Linux is the operating system (OS) of choice for true geeks and those who take desktop security very seriously.
However, even if you use penguin, you still need to safeguard your information when it leaves your device.
VPNs that operate with Linux are useful in this situation. We put the top 10 to the test so you can choose the one that works best for you. In this blog review, we'll compare the top VPNs for Linux in the UK.
Table of Contents:
- The Selection
- 1. ☁️🏝️ NordVPN for Linux
- 2. 🏝️ Private Internet Access for Linux
- 3. 🏝️ IPVanish VPN for Linux
- 4. 🏝️ ExpressVPN for Linux
- 5. 🏝️ PureVPN for Linux
- 6. 🏝️ ProtonVPN for Linux
- 7. 🏝️ KeepSolid VPN for Linux
- 8. 🏝️ TunnelBear VPN for Linux
- Buying Guide
- Common Questions
- Conclusion
8 Best VPNs for Linux in the UK 🌴: The Selection
We scoured the web for the best online backup software providers and compiled the following data for your perusal: installation guides, user reviews, features, and price breakdowns. In some cases, the software's SMB tools were also evaluated.
1. NordVPN — Overall Best VPNs for Linux Users 🌞
VPN software download and use is, in theory, now the standard.
Even if virtual private network use is on the rise as a whole, you're still in the majority if you're not currently using one at home.
This additional safety net protects users like you and me from harm that may otherwise go undiscovered on the internet, whether it’s to buy crypto or run a business, without breaking the bank.
Still, it is nice to revisit topics that may significantly improve your online safety…
First, Why Use Nord’s VPN for Linux? ☁️☄️
The quality of a VPN depends on how many people use it.
Given NordVPN's meteoric rise in popularity among security-conscious consumers worldwide, there will always be a need for reliable virtual private network service.
Several authoritative sources on the web have cited NordVPN as an example of a top virtual private network. This is significant since most evaluations and comments from customers are objective.
In a world where the economy is increasingly dependent on the internet, it's important to develop a security-aware attitude by gaining exposure to as many aspects of the web as possible.
I've used VPNs extensively over the years, and NordVPN is one of the providers I've experimented with before. While there are no free VPN plans, it’s the industry leader. But perform the necessary research and try out the trial before drawing your conclusions.
Your Linux NordVPN Setup Guide…
Ready? The 5300 servers located in 60 different countries contribute to NordVPN's widespread acclaim as a truly cross-platform application.
First, get the Linux version of NordVPN from their official website.
The instructions below, when performed in sequence, will effectively install NordVPN on systems running Debian or Ubuntu-based derivatives using the deb for Debian and Ubuntu derivatives - Debian package.
The NordVPN download page will automatically recognise your operating system and deliver the appropriate package, which may be .rpm in the case of other Linux systems. If you're having trouble connecting to NordVPN and you're not using Ubuntu, check out the alternative setups here.
To install NordVPN on Debian, just run the scripts from the downloads directory, which you can find here. Easy.
Running Linux & NordVPN
Now that NordVPN has been installed and setup on your Linux machine, you may log in by using the command below.
Input: $ nordvpn login
Now that you're logged in, you may use the command to start the connection. NordVPN is one of the popular providers that don’t restrict their users to just one device, e.g. Surfshark VPN. Get up to six simultaneous devices.
Verdict 👑 — NordVPN Wins as the Top VPN for Linux!
Choosing a VPN, let alone changing to a new one, might seem like a big undertaking. However, if cost is not an issue for you, you may want to have a look at NordVPN's 2-year plan, which at the time of writing was under a fiver per month and comes with a free gift in honour of the company's ten-year anniversary.
Linux is fantastic open-source software, but it's not widely used, so it might be difficult to run a number of programs on it. If you're using Linux and want to use NordVPN, you're in luck.
An excellent VPN service, NordVPN, has a Linux client. However, if you'd prefer to use the Terminal and Network Manager, you may still configure NordVPN on Linux using the default VPN settings instead of the NordVPN on Linux client. So, why wait any longer?
2. Private Internet Access — Best VPNs for Linux Lovers of Privacy
Once again, Private Internet Access VPN (for Linux) stands out from the crowd as the only VPN provider in our roundup to offer a Linux GUI programme that is both feature-rich and intuitive to use.
The website just provides one page of Linux installation instructions, which is standard fare among its rivals. Private Internet Access VPN (for Linux) is the only service where a single form is all that's required to get started.
Neither the Linux command line nor the Private Internet Access website needs any more configuration on your part. To connect, launch the app, choose a server, and input your credentials. In our comparison of VPN apps for Linux, I found this one to be the best overall.
Sheer Simplicity…
It's not only the interface that's simple to use; the rest of the system is as well. You can choose a particular country as your access server, or you can have the system automatically connect you to the quickest server.
Due to the thoughtful layout of the GUI interface, it should be difficult for most users to accidentally set anything wrong in Private Internet Access VPN (for Linux). There is no way to mess up your network due to problems like DNS leaks, incorrect certificates, or an improperly configured advanced setting in your Linux distribution's Network Manager.
In most scenarios, disabling IPv6 and setting your DNS servers to only use trusted servers will be all that's necessary. This is because your system may still attempt to transmit communication directly over those paths, bypassing the VPN.
IPv6 leak prevention is supported by Private Internet Access VPN (for Linux), which disables IPv6 traffic when a VPN connection is established.
Good VPN for Linux Netflix…? Nope
The bad news begins with Netflix, since it deliberately prohibits users of the Private Internet Access VPN on Linux.
Given the high quality and accessibility of server locations, this is rather disappointing.
Those in need of a VPN that will allow them to watch Netflix abroad should go elsewhere, such as ExpressVPN for Linux or a lower-tier service like Hide My Ass VPN for Linux, which does not have this difficulty.
The good news is that Private Internet Access VPN for Linux customers who use BitTorrent won't have the same difficulty, so you should be free to download torrents as usual.
Verdict — ⭐ Honourable Second-Place
This is something to add to your password manager; a way of simplifying an increasingly complex online world of data and data snoops.
Intuitive access to complex options is provided by PIA.
When it comes down to the nitty-gritty, Private Internet Access VPN for Linux is lightning fast, very user-friendly, reasonably priced, and backed by superb customer service. Using the service while running Linux never makes you feel like a second-rate user.
A little amount of data is recorded, but none of it is individually identifiable or related to your connections. If you'd rather not take any chances, Bitcoin is always an option.
Private Internet Access VPN (for Linux) is a terrific option for Linux users who enjoy security, privacy and don't want to meddle with the Penguin's innards, but it isn't the best option if you're connected from China. This earns it a solid spot in the Editors' Choice category.
3. IPVanish — Best VPNs for Linux Ease-of-Use
IPVanish has extensive support for many devices and OS’, with apps available for Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and even Amazon Fire TV.
The service also includes extensive setup manuals for routers, Linux, Chromebooks, and other devices.
With IPVanish, there are no restrictions on the number of devices you may connect at once, so you can set up as many as you wish. If you hit 20 and are still using the service, the firm may contact you, but even if they don't, it's a significant upgrade over the typical restriction of five devices offered by most service providers.
Overall support 📊
WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 are among the supported protocols you can use to thwart "surveillance capitalism". IPVanish's decision to no longer support PPTP and other insecure protocols is commendable.
Since our last check, the company has been hard at work, releasing updated versions of the Android, iOS, and Windows apps as well as a Mac update in the near future.
Other changes include a Favorites system for speedier connections, simplified navigation, privacy enhancements, expanded language support (including English, Spanish, German, Dutch, and French), and in-app support messaging.
Even in this area, where instantaneous assistance is essential, IPVanish surpasses our lofty expectations. U.S., UK, Australian, Mexican, Spanish, and Brazilian phone numbers are available 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time (CT) Monday through Sunday.
Setting Up IPVanish VPN for Linux Requires Terminal
Setting up IPVanish VPN requires, as may be imagined, a little but of a hurdle (for Linux).
OpenVPN, an industry-standard in cross-platform VPN software, is used, or the less secure Ubuntu PPTP. Although a sleek visual tutorial is included to get you started, you will likely need to spend some time in the terminal setting things up.
At the conclusion of the guide, you'll be able to get a ZIP file containing several hundred VPN templates compatible with Network Manager. A username and password may be provided after a few clicks. The VPN may be turned on and off at will. Sadly, you can't make use of the platform's full potential unless you upgrade to one that supports graphical clients.
The UDP vs. TCP sample code is also interesting. UDP is the best option for players concerned about latency. TCP is the standard protocol for connecting to the internet and is required for most common online tasks including browsing and video streaming. This is mostly up to you, although it is a good rule of thumb to stick to.
Verdict — Good Option for Technically-Minded
If you're not busy running an online business, have time and experience and are looking for a VPN that works well with Linux, IPVanish is a good alternative.
The documentation is well-written, and with little effort, you can have everything up and running in no time. But it's not as simple as clicking a button. Download speeds are reasonable, however content delivery across the VPN is a major bottleneck.
Unfortunately for Netflix VPN fans, the service is now prohibited in most countries, so you'll have to search elsewhere to catch up on your favourite shows when you're travelling.
There is no need for consumers to worry about their privacy being breached or being coerced to provide any personal information since the firm does not keep any network or web traffic records.
4. ExpressVPN — Popular VPNs for Linux Travellers
Linux is a remarkable feat of open-source software, but everyone who has used it knows how frustrating it can be to actually get certain programmes to run.
This is because many programmers have ignored the platform in favour of Windows and macOS, both of which have larger user bases and so generate more revenue for software makers.
Thankfully, ExpressVPN doesn't have this problem. In contrast to other VPN services, ExpressVPN is Linux-compatible, and its help pages provide detailed instructions for setting up the service on a Linux computer.
We'll go through the reasons Linux users may want a VPN and then walk you through the process of setting up and using ExpressVPN on Linux to work with its protocol methods.
ExpressVPN — Find Unique VPNs for Linux Discounts…
Look around. Word on the street is that, if you use Linux and are interested in using ExpressVPN, tehre are subscription deals floating around you won't want to miss.
ExpressVPN is a virtual private network (VPN) that has gained a lot of traction among serious web users because of its high levels of speed, security, and customization.
The offered connections are lightning-fast and suitable for any online activity, whether its standard web surfing, HD video streaming or huge file downloads.
Strong 256-bit encryption is used to prevent hackers from deciphering your data, and there is a strict no-logging policy in place to safeguard your privacy.
A kill switch, DNS leak prevention, and an IP address checker are also included for added peace of mind.
Over 3,000 servers are available across 160 data centres in 94 countries. Bypassing region restrictions is simple, allowing you to watch shows from other countries such as comedic films on the US's Comedy Central, informative documentaries on the UK's BBC iPlayer, and superb sports coverage from Canada's CBS.
ExpressVPN's software is compatible with a wide variety of platforms, including Linux, Windows, Mac OS, Android, and even certain smart TVs and gaming consoles. Also, don't overlook add-ons for popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.
Linux version of ExpressVPN
With top-tier encryption and lightning-fast connections, ExpressVPN has quickly become one of the industry leaders in VPN services.
They are also recognised for supporting a broad number of systems — and this includes support for Linux. ExpressVPN's Linux installation instructions are available on the service's support site if you need help getting started.
If you're using Linux, ExpressVPN may be installed in one of two methods. Their Linux app is compatible with Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, and CentOS, so that's the first option.
OpenVPN may also be used to set up a virtual private network connection, which is less easy than using the software but is compatible with a wider range of distributions. Below, you'll find comprehensive guides for installing using either method:
Verdict — Popular Choice
Linux systems are less vulnerable to viruses and malware than Windows or MacOS systems are, but users should still take precautions to protect their data.
Without a virtual private network to mask their IP address and encrypt their data, Linux users are just as susceptible to online surveillance as anybody else. This is why a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential for Linux users.
Unfortunately, not all VPN services are compatible with Linux, although the popular ExpressVPN does. There are two options available to acquire ExpressVPN on Linux: either using the Linux app or by utilising OpenVPN files.
If your distribution is suitable, we suggest using the Linux app since this provides the finest functionality. But if you have another distribution, don’t panic, since the OpenVPN option can be used to secure just about any Linux system and keep you safe online.
Do you use a virtual private network (VPN) with Linux? What was your experience like if you used ExpressVPN on Linux?
5. PureVPN — Favourite VPNs for Linux Users Who Code
In general, for the unwary user, getting used to a service like those provided in the VPN sector might be intimidating.
Most of the time, they are neither helpful nor pleasant.
If you're familiar with the terminal, you should be able to get by using PureVPN on Linux.
After the centralisation of crypto by the big banks. PureVPN is another big participant in the race to privately connect to a server, having been around for almost a decade and a half since its 2007 inception. That should not be overlooked while assessing trustworthiness.
Since reputation is so important to how people see VPNs, smaller, less well-known providers don't have a chance against the market leaders.
When it comes to age and credibility, PureVPN has much to offer in terms of ensuring that its service works with all of your preferred devices.
Why Should You Use PureVPN for Linux?
Access applications, websites, media, and more with enhanced privacy and security with PureVPN's suite of services.
- Strong Encryption: Certified 256-bit strong encryption on all connections, providing an extra layer of privacy and security without sacrificing the essentials.
- File Sharing: To what extent do you want to file-share? This is your chance to get on the bandwagon and receive the tools you need to ensure the highest level of privacy and anonymity when using torrents and P2P networks.
- Quick Streaming: Do you know the pain of trying to stream Netflix while connected to a VPN? This stumbling block inherent in certain free VPNs makes sense to me because of the limited number of available servers… PureVPN has no problems meeting this need. Binge-watching on Disney+ or Hulu or YouTube is simple.
- Support Around-The-Clock: The lack of a consistent backbone is a common shortcoming of the services provided by VPNs. With PureVPN, this is not the case. They've gone above and beyond the call of duty by providing around-the-clock help from a human workforce rather than a chatbot.
How to Set up PureVPN on Linux
Setting up PureVPN is as easy as a stroll in the park. PureVPN is among the most recommended services since it works with all major platforms.
Download the PureVPN 32-bit or 64-bit installer (the architectural difference is based on your system) and then follow the instructions below in order if you're running Debian or a Debian-based distribution.
To install PureVPN on AMD64, just type in the command line instructions given on the site.
After PureVPN has finished installing, type “purevpn” into the Linux terminal to view the output.
Verdict — 🏝️ High-Quality VPN Alternative
PureVPN's high-quality performance stems from the combination of its extensive network and several server locations.
The service's compatibility with a wide variety of hardware and software platforms, as well as a maximum of 10 active connections at once, is a major selling point.
As a result of its commitment to the long term, it offers remarkable value as well. The advent of KPMG's “always on” audit is something we applaud.
However, it can't really compete with prominent companies like ExpressVPN due to unimpressive kill switch difficulties and terrible performance stats, which are fairly realistic problems that may harm the common user.
Worth a go in our view.
6. ProtonVPN — Top VPNs for Linux Users Seeking Free Plans
Next up is one of the Best free VPNs for Linux, ProtonVPN.
Note that you’ll need to be up to testing for leaks if privacy is a strong priority in your network.
Among the Linux virtual private networks we’ve seen, ProtonVPN for Linux stood out due to its streamlined installation and reliable performance.
It's not nearly as quick or straightforward to set up as NordVPN or even Private Internet Access VPN, but it starts at under a fiver a month.
Also, it is a great option for Penguin users concerned about safety and willing to test for leaks. If the corporation ever puts more resources towards improving Linux on the whole, it will be unrivalled.
A lack of GUI during installation is an apparent consequence of this, but it doesn't mean it isn't a fully functional service. ProtonVPN's privacy architecture and integrated Tor access stand out even when compared to VPNs designed for more popular OSes.
But, No Gui When Setting Up on Linux…
Unfortunately, ProtonVPN does not yet provide a graphical user interface for Linux. If there were, though, ProtonVPN would have been our clear pick.
Linux users, however, may find the website's setup instructions to be very helpful. Finding the server you want to connect to, indicating that you want to download for Linux, and then importing that profile is all you need to do.
On that note: CyberGhost VPN has a network of 8,000+ servers, which is the largest we've seen. Remember, however, more servers do not always mean better performance.
Although this facilitates connection, it doesn't do extensive checks for other potential leakage points. To stop data from bypassing the VPN tunnel entirely, IPv6 protocol, for example, must be explicitly disabled.
Some rivals, most notably Private Internet Access VPN, provide automated protection against such threats for Linux. ProtonVPN has released a command line interface (CLI) tool for users who prefer not to use Network Manager, which makes it significantly simpler to find and connect to fast servers without fixing the previously mentioned security flaws.
Protecting Individuality and Sensitive Information
ProtonVPN's headquarters are in Switzerland, giving the firm a solid legal foundation on which to base its no-logs policy.
In this case, a VPN would be the best option for the user. There's also security against DNS leaks and compatibility for the Tor anonymity network. What's more intriguing is that it's situated “in a disused Swiss army fallout bunker 1,000 metres below the surface.”
If it doesn't set the stage for a fantastic spy movie, I don't know what does… Although they may not be actively tracking you, they may still have access to some of your data. A record of the last time you logged in is kept for security purposes.
ProtonVPN is compatible with China for users based there. The IP address of the server, however, must be obtained in advance.
According to user reviews, connection stability is inconsistent, but this is true of all VPN services that work in China. However, this is a huge boon for anyone who could be participating in activities that the Chinese government considers subversive.
SecureCore's ability to create a tunnel via many servers improves upon this.
Verdict — ✔️ One of the Few Free VPNs for Linux Plans
ProtonVPN performs a great job, and puts significant focus on safeguarding your privacy if you take the additional legwork to guarantee that your environment is not going to leak data outside of your VPN tunnel…
That said, a lot more effort is required before it can be entirely recommended for Linux. Nevertheless, it served its purpose, and the cost was reasonable in relation to the number of features provided; also, its speed was better than average compared to other options tested.
Because of this, ProtonVPN is among the best VPNs for Linux, yet it can't unseat NordVPN for Linux because of its inferior ease of use.
7. KeepSolid — Solid VPNs for Linux Users Seeking GUIs
If you pay for KeepSolid VPN Unlimited monthly, you'll pay a minimum of £7 every month.
With that fee, you receive a VPN service that is, as its name suggests, secure and reliable, and which also offers easier setup.
Its overall performance is good… but against competing Linux VPNs it lags behind in key areas such as device administration, torrenting simplicity, and even certain measures of speed. In light of these considerations, KeepSolid VPN Unlimited is a solid pick for single-device users, but it still lags behind our winner in the Linux VPN category, NordVPN.
Configuring Your VPN With a GUI is Messy
KeepSolid's graphical client for installation is almost as feature-rich as one would anticipate from a CPN installation client for more popular operating systems like Microsoft Windows 10, making it somewhat of a rarity for Linux users.
Yes, nearly. KeepSolid messed up when it came to managing devices, but getting started is a breeze. I didn't like that I had to provide a specific name to each device I wanted to link up.
The worst part is that you can only remove or swap out the gadgets once every seven days. Expect to submit a support request if you accidentally add anything, since there is currently no way to remove it.
This technique is helpful for someone who wants to monitor VPN use on a per-device basis, but it isn't suitable for a solution aimed at the general public. KeepSolid's otherwise well-designed setup procedure suffered a little ding due to this issue.
Quick Options and Use
Getting started with the program is easy after installation.
Pick the quickest server, hit the connect button, and you're good to go. If you don't want to install the software, the website also has a handy configuration generator that, given your device, intended server, and protocol, will spit out a valid configuration file that can be imported into the Linux Network Manager.
When compared to industry leaders like TorGuard VPN (for Linux), KeepSolid's setup is on pace with the best of the best; the only real downside is the app's clumsy device management.
Our Verdict — 🐉 An Unusual, Mixed Bag…
KeepSolid VPN Unlimited is an unusual creature that offers a mixed bag of features. In one respect, it's unique among online providers in providing a polished graphical user interface (GUI) 9installation tool for Linux.
On the other hand, its stance toward named devices is a little annoying. The service has a no-logs policy that will appeal to privacy-conscious users, and it offers many server locations worldwide.
As a whole, it's a good option for those who aren't acquainted with Linux, and its speed is enough for the vast majority of programs. It's definitely worth a go if you can solve the problem of managing your devices.
8. TunnelBear — Popular VPN for Linux with Lots of Servers
The installation process for TunnelBear on Linux is not without its own challenges.
It offers a really straightforward approach to privacy, but its settings and performance don't stack up well versus the alternatives.
While it’s not as straightforward as setting up your VPN on Windows, there are plenty of charms about this service that win us over… we don’t know how they do it.
Both the Windows and Mac versions of TunnelBear fared well with us, with the former standing out for its speed and the latter for its inclusion of a slew of adorable bears for its imagery and fun approach to virtual private networks.
Good Costs
Although the product's Giant service tier is around £7 a month, it seems a little pricey given that the Linux front end does not have a graphical user interface (GUI), which makes configuring a bit of work.
You'll have to put up with a barebones interface, no BitTorrent compatibility, and average speed when compared to our winner, NordVPN (for Linux version).
Configuring TunnelBear VPN for Linux
When utilising TunnelBear on Linux, the first place to go is the help section. You'll be sent to a page explaining that although TunnelBear is compatible with Linux, support is restricted.
However, the documentation is straightforward and supports widely used distributions. Ultimately, you should get the most recent OpenVPN configuration files for TunnelBear and import them.
You'll need to keep them all so you can access various servers.
Importing the configuration files into Network Manager requires the user name and password for each file. Once this is completed, though, things usually fall into place.
By trial and error, research found that it is still prudent to disable IPv6 and use a reliable DNS server. Otherwise, you're asking for trouble in terms of your privacy. It does all it can to support Linux, which isn't much.
In addition, TunnelBear's developers have hinted at the possibility of creating a graphical user interface in the not-too-distant future. While this is all within the abilities of the average Linux user, it pales in comparison to the GUI and Linux-specific assistance offered by companies like TorGuard VPN (for Linux).
Its Confidentiality Level is Medium…
The Canadian government regulates operations for VPN service provider TunnelBear, which boasts one of the most user-friendly data policies in the industry's history.
When you join to its network, it keeps track of the operating system version, the version of the TunnelBear software you're using, whether or not you've been active this month, and the total amount of data you've utilised.
No logs of any kind are kept during use, and that includes not only IP addresses but also DNS queries and the actual substance of the data being sent and received.
Verdict — 🐧 This Surf’s a Bit Rough for Penguins…
If you're using Linux as your VPN platform, you won't be able to enjoy many of TunnelBear's features.
But the speed is great, and the hassle is mostly confined to the initial configuration. TunnelBear is a trustworthy service once you get beyond the first setup; their privacy policy is written in plain English and doesn't hide anything.
Is the TunnelBear VPN service reliable? Both Windows and Mac users will find it to be an excellent tool. Do Linux users really need to switch…? In all likelihood, no. There are many more available choices that go beyond.
8 Best VPNs for Linux UK — Buying Guide
Linux can and has always been downloaded without cost. Designed to mimic the features of the popular Unix OS without the cost, it was developed as a free alternative. As opposed to Windows, which has never been free.
However, trustworthy VPNs are a premium service that may be well worth adding on. Let’s explore just why…
Exactly what is a Virtual Private Network? 🌊🏝️
Surf’s up… If you care at all about the privacy and security (Guide: Top Malware Software) of your online activities, you must use a virtual private network (VPN) service. It makes no difference what kind of device is being used, as long as an encrypted tunnel is kept open between the user and their final internet destination.
While virtual private networks were formerly only available to IT departments wanting to link remote offices, the technology has now developed into a consumer service that anybody can use to access to the internet in a safe manner.
The data you send and receive online is encrypted and routed via a safe proxy server in the cloud when you use a virtual private network. Think of the data travelling to and from your computer as water flowing via a hose.
Imagine instead that the data flowing through this hose is encrypted; this is the essence of a virtual private network (VPN), which ensures the security and anonymity of your online activity by encrypting all of your data, be it locations, accounting, personally identifying data, or data used by geo-blocking systems.
In addition, since you are connecting to the VPN from a server owned by your VPN provider, all of your web traffic will seem to originate from the VPN server itself, making it impossible for anybody to tell what you are doing online based just on network traffic analysis.
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Why VPNs Can Be Useful for the Whole Family
VPNs are vital if you use your computer or device on a connection that you do not control, such as a public Wi-Fi hotspot.
Cybercriminals looking to steal your credentials often target public WiFi hotspots. VPNs protect you and your sensitive data by decreasing the likelihood of a man-in-the-middle attack.
According to a recent poll conducted by PCMag, these applications have gone from being a tool for the paranoid to becoming a personal data safety solution that is as common as using antivirus software or a hosted endpoint security package.
In addition, ISPs and governments are becoming more intrusive, so using a VPN is a good idea to protect your personal information.
(Did you hear? Leaked British anti-VPN campaign…)
This is particularly true if you use a P2P sharing service like BitTorrent, which, although being widely utilised for legal file-sharing activities, is nevertheless connected with a small but noticeable amount of unlawful activity. It's not unusual to have your connection slowed down only because of the sites you're visiting, even if you don't fit into the group of malicious users.
You should think about using a virtual private network if you don't want your Internet service provider (ISP) or anybody else to be able to tell the difference between your Netflix activity and your regular web surfing. But be careful about thwarting censorship laws, as this can get you into trouble.
When to Buy a VPN 💡
Linux users are more likely to be eager to tamper with software and do things like checking domain privacy than Windows or Mac users, thus personal VPNs for Linux should cater to that.
This is not lost on most VPN providers, who have put far less work into making their virtual private networks easy to set up and configure under Linux than they have for Apple Macs or mobile devices running iOS or Android.
While they do a good job of providing clear instructions, getting a VPN up and running, particularly on Linux, will need some manual labour.
When connecting using Linux, OpenVPN is the recommended protocol, however alternative protocols will function as well. Users of Ubuntu may start to work immediately from the Unity desktop by using the apt-get command (UI).
Some command line typing is expected, so it's a good idea to refresh your memory if you're feeling rusty. Virtual private network services that have a graphical user interface (GUI) are uncommon.
Check for a GUI…
Not all include a GUI. For those that do, it's important to weigh whether or not it offers additional benefits like custom protocols, the ability to detect the fastest available server, and the capability to perform additional configuration tasks like turning off Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) (crucial when trying to maintain a secure tunnel).
You should also think about the services and programmes you'll need to use. Streaming video from sites like Netflix requires not just speed but perhaps a static IP address, which may increase your monthly cost. Your ability to use certain online applications may be helped or hurt by the connection speed you experience while connecting from other regions.
The performance of a VPN may also fluctuate when used with other applications, such as peer-to-peer file-sharing services like BitTorrent or online gaming.
No matter what applications you plan to use, however, you should do your homework to make sure that your identity and activities will stay secret if and when the VPN you want to use is required to pass over user information to a legal body. All of these considerations are going to be essential when deciding on a service to hire.
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Common Questions 📚 — 8 Top VPNs for Linux (UK)
How reliable and trustworthy are VPNs on Linux?
Trust in the VPN provider is an important consideration when choosing a VPN provider. While the VPN service itself cannot read your encrypted data as it travels from your computer to the VPN server, anybody intercepting may.
Careful investigation is required before switching from one Internet service provider (ISP) to another (the VPN service). A reliable virtual private network is hard to come by, but the Electronic Freedom Foundation (EFF) has done a decent job of listing some of the best ones.
Such investigation might be the difference between jail time and a safe return for tourists. Furthermore, any credible VPN will offer a detailed explanation of their data retention and disclosure policies. The finest services do not keep any kind of logs and operate out of a jurisdiction that does not need them to do so.
Does server location affect VPN speed?
Yes. Virtual private networks require time since their fundamental function is to encrypt data in transit; this is particularly true when the data is being sent in a continuous stream, as it is while you are browsing the web.
In addition, using a VPN adds extra time to your connection since all of your traffic requests must first go to a different computer—the VPN server—before they can reach the website's hosting server. Even though they work together to keep you secure while online, the combination of these two elements may have a major detrimental effect on your browsing experience if not handled with care.
Some services may also be less trustworthy or provide different material than expected, depending on the location of your VPN's hosting servers. Fortunately, VPNs often have several global access points to choose from. Your final decision on a VPN should be based on your specific requirements, which may vary widely from user to user.
How do Linux users benefit from a VPN? ⭐
If you use Linux, you may be confident in your system's safety. In comparison to Windows and Mac, Linux users are less likely to be infected by malicious software because of the platform's lower use and the ability to customise security settings.
In comparison to Windows computers and smartphones, your Linux computer is more secure. Consequently, you could believe that a virtual private network is unnecessary for you.
In truth, thinking, Linux users may still benefit from beefing up their security using a VPN. A major problem is the lack of anonymity while using the internet, which occurs regardless of how well you protect yourself from viruses.
The ease with which your ISP may monitor your online activity when you connect from home makes P2P file-sharing services like BitTorrent seem like child's play. If you use torrents to distribute content that is protected by intellectual property rights, you may get legal notices, and this is true whether you use Windows, Mac, or Linux.
That being said, a virtual private network is still necessary even if you believe your Linux system is secure. Linux users are usually more computer aware than users of other operating systems, thus they understand the need of privacy protection. That's why Linux users often connect to VPNs.
How do I install a VPN on Linux?
- One option is to make use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) program designed to run on Linux, for instance, NordVPN.
- A second option is to use Terminal to establish a VPN on Linux (e.g. OpenVPN).
- Ubuntu Network Manager is the third method for setting up a VPN on Linux.
Conclusion
Virtual private networks, like password managers and antivirus software, should get some credit for enhancing online security.
However, they also stand for a variety of regulations and characteristics that might be confusing to the average person. Linus doesn’t help matters; Linux isn't for everyone's technical comfort level (and their users are typically not considered first-class citizens when it comes to commercial software updates).
Users on Windows usually prefer a graphical user interface (GUI) and other tools to verify that the VPN is functioning properly. Although you will find little company in Penguin territory, there are some interesting sights to see. Using our advice, you'll know just where to start looking.
Good luck.
