Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best free VPN for Windows in 2021. With cyber threats and online surveillance increasing day by day, protecting your online identity and browsing activity is more important than ever. A virtual private network (VPN) is an essential tool for online privacy and security. However, with numerous VPN providers available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. This guide will help you make an informed decision and select the best free VPN for your Windows device.
What is a VPN?
A VPN is a technology that creates a private and secure network connection over the internet. When you use a VPN, your browsing activity and online data are encrypted and routed through a remote server, making it difficult for anyone to spy on your online activities. A VPN also hides your IP address, making it appear as if you are browsing from a different location. This feature allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content that is not available in your region.
How Does a VPN Work?
A VPN uses various security protocols, such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec, to encrypt your data and create a secure tunnel between your device and the VPN server. Once connected, all your internet traffic flows through this tunnel, and the VPN server assigns you a new IP address. This new IP address hides your original IP address, and your online activity becomes anonymous and untraceable. When you browse the internet using a VPN, your data is protected from prying eyes, and your online identity remains safe.
The Best Free VPN for Windows
Now that you understand the importance of a VPN, let’s take a look at the best free VPN for Windows.
VPN Provider |
Free Plan Limitations |
Supported Platforms |
Server Locations |
Encryption |
Logs Policy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ProtonVPN |
Unlimited data, but only three server locations |
Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android |
50+ server locations in 36 countries |
AES-256 encryption |
No logs policy |
Windscribe |
10 GB data per month |
Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android |
63 server locations in 11 countries |
AES-256 encryption |
No logs policy |
TunnelBear |
500 MB data per month |
Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
23+ server locations |
AES-256 encryption |
No logs policy |
Hide.me |
2 GB data per month |
Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
5 server locations |
AES-256 encryption |
No logs policy |
Hotspot Shield |
500 MB data per day |
Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
115+ server locations in 80+ countries |
AES-256 encryption |
No logs policy |
1. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is a popular VPN provider that offers a free plan with unlimited data, but only three server locations – Netherlands, Japan, and the US. However, these servers are fast and reliable, and you can upgrade to a premium plan to access more server locations. ProtonVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is the industry-standard encryption protocol, and has a strict no logs policy. It also offers a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops.
ProtonVPN is easy to use and has a user-friendly interface. It supports Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, and you can connect up to five devices simultaneously. ProtonVPN’s free plan is an excellent option for users who want a reliable and secure VPN without spending a penny.
Pros:
- Unlimited data
- Fast and reliable servers
- AES-256 encryption and no logs policy
- Kill switch feature
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Only three server locations in the free plan
- No access to streaming sites
- Premium plans are expensive
2. Windscribe
Windscribe offers a generous free plan with 10 GB data per month and 63 server locations in 11 countries. This VPN provider supports Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android and has a user-friendly interface. Windscribe uses AES-256 encryption and has a no logs policy. It also offers a kill switch feature and a split tunneling feature that allows you to choose which apps use the VPN connection.
Windscribe’s free plan is an excellent option for users who want a reliable and secure VPN with more server locations without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- 10 GB data per month
- 63 server locations in 11 countries
- AES-256 encryption and no logs policy
- Kill switch and split tunneling feature
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Some server locations are slow
- No access to Netflix or other streaming sites
- Requires an email address to sign up
3. TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a popular VPN provider that offers a free plan with 500 MB data per month. This VPN provider has a user-friendly interface and supports Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. TunnelBear uses AES-256 encryption and has a strict no logs policy. It also offers a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops.
TunnelBear is an excellent option if you want a simple and easy-to-use VPN that provides basic security features.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- AES-256 encryption and no logs policy
- Kill switch feature
- Adorable bear graphics
Cons:
- Only 500 MB data per month
- Slow speeds on the free plan
- No access to Netflix or other streaming sites
4. Hide.me
Hide.me is a VPN provider that offers a free plan with 2 GB data per month. This VPN provider supports Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android and uses AES-256 encryption with a no logs policy. Hide.me has servers in five locations, including the US, Canada, Netherlands, Singapore, and Malaysia. It also offers a kill switch feature and a split tunneling feature that allows you to choose which apps use the VPN connection.
Hide.me’s free plan is a good option if you want a VPN with more server locations and basic security features.
Pros:
- 2 GB data per month
- AES-256 encryption and no logs policy
- Kill switch and split tunneling feature
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Some server locations are slow
- No access to Netflix or other streaming sites
- Free plan limited to one device
5. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is a VPN provider that offers a free plan with 500 MB data per day. This VPN provider supports Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android and has more than 115 server locations in 80+ countries. Hotspot Shield uses AES-256 encryption with a no logs policy and has a user-friendly interface. It also offers a kill switch feature and a split tunneling feature that allows you to choose which apps use the VPN connection.
Hotspot Shield’s free plan is a good option if you want a VPN with more server locations and a user-friendly interface.
Pros:
- 500 MB data per day
- More than 115 server locations in 80+ countries
- AES-256 encryption and no logs policy
- Kill switch and split tunneling feature
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- 500 MB data per day is not enough for streaming or downloading
- Free plan has ads
- Some server locations are slow
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Free VPN for Windows
While using a free VPN for Windows can provide you with basic online privacy and security, it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of using a free VPN provider.
Advantages:
1. Cost-effective:
Using a free VPN for Windows is a cost-effective solution to protect your online identity and browsing activity. With a free VPN, you don’t have to pay for a premium subscription, which can save you a lot of money.
2. Basic Security:
A free VPN for Windows can provide you with basic security features, such as encryption, VPN protocols, and no logs policy. These features can protect your online identity and browsing activity from prying eyes.
3. Easy to Use:
Most free VPN providers have a user-friendly interface and are easy to use. You don’t need any technical knowledge to use a free VPN for Windows.
Disadvantages:
1. Limited Features:
Most free VPN providers offer limited features, such as data caps, slower speeds, and fewer server locations. These limitations can affect your online experience, and you may not be able to access some websites or streaming services.
2. No Customer Support:
Free VPN providers usually don’t offer customer support, which means you’re on your own if you encounter any technical issues. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re not familiar with using a VPN.
3. Security Risks:
Some free VPN providers may put your online security at risk by logging your data or selling it to third-party advertisers. It’s essential to choose a reputable VPN provider with a no logs policy and good reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is a free VPN for Windows safe to use?
A free VPN for Windows can provide you with basic online privacy and security. However, some free VPN providers may log your data or sell it to third-parties. It’s essential to choose a reputable VPN provider that has a no logs policy and good reputation.
2. Can I use a free VPN to stream content on Netflix or other streaming services?
Most free VPN providers don’t allow you to access streaming services, such as Netflix or Hulu. These services use advanced anti-VPN measures, which can detect and block VPN traffic.
3. Can I use a free VPN for Windows on multiple devices?
Most free VPN providers allow you to use their service on one device only. If you want to use a VPN on multiple devices, you’ll need to upgrade to a premium subscription.
4. How do I choose the best free VPN for Windows?
When choosing the best free VPN for Windows, it’s essential to consider factors such as server locations, encryption protocols, speed, and customer support. You should also read reviews and compare different VPN providers to make an informed decision.
5. Can I upgrade from a free VPN to a premium subscription?
Yes, most free VPN providers offer premium subscriptions with more features and server locations. If you need more advanced features or want to access more server locations, you can upgrade to a premium subscription.
6. Can I use a free VPN to bypass geo-restrictions?
Yes, a free VPN for Windows can help you bypass geo-restrictions and access content that is not available in your region. However, free VPN providers usually have fewer server locations, which may limit your ability to access some websites or streaming services.
7. How do I set up a free VPN on Windows?
Setting up a free VPN on Windows is easy. First, download and install the VPN provider’s software on your device. Then, sign up for a free account and connect to a server location. Once connected, your online activity is protected by the VPN.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a free VPN for Windows, there are several good options available. ProtonVPN, Windscribe, TunnelBear, Hide.me, and Hotspot Shield are our top picks for the best free VPN providers in 2021. These VPN providers offer basic online privacy and security features, such as encryption and no logs policy. However, it’s important to understand the limitations of using a free VPN provider and choose a reputable provider with a good reputation.
Remember, protecting your online identity and browsing activity is essential in today’s digital world. With a free VPN for Windows, you can stay safe and secure online while enjoying unrestricted access to the internet.
Closing or Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. The use of a VPN for illegal activities is strictly prohibited, and we do not encourage or condone any illegal activity. The responsibility for using a VPN in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations lies solely with the user. We strongly advise users to read and understand the terms and conditions of any VPN provider before using their service.