Distribution – Free VPNs often have limited server fleets. Look for as many servers as possible spread widely across the world, so you can access any content.
- Performance – Look for a free VPN for Windows PC devices with consistently fast connections that will prevent lagging and latency issues.
- Kill Switch – Enabling a kill switch will prevent data leaks by cutting your Internet if the VPN fails.
- Simultaneous Connections – Having a VPN with numerous simultaneous connections will allow you to use it on your Windows PC and many other devices at the same time.
- Money-Back Guarantee – Most premium VPNs have money-back guarantees. Going for such a VPN client will allow you to test its full suite of features and get a refund if you decide it’s not a good fit.
- Customer Support – In order to avoid issues and frustration, your VPN should offer 24/7 customer support via various channels, allowing you to contact the expert team and solve problems quickly.
Why Do You Need a Free VPN Trial for Windows?
You need a free VPN trial for Windows so you can use it without restrictions like speed or bandwidth limitations. Here are all the reasons to get a trial of a premium VPN:
- Robust Security and Privacy – While browsing the Internet, you often transmit confidential data. Installing a reliable VPN will ensure that your sensitive information is safe.
- Use Full Server Network – Free VPNs only allow you to connect to a few of their servers. On the other hand, a free trial VPN for Windows will let you use its whole fleet, so you won’t be restricted in speed or the content you can access.
- Access Home Sites While Traveling – You will need a VPN with many servers and strong unblocking capabilities to access geo-restricted content from home while abroad. It’s unlikely a free VPN will have these features, but a free trial of a premium VPN will.
- Connect Safely to Public Wi-Fi – Browsing on public Internet is very risky. These networks are targets for hackers, so having a VPN with strong security is important.
- Bypass Geo-Blocks – Many popular sites, such as Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Disney+, are geo-restricted in some regions. A VPN will help you bypass these blocks in no time.
- Avoid Bandwidth Throttling – Excessive data usage leads to bandwidth throttling. However, a VPN will hide your traffic from your ISP and prevent slower speeds.
- Hide Your Browsing Activity – Governments, hackers, and ISPs can monitor your online activity at any time. You need a VPN with strong encryption to avoid this.
- Mask Your IP Address – Your IP address reveals your actual location, which can prevent access to some sites. As entirely free VPNs are known for IP leaks, find a premium VPN with a free trial instead.
- Improve Gaming Experience – Many games, bot lobbies, and in-game features are available only in some countries. A VPN will help you change your location to enjoy unrestricted gaming.
- Torrent Safely – Torrenting is illegal in many countries. A VPN will hide your traffic so that ISPs and governments can’t see your P2P downloads.
The Limitations of a Free Windows VPN
Free Windows VPN providers have many limitations, such as a lack of security features, servers, and bandwidth. Below you’ll find all the limitations to keep in mind:
- Limited Bandwidth – Free VPNs come with limited bandwidth, and you’ll be unable to use the VPN once you reach the monthly cap.
- Weak Privacy and Security – A free VPN app can lack crucial security features, contributing to data theft, DDoS attacks, and IP leaks, among other issues.
- Restricted Server Network – As free VPNs don’t have many servers worldwide, they limit your access to international content and are inconsistent due to overcrowding.
- Few Supported Devices – You might not be able to install a free VPN app on certain devices. Most of them don’t support routers, so they won’t work on gaming consoles, either.
- Minimal Simultaneous Connections – Using a free VPN will likely limit the number of simultaneous connections you can make. Some of them only allow a single connection.
- Slow Speed and Limited Performance – Free VPN software usually delivers slow speeds and unreliable performance that leads to unstable latency and frequent lagging issues.
- Limited Features – Besides the lack of security features, your free VPN app probably won’t have extra options like optimized servers for various activities, obfuscation, or split tunneling.
- Cannot Unblock Everything – Free VPN services have weak unblocking capabilities due to their limited server networks, preventing access to restricted content.
- No 24/7 Customer Support – Most free VPNs don’t have 24/7 customer support, which is a significant drawback if you have any issues.
Why Free Windows VPNs Might Be Dangerous
Free Windows VPNs might be dangerous because they can compromise your online safety in numerous ways. That’s why it’s important to understand all the consequences.
- Free VPNs Provide Weak Security and Encryption – A free VPN client for Windows likely lacks strong security features. Your online privacy will be compromised due to improper encryption.
- Free VPNs Expose Your Sensitive Information – Another danger is that free VPNs can leak your confidential data. As a result, hackers can access your private information more easily, leaving you vulnerable to data theft.
- Free VPNs Often Use Aggressive Trackers – One of the biggest drawbacks is that using free VPN software for Windows comes with heavy monitoring.
- Free VPNs Are Easily Breached – Due to the lack of security features, cybercriminals can easily cause data breaches and threaten your privacy.
- Free VPNs Can Collect and Sell Your Data – In order to raise revenue, totally free VPN providers collect and sell your data to third parties, defeating the purpose of a VPN entirely.
- Free VPNs Might Inject Online Ads – Online ads can lead to malicious sites and viruses. Unfortunately, free VPNs come with many unavoidable ads.
- Free VPNs Might Infect You with Malware – The worst free VPN services can come with malware that gets installed along with the VPN on your device, giving it access to all your data.
- Free VPNs Often Have Outdated Software – Free providers frequently use outdated software, which causes various issues. They also lack the latest security patches that prevent advanced cyber threats.
Is It Safe to Use a Free VPN for Windows?
Yes, it is sometimes safe to use a free VPN for Windows, but you have to set realistic expectations because free providers lack many essential features. This is why we don’t recommend using one. They come with various limitations that prevent you from having a safe and enjoyable online experience, regardless of your online activities.
Such VPNs have no data leak protection, come with weak encryption, can collect and sell your data, and sometimes contain malware, compromising your overall security. They also have limited server networks that restrict your access to geo-blocked sites and limited bandwidth that gets used up quickly.
Therefore, we advise you to use one of the best VPNs that has a free trial. This way, you will get premium features, speed, and protection, but you will be able to get a refund. Most importantly, you will enhance your security and bypass geo-restrictions from anywhere.
Final Thoughts
Many Windows 11/10/8/7 users want to have better online security, access to geo-restricted content while they are traveling, and more enjoyable gaming experiences. However, many are on a budget and can’t afford expensive VPNs. The problem is that free VPNs have many limitations. That’s why using a free trial VPN is the best solution.
We recommend NordVPN’s free trial as the best free VPN for Windows. This is better than an entirely free VPN because it has a large server fleet, high speeds, robust security features, and strong unblocking capabilities. But if you’re looking for a free VPN provider, then you can try Proton VPN, which also has excellent security features and a decent server network.
That’s all for our guide on choosing the best free VPN for Windows. If you have any additional questions, please leave them in the comment section below. Thank you for reading!
