13 Best Free VPN Services for Better Security and Privacy

VPN (Virtual Private Network) services allow a remote computer operator to connect to a distant or separate network and other local computers through the internet. The advantage of this is that a person or business does not necessarily have to have a live technical expert come in physically to their home or business. The catch is, the person at the other end has access to all your computer systems once the VPN is connected. Basically, control of an individual’s or business’ computer systems is in the hands of another, so you definitely want secure services.

Some people offer this service to others with their own methods. These are contracted individuals and some of them have ill intentions. Professional VPN services are safer and can actually enhance security for a computer, or a network of computers. For example, if you have ever had trouble with a Windows operating system and you call Microsoft, they will often ask permission to connect to your computer. They do this through a VPN server. They send you a code, you type in the code and send it back (this is called a ping-pong) and then they can tap into your system and take over, generally to provide security services.

Often there are chat services available with the basic VPN connection. This way, you will be capable of providing any information a technician on the other end, should you have any questions. It is a practical method to enhance security and keep computers and networks up to date in terms of security and other issues. Generally, you will not be chatting with a technician. What these services offer is real privacy and that is the main goal for most users of VPN services. It allows you the freedom to browse restricted websites, thus reinforcing internet freedom and overall privacy.

13 Best Free VPN Services for Better Security and Privacy

Table of Contents

1. CyberGhost5

CyberGhost5 is one of the more popular VPN services for better security. Their servers are in Europe primarily, but they do have servers in the United States. You will have to see if your area is supported before subscribing. Performance reliability is rated high and the graphic user interface is simple to operate without any coding requirements like you might find on Linux VPN network servers. CyberGhost5 is also considered highly secure and it is free. Users are limited to 3 hour time frames for VPN connection.

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2. VPNBOOK

VPNBOOK is a streamlined but simple service with no particular bells and whistles, but it will serve for improved security. It will even protect data when you connect to public Wifi networks while offering you an anonymous connection. Overall performance is highly rated by users. This service is best designed for individuals who want better security and anonymity on all their devices. Service availability depends on geographic location.

3. SpotFlux Free VPN

SpotFlux makes VPN service very easy for the user and takes on the responsibility of online encryption to provide better security for your computer and devices. It is particularly noted for the excellent feature that it does not interfere with browser speed or activity, as some VPN services can. Advertising tends to be minimal. The only drawback is you will have to disable all cookie blockers, making your system vulnerable to a cascade of cookies you will need to clear out later.

4. Total VPN

Total VPN is a highly secure service offering over 30 different server locations, so this makes it more accessible to more people in different geographic locations. You get no restrictions on bandwidth or data transfer, which is excellent for large file transfers and downloads. It uses a 5 tunnel encryption protocol with Open VPN, SSTP, PPTP, L2tp/IPSec, and IkeV2. Another bonus is anonymity and no activity logging. Also, this service avoids proxy servers for additional security. 24/7 tech support is available. It does not work with Linux systems.

5. INCOGNiTO

This service is another free option for the common user, providing privacy and safety for various devices. Client applications are available for most devices. There are no caps on bandwidth or data restrictions and it is a service which has a 99% up-time score. With this service, you can opt to use proxy servers securely. There is no tracking or monitoring of activity and all protocols are highly secure. So, if you want to view whatever site you want to view without anybody knowing about it, give INCOGNiTO a try.

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6. SAFER WEB

As the website states, this VPN service protects you from hackers, snooper, and the government. So, you get an idea of the breadth of the service provided. This one is all about total privacy and security. It gets a 4 star rating almost across the board. It uses an SSL network with 256-bit encryption to ensure constant anti-spy security. Spyware is common and prevalent. Get the privacy you deserve.

7. ExpresVPN

ExpressVPN is very easy for all users. The interface is fantastic and simply learned. The service security is top-notch using SSL secured networks on 256-bit encryption and will work for Linux, Macintosh, iOS, Windows, and Android devices and operating systems. This service is comprehensive, fast and reliable with access in 136 cities around 87 countries. Bandwidth speed is not restricted and there is no data limit. The only catch is it is not actually free. You get a free 30 day trial and then you can decide. This is a premium service worth mentioning.

8. TunnelBear

On the lighter side, but still fully functional and secure, there is TunnelBear VPN service. This system uses a powerful encryption as AES 256-bit. One of the finer features includes this encrypted data transfer to prevent VPN blocking so your data will be less likely detected by ISP’s, online businesses, and government. Additionally, any disrupted connections are automatically blocked until security is resolved.

9. Windscribe

The primary focus of this VPN service is total privacy and censorship clearance so you can securely access any websites you wish without censorship or blocking. It protects all internet activity including browsing, Skype, email, and p2p from any spies, war-drivers, and monitoring systems from ISPs. Windscribe also has an ad blocking feature and blocks tracking cookies. You are enabled to manage links through any browser you are using.

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10. VPN Gate

VPN Gate is a unique security service with features intended to promote browsing freedom without government monitoring. In fact, this service can alter your IP address, so your activities cannot be easily tracked. By using volunteer servers around the world, it is highly accessible through all types of connections. You can specify search filters through many parameters including SSL, L2TP/Ipsec, MS-SSTP and more. The first step is to go the website and set up your parameters and your security as well as privacy is assured.

11. Tor

Tor is completely free and is a network which is wide open, allowing for analysis of traffic and surveillance over a given network. Therefore it is protection against multi-tiered spy-ware. It is particularly useful for business interactions and transactions which need to be kept private. Basically, this service focuses on keeping anyone from identifying your physical location and IP address while maintaining maximum privacy and security.

12. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is an online-security VPN service which uses HTTPS encryption and thus protects particularly against mobile data and public hot-spot hacking and spying. It essentially protects personal information, allowing you to bypass censorship on the internet so you may securely have access to any service or website. It is for the basic mobile user.

13. Psiphon

This is a basic VNC privacy service which uses HTTP Proxy and SSH technology in order to remove internet restrictions completely. This is primarily to get past censored websites dependent on location and to access blocked servers with privacy. It can even be used in countries which strongly restrict internet freedom, so you can still access sites you need during travel.

Do you know of any other free VPN service that you have used before and you would like to recommend it to other users? Please let us know in the comments below and we would be happy to include it in our list.

About Mike Stanley

Mike Stanley is a dedicated and passionate writer with a keen interest in the world of celebrity finance. With a background in journalism and economics, Mike has found his niche in researching and documenting the net worth of some of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry. His work is characterized by meticulous research and a commitment to providing accurate, up-to-date financial profiles.