Instagram continues to grow in popularity with a billion people using the photo-sharing app at least once each month. Unfortunately, the service is blocked by network administrators in many schools and places of work. In addition, the governments of some countries (such as China) block access to the social network. The best way to evade restrictions on Instagram is by using a VPN. So, if you want your social media fix, you’ll need one of the best VPNs for Instagram.
Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN service hides your real location by encrypting all the traffic flowing to and from your device and tunneling it via an intermediary server location of your choice. As such, system administrators will be unable to determine what you’re doing online. A VPN can also make it appear that you’re in a different physical location, enabling access to geo-restricted services, such as select Netflix and Amazon Prime Video libraries.
We get into detail later about each of the VPNs that made our list for unblocking Instagram, but if you haven’t got time to read the whole thing, here are our top choices:
Best VPNs for Instagram
- NordVPN: Our top pick for an Instagram VPN. Large network of extremely fast servers able to unblock Instagram and most other restricted content. Secure and private with easy-to-use apps. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Instagram. - Surfshark: Best value VPN for Instagram. No-logs provider that unblocks most platforms and doesn’t impose a device limit.
- IPVanish: Reliable, versatile and fast VPN capable of accessing Instagram from almost anywhere in the world. No connection limit and keeps no logs.
- ExpressVPN: Operates a vast network with secure and speedy server locations dotted around the globe. Tight online privacy and security, and works in China.
- PrivateVPN: Secure and private VPN with great speeds. Unblocks sites from anywhere.
- Private Internet Access: Easy-to-use apps, speedy servers in 80+ locations, and 24/7 support available when you need it.
- PureVPN: A simple but effective way to unblock Instagram in places like China. Incredible performance and a large network of reliable servers.
- ProtonVPN: Privacy-first service with lots of advanced features. Doesn’t work in China but can help you securely access Instagram from anywhere else.
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 Instagram with no restrictions for a month—great if you're 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.
The best VPNs for Instagram – At a glance
We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Instagram
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | PrivateVPN | Private Internet Access |
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | PrivateVPN.com | PrivateInternetAccess.com | Instagram reliability | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | Streaming reliability | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Good | Good | 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, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 74 Mbps | 100+ Mbps | Activity logs | No identifying data |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 74% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months | $1.99 87% OFF + 4 months free | $6.49 Best MONTHLY deal | $4.99 SAVE: 61% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 2 months free |
Our criteria for the best Instagram VPNs
Each Instagram VPN on our list has been subject to vigorous testing by a team of experts. Some of the main criteria used include:
- Ability to unblock Instagram, even in different countries. All of the providers on our list work in China.
- Apps for mobile devices like iPhones and Androids
- Strong security and privacy features
- Reliable connections and impressive speeds
- A good selection of worldwide servers
Read more on our methodology and how we test VPNs after our reviews.
Best VPNs for Instagram
Here’s our list of the best VPNs for Instagram:
1. NordVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top recommendation for an Instagram VPN. It has a huge network of servers with more than 5,000 in 60 countries. It pegs the fastest VPN speeds we’ve seen, and you can pick a server based on preferences such as P2P and double VPN. A large set of obfuscated servers works well for bypassing VPN blocks such as those imposed by the Chinese government.
The company secures web traffic with 256-bit AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy. DNS leak protection is enabled, and there’s a kill switch in all apps except Android. NordVPN keeps no logs whatsoever and accepts payment in Bitcoin, which allows for anonymous payment if used with a mixing service. If you need help, know that NordVPN provides live chat and email support around the clock.
Apps are available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android. A single subscription grants access to six devices.
Pros:
- Exceptional speeds
- Vast network of servers
- Special obfuscated servers for bypassing blocks
- Military-grade encryption
- No-logs policy
- Apps for all major operating systems
Cons:
- The desktop app could be refined
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR INSTAGRAM:NordVPN is our top pick. It’s super fast, works well to unblock Instagram from anywhere, and allows up to six simultaneous connections. Plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, making this a risk-free deal.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is a great low-cost alternative adept at unblocking Instagram and a ton of other platforms. It has a broad network of servers with roughly 3,000 in 100 countries. This VPN is also known for offering particularly fast speeds, particularly since implementing the WireGuard protocol. Surfshark’s NoBorders mode is especially helpful for getting around network restrictions.
This is a true no-logs provider that backs its privacy focus with strong online security features. You can expect military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch on all platforms, and protection against leaks. It even offers extras such as a malware and tracker blocker and MultiHop servers for two layers of encryption.
A major selling point of Surfshark is that it imposes no limit on the number of devices you can connect at one time. Apps are available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Enables access to Instagram from anywhere
- Strong encryption
- Keeps no logs
- Doesn’t have a device limit
- 24/7 live-chat support is included
Cons:
- Network is smaller than that of many rivals
Our score:
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is known for its unblocking abilities which are complemented with strong security and privacy features. This provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our in-depth review of Surfshark.
3. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish owns and operates servers in dozens of countries, plus it excels at flying under the radar. In other words, it’s a great way to access Instagram securely, even in places where the site isn’t normally accessible. This service is extremely fast too, with average speeds of over 300 Mbps. Unless your base internet speeds are extremely slow, you’re unlikely to notice any performance issues, even when going live. If you do run into trouble, support staff are on hand 24 hours per day via live chat.
Plenty of VPNs claim to keep no logs but IPVanish has been audited, proving it beyond all doubt. It includes a wide range of security features, such as uncrackable encryption, a kill switch, and automatic tracker blocking. If the network you’re using normally blocks VPN traffic, just activate the obfuscation tool – this hides any indicators that you’re using a VPN in the first place. While IPVanish works perfectly in places like the UAE, it’s not a reliable option for people in China. Additionally, the IPVanish website may be blocked depending on your location, so you’ll have to download and install the app before arriving.
IPVanish works with Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS platforms. It also provides manual configuration guides for most popular types of router.
Pros:
- First-class speeds
- No connection limit
- Newly-expanded security offering
- Fast enough for streaming, video calls, and live broadcasts
- No logs
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in China
- Based in the US
Our score:
KEEPS NO LOGS:IPVanish puts your privacy first by refusing to store any details of your activities. Effortlessly unblocks Instagram and similar sites without compromising on performance. Long-term subscribers can take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more with our comprehensive IPVanish review.
4. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN uses rugged encryption protocols and works reliably in China (with no special setup required). This VPN operates a vast server network comprising 3,000 servers spread across 94 countries. Apps include a ‘Smart Location’ feature, which selects the fastest connection based on your current location.
ExpressVPN’s encryption standards will keep you protected – this provider leverages 256-bit AES with perfect forward secrecy by default. A kill switch (dubbed a network lock) in the desktop apps will freeze web traffic if the connection drops, and leak protection is built into all apps. ExpressVPN also offers particularly good customer support which you can contact 24 hours a day via live chat as well as email.
A single subscription grants access to five devices simultaneously. There are apps for both Android and iOS as well as desktop clients for Windows, Linux, and MacOS.
Pros:
- Optimized for fast connections
- Operates over 3,000 servers in 94 countries
- Uses high-grade encryption
- Easy-to-use apps for major operating systems
- Allows five simultaneous connections
Cons:
- Some rivals are slightly cheaper
- Limited advanced features in apps for power-users
Our score:
UNBLOCK ANYTHING:ExpressVPN is a great unblocker. It enables access to restricted and censored services and has a vast network of servers optimized for speedy connections. Plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Here’s our full review of ExpressVPN.
5. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN is an even smaller provider but still a worthy contender as an Instagram VPN. It only operates around 200 servers in 60 countries but prioritizes providing access to blocked platforms and services. The VPN works well in China and other restrictive countries. Using the “Stealth VPN” mode will obfuscate your traffic to ensure it’s undetectable.
We’ve found PrivateVPN to offer good speeds for browsing, streaming, and torrenting. This provider employs 256-bit AES military-grade encryption along with perfect forward secrecy by default. Apps have built-in leak protection and the Windows client includes a kill switch. No logs are maintained at all. PrivateVPN stands out for providing free remote help and installation should you need it.
Mobile apps are available for iOS and Android, and desktop clients for Windows and macOS. You can connect up to six devices at a time.
Pros:
- Stealth VPN mode obfuscates traffic
- Six-device limit
- A true no-logs provider
Cons:
- Only has around 150 servers
- Support could be improved
Our score:
MAINTAIN PRIVACY:PrivateVPN has a stealth mode to help you access all your favorite services. Plus it’s secure and private. Plans come with a 30-day refund policy.
Find out more details in our full PrivateVPN review.
6. Private Internet Access
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Private Internet Access and Instagram are an ideal match, with PIA effortlessly unblocking the social media platform from any of its servers in 80+ locations. PIA uses military-grade encryption to keep Instagram and other online activities safe from prying eyes like your ISP. Speeds are more than fast enough for streaming videos on Instagram thanks to PIA’s unlimited bandwidth and use of the WireGuard protocol.
PIA doesn’t monitor your activity and bolsters your privacy with ad blocking, malware blocking, a network kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Unfortunately, PIA is based in the United States, meaning it is a member of the Five Eyes Alliance. However, it is transparent in its privacy policy and has appeared in court where it’s been requested to provide logs of user data but hasn’t been able to provide such information.
Private Internet Access gives users a 10 simultaneous connection limit and provides support 24/7. Its apps are available on desktop and mobile. Try Private Internet Access for 30 days risk-free today.
Pros:
- Can connect up to 10 devices at the same time
- 10,000+ servers in over 80 countries
- Customizable encryption level
Cons:
- Unblocking can be inconsistent
- Based in a Five Eyes country
Our score:
MILITARY-GRADE ENCRYPTION:Private Internet Access has fast, reliable servers in 80+ locations. It offers 24/7 support and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Private Internet Access.
7. PureVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN is a fantastic option for anyone hoping to use Instagram safely abroad. It boasts more than 6,000 servers in 65 countries as well as average speeds approaching 400 Mbps. This means you’re unlikely to experience stuttering or buffering, and should even be able to broadcast your own live streams without any issues. It’s not just Instagram either: this VPN works with platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Netflix, to name but a few services. There is a 10-connection limit and support staff are on-hand 24 hours per day over live chat.
Let’s talk about security. PureVPN uses industry-approved encryption and supports multiple connection protocols. It also offers safeguards like a kill switch (that stops sending data the moment your connection drops) and automatic leak protection. User traffic is obfuscated as needed and since there’s a strict no-logs policy in place, you don’t have to worry about anyone monitoring your activities. Be aware that while all versions of the app show a tracker-blocking feature, this is actually only available to Plus and Max subscribers.
PureVPN has its own Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, and Linux apps. Further, it supports a wide range of routers, though you’ll have to follow manual setup instructions for these.
Pros:
- Outpaces many of its competitors
- Simplifies the process of using Instagram safely abroad
- High level of security, 24/7 support
Cons:
- Doesn’t block trackers on the standard plan
- May not offer enough flexibility for experienced users
Our score:
FASTER THAN MOST:PureVPN is one of the quickest services we’ve tested and works flawlessly with Instagram. Not only that, but you’ll be able to stream, use public Wifi, and torrent safely too.
Check out our PureVPN review.
8. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.protonvpn.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN has an extensive network, with roughly 3,800 servers throughout 85 countries. In other words, there’ll almost always be a high-speed server nearby. On that note, this provider is extremely fast, averaging roughly 330 Mbps – that’s quick enough for streaming live 4K video, never mind Instagram reels. Users can reliably access all manner of geo-blocked platforms including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney Plus, though at the time of writing, this service does not work in China. If you run into any problems, support staff are available 24 hours per day.
One of the great things about ProtonVPN is its versatility. You can choose to allow certain apps to bypass the VPN entirely, set up port forwarding, or block ads and trackers automatically. There are also Secure Core servers that route your data through multiple countries for a second layer of protection. ProtonVPN uses industry-approved encryption and follows a strict no-logs policy (a fact verified by independent auditors). Looking for even greater anonymity? In that case, consider paying via cash or Bitcoin.
Proton VPN has apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Alternatively, you can follow manual setup instructions to get it running on most home routers.
Pros:
- High speeds and strong streaming ability
- Fantastic set of security tools
- Puts your privacy first
Cons:
- Cheaper options available
- Geared more towards advanced users
Our score:
DOESN’T KEEP LOGS:ProtonVPN is a solid choice for anyone hoping to use Instagram while traveling. Boasts exceptionally high speeds, a no-logging policy, and a wide variety of security features.
Read our full ProtonVPN review.
How to access Instagram with a VPN
Getting started with a VPN is really very simple, just follow the step-by-step guide below.
Here’s how to use a VPN for Instagram so you can get access anywhere:
- Select a VPN that’s best suited for you and submit payment. We recommend NordVPN.
- Download and install the relevant app for your device.
- Log in and connect to a server in a location of your choice.
- Once the connection is established, open Instagram and use it normally.
- If you’re still unable to access Instagram try clearing your browser’s cookies and reloading the app.
If you run into any issues, contact your VPN provider for help with troubleshooting.
Finding the best VPNs for Instagram: our methodology
In deciding the best VPNs for Instagram, there are several factors to take into account. Aside from the ability to unblock the social media platform, a VPN should offer good speeds and strong security. Below, we outline our methodology, which led us to the VPNs as listed in this post.
- Servers worldwide: Having access to servers worldwide makes it much easier to unblock Instagram and find a fast server close to your physical location. All of the VPNs we’ve covered offer large server networks, some with thousands of servers across dozens of countries, including the US, UK, Australia, and Japan.
- Speed: Server speed is particularly important if you’re streaming content on Instagram. VPNs offering fast connections and unlimited bandwidth (such as those listed in this post) allow you to watch without issues such as lag and buffering. Our speed tests helped us find the fastest VPNs for use with Instagram.
- Unblocking: Instagram is blocked in China and many schools and workplaces. We’ve found the VPNs that are most reliable when it comes to bypassing restrictions. This was achieved by testing each VPN against various region-locked websites and services, Instagram included.
- Security: In order to browse Instagram securely, you need a VPN that offers the following: high-end encryption (256-bit AES), protection from DNS leaks, and a kill switch. It may be that you’d like an extra layer of security in which case, you may wish to consider NordVPN and Surfshark, both of which offer Double VPN servers.
- Privacy: Without a VPN, your ISP (and possibly your government) can see your online work. If you’d like your Instagram and other browsing activity to remain private, you need a VPN which encrypts your data and operates a no-logs policy. We’ve looked at more than 140 VPN logging policies in order to find the very best.
- Ease of use: In looking for the above, we are able to try out VPN apps and find those that are particularly user-friendly. All of them make it easy to get started while 24/7 live chat and email support is at hand should you need it. Most of the VPNs also offer the option of browser extensions for even quicker access to servers.
- Value for money: We feel that the best VPNs for Instagram offer excellent value for money. Aside from these VPNs frequently running special deals, you can save even more on the subscription price with the VPN discount coupons provided in this post. Remember, all of the VPNs listed come with a risk-free money-back guarantee.
- Mobile apps: Most of us use Instagram on our phones, and so naturally, a VPN for Instagram has to work great on mobile devices. We test each provider on IOS and Android phones to ensure a smooth experience.
Of course, we don’t just look for the above features. To determine if a VPN offers the above (and to what extent), we need to try it out for ourselves as part of our VPN testing methodology.
Instagram VPN FAQs
Is it legal to use a VPN with Instagram?
Absolutely! VPNs are legitimate privacy tools that are used by millions of people around the world every day. There are a handful of countries that restrict the use of VPNs but in places, there’s no need to worry about getting into trouble simply for trying to stay safe online.
How can I access Instagram music from anywhere?
Instagram music allows you to really customize your stories, but for licensing reasons, this feature isn’t available everywhere in the world. However, as long as Instagram thinks you’re in a supported country, you should be able to make use of it. In other words, accessing Instagram Music is as simple as connecting to a VPN server that’s in a supported country, clearing your cookies, and logging in again.
Will Instagram know I'm using a VPN?
Instagram is owned by Facebook, so it’s a fair assumption that this service knows everything about you, your device, and your social circle. That said, if it can tell that you’re using a VPN, it doesn’t seem to care; users report being able to unblock Instagram Music fairly easily from abroad, and as yet, no major VPN seems to have been blocked outright.
If you’re having trouble accessing Instagram with a VPN active, check to see if it has an ad-blocker enabled; these have been known to occasionally cause problems with some sites.
Should I use a free VPN to unblock Instagram?
Free VPNs services are heavily advertised on the internet and can be tempting. However, we recommend against using them. These services can rarely bypass blocks, and even if they do, you’ll end up with poor performance.
Free VPNs typically operate a small number of servers that are shared among many users. You may have to join a queue to connect, and then have to deal with slow, unreliable connections.
As we know, no service is truly free, and with a free VPN, it’s more than likely that you become the product. It’s common practice for these services to keep logs of user activity and sell user profiles to third parties.
Security usually isn’t stellar either. If you’re lucky enough to have an encrypted connection (some free VPNs forgo this step), it will likely be weak, meaning you aren’t well protected from snoopers, including hackers.
Overall, we recommend paying a small fee to use a solid VPN.
Why is Instagram blocked?
If you find Instagram is blocked by network administrators in your school or place of work, it’s likely a productivity issue. Instagram is often blocked along with a suite of other social media platforms to prevent students and employees from idling away their time. Another possible reason for these restrictions is to avoid network congestion.
Instagram is also blocked in some regions, often by a country’s government, such as the case in China. The motives here are usually a little different. In China’s case, the government likely blocks popular media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, to censor the information and communication methods to which its citizens have access. In addition, the blocks pave the way for homegrown competitors to take over the market.
Instagram has been blocked intermittently in China since 2014 and it is currently blocked there entirely. It has also been banned in other countries including Iran and North Korea.
Can you use a proxy to change your Instagram location?
Much like a VPN, you can use a proxy to change your Instagram location (i.e. your location is spoofed so that Instagram believes you’re located elsewhere). Some people may do this in order to access Instagram from a country in which it is blocked or to bypass a ban. Whatever the case, a proxy can help you achieve this but it’s worth keeping in mind that it doesn’t offer the security of a VPN which encrypts your internet traffic in the process.
Can Instagram track you if you use a VPN?
Using a VPN ensures your data is encrypted and your actual IP address (and physical location) is hidden. This allows you to use social media platforms such as Instagram with a degree of anonymity. However, if you’re on mobile, your GPS location may still show Instagram where you are. To get around this, you’ll need to fake your GPS location. One of the most common ways to do this is with a GPS spoofing app.
How do you post on Instagram using a VPN?
The way you use Instagram doesn’t change at all with a VPN. You’ll still be able to post content, view other people’s content, and interact with other users the same as before. One of the key differences is that you’ll be able to access Instagram as normal from a country in which it’s blocked (such as China). You’ll also be able to browse with improved security and privacy protection thanks to encryption and the fact that the VPN changes your IP address.
Do the best VPNs for Instagram work with Threads?
Threads is from Meta which is the owner of Facebook, WhatsApp, and of course, Instagram. Furthermore, Threads is closely linked to Instagram in that users must have an Instagram account to use it. You then use Threads under the same Instagram handle.
So based on this, it should come as little surprise that you can use the best VPNs for Instagram with Threads. To unblock Threads with a VPN, simply connect to a server in a country in which it’s available. For example, connect to a server in the US for a US IP address.
Threads has already launched in 100 countries although, unlike Instagram and Twitter, it’s not yet available in the European Union. The reason for this is that the EU has stricter privacy laws, particularly regarding data collection.