Download VPN for Android (2024)

FAQs

Which is the best free VPN for Android? ›

You can also set up a VPN on Android manually, but note that the connection will likely be slow and not secure. Here's how to set up a VPN on Android manually: Go to “Settings,” tap “Wireless & networks” → “More settings” → “VPN” → “Add VPN network.”

A VPN is only as safe as its policies on data use and storage. Remember, the VPN funnels your data into their servers, and these servers connect across the internet on your behalf. If they retain data logs, be sure you understand what they do with these.

The best free VPN available

“Proton VPN is a service that will do all it can to protect your privacy. All of its applications are open source and audited by third parties, and it has a robust privacy policy. Spoiler, it's very good.”

The built-in Android VPN client is one of the VPN clients that enterprises can use. It is available on all Samsung devices but has been limited to simple VPN configurations as seen in the Android Settings app. Samsung devices come with an enhanced version of the Android VPN Service.

Unlike other browser plugins, the DuckDuckGo VPN works machine-wide. Whereas most VPN browser plugins only tunnel your web browser traffic through a virtual server, DuckDuckGo's Privacy Pro VPN works across your entire device. Essentially, the DuckDuckGo browser doubles as a VPN client app.

About free VPNs

A free VPN could sound like the right choice. However, in our experience, most free VPNs provide limited protection while delivering unsatisfactory performance. Furthermore, it's common for free VPNs to come loaded with malware that can cause damage to your device and collect and sell your private data.

Android includes a built-in (PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and IPSec) VPN client. Devices running Android 4.0 and later also support VPN apps. You might need a VPN app (instead of built-in VPN) for the following reasons: To configure the VPN using an enterprise mobility management (EMM) console.

How do I know if I have a VPN on my phone? ›

If you are accessing your VPN directly through the provider's app you do not need to follow the steps below. To check if you already have a VPN configured on your device go to Settings > Connections > More connection settings > VPN. Any VPNs already configured on your device will show here.

It makes you more secure.

The bank-grade encryption used by a strong VPN shields your data and information while it's in transit, which makes it terrifically difficult for hackers to spy on your connection. (Think of your data and information traveling through a tunnel that no one else can use or see into.)

Yes, VPNs, or “virtual private networks,” can be used safely on phones, but there are risks if you don't choose a good, reliable VPN service. VPNs add an extra layer of security to your internet, so it makes sense that you would want one on your phone.

If you've ever tried to use a free VPN you've probably noticed it didn't work very well (more than two-thirds of free VPN users report performance issues). Free VPNs are highly ineffective at bypassing content restrictions, but they also often expose users to privacy and security risks they're meant to protect against.

Our pick for the best mobile VPN overall is NordVPN, due to its user-friendly mobile app, expansive server network, and consistently strong speed and stable performance. We particularly like NordVPN's mobile user interface, too, as many other top VPN providers can fall short when it comes to mobile app design.

VPNs allow devices that aren't physically on a network to securely access the network. Android includes a built-in (PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and IPSec) VPN client. Devices running Android 4.0 and later also support VPN apps.

Does Google Chrome have a built-in VPN extension? Google Chrome doesn't have a built-in VPN extension, but you can easily install a third-party VPN proxy extension for your Chrome browser. NordVPN's browser extension for Chrome has VPN servers in 111 different locations, including the UK, the US, and many more.