Best VPN for Windows

As a Windows user, you're probably interested in the best VPN to improve your privacy. Thankfully, there is a large selection of virtual private network options on the market. Microsoft Windows has been the most popular desktop operating system for as long as we can remember, and because of its widespread use, almost all major VPN providers feature a Windows-compatible app.

When you're choosing a solid VPN, the process is relatively user-friendly -- especially if you decide on one of the services highlighted in our roundup of top providers. MacOS users often deal with a bunch of Apple-specific requirements before being able to install privacy tools to a mobile device or computer, but picking the best VPN for Windows is pretty simple. The available options, which deliver a top-notch slate of safety features for your device or computer, are more plentiful than those available for MacOS.

Our CNET experts put an extensive roster of VPNs to the test to determine the best, quickest and most secure VPN services for Windows 10 and Windows 11. We focused on a number of core details in our testing, including streaming and browsing speeds, reliability, privacy, ease of remote access and overall value for the money. All of the recommendations for the best VPN providers work perfectly with all currently maintained Windows versions, and CNET put them to the test for use with the latest available operating system. (Yes, that means they're compatible with Windows 11, which is available for download on your desktop or laptop.) Each of these selections offers a standalone VPN client that can operate seamlessly on your desktop. Here are the best VPNs for Windows, ranked for performance across all categories. And if you're working with a slightly older device, be sure to read our guide on how to set up a VPN on Windows 10. 

ExpressVPN is the best overall VPN for Windows with its fast speeds, great streaming-service unblocking and unmatched transparency. Surfshark is the best value VPN for Windows, offering unlimited simultaneous connections and a solid suite of privacy features. NordVPN is the fastest Windows VPN because of its low 10% average speed loss. ProtonVPN is the top free VPN and the only no-cost option we recommend.

PIA

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a wallet-friendly VPN provider. It sets you back just $12 monthly, $45 annually or $79 every three years. We like PIA’s open-source apps and great transparency with its third-party no-logging audits. PIA packs AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, obfuscation and multihop connections. Its whopping 35,000 servers peppering 91 countries make Private Internet Access great for international travel. Unfortunately, we experienced issues with PIA when streaming from UK Disney Plus. Luckily, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video UK and US content unblocking worked flawlessly. Moreover, its 24% average internet speed download loss isn’t bad, but it falls short of rivals including ExpressVPN and NordVPN. While PIA is a superb budget pick, we recommend Surfshark instead because it’s faster, more feature-rich and better for streaming.

Read our PIA review.   

Here at CNET, we’ve spent years comprehensively reviewing various VPN providers. We ran hundreds of internet speed tests, checked for DNS leaks and compared server networks. Additionally, we analyzed pricing to determine overall value, streamed geo-protected content and pored over privacy features. Specifically for Windows, we tested apps on Microsoft’s operating system to see what features each offers.

There’s much to think about when selecting a VPN, including device support, privacy features, internet speeds and price. Here are the main factors to mull over when picking a Windows VPN.

Device compatibility

Most VPNs offer an app for Windows. But chances are you’ve got other devices including phones, tablets and streaming devices that you want to install a VPN on. You’ll find Windows, MacOS, Android and iOS apps from nearly every VPN provider. Certain platforms such as Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV and a Linux graphical user interface (GUI) app are more rare. Think about the non-Windows gadgets you want to use a VPN with and make sure your desired provider has an app.

Privacy

Privacy is one of the main reasons to use a VPN. At a minimum, we recommend AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch and a strict no-log policy. While no-logging claims are tough to verify with absolute certainty -- you can and should be skeptical -- it adds peace of mind. And third-party audits improve transparency while backing up no-log assertions.

Internet speed

All VPNs slow down your internet download and upload speeds somewhat because your data doesn’t merely travel through your internet service provider’s (ISP) servers, but instead tunnels through your VPN provider’s server for encryption. However, some companies feature faster speeds than others. The fastest VPNs deliver minimal speed loss of 20% or less, which is ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities like 4K video streaming, uploading videos to YouTube and competitive online gaming. 

Server network

A robust server network lets you find an ideal connection. You’ll want a high number of servers and a large list of individual countries. A VPN company with fewer overall servers but more standalone countries might work better for travel because you’ve got a broader selection of nations to pick from. Many of our top recommended VPNs, including ExpressVPN and Surfshark, offer 100 or more servers. 

Content unblocking

Aside from privacy, many folks use VPNs to circumvent regional restrictions. Whether that’s unblocking streaming content, like accessing UK Netflix libraries in the US or avoiding annoying but necessary CAPTCHAs while traveling abroad, a VPN has you covered. For streaming, you’ll want to ensure your VPN works with your desired services, like Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu or Amazon Prime Video.

Customer support

Especially if you’re new to VPNs, a robust section of help guides and frequently asked questions lets you get help more easily. We appreciate companies with detailed installation instructions and troubleshooting tips. For more advanced assistance, 24/7 live chat online or over the phone is great whether you’re having connectivity problems or have billing questions.

Price

A VPN sets you back anywhere from $10 monthly to $100 annually. Generally, you’ll save by purchasing a year-long subscription, with greater discounts on two- or three-year purchases. Despite the lower cost, we recommend avoiding a multi-year plan because of how fast things change in the VPN realm. While your provider might offer fast speeds and excellent privacy features at the onset, it could suffer a data breach or get acquired by a shady company. For the best value with the least risk, stick with annual plans. At the high end, companies charge $90-$100 per year, while a good value VPN runs you around $50-$60 annually. Commonly, companies provide sweet introductory prices for your first year of service, then hike the price. But if you renew during a sale -- like around Black Friday or Cyber Monday -- you might still get a great deal.