Top 10 VPNs for PC – Safe Browsing for Windows Users

Did you know that nearly 42% of internet users in India now use a VPN regularly? With increasing concerns over data privacy, government surveillance, and access to geo-blocked content, more and more PC users in India are turning to VPNs for protection and freedom online. Globally, the VPN market is booming, expected to reach $71.66 billion in 2025, with over 1.6 billion active users predicted worldwide.

From students attending virtual classes to professionals working remotely and gamers wanting lag-free international servers, the reasons for using a VPN are as varied as the users themselves. But with hundreds of options out there, how do you pick the right one for your PC?

To save you time and confusion, we’ve carefully reviewed and listed the top 10 VPNs for PC based on performance, security, features, and value for money. Let’s dive in and help you find the one that fits your needs best.

What to Look for in a VPN for PC Users

• Windows Compatibility & UI – The VPN should have a native Windows app that is lightweight, easy to use, and stable. Avoid VPNs that rely solely on manual setup or lack Windows optimization.
• System Resource Usage – A good PC VPN runs in the background without slowing down your system or interfering with other apps. Look for ones known for low CPU/RAM usage.
• Streaming & Torrenting Support – PC users often multitask — a VPN should support HD streaming, P2P file sharing, and provide access to global content without buffering.
• Kill Switch & Auto-Connect – These are critical safety features for PC. If the VPN disconnects, your internet should automatically cut off to prevent IP leaks.
• Custom DNS & Advanced Settings – Power users may want features like port selection, custom DNS, split tunneling, or firewall rules, all accessible directly in the Windows app.

How to Set Up and Get the Most Out of Your VPN on PC

• Download the Correct App Version – Always download the VPN directly from the provider’s official website to avoid fake or outdated versions.
• Choose the Nearest Server for Speed – For everyday browsing or work, connect to a VPN server close to your physical location to get better speeds.
• Enable the Kill Switch – Turn this on from the app settings so your internet cuts off if the VPN drops unexpectedly — great for full-time protection.
• Set it to Launch at Startup – This ensures your VPN is always active, especially useful for users who browse sensitive sites or work remotely.
• Use Split Tunneling for Flexibility – Route only certain apps (like browsers) through the VPN while keeping others (like local printers or game launchers) on your regular connection.

List of Top VPNs for PC in 2025

1. TunnelBear

The TunnelBear VPN service stands as a simple VPN option for beginners because its interface offers both a friendly appearance along with easy operation. A bear animated theme in its display interface makes VPN technologies more accessible to people who have never used them before. The essential features of this VPN solution include strong encryption and a zero-logs policy though it fails to provide all the functionally complete features available in competitor products.

Through its 45+ country-wide server network TunnelBear provides two key features including VigilantBear kill switch protection and GhostBear stealth mode encryption. The platform targets informal users who need standard online anonymity protection alongside periodic geo-restriction bypass. Testing the service without obligations is feasible with this free plan even though it provides just 500 MB of monthly data transfer.

Features:

• Extremely user-friendly UI
• AES-256-bit encryption
• VigilantBear (kill switch)
• GhostBear (obfuscation mode)
• Servers in 45+ countries
• Transparent audits and no-logs policy

Website: https://www.tunnelbear.com/

Pricing: Custom

2. Windscribe

Windscribe combines solid security features with a generous free plan, making it ideal for casual users who want occasional protection. The free version offers 10 GB/month and access to servers in 10 countries. The PC client includes unique features like R.O.B.E.R.T., a customizable blocker for ads, trackers, and malware.

Windscribe also includes a built-in firewall and flexible connectivity options like IKEv2, WireGuard, and OpenVPN. It supports split tunneling and offers streaming access on its paid plans. The quirky, fun UI combined with practical tools makes Windscribe a favorite among privacy-conscious users on a budget.

Features:

• Free plan with 10 GB/month
• R.O.B.E.R.T. customizable blocker
• AES-256 encryption with secure protocols
• Built-in firewall and split tunneling
• Streaming access with Pro plan
• No-logs policy

Website: https://windscribe.com/

Pricing:

3. Mullvad VPN

Mullvad VPN stands out because it maintains total dedication to protecting users’ privacy and maintaining their remains anonymous. Users can obtain Mullvad VPN service from Sweden without providing personal details because the provider requires only an unnamed account number to establish an account. The no-logs policy combined with the random account generation requirement makes users completely unidentified to the service providers.

The Windows client implements an easy-to-use interface with security as its primary concern. Mullvad establishes WireGuard as its default protocol which allows users to enjoy speedy and secured VPN connections. Users can benefit from a kill switch function while DNS leak protection and port forwarding features are available in the application. Security-conscious users select this VPN because of its strong commitment to privacy even though it offers fewer servers than rival providers.

Features:

• No personal information required for account creation
• WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
• Strict no-logs policy
• Kill switch and DNS leak protection
• Flat-rate pricing without promotions

Website: https://mullvad.net/

Pricing: $5.48/mo

4. IPVanish

IPVanish is a fast and flexible VPN option, especially well-suited for users who need unlimited device connections. It’s a top choice for households and small teams looking to secure multiple devices simultaneously. The Windows app is sleek, responsive, and provides in-depth stats on server connections.

In addition to its strong security protocols, IPVanish includes automatic IP switching and encrypted cloud storage via SugarSync. The VPN also allows advanced users to configure protocols and ports manually. With solid performance for streaming and gaming, IPVanish strikes a balance between ease of use and depth of control.

Features:

• Unlimited device connections
• Strong AES-256 encryption
• Built-in SugarSync cloud storage
• DNS and IPv6 leak protection
• Automatic IP switching
• 24/7 customer support

Website: https://www.ipvanish.com/

Pricing:

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5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access operates as a top-rated VPN service while providing users with full control over their security setup. The network infrastructure of Private Internet Access consists of 35,000 servers positioned across 90+ countries which gives it one of the most extensive VPN networks in the market. The Windows app provides users with multiple customization options through which they can modify encryption settings as well as connection protocols and port forwarding characteristics.

The VPN system from PIA gives users complete authority to customize their VPN service usage. Users benefit from straightforward torrenting and streaming capabilities through its high speeds and SOCKS5 proxy functionality. Most importantly open-source characteristics allow users to monitor the system for increased confidence. Advanced users find this complex-looking interface extremely powerful for their needs.

Features:

• 35,000+ servers in 90+ countries
• Customizable encryption settings
• No-logs policy and open-source apps
• SOCKS5 proxy and split tunneling
• Built-in ad and malware blocker (MACE)
• Unlimited bandwidth and device support

Website: https://www.privateinternetaccess.com/

Pricing:

6. Proton VPN

Known for its strict privacy stance, Proton VPN is a VPN based in Switzerland that was created by the same people that created ProtonMail. Unlike other VPNs, it provides a free tier with unlimited bandwidth. The pricier plans unlock high-speed servers, streaming support, and Tor over VPN access.

Proton VPN is intended for consumers that value privacy above all else, thanks to its stringent no-logs policy and secure core servers. The PC client boasts sophisticated features like split tunneling, kill switch, and NetShield (ad-blocker) along with a clear UI. Trust is further strengthened by the fact that it is audited and open-source.

Features:

• Based in privacy-friendly Switzerland
• Free plan with unlimited bandwidth
• Secure Core and Tor over VPN
• No-logs policy and open-source
• NetShield ad-blocker
• Kill switch and split tunneling

Website: https://protonvpn.com/

Pricing:

7. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN that’s perfect for beginners. It boasts one of the largest VPN server networks in the world, with over 11,000 servers across 100+ countries. Its app for Windows is intuitive and comes with preset modes for streaming, torrenting, and gaming.

This VPN excels at unblocking geo-restricted content, especially for platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. With built-in ad-blocking and anti-tracking tools, CyberGhost ensures a secure and private browsing experience. It also offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, one of the longest in the industry.

Features:

• 11,000+ servers in 100+ countries
• Dedicated modes for streaming and torrenting
• Strong encryption with WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2
• Kill switch and DNS/IPv6 leak protection
• Ad and malware blocker
• 45-day money-back guarantee

Website: https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/

Pricing:

8. Surfshark

Surfshark is perfect for users who desire excellent value because it provides superior features at an affordable price. Surfshark is ideal for families or multi-device users because it allows for an infinite number of device connections on a single account. Before they load, spyware, trackers, and advertisements are blocked by its CleanWeb function.

With 3,200+ servers spread over more than 100 countries, the VPN boasts a vast network. Advanced capabilities like Camouflage Mode (obfuscation), MultiHop (double VPN), and NoBorders Mode (accessing prohibited areas) are also included. Surfshark doesn’t sacrifice privacy or performance in spite of its modest price.

Features:

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• AES-256 encryption and WireGuard protocol
• CleanWeb for ad and tracker blocking
• MultiHop and Camouflage Mode
• NoBorders Mode for restricted regions
• 24/7 support and live chat

Website: https://surfshark.com/

Pricing:

9. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN stands as a top-speed and privacy-secured VPN solution for users of personal computers. This VPN network operates servers across 105 different countries while providing top security and excellent speed performance.

Lightway protocol is the proprietary technology responsible for delivering rapid speeds which maintain encryption standards. The service serves as an outstanding choice that meets the needs of gamers and streamers and individuals who value their privacy.

The Windows application presents users with a clean design that allows instant connections while providing a location smart selection option. ExpressVPN provides users with one of the rare abilities to evade strict geographical limits present on mainstream platforms including Netflix and Hulu and BBC iPlayer. An independent audit audits its privacy operations while it never saves user data.

Features:

• Servers in 105 countries
• Lightway protocol for speed and security
• Zero-logs policy and RAM-only servers
• Kill switch and split tunneling
• Works with Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+
• 24/7 live chat support

Website: https://www.expressvpn.com/

Pricing:

10. NordVPN

The VPN service NordVPN continues to remain as one of the strongest and most dependable services in 2025. NordVPN provides users with fast services while implementing military-grade encryption together with an easy-to-use interface.

NordVPN provides protection for every online activity you conduct through a combination of streaming and torrenting and regular browsing since it maintains your privacy throughout. This VPN service features servers located across 60+ countries which allow it to provide stand-out coverage along with consistent performance through its 6,000 servers network.

NordVPN stands unique because it continually demonstrates its dedication to security measures. The service delivers enhanced security through its Double VPN operation and its Onion over VPN option together with Threat Protection privacy tools for blocking websites with dangerous content.

The NordVPN desktop application provides users with a simple design that suits newcomers and advanced users equally well. NordVPN enables users to make six concurrent connections at once which suits individual preferences as well as small family needs.

Features:

• 6,000+ servers in 60+ countries
• AES-256-bit encryption
• Double VPN and Onion over VPN
• Kill switch and DNS leak protection
• 24/7 customer support
• Threat Protection for ad-blocking and malware protection

Website: https://nordvpn.com/

Pricing:

Conclusion

In conclusion, anyone who operates a PC during 2025 has to have a VPN setup. VPNs for PC have become essential tools in today’s digital age. The usage of VPN provides three critical benefits: it protects your personal data, secures your browsing activity, and enables access to global content.

The VPN market offers several excellent solutions that suit users who need VPN services for streaming, gaming or browsing securely. Select any VPN solution based on both functionality and financial compatibility. All these VPN services include money-back guarantees which allow users to test them risk-free.

FAQs

Is using a VPN legal?

Yes, using a VPN is legal in most countries. However, using it for illegal activities is still against the law. Always follow local rules and regulations when using a VPN.

Can I use a VPN for streaming?

Yes, many people use VPNs to access geo-restricted content on platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu. A good VPN can unblock these services and let you watch content from other countries.

Will a VPN slow down my internet speed?

A VPN may slightly reduce your internet speed because it encrypts your data and routes it through secure servers. However, premium VPNs are designed to minimize speed loss and offer smooth performance.