How to Get Free VPN: A Comprehensive Guide
Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, are essential tools for online privacy and security. They enable users to surf the internet without risking their sensitive information being stolen, and to bypass online restrictions. VPNs are becoming increasingly popular, but the vast majority of them come with a price tag. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to get a free VPN, covering research, trials, promo codes, apps, freemium VPN services, third-party providers, and even configuring your own VPN service.
Research and Review Free VPN Services
There are many free VPN services available on the market, and it’s important to know which ones are worth trying. Some of the most popular VPN services include Betternet, Hotspot Shield, Thunder VPN, and Turbo VPN. Some of these services can be reliable, but others can be shady, so it’s important to conduct research before committing to a service.
On the positive side, many free VPN services can be just as effective as paid services, but they can also be unreliable or even malicious. It’s important to research each service carefully and to be aware of the risks involved. When researching free VPN services, pay attention to the level of encryption they use, their logging policies, and their customer support.
Based on our research, we recommend ProtonVPN and Windscribe as two of the best free VPN services available. ProtonVPN is a reliable service that offers unlimited bandwidth on a single device, whereas Windscribe provides up to 10GB of data per month and works on multiple devices.
Utilizing VPN Trials
Many VPN services offer free trials, which allow users to try out the service for a limited time before committing to a subscription. These trials can be an effective way to test the service, and they often come with all the same features as paid subscriptions. However, some trials might have real-world limitations that prevent users from truly testing the service.
When considering VPN trials, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure that you understand the limitations of the trial. Also, make sure to compare different trials to find the best one for you. Some trials might be short, while others might be longer.
Overall, VPN trials can be a great option for those who want to try out a VPN service before subscribing. But, to get the most out of a VPN trial, make sure to test the service thoroughly before committing to a subscription.
Promo Codes and Discounts
Promo codes and discounts can be a great way to save on VPN subscriptions. Promo codes are discounts that are applied at checkout, while discounts are sometimes offered for long-term subscriptions or to new customers.
To find these deals, check out VPN review websites or follow VPN providers on social media. Providers often announce their deals on social media or through email campaigns.
Some of the best VPN deals we’ve found include NordVPN, which offers up to 30% off for new customers, and Surfshark VPN, which offers up to 82% off for long-term subscriptions.
Utilizing Free VPN Apps
If you’re accessing the internet from a mobile device, free VPN apps can be a great option. These apps can be downloaded from the app store and can provide secure access to the internet.
However, it’s important to be cautious when using free VPN apps. Some apps can be unreliable, others can be malicious, and some may have weak security that could put users at risk. For this reason, it’s important to research each app before downloading it, and to be aware of the risks involved.
Some of the most reliable free VPN apps include TunnelBear, ProtonVPN, and Windscribe. These apps have been rated highly by users and have strong security features.
Freemium VPN Services
Freemium VPN services are a hybrid of free and premium VPN services. They offer both free and premium plans that vary in the features they offer. Users can choose the free plan for more basic features and top up with premium services for additional features.
These services can vary in quality and security, so it’s important to research each one before committing to a plan. Some of the best options include CyberGhost VPN and Hide.me VPN.
Third-Party Providers
Some third-party companies and organizations offer free VPN services. For example, some browsers like Opera and Tor offer free VPN services to their users. However, it’s important to be cautious when using these services, as some might not offer the same level of security as other VPN services.
When using third-party VPN services, make sure to research them carefully and to understand their terms and policies. For example, some VPNs might log user information or sell user data to third parties, which can be a significant risk.
Configuring Your Own VPN Service
For those who are tech-savvy, configuring your own VPN service can be an effective way to get a free VPN. Some free VPN software options include OpenVPN, SoftEther VPN, and WireGuard.
To set up your own VPN service, you’ll need to choose a VPN protocol, download the appropriate software, and follow a guide on setting up the service. This can take some time and effort, but it can be a great option for those who want complete control over their VPN service. It’s important to note that this option requires technical knowledge and isn’t suitable for everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways to get a free VPN service, and it’s important to choose the best option for your specific needs. Our recommendations include reliable options like ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and NordVPN, while free VPN trials, discount codes, and VPN apps can be great options for those looking for a no-commitment option. Depending on your experience with VPN and overall technical skills, setting up your own VPN could be a great approach.
Remember, always research before committing to a VPN service, be cautious when it comes to free VPN services, and prioritize privacy and security when choosing a VPN.
