The online world has changed dramatically over the past few years, and in 2025, digital privacy is no longer optional—it’s essential. As cyberattacks become more sophisticated and governments and corporations expand their surveillance capabilities, millions of users are turning to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) not just for anonymity, but for complete control over their data. This guide explores the Best VPN 2025 options, evaluating them through a modern lens: performance, security, transparency, and adaptability across devices—especially on Windows, where most users remain vulnerable.
This year, VPNs aren’t just tools for encrypting your connection. They’ve evolved into full-fledged cybersecurity suites, integrating features like ad blocking, anti-malware filters, threat detection, and even data breach monitoring. Whether you’re streaming from a public Wi-Fi in a café, accessing geo-restricted content, or gaming across servers on different continents, a well-optimized VPN service can significantly enhance your online experience. And with the rise of AI-enhanced phishing schemes and targeted malware, the role of VPNs in malware protection and data loss prevention is more crucial than ever.
We’ve tested and reviewed dozens of leading services—drawing insights from independent labs like AV-Test and real-world feedback from experts and users alike—to identify the 10 best VPNs for 2025. Each recommendation is tailored for different needs, whether you’re seeking a cheap VPN service, high-speed VPN for Netflix, low-latency VPN for gaming, or military-grade secure browsing for sensitive work. The focus here isn’t just on privacy—it’s about empowering users with reliable, fast, and intelligent protection.
From feature-packed giants to lightweight, performance-first options, here are our top picks for this year. Each entry includes an in-depth analysis of strengths and weaknesses, user experience on Windows, and how these VPNs align with current cybersecurity demands. For those looking for budget-friendly options, don’t miss our dedicated roundup on the Best Free VPN 2025 ideal for users just getting started.
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN continues to dominate the privacy landscape in 2025, offering an exceptional blend of speed, security, and usability. Designed for both beginners and power users, it’s especially popular among remote workers, streamers, and digital nomads. With servers in 105 countries and blazing-fast performance, it’s the go-to solution for those prioritizing cross-border access and consistent reliability. Whether you’re trying to access region-locked content or secure your connection on public Wi-Fi, ExpressVPN delivers.
In recent benchmark tests, ExpressVPN consistently ranked at the top in terms of speed, latency, and uptime. Its proprietary Lightway protocol not only accelerates connection times but also offers superior stability compared to traditional protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. Independent audits (most recently by KPMG and Cure53) have reaffirmed the platform’s no-logs policy and infrastructure security. However, the lack of a truly free tier might dissuade casual users, especially with more freemium VPNs offering basic features at no cost.
What makes ExpressVPN stand out is its holistic approach to digital safety. It includes a built-in password manager, threat detection against malicious sites, and even a kill switch that automatically halts your internet if the VPN disconnects. Its Windows client is sleek and lightweight, allowing for one-click connection and automatic server selection. For streamers, it remains one of the best VPNs for Netflix, reliably bypassing geo-restrictions without noticeable buffering. The Smart Location feature also intelligently chooses the fastest server based on your current network—perfect for uninterrupted browsing.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN has become nearly synonymous with online privacy, and in 2025 it continues to refine its performance and feature set. With more than 6,300 servers worldwide and a loyal user base, it’s ideal for those who want advanced privacy tools alongside powerful performance. Professionals, remote workers, and gamers all appreciate its reliability and versatility across platforms.
In the latest AV-Test evaluations, NordVPN scored high in both security and usability, particularly on Windows 11. It employs AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy (audited independently by Deloitte), and a proprietary NordLynx protocol that boosts connection speeds while preserving privacy. Despite its feature-rich setup, NordVPN maintains a simple user interface. The only noticeable trade-off is a slightly heavier Windows client compared to ExpressVPN, which may matter for users with older machines.
Key highlights include its Double VPN feature (which routes traffic through two servers for added anonymity), Threat Protection Pro (which scans downloaded files for malware), and Meshnet (a feature that lets you create secure private tunnels between devices). NordVPN also excels as a VPN for streaming, handling Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime without issues. Its split tunneling capability on Windows lets users route only selected apps through the VPN—great for gamers who want low latency while still encrypting their browser sessions.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark has carved a strong presence by balancing affordability with innovation, making it one of the most compelling cheap VPN services available in 2025. It’s particularly well-suited for families, students, and budget-conscious users who still demand premium features. With unlimited device connections on a single account, it’s an unbeatable value for multi-device households.
In performance benchmarks, Surfshark’s WireGuard-powered network has delivered impressive speeds, with sub-50ms latency on most US and European servers. Its CleanWeb 2.0 feature now includes not just ad-blocking and tracker prevention, but also real-time phishing protection—an upgrade that helps mitigate growing threats like credential stuffing and fake login pages. Though it lacks some niche enterprise features found in NordVPN, Surfshark is remarkably polished for its price.
What sets Surfshark apart is its fast evolution. The Windows app now features Dynamic MultiHop (which lets you choose specific entry and exit nodes for double-encryption) and a rotating IP feature to increase anonymity over long sessions. It’s also one of the rare VPNs to offer dedicated GPS spoofing, making it a strong contender for VPN for gaming and accessing geo-restricted mobile apps. In short, Surfshark punches far above its price bracket, giving users elite security and streaming capability without the premium price tag.
4. Proton VPN
Developed by the team behind ProtonMail, Proton VPN remains a top choice in 2025 for privacy-focused users who demand transparency, security, and a principled stance on user rights. Based in Switzerland—one of the world’s most privacy-friendly jurisdictions—it’s an ideal solution for journalists, researchers, and anyone seeking protection from mass surveillance and data tracking. Its strong open-source ethos and zero-log policy make it a standout among more commercialized rivals.
Proton VPN has significantly enhanced its Secure Core architecture, which routes traffic through multiple hardened servers before exiting to the public internet. This layered approach shields users from network-based attacks, even if one node is compromised. In recent tests by AV-Comparatives, Proton VPN showed excellent consistency across long browsing sessions, though its speeds tend to trail behind performance-first VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark. Nonetheless, the provider’s commitment to transparency—through regular audits, open-source apps, and detailed security reports—builds trust with its privacy-conscious user base.
On Windows, the Proton VPN app is sleek and well-organized, offering preset modes for streaming, P2P sharing, and Tor over VPN. Its kill switch and always-on VPN functions are robust and activate instantly under high-demand scenarios. Users can even access the Tor network directly through the VPN, removing the need for a separate browser. Proton VPN also supports split tunneling and NetShield, a DNS-based blocker for malware and trackers. While it’s not the fastest VPN around, it offers a high level of control and peace of mind for users who place privacy above all else. VPN is hard to beat.
5. CyberGhost
CyberGhost remains a favorite among power streamers and global travelers in 2025, thanks to its vast server network and user-friendly interface. With more than 11,000 servers in 100+ countries, it offers one of the most comprehensive coverages in the VPN market. Casual users and seasoned tinkerers alike will find value in its performance presets and app-specific protection.
CyberGhost’s optimized servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting make it especially appealing for users looking for easy access to the right configuration without manual setup. In performance tests by TechRadar, its WireGuard implementation clocked near-gigabit speeds on high-bandwidth connections. That said, while its app is functional, it hasn’t seen a major UI overhaul in recent months and may feel dated compared to sleeker competitors like Surfshark or NordVPN.
Still, its usability is top-notch. On Windows, users can set up custom rules—like auto-connecting on specific Wi-Fi networks or launching certain apps under VPN protection. Its Smart Rules engine helps automate tasks that other VPNs often overlook. CyberGhost also maintains a clear no-logs policy and regularly publishes transparency reports. Its streaming support is among the best, with dedicated servers for Netflix, Hulu, and even DAZN. For anyone looking for a VPN for streaming that “just works,” CyberGhost remains a strong bet.
6. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access has long been a respected name among privacy enthusiasts, and in 2025, it continues to deliver a customizable, security-first VPN experience. With a strict no-logs policy and open-source clients, PIA is ideal for tech-savvy users who want granular control over encryption protocols, connection behavior, and server routing. It’s also a favorite among Linux users, though its Windows client remains fully featured and intuitive.
PIA operates thousands of servers across 91 countries, offering strong global coverage. Performance-wise, it’s fast enough for streaming and gaming, though it may lag slightly behind the likes of NordVPN or ExpressVPN on distant connections. Notably, PIA has been repeatedly tested in court cases to verify its zero-log policy, making it one of the most legally proven VPNs available today. It also includes MACE, a powerful built-in ad and tracker blocker that competes with standalone browser extensions in effectiveness.
Where PIA excels is in transparency and configurability. The Windows app allows users to select from multiple encryption levels (128-bit or 256-bit), choose between protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard), and customize kill switch behavior. PIA also supports port forwarding and dedicated IPs—useful for torrenters or those hosting secure services. While not the flashiest option, it’s an excellent pick for users who value technical depth and uncompromising privacy.
7. Mullvad VPN
Mullvad has earned a cult following thanks to its radical privacy-first philosophy and anonymous account system. Unlike most VPN providers, Mullvad doesn’t require an email address to create an account. You simply generate an account number and fund it anonymously via methods like cash or cryptocurrency. This ethos of minimal data collection makes it one of the most private VPNs on the market.
Technically, Mullvad performs exceptionally well. It relies on WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, and its Windows app is open-source and regularly audited. Recent performance tests by SafetyDetectives showed that Mullvad delivers consistently fast speeds in Europe and North America, although users in Asia and Australia may experience slower access. It doesn’t offer a free version or deep streaming integration, so it’s not the best VPN for Netflix or entertainment-first use cases.
Instead, Mullvad is laser-focused on secure, private browsing. Features like DNS leak protection, IPv6 blocking, and a robust kill switch are built in by default. It doesn’t track or log any user activity, and it publishes regular transparency reports and warrant canaries. Mullvad is best suited for users who want simple, effective VPN protection without marketing fluff or upselling—perfect for journalists, developers, or anyone who wants to stay off the grid.
8. Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN started as a mobile-first solution but has rapidly matured into a strong cross-platform contender. Now under the Nord Security umbrella, it shares infrastructure advantages with NordVPN while maintaining its own streamlined design and freemium model. It’s an excellent choice for users new to VPNs, especially those looking for an accessible and friendly introduction to digital privacy.
Performance-wise, Atlas VPN holds up well for everyday use. Its WireGuard implementation ensures stable speeds, and its SafeSwap servers—which rotate your IP address periodically without disconnecting you—offer a practical anonymity boost. It doesn’t have the deep protocol options or customization of PIA, but it compensates with simplicity and smart default settings. The free version, which includes a few limited servers, makes it a viable entry point into the VPN world—an appealing alternative to users considering options in our Best Free VPN 2025 guide.
On Windows, Atlas VPN feels nimble and responsive. Features like SafeBrowse block malicious sites in real time, while breach monitoring alerts you if your email appears in a data leak. While it lacks advanced controls like split tunneling or multi-hop, the value for casual users is undeniable—especially for students or freelancers looking for budget-conscious protection across devices.
9. Windscribe
Windscribe is one of the most unique VPNs in the market, known for its balance of functionality, personality, and transparency. It combines a generous free plan, witty branding, and powerful advanced features to appeal to both newcomers and techies alike. The free version includes 10GB of monthly data (more with referrals) and access to several core locations, making it a great stepping stone toward premium privacy.
Performance-wise, Windscribe continues to improve. It offers both OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, and its servers are optimized for low latency and streaming access. Windscribe’s ability to bypass firewalls—particularly in countries with heavy censorship—makes it an attractive option for international travelers or remote workers. The custom R.O.B.E.R.T. tool allows users to block trackers, malware domains, and specific content categories on a per-device basis.
Windows users benefit from a highly flexible client interface. Advanced features like static IPs, proxy gateway configuration, and port forwarding are readily available. Windscribe also supports split tunneling, allowing certain apps to bypass the VPN tunnel—handy for gamers or users accessing local content. While it’s not the fastest VPN on this list, Windscribe makes up for it with sheer versatility and user empowerment.
10. IVPN
IVPN remains one of the most underappreciated VPNs in 2025, focused heavily on ethical practices, minimal data retention, and cutting-edge security. Based in Gibraltar, this provider doesn’t rely on marketing gimmicks or influencer deals—instead, it builds trust through open-source apps, third-party audits, and straightforward policies. It’s tailored for power users who value mission-driven development over flashy features.
IVPN’s performance is solid, with WireGuard ensuring quick connection times and consistent speeds across North America and Europe. It doesn’t have the widest server network or streaming capabilities, so it’s not ideal if you’re hunting for a VPN for streaming. However, it’s a standout choice for secure browsing and anonymous communication, thanks to its multi-hop feature, built-in anti-tracker system, and App Firewall.
On Windows, the client is robust and privacy-focused, allowing granular control over protocols, connection rules, and DNS handling. IVPN also supports account registration without email, like Mullvad, and encourages anonymous payments. It’s not for everyone—but for privacy maximalists who want a minimalist, no-bull approach to data security, IVPN is among the most trustworthy options available today.
In 2025, using a VPN is no longer a matter of preference—it’s a core part of digital hygiene. Whether you’re a privacy advocate, a casual streamer, a remote worker, or a competitive gamer, choosing the right VPN can shape how securely and freely you interact with the internet. The services we’ve highlighted combine top-tier security, evolving features, and excellent Windows support to meet a range of needs. As cyber threats become more personalized and more pervasive, now is the time to upgrade your digital defenses—and a powerful, reliable VPN is a great place to start.
