Amidst rising cyber vulnerabilities and stringent data retention policies introduced by the Indian government, maintaining your digital privacy has become more important than ever. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become paramount in safeguarding your online activities, particularly in a country where your digital footprints are subject to scrutiny and potential exploitation.
Whether you intend to securely access native Indian digital content from overseas or safeguard your activities on public wi-fi within the nation, our best VPNs for India list are engineered to protect your digital journey.
In this article, we’ll cover the best VPNs for India and explain how to use them. But if you haven’t got the time to read the whole article, here are our top picks.
Best VPNs for India:
- NordVPN: Our top choice for an India VPN. Strong security and digital privacy features, and a reliable network of servers that deliver good speeds for streaming and downloading. Virtual servers for India and a strict no-logs policy. Easy-to-use apps. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly. - Surfshark: Best budget option for a VPN in India. Offers strong unblocking ability, good speeds, a sweeping range of security features, and 50+ virtual Indian servers. Allows you to connect unlimited devices at once.
- IPVanish: Reliable network that owns its servers outright. Keeps no logs. Favored by Kodi users and torrenters for its consistent speeds. Allows unlimited device connections.
- ExpressVPN: Fast servers in 105+ countries, including two virtual India locations. Great security and privacy features.
- CyberGhost: Beginners’ choice VPN with easy-to-use apps and a vast server network, including almost 30 virtual servers for India. Fast speeds and good security.
- ProtonVPN: More than 12,000 servers available in over 117+ countries, including India. Ideal for bypassing restrictions to watch Indian TV abroad.
- PureVPN: It is easy to use and offers reliable security. Can access US Netflix and Indian content via virtual servers.
- PrivateVPN: Impressive security and privacy protocols. Has servers in 63+ countries, including India. Allows 10 simultaneous connections.
Many VPNs claim to protect your privacy and offer a fast, reliable connection but most (especially free VPNs) limit your connection speed or leak information.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs for security and speed and this list only includes VPNs which are fast, reliable and are highly rated for privacy and security. Plus we only recommend VPNs which offer a full-money back guarantee allowing you to try them risk free.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for India with no restrictions for a month—great if you want to binge-watch your favorite show or are taking a short trip.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
How we found the top VPNs for India
From a quick look online, you may already be aware that there are a lot of options when it comes to choosing a VPN. We’ve whittled down the options by carrying out tests in the following areas:
- Speed: Slow VPNs can make being online incredibly frustrating. To help you avoid the worst offenders, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected to each provider’s virtual servers for India.
- Server availability: We looked for VPNs with virtual servers for India and a strong presence in Asia generally. Providers with large networks tend to have less congestion.
- Security and privacy: If you’re online in India, it’s a good idea to ensure that your connection is protected at all times. We found the VPNs with the most effective security and privacy by evaluating them against 16 different metrics.
- Ease of use: To get you connected with the least fuss possible, we only recommended user-friendly VPNs that performed well against our 10 test metrics.
- Streaming: We used nine different metrics for assessing which providers were the best options for unblocking streaming platforms in India and around the world.
You can read more about how we test the VPNs we recommend in our methodology section below. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut.
Best India VPNs: At a Glance
We’ve researched and compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for India.
| No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | PureVPN | PrivateVPN |
| Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | ProtonVPN.com | PureVPN.com | PrivateVPN.com | Ranking for India | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Total number of servers | 7,425 | 3,200 | 2,400 | Undisclosed | 8,000+ | 12,660 | 6,000+ | 200+ | Other streaming services | Netflix Amazon Prime Video YouTube TV Sling TV Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video YouTube TV Sling TV Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video YouTube TV Sling TV Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video YouTube TV | Netflix Amazon Prime Video HBO Max Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video HBO Max Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime Video HBO Max Hulu | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 8 | 7 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 | 10 | 10 | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best deal (per month) | $3.39 Up to 76% off 2 year plans + free Amazon Gift Card | $1.99 87% OFF + 3 months free | $6.49 Best MONTHLY deal | $4.99 SAVE: 61% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $3.59 SAVE 64% on a 2-year plan | $2.16 83% off the 5-yr standard plan | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
The best VPNs for India: Our in-depth analysis
Here’s our list of the best VPNs for India:
1. NordVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.5 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
| India speed testing: | 10.0 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| Server availability: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Streaming: | 9.2 / 10 |
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top recommendation for an India VPN. It reacted quickly to the government’s law change and removed all of its Indian servers. Of course, thanks to its strict zero logs policy, it couldn’t have revealed any info about you, regardless. The provider has since set up virtual servers for India, which provide IP addresses in Mumbai.
More generally, NordVPN has 7,400 fast and reliable servers that can help you access geo-restricted content from 117+ countries. It works with Indian platforms like Hotstar and SonyLIV, as well as with international services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Tested speeds were excellent. NordVPN was the fastest VPN we tested, it averaged 194.95 Mbps, and showed little variance between the slowest and fastest results.
This VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption as standard and gives users the option of connecting to special obfuscated servers that are designed for use in places with strict online censorship. There’s also a kill switch, leak protection, and built-in tracker-blocking.
Subscriptions allow users to connect up to 10 devices at a time. It’s possible to pay via Bitcoin, Ripple, or Ethereum, meaning paper trails are kept to a minimum.
This VPN excels at securely accessing services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, and its commitment to blazing speeds means it’s an excellent choice for any data-intensive task. Apps are available for Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need virtual Mumbai-based servers in India.
- You are looking for the fastest speeds for uninterrupted HD streaming and gaming.
- You want a strict no-logs policy, which ensures your privacy is fully protected, even with India’s recent data retention law.
- You need robust security features, including obfuscated servers to bypass strict censorship.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need servers optimized for specific tasks or streaming platforms.
BEST VPN FOR INDIA:NordVPN is our top choice. A solid performer, great at beating digital censorship. A top choice for security and privacy. Use up to 10 devices at once with great internet connection speeds. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.2 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.9 / 10 |
| India speed testing: | 9.5 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| Server availability: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Streaming: | 9.2 / 10 |
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is a great low-cost option with more than 3,200 servers in 100+ countries. Notably, it has 50+ virtual servers that can get you an Indian IP address while keeping you safe from the country’s sweeping data-logging laws.
The provider works with the Indian content libraries of Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, as well as with streaming services from the UK and US, such as BBC iPlayer and Hulu.
While connected to one of Surfshark’s virtual servers for India, we recorded speeds of between 184.99 Mbps and 191.26 Mbps. As well as being consistent, this is notably fast.
In practice, this means that you could stream in 4K on up to seven devices at the same time.
Surfshark uses DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, a kill switch, and 256-bit AES encryption to keep your traffic hidden from snoopers at all times. There’s also a built-in ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and a strict zero-logs policy that keeps your activities private at all times. There’s even a censorship-evading NoBorders mode built in that’s helpful for any international traveler. Additionally, unlike most other VPNs, Surfshark has no VPN connection limit.
Surfshark offers Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Windows apps. If you’d like, you can manually configure it for use with your home router instead. Should you require any assistance, you can reach support over live chat, 24/7.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need a budget-friendly VPN that still offers a top-notch service
- You’re looking for unlimited device connections, perfect for protecting the whole family.
- You want to unblock Indian content like Netflix and Hotstar, with virtual Indian servers that consistently work well with these platforms.
- You need the censorship-bypassing capabilities of the NoBorders mode.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You don’t want to be prompted to upgrade to Surfshark One to gain access to advanced features.
BEST BUDGET PICK:Surfshark is an easy-to-use VPN that lets you bypass Indian internet blocking and access the web freely. More importantly, it keeps you safe while doing so. This service also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Surfshark here.
3. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.9 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.4 / 10 |
| India speed testing: | 8.1 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Server availability: | 9.2 / 10 |
| Streaming: | 8.8 / 10 |
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is a strong choice because it owns and operates all of its server locations across the globe (unlike most other VPN services, which prefer to rent). Hence, it’s in total control of all the data passing through its systems with greatly minimized risk.
Like other top-tier providers, IPVanish removed their Indian servers following the data law changes. However, they do operate a virtual server for Indian IP addresses, and overall, the provider has 2,400+ servers in 140 global locations.
The provider was extremely quick in our tests, with an average download speed of 165.87 Mbps. This — and its ability to access a range of stubborn streaming platforms — make it suitable for streaming in high resolution from anywhere.
This VPN comes with 256-bit encryption on the WireGuard protocol and includes both DNS leak protection and a kill switch. You can even block local devices, such as printers, from communicating with your device or scramble OpenVPN traffic to potentially evade VPN-detection systems. There are no connection limits, either, so a single account allows you to protect all of your devices at once.
Something else we like about IPVanish is its new Advanced plan, which includes an unlimited VPN, one terabyte of secure cloud storage, and a cloud-based browser, all for roughly $1 more per month than the standard plan.
While the company is based in the United States, it does not store any traffic or metadata logs, meaning user activity is safeguarded and secure. Apps are available for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows. Manual configuration is needed for Linux systems and supported routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You prefer a VPN that owns its servers, which means it has better control over data and security.
- You need unlimited device connections for multi-device households or families.
- You require solid accessing abilities and consistent speeds suitable for 4K streaming.
- You want access to the advanced plan’s cloud storage and secure server.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re sensitive to jurisdiction issues – based in the US, a Five Eyes member.
- You want to pay for your VPN using Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency.
GOOD FOR TORRENTING:IPVanish offers strong privacy and security with a no-logs policy plus additional protection against DNS leaks. Popular with Kodi and torrent users. 30-day money-back guarantee on annual plans.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
4. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.4 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.3 / 10 |
| India speed testing: | 5.5 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.2 / 10 |
| Server availability: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Streaming: | 9.2 / 10 |
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is a good choice due to its reliability, commitment to users’ online privacy, and fast speeds. While this provider no longer has physical servers in India, it has virtual ones routed through both the UK and Singapore that can get you an Indian IP address, meaning you’ll still be able to use Disney+ Hotstar and the like.
Overall, the provider has servers in an impressive 105 countries. Connections to any of them feel almost instantaneous, which is unusual among VPNs. Part of the reason for this is ExpressVPN’s home-grown Lightway protocol, which is enabled by default.
While connected, you’ll be able to access a wide range of streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. The provider also offers a MediaStreamer service for users who want to stream using VPN-incompatible devices.
While connected to ExpressVPN’s virtual servers for India, we measured an average download speed of 127.18 Mbps. This is fast enough for all your favorite online activities, whether that’s streaming, gaming, torrenting, or simply browsing.
Security features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, IP6, and WebRTC leaks. Further, ExpressVPN keeps no traffic logs whatsoever other than the choice of server location, total amount of data transfer, and date (not time) of connection.
This VPN is based out of the British Virgin Islands and, as such, doesn’t have to comply with Indian data-retention law. Better still, it can help you browse the internet freely, whether you’re in India, China, or anywhere else.
ExpressVPN apps are available for iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, and Linux. It also has custom router firmware that makes it easy to set up your home router.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need fast, reliable speeds for activities like streaming, torrenting, and gaming.
- You need strong security and privacy features, such as AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection, to safeguard your online activity.
- You require a VPN that works well with streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hotstar.
- You like having virtual servers routed through two different countries for greater flexibility.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You are on a tight budget – one of the more expensive options on the list.
- You require advanced user controls – optimized for simplicity, and might not offer enough customization for expert users.
TICKS ALL THE BOXES:ExpressVPN holds its own. A fast and reliable choice with real everyday usage potential and virtual India servers. Great privacy features and keeps no logs. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
5. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.2 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| India speed testing: | 5.8 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Server availability: | 9.4 / 10 |
| Streaming: | 7.8 / 10 |
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN that nonetheless provides top-tier speed and security. The company has an audited policy of not storing any user data, which will please privacy advocates.
This VPN has 10,000+ servers to choose from. These are spread across 100+ countries. CyberGhost’s 30+ Indian servers are virtual, and they work with popular services like Hotstar and Netflix India. Because they’re not actually located in the country, you can use them without putting your privacy at risk.
Speed-wise, CyberGhost impresses time and again. In the testing for this article, it achieved an average download speed of 132.8 Mbps, which is easily fast enough for all of your day-to-day tasks online.
Its security standards are among the best on the market. Features include 256-bit AES encryption, split tunneling, an internet kill switch, leak protection, a strict no-logs policy, and automatic wi-fi protection to keep your data safe and secure at all times.
CyberGhost supports both Android and iOS, as well as PC, Linux, and macOS.
Buy this VPN if:
- You are a beginner looking for a VPN with user-friendly apps and a simple setup process.
- You need a large server network, with over 10,000 servers globally and 30+ virtual Indian servers.
- You want fast speeds even during peak times.
- You want a VPN with servers optimised and labeled for specific tasks and streaming platforms.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need more advanced features or granular configuration options – more beginner-friendly than feature-rich.
- You need better support for countries with high censorship – doesn’t work well in China or the UAE.
PRIVACY-FOCUSED:CyberGhost has a simple set up and is another affordable choice that’s still strong on privacy and security. Streams HD video reliably and has excellent unblocking abilities. Has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
6. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.1 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.8 / 10 |
| India speed testing: | 5.7 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Server availability: | 9.8 / 10 |
| Streaming: | 6.7 / 10 |
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN is well known for its excellent apps and features. It is excellent for techy users in India who demand the best from their VPN. Being based in Switzerland, it benefits from strong privacy laws, allowing it to enforce a strict no-logging policy. The entire ProtonVPN service, including its apps, network, and policies, has been rigorously audited, ensuring it delivers on its promises.
Available for all major platforms, ProtonVPN’s apps are loaded with state-of-the-art security features, including AES encryption, a kill switch, multiple protocols, obfuscation, multi-hop connections, and Tor-over-VPN capabilities.
The VPN has more than 12,000 servers available in 117 countries. This includes 30+ virtual servers for India, which work for accessing popular Indian streaming services such as Hotstar, Voot, JioCinema, and ZEE5. The provider’s US servers work well with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.
Connection speeds are pleasingly fast. There was a little bit of variability in the test results, but the overall average of 131.18 Mbps was solid.
ProtonVPN’s reliable encryption ensures risk-free bypassing of censorship and network restrictions at work or in school. The VPN’s support for split tunneling and port forwarding also makes it excellent for torrenting in India.
While more expensive than some of our top VPNS for India, it offers great value for those who need all of its features. You can try it out yourself using its 30-day money-back guarantee, which provides a risk-free opportunity to try the VPN.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want advanced tools like split tunneling, port forwarding, multi-hop connections, and Tor over VPN.
- You want access to the Stealth protocol to bypass restrictions in strict countries.
- You want reliable streaming from Indian and international platforms.
- You are looking for a VPN with a huge server network, including 30+ virtual servers in India and over 12,000 servers across 117 countries.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You are looking for a budget option, it’s more expensive than other providers on this list.
- You are a beginner who wants simplicity – advanced features may overwhelm novice users.
FULLY FEATURED:ProtonVPN caters to tech-savvy users. It is ideal for torrenting and gaining watertight online privacy at home, at work, or on public wi-fi. Servers are available in over 117+ countries, including 30+ in India. It’s ideal for bypassing restrictions to watch Indian TV abroad. 24/7 live chat support for members only. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.
7. PureVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.7 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| India speed testing: | 5.5 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.7 / 10 |
| Server availability: | 8.0 / 10 |
| Streaming: | 7.3 / 10 |
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN offers an affordable option for those needing an Indian IP address. It’s five-year introductory deals are great value and something of a rarity among providers.
It’s an excellent choice for users in India seeking to overcome local content restrictions or for Indian expatriates wishing to access home services while abroad. As well as being able to access Indian streaming platforms like Hotstar, Voot, JioCinema, and ZEE5, it also works with international services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+.
Speeds ranged from 119.84 Mbps to 133.7 Mbps in our tests, with an overall average of 128.26 Mbps. This is fast enough for 4K streaming, gaming, torrenting, and conducting private video calls.
The provider allows users in India to discreetly access restricted websites and services, whether at work or in educational institutions. Connecting to an Indian IP address will let you access Indian services and search results, and it also works for torrenting.
PureVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Its applications are protected with robust security features, including a verified no-logging policy, AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak prevention, ensuring a secure and private online experience. While port forwarding is available, it comes with an additional cost.
The overall affordability and efficiency of PureVPN make it an attractive option for budget-conscious users in India and elsewhere. Those interested in accessing Indian content can confidently test it out with its 31-day money-back guarantee.
Buy this VPN if:
- You are looking for an affordable VPN with great value for money, especially for long-term subscriptions.
- You want good speeds for streaming, browsing, and video calling.
- You need an easy-to-use VPN with a user-friendly interface and support for a variety of devices.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need advanced protocols and customization or specialized servers.
- You need the best streaming speeds, PureVPN’s speeds are decent but lag behind the top performers.
SUPERB VALUE:PureVPN offers the cheapest way to get an Indian IP address from abroad. It is easy to use and offers reliable security. Includes AES encryption and a kill switch. Torrenting is permitted throughout its network, but port forwarding costs extra. Can access US Netflix. 31-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more in our PureVPN review.
8. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 6.4 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.6 / 10 |
| India speed testing: | 1.0 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.6 / 10 |
| Server availability: | 6.0 / 10 |
| Streaming: | 7.8 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN is one of the few VPN providers that still maintains a physical server in India, located in Mumbai, and it also has a virtual option in Bangalore. Although the company states that it will abide by its strict no-logs policy, despite the Indian government’s laws, if you’re at all concerned, it’s more prudent to use the virtual Bangalore server.
This is a highly versatile service that works reliably with popular streaming platforms, including Netflix US, Disney+ Hotstar, The Times of India, and India TV.
PrivateVPN’s download speeds are slower than the previously mentioned services. In our tests, it averaged 53.25 Mbps. While this is plenty fast enough to stream 4K content on two devices simultaneously, it may not be enough for serious gamers. In which case, look to the other providers in this list.
Its security toolkit includes 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks, plus a stealth mode made for bypassing country-wide censorship.
Customer support can be reached 24/7 via live chat, and can even remotely connect to your computer and configure the software for you if you allow them to.
This service offers Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS apps. It can be manually configured to work on Linux-based systems and selected routers in a matter of minutes.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a VPN with a choice of physical and virtual servers in India.
- You need great streaming support, with access to platforms like Netflix US, Disney+ Hotstar, and Amazon Prime.
- You require excellent privacy and security, including strong encryption, a kill switch, and stealth mode for bypassing censorship.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need more servers in India or globally – smaller network than competitors.
- You need the fastest speeds for high-bandwidth tasks like gaming, or have a slow base connection.
PHYSICAL INDIAN SEVERS:PrivateVPN has both physical and virtual servers in India. It’s a great family choice that works well in India and allows up to 10 devices on the same account. Fast connections and excellent streaming abilities. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
How to use a VPN in India
Even if you’ve never used a VPN before, don’t worry; it’s easier than you might think. Simply follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll be browsing securely in no time.
Here’s how to use a VPN in India.
- Begin by signing up for one of the VPNs above (we recommend NordVPN, but Surfshark and, IPVanish are great choices too).
- Download and install the app on your preferred device.
- Sign in and connect to a server in the location you choose. For example, a server in India to gain an Indian IP address or a server in the US to access American content.
- That’s all there is to it! Your traffic is now encrypted, and you can safely browse content from the new location.
- If you’re still struggling to access restricted content, try clearing your cookies and cache before reloading the page.
Finding the best VPNs for India: our methodology
Whether you want to access Indian streaming services, or protect your connection while traveling in India, it’s important to choose the right provider. We found the best available options by carrying out comprehensive testing in the following areas:
Speed
We wanted to get an overall picture of how fast providers were. So, for each VPN, we carried out speed tests in the morning, at noon, and in the afternoon. We used their virtual Indian servers on a 250 Mbps connection, since this is roughly the average US home broadband speed. Measurements were taken using the desktop version of the Ookla speed-testing app.
The results for each provider were averaged and then converted to a score out of 10 relative to the other VPNs. This makes comparison easier, as you can see from the chart below.
NordVPN and Surfshark were the fastest providers overall. Choose one of these if you want the best chance of preserving your connection speed while using a VPN. This is particularly important if you’re starting out with a relatively slow base speed.
Server availability
There may be times when you wish to connect to a server in your home country, in India, or in another part of the world. With this in mind, we scored providers on the number of Asian countries they had servers in as well as the sizes of their overall networks.
We weighted and combined the resulting scores to generate overall scores out of 10 for each provider.
ProtonVPN, with a score of 9.8, was the overall winner in this category. Its vast network dwarfs that of most other providers. Its closest competitors were CyberGhost and NordVPN.
Security and privacy
A VPN should keep you safe at all times, even if you’re connecting to less-than-safe public wi-fi networks. Essential security features that we look for in a VPN include encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. If you need more than this, consult the table below to find a provider with the necessary features.
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | PureVPN | PrivateVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs |
| IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs |
| Encryption | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher |
| Authentication | SHA-384 | SHA-512 | SHA-256 | SHA-512 | SHA-256 | SHA-512 | SHA-256 | SHA-256 |
| Keys | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 2048-bit | 4096-bit | 2048-bit |
| Perfect Forward Secrecy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| DNS leak protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IPv6 leak protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Private DNS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Torrenting allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kill switch | All platforms | Mobile app-level | All platforms | Mobile app-level | All platforms | All platforms | Some platforms | Some platforms |
| HQ outside 9 eyes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Obfuscation | Stealth | Stealth | Stealth | Automatic | Stealth | Stealth | Automatic | Stealth |
| Supported protocols | Own protocol | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only | Own protocol | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only |
| Anonymous payment options | Multiple | Multiple | None | Multiple | Multiple | One | One | One |
| Additional security features | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | No | No |
If consulting tables is low on your priority list, take a look at the chart below instead. This combines the scores for each of the metrics we used for testing.
NordVPN and Surfshark achieved the highest scores overall. Both providers use robust encryption and RAM-only servers as standard. They’ve also undergone multiple independent audits of their software and infrastructure. If you want an alternative, then we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend ProtonVPN.
Ease of use
One of the benefits of testing so many VPNs is that we are able to find out just how user-friendly their apps actually are. We only choose VPNs that allow you to connect to a server in a matter of seconds. Another key feature is that each VPN provides 24/7 support, available via live chat and email. You can see the other features we look for below.
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | PureVPN | PrivateVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apps for all major platforms | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Novice-friendly design | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ease of signup (reviewer to score) | 5 (easy) | 4 | 5 (easy) | 5 (easy) | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
| Router support | Standard | Standard | Standard | App | Standard | Standard | App | Standard |
| Unblocking consistency | Great | Great | Great | Generally works | Great | Great | Great | Generally works |
| Task specific servers | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Network | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries |
| Ease of cancellation | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy |
| Interface | Well-organised | A little cluttered | Well-organised | Well-organised | A little cluttered | Takes some getting used to | A little cluttered | Well-organised |
| Feature parity | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | All features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions |
To make things easier for you, we scored the above test metrics and combined them into a single overall score for each provider.
As you can see from the chart above, NordVPN was the easiest-to-use provider overall. It has incredibly user-friendly apps as well as making it easy for users to sign-up for — or cancel — subscriptions. IPVanish and ExpressVPN also scored highly and are great options for those who lack VPN experience.
Streaming
The unblocking ability of VPNs varies greatly, which is why we test each VPN against a wide range of websites and services. In particular, we try them with a lot of popular streaming services, many of which actively block VPN use. You can see how each provider performed against this and our other streaming test metrics in the table below.
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | PureVPN | PrivateVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of locations in relevant country | 5+ locations | 5+ locations | 5+ locations | 5+ locations | 5+ locations | 5+ locations | 5+ locations | 5+ locations |
| Regional speed test results | 300-500 Mbps | 500+ Mbps | 300-500 Mbps | 300-500 Mbps | 100-299 Mbps | 100-299 Mbps | 100-299 Mbps | <100 Mbps |
| Includes ad-blocker? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Works in high-censorship countries | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Offers a smart DNS service | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Streaming device apps | 2+ apps | 2+ apps | 2+ apps | 2+ apps | 2+ apps | 1 app | 2+ apps | 2+ apps |
| Can Unblock Tier 1 Streaming | Reliably | Reliably | Reliably | Reliably | Reliably | Unreliably | Unreliably | Reliably |
| Can Unblock Tier 2 Streaming | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Can Unblock Tier 3 Streaming | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
If you’d prefer a summarized version, the chart below combines the above scores for easy side-by-side comparison.
First place was tied between NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN. All three excel at unblocking all manner of streaming platforms and all three come with smart DNS that will help VPN-incompatible devices access geo-restricted content.
What is India’s new data retention law?
India’s new Digital Personal Data Protection Act passed on August 9, 2023, is a game-changer in handling personal data. It applies even to data processing outside India if it concerns providing goods or services to Indian residents. The Act allows the government to create a “negative list” of countries where personal data can’t be transferred. It also gives the government the power to block public access to certain information deemed in the public interest. Data controllers have new obligations under the Act, and data subjects are granted rights like access, correction, and deletion of their data. Violations can lead to hefty fines of up to 2.5 billion rupees ($30 million). However, the Act has faced criticism for its broad exemptions and the power it gives to the government.
Using a free VPN for India
Free VPN services aren’t hard to find – a cursory search on Reddit or Google will result in a plethora of options. However, our recommendation is to avoid these traps. First of all, you are highly unlikely to be able to find a free VPN with servers in India, or, more importantly, a free VPN with virtual servers in India. Even if you do find one, free providers tend to have few servers coupled with high user numbers, which leads to overcrowding, long wait times, slow speeds, and an altogether frustrating experience.
Also, these providers are not charities; they are still businesses, and they need to make money somehow, so while the product may come across as free, it isn’t nearly as simple as that. When you log on to a free VPN in India, you’ll be bombarded with spammy referral links and tons of invasive advertisements. You run the real risk of contracting a malware infection that can lead to data loss and/or machine corruption. And in some cases, free VPN providers have been caught mining their users’ data and selling it to third-party companies. Even if they aren’t engaging in nefarious activities, these VPNs often lack basic security measures like encryption, leak protection, or a kill switch.
In short, we do not recommend using a free VPN in India. Instead, we’d suggest looking for a quality provider with a free trial or making the most of the money-back guarantees of the providers listed above. That way, you can be sure you’re 100% happy before you commit long-term.
India VPNs: FAQs
Are VPNs legal in India?
VPNs are not explicitly banned in India , and citizens can easily find and install VPN apps directly from their preferred app store. Having said that, the government has introduced new rules requiring VPN providers to keep logs that would compromise their users’ anonymity. For this reason, most major providers have stopped hosting servers in India itself.
Additionally, in at least one instance, the government has completely prevented users from accessing the Google Play Store specifically because of how easy it was for people to circumvent state-sanctioned blocking. For this reason, it would be wise to have a VPN app installed before visiting the country, just in case another round of censorship leaves you unable to contact friends and family.
How do I stream Indian TV abroad?
Many Indian TV services (such as Hotstar, SonyLIV, and JioCinema) are geo-restricted, meaning they can’t normally be accessed from outside of India. However, if you’re connected to an Indian VPN server, these platforms usually won’t be able to tell that you’re really located somewhere else and will allow you to watch.
If you’re having trouble unblocking a specific Indian streaming service, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies. This clears any saved data and forces the platform to re-check your location rather. Failing this, you might want to ask your VPN provider directly whether it has specific servers that work with your chosen service.
Can I bypass the India porn ban with a VPN?
Local internet service providers in India have been ordered by the government to block 800+ adult-themed websites, including Pornhub. This decision hasn’t gone down well with citizens of the country, as they’re already voracious consumers of pornography. India is the third-largest source of web traffic to Pornhub, but authorities have determined that such content threatens the morality and decency of ordinary Indians.
To overcome these restrictions, people in India have to change their IP address to one in either Europe or North America. The VPNs recommended in this article can do exactly that. Simply sign up, download the apps, and choose a server from any major European or North American country. Once the connection has been established, you’ll be able to access whatever sites you want, regardless of government restrictions.
What is the future of Indian internet?
Advocacy and rights groups in India continue to work tirelessly to secure the future of the internet and ensure net neutrality. The rejection of Facebook’s Free Basics project was a watershed moment for such groups who argued that Zuckerberg was offering a watered-down version of the web that would eventually help his own company rather than assist ordinary Indians with access to digital skills and literacy.
Content blocking continues to exhibit an upward rise, with Facebook receiving the maximum number of requests from India to block content. Content related to government criticism, political opposition, LGBT issues, and satire has attracted the most significant crackdowns.
Until there’s a more concerted effort to promote freedom of speech, it’s likely that clampdowns on the internet will continue in India.
Do I need a VPN if I live in India?
There are a number of reasons why it’s important to use a VPN. This is the case whether you live in India or if you’re traveling abroad. For starters, some websites and services are geo-blocked, while others may be government-censored. Speaking of the Indian government, they carry out extensive online surveillance of internet users in the country. If you want to access all online content and do so anonymously, you’ll need to use a quality VPN service.
We have already established the two primary concerns in this matter – privacy and security. Whether you’re a local, expat or a visitor on business or otherwise, you’ll want as many local server locations as possible for a fast and reliable connection.