VPN for Chromebook 2024: Top 5 Picks

Chromebooks are excellent for productivity and entertainment on the go as they utilize cloud-based applications for most of their tasks. However, because of their strong reliance on the internet, people are often worried about their privacy. Thankfully, with the best VPN for Chromebook, users can protect the security of their own data.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) works like a protective shield, encrypting your data while offering unrestricted access to the web. Furthermore, it helps you regain your online privacy.

To help you out, we’ve tested multiple VPNs and compiled a list of the top 5 VPNs for Chromebooks in 2024. So, if you’re looking for a suitable or free VPN for Chromebook, this is the guide for you. So, let’s dive in.

Why Use a VPN on Your Chromebook?

Here are the primary advantages of equipping your Chromebook with a trusted VPN:

Heightened Security & Privacy

A VPN masks your IP address and also encrypts the flowing data between devices and the internet. This prevents hacking attempts and hides your digital footprint from advertisers and spying eyes. For students using public Wi-Fi or workers on business travel, a VPN is essential to avoid exposing passwords, emails, or other private information.

Note: If you want to check your IP address, click this link to get the tutorial on how to find IP address on different devices.

Bypass Geographic Restrictions

VPN servers are mostly based in different regions and allow Chromebook owners to access region-locked streaming content on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and access other services not available in their home country. Students might also find a VPN for Chromebook school useful to unblock website at school.

Faster Speeds

While adding a middleman between your device and the internet could theoretically slow things down, trusted VPNs actually have the potential to increase speeds by dodging ISP throttling during peak congestion hours. By connecting to uncongested servers, streaming quality and download speeds can improve. Access a VPN for Chromebook unblocked to possibly avoid restrictions that your school or internet provider might have in place.

If you’re just browsing and want some extra security, a free VPN for Chromebook no download (like a VPN Chrome extension) can be a convenient option as well.

Choosing the Best VPN for Your Chromebook Nord VPN

With countless VPN services on the market, it can be tricky to evaluate which one best suits your Chromebook needs based on performance, features, and pricing. Here are the key factors:

・Lightning-Fast Speeds: Look for providers offering high-bandwidth servers around the world, cutting-edge protocols like WireGuard or Lightway to minimize overhead, and advanced compression tools to maximize speeds.

・Ironclad Security: The Robust 256-bit AES encryption should be standard, alongside DNS and WebRTC leak protection, an automatic kill switch to prevent data exposure if connections drop, and a firmly enforced no-logging policy for user privacy.

・Global Server Network for Unblocking Content: With servers around the world, you can find a VPN for Chromebook unblocked to access your favorite content. The best Chromebook VPNs have server locations spanning North and South America, Asia, Australia, Europe, and beyond. This lets you bypass censorship, geo-blocks and find less congested routes.

・Cost Considerations: While free VPNs may be tempting, paid services invest more in infrastructure and features. Consider reputable free options for basic use, premium trials to test quality, long-term plans to maximize savings, or even router-based solutions to cover all devices.

・User-Friendly Apps & Extensions: Opt for services offering dedicated Chromebook apps via the Google Play store or browser extensions that make connecting straightforward. Avoid manual setups that require advanced technical skills.

・Responsive Customer Support: Even the best VPNs have occasional hiccups, so responsive 24/7 live chat, extensive troubleshooting guides, and quick ticket resolution will save headaches down the road.

5 VPNs for Chromebook: Free and Premium Options

Based on the criteria above, here are 5 top-tier school-friendly Chromebook VPNs in 2024. VPN recommendations purpose-built for Chromebooks in 2024:

1. X-VPN – The All-Rounder ❤❤❤❤❤

X-VPN offers a vast network of over 8,000 VPN servers across more than 60 global locations with a robust infrastructure for reliable connectivity. Enjoy streaming on public Wi-Fi without worry, courtesy of the kill switch feature that secures your data. The split tunneling function grants you the control to choose which applications use the VPN and which do not. It provides features like DNS leak protection, static IPs, and private browsers to ensure your safety online.

It offers a choice of 11 protocols, giving users the flexibility to choose the level of encryption and speed that best suits their needs. The strong VPN obfuscation makes X-VPN the best VPN for streaming and unblocking. X-VPN is compatible with a range of operating systems, you can get it from the VPN free download page for PCs, Phones, Routers, TVs, extensions, and even game consoles.

Free VPN for Chromebook? X-VPN offers a functional free version with inexhaustible bandwidth. It operates on a freemium model, providing basic services at no cost with the option to improve to a premium plan for access to advanced features. With a 30-day refund policy, X-VPN assures customer satisfaction, allowing users to explore its full potential risk-free. Its service allows up to 5 simultaneous connections, supporting multiple devices to be protected under only one account.

X-VPN stands out as a versatile and reliable VPN for Chromebook users, balancing robust security features with user-friendly functionality, making it an excellent choice for enhancing the Chromebook experience.

2. Nord VPN – Renowned Security & Reliability ❤❤❤❤

Boasting over 5200 worldwide servers, Panama-based Nord VPN stands out with its robust security features and swift speeds at a budget-friendly price. Its user-friendly app or Chrome extension ensures your internet traffic is encrypted. The service includes threat protection to block ads and malicious links, while the Dark Web Monitor notifies you if your data is compromised.

NordVPN automatically connects Chrome users to the quickest server, balancing speed and privacy with its NordLynx technology. Your private data and online activities remain unlogged, as confirmed by PwC’s audits. Furthermore, NordVPN’s servers are exclusively RAM-based, guaranteeing no long-term data storage.

Priced at $3.99 monthly on a two-year plan, NordVPN allows for six devices to connect simultaneously, backed by round-the-clock support. Although the cost is steeper than other top VPNs at $198.96 upon renewal every two years, the 30-day refund policy lets you assess its value. Discounts for students and young adults are available, recognizing their predominant use of Chromebooks. NordVPN does not provide a free VPN for Chromebook. However, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, which allows users to try all the features risk-free for 30 days

3. Express VPN – Blazing Fast Servers ❤❤❤❤

While among the priciest options, ExpressVPN delivers a premium VPN experience with a focus on blazing speeds thanks to widespread local server locations, unlimited bandwidth, and support for latest protocols. Based in privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN ticks all the security boxes while offering best-in-class customer support via 24/7 live chat. For power users willing to pay more for quality, Express VPN screams across the finish line.

For Chromebook enthusiasts, ExpressVPN delivers a specialized app packed with essential privacy and security features. Alternatively, the ExpressVPN Chrome extension is available for those who prefer browser integration. The Lightway protocol ensures swift connections while conserving your Chromebook’s battery life.

ExpressVPN allows simultaneous connections on up to 5 different devices across various platforms, including Mac, iOS, and Windows. Setting up ExpressVPN on a Chromebook is straightforward with OpenVPN or L2TP, ensuring compatibility across different models.

Customer support is available around the clock. ExpressVPN does not provide a free VPN for Chromebook but it has a  30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free VPN experience. New users benefit from three free months. However, it’s important to note that the IKEv2 protocol is not supported on Chromebooks due to compatibility issues.

4. TorGuard VPN – Flexible Payment Options ❤❤❤❤

TorGuard VPN excels in providing sturdy security and privacy, effortlessly breaking through firewalls to access restricted content in countries with stringent internet regulations such as China, India, and Russia.

Chromebook users can utilize TorGuard’s app, which is compatible with L2TP/IPSec and OpenVPN protocols and includes the Stealth protocol for secure content access. An anonymous proxy Chrome app is also available as an extension. Some of TorGuard’s standout features include Stealth VPN to bypass firewalls, dedicated IP addresses for streaming sites, port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxies for torrenting, and VPN router support. It uses 256-bit AES encryption by default and supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, and other protocols.

The VPN service is customizable, with various subscription options that can be tailored to your preference for IP addresses or user numbers. While there is a free version, both free and premium subscribers must pay for location access and free users are not provided streaming access.

TorGuard VPN does not provide a free VPN for Chromebook but they provide a unique promotion for new customers. If you cancel your old VPN subscription and switch to TorGuard, you can get a full month of its service without cost. To take advantage of this offer, you need to email them your last VPN bill, and after verification, you’ll receive 7 days of unlimited TorGuard VPN access. This offer can be extended to a full month with proof of VPN cancellation.

However, TorGuard can be overly complex for casual users. The apps have improved but still feel clunky at times. TorGuard VPN assures a 100% refund if the service doesn’t meet your expectations, with a seven-day window for complaints. However, refunds are not available for dedicated IP purchases or payments made via cryptocurrency or gift cards.

5. TunnelBear VPN – Security Focused ❤❤❤❤

TunnelBear VPN is an easy-to-use VPN service known for its fun, bear-themed interface. It offers user-friendly apps for major platforms like Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. For Chromebook users, TunnelBear offers an Android app and a Chrome extension to ensure online protection. The app mirrors the functionality and server availability of TunnelBear’s other VPN clients, boasting an intuitive interface and robust AES-256-bit encryption, along with WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols for top-notch privacy and security.

TunnelBear operates a stringent no-logs policy that is independently audited by third parties. Additional features include WebRTC and IPv6 leak protection, VigilantBear kill switch, GhostBear obfuscation, and more. The GhostBear feature is particularly useful for Chromebook users in countries that have restrictive internet policies, as it can bypass VPN blocks. The service also includes split tunneling, allowing selective application of VPN protection, and VigilantBear, a kill switch that prevents data leakage by cutting off Internet access when the VPN connection is disconnected.

TunnelBear provides a free VPN for Chromebook where free users receive 500MB of data monthly, with the option to earn an additional 1GB by tweeting about TunnelBear or through referrals. However, unlocking streaming services requires a premium subscription. Note that the Chrome extension functions as an encrypted proxy, so for full VPN features, the app is recommended.

While you can test TunnelBear’s premium offerings, there’s no standard money-back guarantee. Refunds are granted selectively, and purchases through third-party resellers are ineligible for refunds.

How to Get A VPN On A Chromebook?

Installing a VPN on your Chromebook can be done either through a VPN app downloaded from the Google Play Store or via a Chrome browser extension.

Let us follow the below tutorials to install a suitable VPN on your own Chromebook:

Using a VPN App

Step 1. Open the Google Play Store. Locate and click the Play Store icon On your Chromebook.

Step 2. Search for Your VPN. Enter the name of your VPN service in the search bar.

Step 3. Install the VPN App. Find the app in the search results and hit the “Install” button.

Step 4. Open the VPN App. Once installed, launch the app from your desktop.

Step 5. Login or Sign Up. If you do not have an account, sign up for the service. Otherwise, log in with your credentials.

Step 6. Connect. In the app, find and hit the “Connect” option to start using the VPN.

Using a Chrome VPN Extension

Step 1. Open Chrome Web Store. Access the Chrome Web Store by clicking on its icon or visiting the website.

Step 2. Search for VPN Extensions. Use the search bar to find VPN extensions.

Step 3. Add the Extension. Hit the “Add to Chrome” option next to the VPN extension you choose.

Step 4. Activate the VPN. Once added, click on the extension icon in your browser and toggle it on.

Remember to select a great VPN provider that offers either a dedicated Chromebook app or a Chrome extension. Not all VPN services may work flawlessly on Chrome OS, so it’s important to select one that’s known for good compatibility with Chromebooks.

Conclusion

Selecting the right VPN for Chromebook can significantly improve your online experience. Enhanced security, access to content that may otherwise be blocked, and the potential for faster speeds are compelling reasons to consider these services.

While all the VPNs on our Top 5 list offer excellent features, X-VPN stands out as a top contender. Its exceptional performance, robust security, extensive global network, and free version make it an exceptional choice for Chromebook users seeking privacy and freedom online.

Ultimately, the best VPN for you depends on your personal demands. But no matter your priorities, investing in a VPN empowers you to enjoy a safer, more secure, and unrestricted online experience on your Chromebook.

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