“The VPN recommended by VPNgeniX works better than anything I’ve tried before. It helps me connect with clients without issues.”
Best VPNs for Linux
Because Even Linux Needs a Little Backup Online
You already value security, control, and transparency; that’s probably why you use Linux in the first place. But even the most locked-down distro won’t encrypt your web traffic or spoof your IP. That’s where a good VPN comes in.
We’ve tested VPNs that play well with Linux; no messy configs, broken features, or stripped-down versions that treat Linux like an afterthought.
Why Use a VPN on Linux?
Linux offers a level of control and transparency that appeals to power users, developers, and privacy advocates alike. But out of the box, it doesn’t shield your internet activity. That means everything from your browsing habits to your real IP address is still exposed to ISPs, advertisers, and trackers. A VPN fills that privacy gap by encrypting your traffic and routing it through secure servers.
Whether you’re working from a public Wi-Fi network, bypassing local censorship, or just want to access region-locked streaming platforms, a VPN ensures your connection stays secure and private. From Ubuntu to Arch and everything in between, the right VPN enhances your Linux experience without compromising your workflow or speed.
How We Tested VPNs on Linux
Unlike other OS ecosystems, Linux can vary significantly across distributions, package managers, and user habits. To make sure our recommendations hold up, we tested VPNs on multiple distros including Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, and Manjaro. We evaluated both CLI (command-line interface) and GUI (graphical user interface) options to get a full sense of compatibility and performance.
Each VPN was tested for connection stability, DNS and IP leak protection, and speed across various global servers. We paid special attention to whether providers offered proper Linux support. We also looked at documentation quality, logging policies, and whether the software was open-source or independently audited. If it didn’t work smoothly across Linux, it didn’t make our list.
Best VPNs for Linux
Powerful and packed with features
NordVPN has a dedicated command-line tool for Linux that supports most major distros. It includes a kill switch, split tunneling, and auto-connect. Speed tests showed reliable performance across Europe, the U.S., and Asia.
Easy to install, strong support, good speeds
ExpressVPN offers a stable CLI app for Linux with features like auto-connect and kill switch. While it lacks a GUI, it makes up for it with performance and easy integration. Documentation is solid, and support actually knows Linux.
Unlimited devices, reliable CLI, and fast speeds
Surfshark’s Linux support is better than expected. Their CLI tool is simple and works well on Debian-based systems. It’s also one of the few VPNs that allow unlimited simultaneous connections, which is handy if you’re running multiple devices or VMs.
For users who want easy choices
CyberGhost makes decisions for you (in a good way). Want to stream? Click the streaming profile. Want to game? Same deal. Its Windows app is designed for people who don’t want to fiddle with settings.
Privacy-first, Linux-friendly, and open-source
ProtonVPN offers a clean CLI app that works across most Linux distributions. No gimmicks, no ads, and it’s open-source, which makes sense for Linux users. It’s stable, well-documented, and includes a solid free plan for light use.
Fully featured, open-source, and customizable
PIA has a command-line tool and a full GUI client (one of the few) that runs well on Linux. It’s open-source, supports advanced configurations, and includes port forwarding for torrent users.
Budget-friendly and reliable
This one’s for anyone who wants a VPN that works without many extras. It runs well on Windows and costs less than most. The setup was simple, and speeds were decent for daily use.
Things Linux Users Will Appreciate
Many VPN services treat Linux as an afterthought, offering clunky workarounds or ignoring the platform altogether. Not the ones we recommend. The top providers for Linux offer proper CLI tools that integrate cleanly with your system, often with .deb and .rpm packages or ready-to-use OpenVPN/WireGuard config files. These aren’t stripped-down versions either. You’ll get the same performance and feature set as users on Windows or macOS.
The VPNs we list are also privacy-forward. Most of them maintain strict no-logs policies, and many have had their practices independently audited. Some are even open-source themselves, aligning perfectly with Linux users’ values. Whether you’re using iptables, scripting automations, or spinning up VMs, these VPNs won’t get in your way, they’ll slot in effortlessly.
Use Cases for Linux + VPN
A VPN on Linux opens up a range of secure use cases. If you’re working remotely, a VPN ensures your SSH sessions or remote desktop access are protected from snooping. Developers can use it to safely connect to staging servers or sandboxed environments without exposing sensitive traffic.
Streamers can access content from platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer by routing through a different country, all without buffering or dropouts. If torrenting is your thing, VPNs with port forwarding allow you to download anonymously and efficiently. Even researchers benefit by unlocking access to geo-restricted tools or information sources that may otherwise be unavailable in their region.
How to Set It Up
Setting up a VPN on Linux is usually simpler than people think, especially if the provider supports the platform well. There are generally two approaches:
Option A: Use Their CLI App
Some providers offer native command-line tools. Just download the package for your distro, install via terminal or package manager, and log in using a few straightforward commands. These apps typically include advanced features like auto-connect, kill switches, and split tunneling.
Option B: Use OpenVPN or WireGuard Config Files
If you prefer a manual route, download .ovpn or .conf files directly from your VPN provider. Use tools like openvpn or wg-quick to start a session, and optionally set it up to launch at boot or only for specific routes. This is especially handy for minimal setups, remote servers, or custom scripts.
No matter which route you choose, avoid providers that offer only GUI apps or half-baked Linux support. We’ve already filtered those out.
Quick Tips
- Use WireGuard where available; it's faster and lighter than OpenVPN
- Enable kill switch settings to block accidental leaks
- Test DNS regularly using CLI tools like dig or nslookup
- Avoid VPNs that require GUI-only login (some won't work headless)
- Consider pairing with a firewall or SSH tunnel for extra protection
Final Thoughts: The Best VPNs for Linux
Linux users don’t need hand-holding; they just need VPNs that work as promised. Every provider has been tested in real conditions across multiple distros with real usage in mind. No stripped-down versions. No missing features. No mystery about what’s running in the background. Pick one. Run the test. Keep what fits your setup.
Testimonials
Client Reviews
Ally Shetty
“This was my first time using VPNgeniX. After some major security problems on my Mac, their help made a real difference.”
Becky Wilson
“I don’t usually write reviews, but I had to thank the team at VPNgeniX. Their support during a tough period meant a lot.”
Hawkins Muller
Contact Us
Get in Touch
Have a question, need support, or just want to learn more about VPNs? Fill out the form, and we’ll get back to you shortly.
We’re here to help with product questions, setup advice, or general support, whether you’re new or already using a service we recommend.