Do you use Linux? If that’s the case, then you might be looking to enhance your online privacy without spending a buck. For those who are not aware, Linux is a powerful and secure operating system.
But like any other operating system, it even gets compromised. And, it gets the short end of the stick concerning VPNs.
Users of Linux often have trouble finding a free VPN for Linux. Since VPNs are vital tools for anyone who wants to safeguard their digital footprint, getting hands on them can be a novel approach.
Unfortunately, not all VPNs offer Linux services. However, due to their exposure to open-source solutions, Linux users frequently express concern about VPN subscriptions.
This guide will walk you through some top free VPN options that work seamlessly with Linux so you can surf worry-free!
There are a few simple things one must consider when choosing a VPN. Some of them are as follows:
As stated earlier, Linux users face limited options when they are on a hunt to find a trustworthy and free VPN.
But worry not, as we have compiled a list of the top 5 free VPNs for Linux in 2024 that offer reliable security and performance. Kindly, find them below:
PrivadoVPN is a relatively new but promising free VPN option for Linux users. It is widely known because of its fast speeds and ability to unblock streaming sites such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime.
It even offers a 10 GB monthly data limit. The free version of PrivadoVPN offers unlimited data and bandwidth.
This VPN is based in Switzerland, which means, it can’t be compelled to hand over your data to authorities.
Pros and Cons
Distros Supported: Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Kali Linux, Elementary OS
Windscribe allows streaming on its free plan and offers 10 GB per month (only if you provide a confirmed email address). It has servers in over 60 countries and supports multiple protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and SOCKS5 proxy.
This gives you access to servers in 10 locations, including the US and Canada. Windscribe boasts strong privacy features such as a strict no-logging policy, ad and malware blocking, and a built-in firewall.
One unique feature of it is its “R.O.B.E.R.T” (Remote Omnidirectional Badware Eliminating Robotic Tool). This allows users to block ads, trackers, and malware at the VPN server level.
Pros and Cons
Distros Supported: Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch Linux, and CentOS
ProtonVPN is a free VPN for Linux and offers unlimited bandwidth. It has a strict no-logs policy that is audited and verified. ProtonVPN was originally created by the makers of ProtonMail.
One unique aspect of ProtonVPN is that it uses Secure Core technology, which routes traffic through multiple servers in different countries for added security and protection against network attacks.
Pros and Cons
Distros Supported: MX Linux, Fedora, Debian, Ubuntu, Arch Linux / Manjaro, Linux Mint
TunnelBear is a user-friendly and visually appealing VPN that provides access to its global network of over 47 server locations. You will get access to a free plan with 500MB of data per month.
TunnelBear free Linux VPN is mostly useful for Linux users who want to bypass censorship and avoid geo-restrictions on streaming services.
One of the downsides is that it only provides 2 GB per month. It might be insufficient for intensive internet use like streaming or downloading large files.
Whereas, its DNS leak protection controls your DNS requests from being revealed. Its security goes far beyond and integrates a kill switch called VigilantBear.
Pros and Cons
Distros Supported: Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Fedora
Hide.me is another popular free VPN option for Linux. It supports a wide range of Linux distros due to the CLI app being written in Golang. It can be installed in any Debian-, Ubuntu-, or Fedora-based distribution.
It has servers in over 70 locations worldwide and uses strong encryption protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2.
Hide.me is open-source and accessible on GitHub. One unique feature of Hide.me is its “Split Tunneling”. This feature allows users to choose which apps use the VPN connection and which do not.
Pros and Cons
Distros Supported: Supports all Debian-, Ubuntu-, and Fedora-based distros
Choosing a free VPN for Linux is just the beginning. Imagine: you have access to a free VPN for Linux and are not aware of how to make the most of it. For such case scenarios, we’ve mentioned a few tips for you to rely on:
Let us conclude with a concise comparison of the most effective free VPN for Linux:
| VPN | PrivadoVPN | Windscribe | ProtonVPN | Tunnel Bear | Hide.me |
| Score | 7.8 | 7.5 | 7.0 | 7 | 7.8 |
| Servers | Hundreds | 1-100 | 1-100 | 5000+ | 1-100 |
| Torrent options | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, Proprietary | OpenVPN, WireGuard, L2TP/IPsec | OpenVPN, IKEv2, SSTP, WireGuard |
| Operating systems | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux |
To summarize, protecting your data privacy on Linux is both necessary and affordable today without having to empty your wallet for robust security solutions.
VPN for Linux free mentioned in this guide provides a solid foundation for maintaining online anonymity without compromising performance.
When you mindfully select the right free Linux VPN, you can ensure that your internet activity remains private and secure.
In the end, your privacy matters! So, do not wait long and make the most of these tools to take control of it today.
