5 Best VPNs for TextNow in 2024: How to Unblock TextNow from Anywhere

TextNow is a popular messaging and calling app. However, it's not available globally and uses geo-blocks to restrict users who do not live in Canada or the USA. Even if you already have an account, you won’t be able to access its services while traveling outside these two countries.

Even though TextNow uses encryption, some users want extra protection from surveillance. A VPN can solve all these issues. More precisely, a capable VPN can reliably bypass geo-restrictions and unblock TextNow from anywhere, which is handy for traveling. It also protects your online data with encryption and other security features.

This article will highlight the 5 best VPNs for TextNow and show you how to use one. We'll also compare the best options, explain TextNow's basics, and explain why you need a VPN. Then, we'll provide a guide on picking the best option and resolving technical issues, and we'll go over some FAQs.

Top 5 TextNow VPNs - Our Shortlist

1. NordVPN – Our Best-Rated VPN for TextNow in 2024
2. Surfshark – User-Friendly VPN for TextNow with Unlimited Connections
3. ExpressVPN – Privacy-First VPN for Unblocking TextNow from Anywhere
4. CyberGhost VPN – Fully Automated TextNow VPN for Privacy Protection
5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN for TextNow with a Huge Network

How to Unblock TextNow with a VPN

Your goal should be to connect to a VPN server in the USA or Canada to bypass the app's geo-blocks. So, you'll need to sign up for a VPN and download it on your device - like so:

1. Sign up for a VPN that can unblock the TextNow app (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN on your device.
3. Launch the VPN app and log in with your credentials.
4. Connect to any of its servers in Canada or the USA, where TextNow is available.
5. That’s it! Now, you can use TextNow safely and privately from anywhere.

The Best VPNs to Unblock TextNow in 2024

To make your search faster and more effective, rely on the criteria we established when presenting the best VPN to use overall. The first thing your VPN should have is the ability to bypass geo-restrictions imposed by TextNow and other similar platforms. It must have a global server network with multiple servers in the US and Canada, where the app is available.

Only choose a VPN with robust security features like military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy. Look for strong VPN protocols and advanced security features like obfuscation to access TextNow on restrictive networks with firewalls. Your VPN must support devices like computers, tablets, and mobiles, plus allow multiple simultaneous connections.

To access TextNow reliably, ensure that your VPN has fast speeds and stable overall performance. Opt for a VPN that offers a good price and a money-back guarantee. In addition, it should offer 24/7 customer support to assist you around the clock.

Based on the above criteria, here are the 5 best VPN services that are compatible with TextNow:

1. NordVPN – Our Best-Rated VPN for TextNow in 2024

NordVPN is an ultra-powerful VPN that can easily unblock TextNow. It has 1,970+ servers in 15 US locations and 480+ servers in 3 Canadian locations, plus a global server network of 6,400 servers in 111 countries. You can connect to any of these servers to unblock other popular messaging and VoIP platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram from anywhere.  

You don’t have to worry about your online security as NordVPN offers military-grade encryption, an automatic kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy. Plus, it has OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, or NordLynx (proprietary WireGuard alternative) VPN protocols. In addition, it offers obfuscated servers that mask your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic to bypass firewalls.

NordVPN's Threat Protection feature effectively blocks malware, trackers, and ads. It also has a Double VPN option that doubles the encryption and increases your online security by routing your data through two VPN servers. On top of that, it owns its entire DNS network, eliminating all third parties that could otherwise compromise your online privacy.

Moreover, you can protect 10 of your devices simultaneously with NordVPN. It has fast speeds and highly stable performance. Plus, it can support all popular devices like computers, tablets, smartphones, and routers, as reported in our comprehensive review of NordVPN.

All that can be yours for only $3.39/month (2-year plan). Lastly, there's a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test all its features without any financial risk, as well as 24/7 customer support to help you anytime.

2. Surfshark – User-Friendly VPN for TextNow with Unlimited Connections

Surfshark can easily bypass TextNow’s geo-restrictions from anywhere with its 600+ servers in 25 US locations and 120+ servers in 3 Canadian locations. In addition, its global server network of 3,200 servers in 100 countries can unblock other similarly restricted messaging and calling apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Skype.

This VPN safeguards your online privacy by adhering to a strict no-logs policy and protects your data with AES 256-bit/ChaCha20 encryption and a kill switch. You can also choose between WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec protocols, with Wireguard offering very fast speeds and stable connections. Plus, Sufshark delivers consistent overall performance.

You can use it on networks with VPN-blocking firewalls thanks to its Camouflage Mode that automatically obfuscates your online traffic. It can also block all intrusive ads, malware, or harmful trackers with its CleanWeb feature. Moreover, Surfshark’s dynamic Multi-Hop can double your online security—with the option to choose both VPN servers.

In addition, you can use Surfshark on computers, tablets, and mobiles. It's an ideal option for large households as it can protect all your devices with unlimited simultaneous connections.

This VPN is also affordable - $2.19/month for its 2-year plan. Lastly, it offers a 30-day trustworthy money-back guarantee and highly responsive 24/7 customer support.

3. ExpressVPN – Privacy-First VPN for Unblocking TextNow from Anywhere

ExpressVPN features a global server network of 3,000 servers in 105 countries. This network includes 24 server locations in the US and 3 in Canada. It can easily access TextNow outside the US and Canada. Plus, it allows you to access other apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Skype if they are blocked in your region.

This VPN has military-grade encryption with an automatic kill switch and adheres to a no-logs policy to safeguard your online security and privacy. In addition, ExpressVPN offers multiple VPN protocols, including Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec.

ExpressVPN’s automatic obfuscation allows you to download and sign up for TextNow, even in countries or regions with high internet censorship. Its Threat Manager feature can block ads, malware, and trackers. Plus, its parental controls allow you to block adult content. Furthermore, it has very fast speeds. All these features allow it to deliver reliable performance.

You can use ExpressVPN on all popular devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones with native apps. In addition, you can connect up to 8 of your devices simultaneously.

To get started, you'll need to pay $6.67/month (annual plan). Lastly, it comes with a 30-day solid money-back guarantee to test ExpressVPN risk-free and 24/7 customer support to assist you around the clock.

4. CyberGhost VPN – Fully Automated TextNow VPN for Privacy Protection

CyberGhost has thousands of servers in 100 countries, including 2,000+ servers in the US and 480+ in Canada. These servers can easily unblock TextNow and other similarly restricted messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Skype. Its server network also includes NoSpy servers for increased privacy and specialty servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming.

CyberGhost safeguards your online data with military-grade encryption and a kill switch. It also has a no-logs policy and offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec protocols. Although it doesn’t offer obfuscation, it still delivers dependable performance.

CyberGhost’s Smart Rules include automatic Wi-Fi protection to help users safely use unprotected networks like public Wi-Fi. Plus, you can enable the VPN to connect automatically whenever you open the TextNow app. Its Content Block feature can block trackers, malware, and ads.

Moreover, it has medium-fast speeds and allows 7 simultaneous device connections. You can use CyberGhost on all your devices, like computers, tablets, and smartphones.

Right now, this VPN is priced at $2.03/month (2-year plan), which comes with an extended 45-day money-back guarantee to test all its features. Finally, it also offers 24/7 customer support in case you need help anytime.

5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN for TextNow with a Huge Network

Private Internet Access (PIA) can access TextNow from anywhere while traveling with tons of servers in all 50 US states and 3 locations in Canada. Plus, its global server network has thousands of servers in 91 countries to unblock other restricted apps like Telegram, WhatsApp, Skype, and more.

PIA allows you to customize many of its security features, like choosing between AES 256-bit or AES 128-bit and ChaCha20 encryption. You can also choose between its regular or advanced kill switch, which blocks your Internet until you connect to a VPN server. Plus, it allows you to select between SOCKS5 or Shadowsocks proxies, the latter of which provides obfuscation.

In addition, PIA offers OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec protocols and follows a strict no-logs policy to keep you safe online. It blocks all types of ads, malware, and trackers with its MACE feature.

It also allows you to connect all your devices, such as computers, tablets, and mobile phones, with unlimited simultaneous device connections. In terms of speed, PIA delivers moderate connections and satisfactory overall performance. You can learn more in our in-depth review of Private Internet Access.

PIA's 2-year subscription plan costs $2.03/month only. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test all its features without any financial risk. Lastly, it has 24/7 customer support in case you face any issues.

Comparing the Best VPNs for TextNow

	NordVPN	Surfshark	ExpressVPN	CyberGhost VPN	PIA VPN
Unblocks TextNow	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Server Network Size	6,400+ servers 111 countries	3,200+ servers 100 countries	N/A 105 countries	N/A 100 countries	N/A 91 countries
VPN Protocols	OpenVPN NordLynx IKEv2/IPsec	OpenVPN WireGuard IKEv2/IPsec	OpenVPN Lightway IKEv2/IPsec	OpenVPN WireGuard IKEv2/IPsec	OpenVPN WireGuard IKEv2/IPsec
No-Logs Policy	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Obfuscated Servers	YES	YES	YES	NO	YES
Kill Switch	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
Performance	Ultra-fast	Fast	Ultra-fast	Medium	Medium
Simultaneous Connections	10	Unlimited	8	7	Unlimited
Supported Devices	Windows macOS Linux Android iOS/iPadOS Android TV Apple TV Fire TV Routers	Windows macOS Linux Android iOS/iPadOS Android TV Apple TV Fire TV Routers	Windows macOS Linux Android iOS/iPadOS Android TV Apple TV Fire TV Routers	Windows macOS Linux Android iOS/iPadOS Android TV Fire TV Routers	Windows macOS Linux Android iOS/iPadOS Android TV Apple TV Fire TV Routers
Price	$3.39/month (2-year plan)	$2.19/month (2-year plan)	$6.67/month (1-year plan)	$2.03/month (2-year plan)	$2.03/month (2-year plan)
Money-Back Guarantee	30 days	30 days	30 days	45 days	30 days
Customer Support	24/7 live chat	24/7 live chat	24/7 live chat	24/7 live chat	24/7 live chat
	Get NordVPN	Get Surfshark	Get ExpressVPN	Get CyberGhost	Get PIA VPN

What Is TextNow?

TextNow is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that uses other cellular networks and Wi-Fi to provide wireless coverage for your phone. It's popular due to its free plan, which comes with unlimited calling and texting. More precisely, it's an ad-supported tier.

You interact with TextNow through its mobile app, available on Android and iOS. Upon activating the mobile app, you'll be assigned a new phone number, meaning you'll have two numbers associated with a single phone. TextNow supports voice and video calls, as well as rich messaging features that include emojis, stickers, and media.

You can also opt for a paid plan, which goes up to $40 per month for unlimited data, making TextNow a more affordable alternative to major wireless carriers.

Do You Need to Use a VPN for TextNow?

A VPN will help you unblock TextNow outside the US and Canada, as well as give you access to other geo-restricted VoIP apps. Plus, you'll get privacy protection. Here's more information:

• Gain Access to TextNow from Anywhere – TextNow is not available outside Canada or the US. The messaging app uses geo-restrictions to block any users who are not inside these countries. This means that even if you already have a TextNow account, you won’t be able to use it abroad. A VPN can help you unblock the app from anywhere by giving you an American or Canadian IP.
• Unblock Other VoIP Apps – Other VoIP apps also use geo-blocks to restrict users based on their region. Even the most popular apps, like WhatsApp, are subjected to partial or complete bans in some countries. VPNs allow you to unblock all such restricted apps from anywhere.
• Encrypt Your Texts and Media – Although TextNow uses end-to-end encryption, meaning it can’t snoop on your data, breaches can still happen. So, always use a VPN to add an additional layer of encryption to your messages and media files.
• Conceal Your Browsing History – Governments often ask ISPs to share user data for security reasons. VPNs not only hide your online data from your ISP but also prevent any data-sharing compliance between ISPs and governments. Plus, it also hides your data from hackers.
• Boosted Digital Security - VPNs encrypt your data, which means that no one will see what you do online. Plus, they also prevent trackers from following you on the Web, and many even come with an antimalware component. As a result, you'll upgrade your digital privacy and security.
• Avoid Bandwidth Throttling – Some ISPs are notorious for slowing down speeds whenever they detect high bandwidth consumption from a user. Using a VPN will allow you to bypass such deliberate throttling, as VPNs hide your browsing data from your ISP. Since it won't see what you do online, your ISP won't be able to implement selective throttling.
• Connect Safely from Public Wi-Fi – Hackers can compromise your sensitive data on unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi. VPNs allow you to open TextNow on such networks safely.

Tips on Finding the Best TextNow VPN

The first thing to look for is the VPN's ability to unblock the VoIP app from anywhere. For that, you'll need plenty of servers, strong VPN protocols, and a no-logs policy, but also pay attention to the price you'll need to pay and the type of customer support you'll get. Let's go over everything:

• Ability to Bypass TextNow's Blocks – Only choose a VPN that can reliably unblock and allow you to sign up for TextNow from anywhere.
• Server Network Size and Distribution – Your VPN should have multiple servers in the US and Canada if you want to get TextNow unblocked from anywhere. In addition, it should have a large global server network to access any other geo-restricted services while traveling without encountering overcrowding issues.
• Proven VPN Protocols and Data Encryption – If you value your online security and privacy, always opt for a VPN with robust security features like military-grade encryption and secure VPN protocols like Wireguard and OpenVPN. 
• Verified No-Logs Policy – An audited no-logs policy ensures that your VPN does not record any of your online activity and safeguards your privacy.
• Obfuscated Servers – If you use a network with restrictive firewalls, then obfuscation allows you to bypass them by making your VPN traffic look like regular Internet traffic. This is also helpful in regions where VPN use is banned.
• Kill Switch Support – It is very important to have a kill switch because it prevents your online data from leaking during accidental VPN disconnections.
• Simultaneous Connections and Supported Devices – VPNs that allow multiple simultaneous connections and can support all popular devices like computers, tablets, and phones provide a better value for your money.
• Speedy Performance – Make sure that your selected VPN can consistently deliver fast speeds and reliable overall performance. 
• Reasonable Pricing - Your chosen VPN should provide plenty of value for your money. Also, keep in mind that investing in a long-term plan is advisable, especially if you're after steep discounts.
• Long-Term Money-Back Guarantee – Always choose VPNs that offer solid money-back guarantees so that you can test them risk-free.
• 24/7 Customer Support – Good VPN services always offer 24/7 customer support, so make sure you opt for a service that offers support around the clock.

TextNow Not Working with a VPN - How to Fix?

If you encounter technical issues while using your VPN with TextNow, we recommend checking your Wi-Fi connection, restarting your device, switching to another server, or using a more capable VPN protocol. Let's go over some actionable tips:

• Check Your Wi-Fi Connection: TextNow relies primarily on Wi-Fi, especially if you use a free plan. So, turn off your VPN and try browsing the Web. If you encounter any issues, restart your router or contact your Internet provider.
• Restart Your Phone & Your Router: By resting your devices, you'll reboot your Internet connection and your VPN software. That said, we recommend unplugging your router for around 30 seconds. It might take a couple of minutes until your Wi-Fi becomes available again.
• Check for App Updates: Visit your device's App Store and check for updates manually. Pay special attention to TextNow and your VPN app. If any updates appear on your screen, make sure to download them one by one.
• Connect to a Different VPN Server: Perhaps you're trying to use an overcrowded server. Servers can undergo periodic maintenance, which might cause temporary technical issues. What you need to do is pick another VPN location.
• Pick Another VPN Protocol: We recommend sticking to OpenVPN and WireGuard, as those protocols have the highest chance of unblocking digital services like TextNow. Also, IKEv2 is a good option for mobile devices, especially if you often switch between Wi-Fi and LTE.
• Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings: If you use cybersec software on your device, make sure that it doesn't block VPN connections. We recommend lowering your cybersec app's overall level of protection to ensure the stability of your VPN sessions.
• Remove Additional VPN Apps: Having multiple VPN apps installed can cause software conflicts as each app creates manual connections in your phone's Settings app. Focus on a single VPN only and remove any extra connections in your phone's Settings.
• Turn to Your VPN's Support: If nothing else helps, turn to your VPN. We hope you're using one with live chat support, which is always the quickest way to troubleshoot issues.

Should You Use a Free VPN for TextNow?

Even though you'll find some free VPNs for TextNow, you shouldn't use them. That's because they come with all kinds of limitations and potential dangers, leading to a very restrictive experience.

Free VPNs impose bandwidth limitations and they typically offer a handful of servers only. You'll get very slow speeds and no simultaneous connections. Also, free VPNs typically use low-end protocols, so you'll risk your privacy. Plus, most of them collect and sell your sensitive information, and some may even implant malware and trackers.

All in all, a free VPN is never a good idea. Instead, stick to the best VPN providers. Even though they're premium-priced, they'll let you unblock TextNow without slowdowns while ensuring the protection of your sensitive information online. Plus, they won't take advantage of your trust, as high-end VPNs stick to audited no-logs policies.

Final Thoughts

TextNow is only available in the USA and Canada and uses geo-restrictions to block any users who do not have a Canadian or US IP address. This means you won’t be able to access your account while traveling abroad. Plus, despite all its security measures, TextNow is vulnerable to threats like any other software. You can bypass all these issues with a trusty VPN.

You should go for NordVPN, as it offers multiple servers inside the US and Canada to unblock TextNow reliably from anywhere. In addition, it has fast speeds and stellar overall performance, allowing users to use the Web with VPN protection effortlessly, making it the best VPN for TextNow overall.

That's all for our guide on picking a VPN to unblock the TextNow app. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!