5 Best VPNs with Port Forwarding in 2024

Most VPNs have NAT firewalls to improve security, but this can cause issues with certain activities, like remotely accessing devices on home networks. Moreover, users who want to host online games, reduce lag during gaming, or improve torrenting speeds can experience issues with regular VPNs.

The solution lies in using a VPN with port forwarding. You'll be able to remotely access computers and IoT devices like security cameras on your home network. You can also use this type of VPN to improve torrenting and gaming performance, as well as safely host online games. Lastly, a reliable VPN with port forwarding will help plug any security holes and increase your device's security level.

This article will review the 5 best VPNs that support port forwarding. We'll also tell you how to set up port forwarding through a VPN, how to configure port forwarding on a router, explain what port forwarding is, why you need a VPN for this specific purpose, how to choose the best one, things to consider before using a VPN, and we'll finish with a round of FAQs.

Best VPNs with Port Forwarding - Our Shortlist

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN with Port Forwarding
2. PIA – Highly Customizable Port Forwarding VPN
3. Ivacy – Budget VPN That Supports Port Forwarding
4. Proton VPN – Fast and Secure VPN for Port Forwarding
5. PrivateVPN – Beginner-Friendly VPN with Easy Port Forwarding

How to Set Up Port Forwarding on a VPN?

To set up port forwarding for a VPN, first get a premium service that supports this feature on your device. You can then enable this feature in the app's settings. Use the following steps:

1. Subscribe to a VPN app that supports port forwarding (we recommend ExpressVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN on the device you’ll use to configure port forwarding.
3. Sign in to your VPN account.
4. Configure your VPN's port forwarding feature, typically found under advanced settings.
5. Enter the correct port on the hardware/software you want to use port forwarding on.

The Best VPNs with Port Forwarding in 2024 

To select the best port forwarding VPN, you need to follow most of the criteria established in our guide to the best VPN providers. Of course, support for port forwarding should be the main focus here, as well as support for P2P connections. Let's not forget about privacy and security either, which means you need a no-logs policy, advanced protocols, and high-end encryption.

Next, your chosen VPN should also have plenty of servers in many countries around the world, as well as reliable performance and blazing speeds on nearby and remote servers. Then, make sure obfuscated servers are on offer, as this will hide your VPN traffic. A kill switch is also important because it will protect your identity in the event your VPN connection drops.

The best VPN should let you create many simultaneous connections and support numerous different devices. Lastly, you'll want a good price and plenty of value overall, which should come backed by a generous money-back policy as well. Let's not forget about customer support either; aim for 24/7 live chat support.

With all this in mind, here are the 5 best VPNs that support port forwarding in 2024:

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN with Port Forwarding

ExpressVPN is the best VPN with port forwarding, as it offers robust port forwarding support. Keep in mind that port forwarding works on routers with ExpressVPN's firmware, so you'll need to manually install it on your own or purchase a router that's preconfigured with ExpressVPN. That way, you'll get to forward individual ports for specific devices in your household.

Also, it's no surprise that ExpressVPN provides in-depth support for P2P. You can use any of its servers to download torrents without any restrictions. ExpressVPN also has AES 256 encryption that prevents your data from being intercepted by third parties. It also follows a no-logs policy, ensuring none of your data is stored. There are multiple VPN protocols, but one that works the best is Lightway.

Its server network offers over 3,000 servers spread across 105 countries. Furthermore, this is one of the fastest VPNs around and has the most consistent performance. All servers have obfuscation, which turns on automatically. Plus, its Network Lock kill switch will prevent data leaking in the event your VPN connection drops.

With one subscription, you will be able to connect 8 devices simultaneously. This will be convenient, considering this service is available on multiple devices, including smartphones, routers, and PCs.

ExpressVPN is priced at $6.67/month for its annual plan. If you're not satisfied, you can get a refund within 30 days. And if you run into any issues, their 24/7 live chat customer support will be able to solve all your problems.

2. PIA – Highly Customizable Port Forwarding VPN

Private Internet Access is a premium and highly reputable VPN that has a port forwarding feature on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. Not only does PIA support port forwarding, but it also supports P2P traffic on its entire server network. So, if you plan on downloading torrents, know that Private Internet Access will be there to support you.

Your outgoing data will be kept safe thanks to its AES-256/128 encryption and protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. PIA's strict no-logs policy guarantees that none of your data is going to be stored long-term. Aside from that, you get thousands of servers in 90+ countries that you can use.

You can also count on relatively fast speeds, but be prepared to do some fine-tuning beforehand. Also, PIA's servers are obfuscated via the Shadowsocks proxy, hiding the fact you're using a port forwarding VPN. On top of that, if your VPN connection drops for any reason, its kill switch will disable your connection and protect you from data leaks.

Users with a lot of devices will be pleased to hear that PIA offers unlimited simultaneous connections. You'll be able to install their app on routers, smartphones, PCs, and even browsers.

PIA's pricing starts at $2.03/month for its 2-year plan. Moreover, its 30-day refund policy ensures that you can get your money back if you're not satisfied. And thanks to their 24/7 live chat support, you can get help at any time.

3. Ivacy – Budget VPN That Supports Port Forwarding

Ivacy is a budget-friendly VPN that allows port forwarding. The feature is available for all platforms, as it’s configured through the 'Member Area' on the Ivacy website. However, this is an additional feature that will cost you an extra $1/month. Aside from that, Ivacy supports torrenting on most of its servers, so you get all you need for a safe P2P file transfer.

Ivacy is a no-logs VPN with AES-256 encryption, so your outgoing data will be protected and not saved long-term. It also employs multiple robust protocols led by OpenVPN and WireGuard. This provider offers 6,500+ servers in over 60 countries, totaling 100+ locations around the world.

Even though it's far from being the fastest option, it does offer stable performance. Next, many of their servers provide obfuscation via UDP. To secure you against data leaks, there's a kill switch to protect your identity in case you lose your connection. Unfortunately, the kill switch is only available on Android and Windows devices.

This VPN is available on computers, smartphones, routers, and plenty of other devices. It offers 10 simultaneous connections, so you can use it to protect your whole network.

You can become a subscriber for only $1.00/month (5-year subscription). If Ivacy doesn't work for you, you can use their 30-day refund policy to get your money back. And if you encounter problems, just contact their 24/7 customer support, available through live chat.

4. Proton VPN – Fast and Secure VPN for Port Forwarding

Proton VPN is another solid service that supports port forwarding. However, the feature is only available on Windows and Linux. To access port forwarding, you'll need to use Proton VPN's P2P servers. So, it's obvious that we're talking about a capable P2P VPN here as well.

With this VPN, you can choose from WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2/IPsec protocols to transmit your data. Those are paired with high-end encryption ciphers, such as AES-256 and ChaCha20. It also implements a strict no-logs policy, which means that your data will not be stored on its servers, which work only in RAM mode.

Currently, this VPN has 3,200+ servers in 70+ countries. These allow Proton VPN to provide consistent performance and impressive speeds. Obfuscation can be accessed by enabling the Stealth protocol. Also, you get DNS leak protection, split tunneling, and a kill switch to make sure your sensitive info always remains safe.

With this VPN, you'll be able to make 10 simultaneous connections. Proton VPN’s app is available on many platforms, including computers, smartphones, browsers, and routers.

You can subscribe for $4.99/month if you pick Proton's 2-year plan. This provider has a 30-day refund policy, letting you thoroughly test it and decide if it's for you. Unfortunately, it doesn't have live chat, so customer support is available only via support tickets and e-mail. 

5. PrivateVPN – Beginner-Friendly VPN with Easy Port Forwarding

PrivateVPN offers port forwarding on all platforms, including macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. This feature is activated automatically once you connect to a VPN server. Private VPN also offers unlimited P2P file-sharing support, and it's one of the best options overall in that regard.

This no-logs VPN service has 5 protocols, including some more advanced ones like IKEv2/IPsec and OpenVPN. As you'd expect, those are paired with bulletproof encryption. More precisely, PrivateVPN's advanced AES encryption will scramble your outgoing data, making it unreadable to third parties.

We also have to note that you get 200+ servers in 60+ countries. So, not the biggest network out there. However, PrivateVPN provides solid performance in most cases. It also has obfuscation, which is enabled via the 'Stealth VPN' feature. There's also DNS leak protection and a kill switch that'll protect your identity in case of emergency.

With PrivateVPN, you can create 10 simultaneous connections, and it's available on multiple platforms, like computers, smartphones, and routers.

You can subscribe for as low as $2.00/month by choosing PrivateVPN's 2-year plan. This VPN offers a 30-day refund policy which eliminates unnecessary risks. Lastly, their customer service is available 24/7 via live chat, so you can always get help.

Best Port Forwarding VPNs - Compared

How to Configure Port Forwarding on a Router 

To configure port forwarding on a router, you need to open your router's configuration interface. Then, you can input the port number and the IP address of a given device. This can be done in a few steps:

1. Copy your router's IP address into your browser's URL bar.
2. Google your router's model number to find its username and password.
3. Log in to your router's configuration interface.
4. Navigate to the port forwarding section.
5. Add a new port forwarding rule for the device you want to use forwarding on.
6. Restart your router if needed to apply changes.

What is Port Forwarding?

Port forwarding allows you to remap a device’s traffic directly to a specific port on your network. Usually, your VPN’s and/or router’s NAT firewall automatically controls the direction of incoming traffic. Port forwarding bypasses the firewall, which increases your connection speed, among numerous other benefits.

You can use port forwarding with a VPN to improve your download speeds, establish direct connections with gaming servers or torrent clients, and remotely access devices and computers on your home network while you’re away.

However, bypassing standard security procedures with port forwarding can also be dangerous. For example, if you leave a port open, hackers can infiltrate your system, and third parties might be able to easily track you online. So, make sure you know what you’re doing first.

Should I Use a VPN with Port Forwarding?

Yes, you should use a VPN with port forwarding if you need to remotely create a direct connection to a device on your home network. Here are many other reasons to use a VPN that allows port forwarding:

• Improve Your Privacy and Security – A VPN with obfuscation and a no-logs policy will keep your data secure from third parties. Advanced AES encryption will protect you from hackers that may otherwise exploit weak points created by port forwarding.
• Host Gaming Servers – By enabling port forwarding, you can easily host your own game server and enjoy LAN parties with your friends. You may also experience minimal ping and stable latency, which would improve your gaming performance.
• Access Home Devices Remotely – With port forwarding, you can access devices like security cameras, smart home gadgets, or a home server while you're away. A VPN ensures that this access is secure, preventing unauthorized users from exploiting open ports.
• Remotely Control Your Desktop Computer – Port forwarding allows remote desktop access. This can help you retrieve important files or fix your computer's problems from a distance.
• Get Faster Speeds for Torrenting – A NAT firewall can stop you from connecting to many peers while downloading torrents, which will slow down your progress. A VPN for port forwarding can significantly improve your download speeds because it allows you to bypass the firewall.
• Host a Public Server or Website – A VPN that supports port forwarding is necessary if you want to make your web server or website accessible to other Internet users.

How to Choose the Best VPN with Port Forwarding 

To choose the best VPN with port forwarding, there are several key factors to make sure a provider has. To make an informed decision, evaluate the following criteria:

• Port Forwarding Support – Make sure that the VPN you choose supports port forwarding on as many platforms as possible, including macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. This will allow you to configure the feature on most devices. Then you can use the port you set up to bypass NAT firewalls.
• P2P Support - Port forwarding is often associated with torrenting, as it helps you reach more seeders and download P2P files with less friction. So, your chosen VPN should offer servers that support P2P file transfers.
• Security – Look for a VPN with military-grade encryption and advanced VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard to keep your data safe. Other protocols can also be good, like proprietary ones. For example, ExpressVPN offers its speedy Lightway protocol.
• Privacy – Choose a no-logs VPN, as this indicates the provider does not store your online activities or personal information. This added layer of protection ensures that even if the VPN is compelled to share data, there's minimal information available.
• Server Network Size – A wide global network with many locations covering myriad countries provides flexibility and improved performance. This ensures you can access regionally restricted content and find fast nearby servers.
• Performance and Speed – The best VPN for port forwarding will offer remarkable speed and consistent performance on both nearby and remote servers. It should offer multiple VPN protocols, as some will emphasize speed while others focus on security.
• Obfuscated Servers - Obfuscation is handy if you need to hide your VPN traffic. This technique uses smaller data packets to further evade anti-VPN blocks. With obfuscation, no one will detect that you are hiding behind a VPN.
• Kill Switch - A kill switch is essential for preventing data leaks. If your VPN connection drops for any reason, a kill switch will shut down your Internet connection until you reconnect. That way, your original IP won't leak on the Web.
• Pricing - Your chosen VPN should offer a fair price, as you don't want to overpay. In that sense, focus on long-term plans, as those will help you save the most in the long run.
• Money-Back Guarantee – Choose a service that offers a generous refund policy. This allows you to try it risk-free for a limited period and see if it meets your needs.
• Customer Support – In case you encounter any issues and need assistance, excellent customer support is invaluable. Look for a VPN provider that is available 24/7 via live chat support.

Things to Consider Before Using a VPN with Port Forwarding Feature

Before using a VPN with port forwarding, you need to ensure that you're approaching port forwarding with proper security measures in place. So, you need to stick to the following:

• Choose a Reliable VPN Provider - When setting up port forwarding for a VPN, it's imperative to stick to a reputable VPN with proper systems in place to protect you against unauthorized access. We recommend ExpressVPN as it's the most powerful VPN in that regard.
• Keep Your Devices Up to Date - Make sure to update all your devices' operating systems and keep them up to date at all times. Those updates often plug security vulnerabilities, which is crucial to ensure no one gets to access your data using an old unplugged weakness.
• Enable Antivirus - When opening up your devices via port forwarding, you need cyber-sec software that scans your inbound and outbound traffic. So, using an antivirus app is essential in this case, as you'll want it to scan data from your open ports as well.
• Use Strong Passwords - This is general advice that can do plenty to upgrade your digital security and privacy. Use strong passwords that are hard to guess, with special characters. Also, try not to use the same password across multiple different accounts.
• Don't Use Port Forwarding on Many Devices - Stick to your essential devices only. By opening ports on multiple devices, you're making it that much harder to create a safe environment for your data, even if you take all of the precautionary measures.

Can You Use a Free VPN with Port Forwarding? 

Yes, you can use a free VPN service with port forwarding, but we don't advocate for it. This is because nearly every free VPN comes with severe limits, like a lack of servers and poor encryption, which may endanger users' safety.

Free VPNs are, in general, very slow, and their servers easily get overcrowded. To control this, they place bandwidth limits, which means that you can only use them sparingly. Plus, most of them lack premium features, so you likely won’t find a free VPN that allows port forwarding.

Not only are free services unsafe, but they may also contain malware designed to collect user data. This sensitive user information is then sold to ad companies, which is how these services turn a profit.

This is why we highly advise you to use a premium VPN with port forwarding. If you are still unsure which one would serve you best, take a look at our list of the top VPN providers.

Final Thoughts

VPNs use NAT firewalls to control your online traffic and improve overall security. Unfortunately, this can limit your torrenting speed and cause issues with remotely accessing devices on home networks. It may also affect your gaming performance and prevent you from hosting online games. Using a port forwarding VPN will solve these issues.

We recommend ExpressVPN as the best VPN with port forwarding, as you can use it to improve your torrenting speeds, securely host online games, and improve gaming performance. It will also allow you to remotely access IoT devices, desktop PCs, and other platforms on your home network. Furthermore, you’ll be able to do all this knowing your sensitive data is secure.

You have reached the end of our guide to choosing the best VPN with port forwarding. Make sure to leave a comment if you still have any questions. Thank you for reading!