5 Best VPN Services with Kill Switch Support in 2025

VPN connections can often drop because of weak Wi-Fi signal, overcrowded servers, firewall or antivirus interference, or unstable protocols. Unfortunately, this exposes your real IP address, location, and online activities to your ISP, the government, surveillance groups, and cybercriminals. As a result, your access to geo-restricted content will be interrupted, and your safety can be compromised.

The solution is to find a reliable VPN with a kill switch, which will immediately cut your Internet if your VPN connection fails. This prevents data leaks, leaving you to browse, stream, and torrent safely. That said, it can be difficult to find a good VPN that offers a kill switch and is easy to use.

In this article, we’ll present the best 5 best VPNs that have kill switches and explain how to use one. We’ll also discuss what a kill switch is, how it works, and why you may need a VPN with this feature. On top of that, we’ll reveal how to choose the best VPN for you, answer some FAQs, and much more.

Shortlist: Top VPNs That Feature Kill Switch Protection

1. NordVPN – Our top-rated VPN with a kill switch in 2025, combining unbeatable security, blazing speeds, and airtight privacy protection.
2. Surfshark – A lightning-fast VPN with a dependable kill switch and advanced obfuscation to bypass even the toughest restrictions.
3. ExpressVPN – Delivers seamless security with an automatic kill switch and military-grade encryption—perfect for serious privacy seekers.
4. CyberGhost VPN – Ideal for streamers, offering a built-in kill switch and dedicated servers for smooth, buffer-free streaming.
5. Private Internet Access – Features one of the largest server networks globally, paired with a robust kill switch for full-time protection.

	NordVPN	Surfshark	ExpressVPN	CyberGhost	PIA
System-Level Kill Switch	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
App-Level Kill Switch	✅	❌	❌	❌	❌
Kill Switch on Mobile	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Kill Switch on Desktop	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Obfuscation	✅	✅	✅	❌	✅
Multiple Simultaneous Connections	10 simultaneous connections	unlimited simultaneous connections	8 simultaneous connections	7 simultaneous connections	unlimited simultaneous connections
Audited No-Logs Policy	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Fast Speed	✅	✅	✅	❌	❌
30+ Day Money-Back Guarantee	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Customer Support (24/7)	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅

The Best VPNs with a Kill Switch in 2025

A VPN kill switch is your last line of defense as it instantly blocks Internet access if your VPN connection drops, preventing accidental data leaks. Whether you're torrenting, bypassing censorship, or just safeguarding your privacy, this feature is a must-have. Not all VPNs offer a reliable kill switch, though. Below, we've ranked the 5 best VPNs that have a kill switch feature in 2025:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is the best VPN to choose for kill switch protection because it comes with a system-level kill switch. However, it does not activate automatically. So, you’ll have to turn it on in the app’s settings. The feature has two versions: one for Windows and the other for Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux. 

Its Windows kill switch works at the application level in addition to the system level, allowing you to choose specific apps to block if the VPN connection is disrupted. On macOS devices, if you use the OpenVPN protocol, you can specify which apps to protect with the kill switch, too. 

Aside from this, NordVPN has a huge server fleet with 7,400+ servers in 118 countries. They come with high-end security features, such as obfuscation, military-grade encryption (AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 ), an audited no-logs policy, and robust VPN protocols like NordLynx, NordWhisper, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN. Thus, you can be sure that you won’t face unauthorized access to your data.

NordVPN comes with super-fast speeds and stable performance. It supports various devices like mobile phones, PCs, laptops, tablets, and gaming consoles. Moreover, it allows 10 simultaneous connections.

Ultimately, NordVPN has 24/7 customer support, which is very knowledgeable. It's pretty affordable, too, with a $3.39 per month plan for 24 months. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee that gives you a full refund if you don’t find its services suitable for your needs. 

2. Surfshark

Surfshark comes with a system-wide kill switch. You can configure this feature manually on desktop devices running Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as on Android and iOS mobile devices. When activated, the kill switch will disable your Internet connection if the VPN disconnects by accident or is interrupted.

This VPN’s fleet employs 3,200+ servers in 100 countries that offer automatic obfuscation, military-grade encryption (AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20), and strong VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. Plus, you’ll be protected by an audited no-logs policy. All this ensures that you will have top-notch online security.

Surfshark delivers exceptional speeds and consistent performance. Aside from being among the fastest VPNs on the market, Surfshark also allows unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can use this provider on your computer, tablet, smartphone, or other devices and enjoy its benefits everywhere. 

Last but not least, Surfshark is very affordable, offering a $2.19 per month for only 24 months. It also has 24/7 customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you are eligible for a full refund within the period if you are not satisfied with its services.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN comes with a kill switch called Network Lock, which is automatically enabled upon installation and effective system-wide. This provider’s kill switch works with desktop devices (Windows, macOS, and Linux), mobile devices (Android, and iOS), and routers (through its own VPN firmware).

Unfortunately, there is no application-level version, so you won't be able to select which apps will be protected by the kill switch. Nevertheless, with ExpressVPN, you’ll have very effective leak protection.

ExpressVPN boasts an undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries that come with encryption like AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305, as well as strong VPN protocols like OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2. Moreover, it has an audited no-logs policy and automatic obfuscation on its entire network.

This VPN also excels when it comes to speed and performance, as ExpressVPN has breakneck speeds and very reliable performance overall. In addition, you can take advantage of its 8 simultaneous connections to use the VPN on many different devices, such as tablets, smartphones, computers, smart TVs, routers, and gaming consoles.

ExpressVPN is on the higher end of the price range, with a 24 months plan for $4.99 per month. On top of this, the VPN also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to test its services and get a refund if you’re not satisfied. In case of an issue, you can reach out to their 24/7 customer support to solve any problem that arises.

4. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost has an automatic, system-level kill switch that's available on Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows devices. The best part is that you don’t have to spend time configuring it manually because the kill switch turns on as soon as you connect to a CyberGhost server!

Another incredible thing about this provider is that it has an undisclosed number of servers in 100 countries. They all come with AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, an audited no-logs policy, and secure VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard

One downside is CyberGhost doesn't offer obfuscation. Luckily, its streaming-optimized servers don't appear to have any trouble bypassing geo-blocks. Moreover, it has NoSpy servers that are owned and operated in-house and can’t be compelled to share your data.

Another drawback is that CyberGhost only has medium-fast speeds. Still, it makes up for this with its consistent overall performance and wide range of supported devices. You can install it on your computer, smartphone, tablet, routers, and more. It allows 7 simultaneous connections, so you can use it on multiple devices at the same time.

CyberGhost is great if you're on a tight budget - it offers a 24 months plan for as low as $2.19 per month. Plus, you can take advantage of its 45-day money-back guarantee if you go for a longer subscription. Last but not least, you will benefit from reliable customer support that you can access at any time.

5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is another fantastic VPN that employs two types of kill switches. The regular kill switch blocks traffic from going outside the VPN when it's turned on. Its Advanced Kill Switch takes things a step further and ensures you won’t be connected to the Internet until you open the PIA app.

You can use both kill switches at the system level, and they are available on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux devices. 

When it comes to servers, PIA has the largest fleet, with an undisclosed number of servers in 91 countries. It comes with obfuscation (via the Shadowsocks proxy), strong VPN protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec (IKEv2)), and AES-128-GCM, AES-256-GCM, AES-128-CBC, AES-256-CBC, and ChaCha20 encryption. Furthermore, your privacy will also be covered by an audited no-logs policy.

In terms of speed, PIA is on the slower side, but this doesn’t mean that it has bad performance. In fact, it’s very reliable. It also supports unlimited simultaneous connections that allow you to use it on your computer, tablet, smartphone, router, smart TV, and even gaming console without any restrictions.

PIA has knowledgeable customer support that you can reach at any time. This makes it easier for you to solve any issue, but that’s not all. The provider is also very budget-friendly, costing just $2.19 per month for a 24 months plan. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you test its services and request a refund if it’s not right for you.

How to Activate a VPN Kill Switch Feature?

You must first find a VPN that offers a kill switch. Most VPNs have an automatic kill switch, but you can still turn it on manually by finding the kill switch feature in your VPN's security and privacy settings. Follow these steps to make things easy:

1. Subscribe to a VPN with a kill switch feature (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your preferred device(s).
3. Navigate to your chosen VPN’s privacy settings. 
4. Activate the kill switch functionality.
5. Connect to a VPN server and enjoy your online activities with kill switch protection!

Why a Kill Switch is a Must-Have VPN Feature

Today, even a momentary VPN disconnection can expose your real IP address and sensitive data. That’s where a kill switch becomes a must-have feature, as it acts as your last line of defense. By automatically cutting off Internet access when the VPN drops, it ensures your privacy stays intact at all times. Let’s explore the key benefits of using a VPN with a kill switch in 2025.

• Enhanced Security – A kill switch plays a huge role in providing you with more privacy. This is especially important if you want to avoid being vulnerable to cyberattacks, leaking your IP and location, or revealing your online activities.
• Data Leak Prevention – If you want to ensure you won’t be exposed to data leaks or allow ISPs to monitor your traffic, you need to turn kill switch protection on. 
• Safe Torrenting – Torrenting is usually a sensitive issue in most countries, and if your VPN connection drops, you may even face legal issues as your activities will no longer be hidden. Luckily, a kill switch keeps you safe by blocking your Internet access if there is a VPN disruption, so your ISP won't be able to see what files you're downloading.
• Private Browsing – To make sure your browsing activities remain private, enable the kill switch on your VPN. This can be especially important in countries with high Internet censorship. It will also allow you to access content unavailable in your region, such as streaming platforms, without any interruptions. If your real location is revealed by a VPN server disconnection, the platform or service you’re using will immediately restrict your access. That's where a kill switch comes in handy. 

What to Look for in a Kill Switch-Ready VPN

To choose the right VPN provider, you need to evaluate a few essential criteria, such as availability of a kill switch, the number of servers worldwide, and other security and privacy measures. Here is a complete list of features to consider that will help you pick a VPN:

1. Simultaneous Connections and Support Devices

Besides having a VPN that implements a kill switch, the feature must be available on as many platforms as possible, such as on computers, smartphones, tablets, and even routers. The VPN also needs to allow multiple devices to connect at the same time.

2. Server Network Size

Another thing you must consider when choosing a VPN is the number of servers it has and the number of countries it covers. Look for thousands of servers spread across the world. 

3. Security Features

Ensure the VPN is extremely secure by looking for robust encryption, obfuscated servers, and strong VPN protocols, as well as additional features like split tunneling and multi-hop. 

4. Privacy Capabilities

Your privacy should be the VPN’s top priority. That’s why we advise you to find a VPN that includes an audited no-logs policy so you can be sure it doesn’t collect your confidential data or monitor and record your online activities. 

5. Speed and Performance

The next factor you must consider is the VPN’s speed and overall performance. It should be fast and work equally well on both nearby and remote servers, so you won’t face any interruptions. 

6. Affordable Prices

Just because a VPN is rich in features doesn't mean it has to be expensive. There are plenty of providers who offer deals on multi-year plans.

7. Strict Money-Back Guarantee

This lets you test the VPN’s services risk-free by giving you a full refund within the predetermined period. 

8. Support Available On-Demand

A VPN with 24/7 customer support is crucial. It should offer live chat and email support at the very least.

Free VPNs with Kill Switches: Safe or Risky?

Free VPNs often come with limitations, and that includes their kill switch functionality. While some may advertise the feature, it's rarely as reliable or robust as what you'll find in premium services. So, are free VPNs with kill switches truly safe, or just a risky compromise?

	Free VPN	Paid VPN
Kill Switch	❌Often missing or unreliable	✅Fully functional and reliable
Privacy	❌May log, collect, or sell user data	✅Strong no-logs policies and privacy protection
Security Features	❌Basic or limited	✅Advanced encryption and security tools
Speed	❌Slow speeds due to crowded servers	✅High-speed connections
Bandwidth	❌Limited	✅Unlimited
Server Network	❌Few servers, often in limited locations	✅Large, global server networks
Device Support	❌Usually limited to 1–2 devices	✅Supports multiple (often unlimited) devices
Reliability	❌Unstable, prone to disconnections	✅Stable and consistent performance
Recommendation	❌Not recommended for security or privacy	✅Highly recommended for full protection and performance

If you want to use the kill switch securely and without restrictions, a premium VPN is your best option. To try one risk-free, consider starting with a free trial that gives you access to full features for a limited time.

We especially recommend trying NordVPN’s 7-day free trial, available on Android. Plus, on all other devices, you're protected by their 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it out with no risk.

Final Thoughts

Interruptions in VPN connections expose your private information and activities, which can be dangerous depending on where you live and what you’re using the VPN for. This is why you need to find one with a kill switch feature that will cut your Internet to prevent data leaks. However, it can be challenging to find a VPN that has a reliable kill switch.

NordVPN is our top-choice VPN for protecting privacy thanks to its powerful kill switch that works at both the system level and app level. Besides that, it comes with thousands of servers in multiple locations, robust security and privacy features, blazing-fast speeds, and consistent performance. With NordVPN, your data and activities will be completely protected.

Surfshark stands out with powerful kill switch implementations, offering both system-wide protection and excellent customization. ExpressVPN and CyberGhost keep things simple with automatic system-level kill switches that work right out of the box. Private Internet Access goes a step further with two types of kill switches, making it ideal for users who want layered protection.

That’s all for our guide on the best VPN with kill switch. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below. Thank you for reading!