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Getting started with the free version of ProtonVPN is easy and only takes a few minutes from start to finish. Once downloaded, ProtonVPN‘s free apps are just as easy to use as their premium apps, with fewer server locations with only noticeable differences.
Unlike many free VPNs that come with restrictive data headers, ProtonVPN offers unlimited bandwidth to free users.
We’re not used to seeing any configurable options from free VPNs, so the VPN has made a refreshing change to its kill switch feature, DNS leak prevention, and being able to switch between UDP and TCP protocols.
Contextual information can be found next to most of these settings; this will be especially helpful for VPN beginners.
Server Locations
The free version of ProtonVPN only lets you access three different VPN server locations (Japan, Netherlands, and USA).
While this is not an issue for users close to free VPN servers, users anywhere in the world will naturally experience slower speeds when using the free version of ProtonVPN.
Speed and Reliability
Proton VPN free version is pretty fast for a free VPN and there are no data caps to slow you down. However, we did experience slower speeds at peak times as premium users were prioritized.
While a speed loss of around 36% on connecting to the nearest VPN server isn’t quite that fast compared to the highest-paid VPNs, ProtonVPN is still fast for a free service.
Platforms and Devices
ProtonVPN free version currently offers dedicated VPN apps for download:
- Microsoft Windows
- Apple macOS
- Android
- iOS devices
- ProtonVPN free version also provides a simple manual workaround for Linux users.
Unlike premium VPN plans, the ProtonVPN free version only allows you to connect to one device at a time.
Encryption and Security
ProtonVPN free version users enjoy the same level of security as premium VPN subscribers, making it one of the safest free VPNs around.
The desktop app only runs on the most secure VPN protocol, OpenVPN, so you can rest assured that your personal information will be protected. Encryption is done with top encryption AES-256. Mobile apps also use IKEv2, which is very secure.
The feature is absolutely necessary, as the VPN kill switch prevents the real IP address from being exposed in the event of an unexpected connection drop.
Separate tunneling is also available that allows users to exclude some internet traffic from the VPN tunnel.
ProtonVPN free version also protects you against DNS and IPv6 leaks, as confirmed by our independent leak tests.
Customer Support
ProtonVPN (free) customer support is much better than what is offered by most of our other free providers.
There’s an online support center that will cover basic VPN queries and troubleshooting issues (use the search bar to navigate), and there are also step-by-step setup guides for all supported devices, including those that need to be configured manually.
Do You Recommend ProtonVPN?
If you’re looking for a free VPN, we highly recommend ProtonVPN. It is very safe to use and comes with unlimited data which means you can protect as much or as little of your online activity as you want.
There are some downsides like the limit of three server locations, and lack of streaming and P2P support, but ProtonVPN should be the best option for those who want a high level of privacy without spending a dime.
ProtonVPN Speed Test
ProtonVPN is known for its strong stance on security and privacy. When it comes to speed, the speed you get with ProtonVPN will vary depending on the plan you choose. And as you probably guessed, the free version will have the slowest speed. But the free version of Proton can give anyone unlimited access to online privacy.
ProtonVPN for Gaming
ProtonVPN is a very good option for different types of mobile, online gaming, or gambling apps. If you want to bypass some local restrictions and get your hands on a game not available in Turkey, ProtonVPN will definitely let you do that.
However, you may miss out on some essential features, especially if you play higher dimensional games on a PC or console.
If you want the best service from ProtonVPN, you will need to purchase one of the Plus or Visionary plans as they offer the best servers and 10Gbps speeds.