How to get an IP address for Switzerland with a VPN

These days many online services and most major streaming platforms are geo-restricted, meaning they cannot be accessed outside of a specific country. So if you want to watch your favorite Swiss content and access important services like online banking while abroad, you’ll need an IP address for Switzerland. The easiest way to do this is by using a VPN, which will allow you to appear as though you as browsing from within your home country, even when you’re traveling.

Another benefit of a VPN is that it increases your online security. Normally, when you use the internet, your Internet Service Provider (ISP), network administrators, and possibly even the government can see exactly what you’re doing. However, VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, rendering it unreadable and allowing you to browse privately. It will also keep you safe from hackers when using public wifi, a bonus while traveling.

We get into a lot of detail on each of the VPNs we feature below, but if you only have time for a quick glance, here is our list of the best VPNs for getting a Swiss IP address:

1. NordVPN Our first choice for a Swiss IP address! Plenty of speedy servers in Switzerland, great at getting around geo-restrictions. Secure apps. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark Best budget option. A solid, privacy-focused VPN with excellent unblocking ability and high-speed Swiss servers.
3. ExpressVPN Operates fast servers in Switzerland that are secure and private.
4. CyberGhost Great for novices. Apps are easy to install and use, which makes this a beginner-friendly choice. Vast server network with over 180 servers in Switzerland.
5. IPVanish Works well with Android-based streaming devices like Kodi. Allows unlimited connected devices.
6. PrivateVPN Smaller network but great at accessing most streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu.
7. AtlasVPN Solid privacy offering keeps you secure while connecting to an IP in Switzerland. Unlimited connection limit and 24/7 support.

How to get a Swiss IP address

Even if you’ve never used a VPN, it’s fairly simple to bypass regional blocking and access whatever you like online. Just follow these steps:

Here’s how to gain an IP address from anywhere with a VPN:

1. Begin by choosing a suitable VPN provider (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Next, download and install the software, making sure you get the relevant app for your operating system.
3. Connect to one of your service’s Swiss location servers.
4. Try loading a geo-blocked Swiss website.
5. If you still can’t access it, clear your browser’s cache and cookies before refreshing the page.

If you intend to watch a live event, we strongly recommend performing the steps above before it begins. This ensures that if you encounter any problems, you’ll still have time to get help from your VPN’s customer support team.

The best VPN to get a Swiss IP: at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for getting a Swiss IP.

Best VPNs for getting an IP address from Switzerland

Choosing a VPN can be difficult. After all, there are hundreds of services out there, with more arriving all the time. To find the best services for getting a Swiss IP address, we looked for those meeting the criteria below:

1. Has servers in Switzerland
2. Provides consistent, high-speed connections
3. Uses powerful encryption and offers additional security features
4. Comes with apps for all the most popular operating systems
5. Doesn’t log any information that could identify you

You can read more about how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend in our methodology section below. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut. 

Here are our top VPNs for obtaining Swiss local IP addresses:

1. NordVPN

Jun 2023

NordVPN is our top pick for obtaining a Swiss IP address. It outperforms rivals in our speed tests and has one of the largest server networks of any service we’ve tested. There are more than 5,500 servers to choose from (with over 100 in Switzerland alone), covering 60 countries. It enables you to stream HD video with no issues and can access popular services like Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Six simultaneous connections are permitted so you can protect all of your most commonly-used devices with a single account.

This VPN gives you the freedom to tailor your security setup perfectly. It features 256-bit AES encryption, a program-specific kill switch, an ad-blocker, malware scanner, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, port forwarding, and DNS leaks. Further, it helps users easily access Tor over a VPN or use two VPNs at once. NordVPN does not log any information that could identify you, and accepts Bitcoin payments. Support staff are available to help 24/7 via live chat.

This provider offers apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It can be manually installed on select wireless routers.

BEST VPN FOR SWITZERLAND:NordVPN is our first choice. It’s versatile, fast, and offers enough advanced options to keep experienced users happy without isolating novices. Includes 30 day money-back guarantee for a risk-free deal.

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is a budget provider that offers access to more than 3,200 servers in around 100 countries, including Switzerland. This means it’s an excellent choice for accessing geo-restricted platforms like Netflix US, RTS, and SRF abroad. With decent speeds and no connection limit, you can watch lag-free, in the highest possible quality, from anywhere, on any device you like.

This VPN puts major emphasis on user security. To keep your traffic safe from prying eyes, it uses 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, automatic ad-blocking and malware scanning, and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. There’s also a strict no-logging policy, so you don’t have to worry about your activities being traced back to you.

Privacy-focused users can pay in Bitcoin, Ripple, or Ethereum for added anonymity. If you need any help, you can contact support around the clock via live chat.

Surfshark apps are available for Android, Windows, MacOS, Linux, and iOS. If you’d prefer, it can also be manually installed on supported network routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark has no connection limit and various cutting-edge security features, so you can browse safely from any of your devices. It also boasts fantastic unblocking ability, decent speeds, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN currently has more than 3,000 location servers spread across 94 different countries, including Switzerland. It’s exceptionally good at bypassing geo-restrictions, so you’ll even be able to stream content from notoriously stubborn platforms like Netflix US and Amazon Prime Video. Best of all, this service is fast enough to stream live HD (or even 4K) video without any interruptions. They have the best connections and server speeds with unlimited access.

It guarantees your online privacy with 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (desktop versions only), perfect forward secrecy, and the best protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Security-conscious users will appreciate that they can pay with Bitcoin, but as ExpressVPN doesn’t log any personally identifiable information, there’s no risk of you being tracked either way. Need help? Customer support is available 24/7 over live chat.

ExpressVPN apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. This VPN has custom firmware to simplify the process of installing it on a router.

GREAT UNBLOCKER:ExpressVPN is fast and secure, and great at unblocking geo-restricted services from abroad. Plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost has more than 9,000 high-speed servers across 90 countries (including 180+ in Switzerland). It’s designed for novice users and, accordingly, is extremely simple to use: you can even see pertinent information about each server, including its current load and which service it’s designed to unblock. With up to seven simultaneous connections allowed, CyberGhost lets you browse and stream safely from whichever device you prefer.

This service has an always-on kill switch designed to keep you safe at all times. It uses 256-bit encryption and IPv6 and DNS leak protection and provides automatic ad and malware-blocking. CyberGhost doesn’t log any personally identifiable information, but you can pay with Bitcoin for added anonymity. Live chat is available 24/7 in case of any problems.

CyberGhost offers apps for MacOS, Linux, Android, Windows, and iOS. It works on select network routers after manual configuration.

GOOD VALUE VPN:CyberGhost is another low-cost VPN that offers excellent connection speeds, strong unblocking capability, and a high number of simultaneous connections. Includes 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

IPVanish has more than 2,000 servers worldwide, spanning over 75 locations in 60 countries, including 9 servers in Zurich, Switzerland. This is a VPN with a lot to offer: lightweight apps for the most popular platforms, speeds fast enough for uninterrupted HD streaming, and excellent data security. IPVanish even allows you to connect unlimited devices at once, whereas most other services allow between three and six.

This VPN uses 256-bit encryption, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, and a kill switch (in desktop apps) to keep your activities private at all times. It also offers more advanced security and privacy features such as local connection blocking, OpenVPN traffic obfuscation, and the option to change your IP address at predetermined intervals regularly. IPVanish doesn’t log any information that could identify you.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux, and some routers can be configured manually.

COMPREHENSIVE SECURITY:IPVanish is a fast, secure service that allows you to protect all of your household’s devices at once. 30-day money-back guarantee included

Read our full IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN has a smaller network than many of its rivals (less than 90 servers catering to 59 countries), but it does offer 2 servers in Zurich with excellent speeds. Further, this VPN has great unblocking capabilities meaning you’ll be able to stream regional content from the Swiss Netflix library, Amazon Prime Video, and Watchbox from wherever you are in the world.

This service includes 256-bit encryption and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks by default. It keeps no logs or data retention, but if you’d like extra peace of mind, you can sign up almost completely anonymously using Bitcoin and a throwaway email address. Although support is primarily given via email, the staff are very helpful and can even remotely install the software for you.

Mobile apps are available for Android and iOS, and desktop clients are provided for Windows and MacOS. Linux and some routers can be configured manually.

GREAT FOR STREAMING:PrivateVPN is a versatile, reliable service with better-than-average speeds and a strong commitment to maintaining your online privacy. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

7. AtlasVPN

AtlasVPN is a solid pick for securing a Swiss IP address. Despite being a relative newcomer to the VPN industry, AtlasVPN has quickly established a name for itself with its practical and user-friendly service.

One of AtlasVPN’s strengths lies in its network of global servers, which includes several based in Switzerland. This extensive network lets users quickly obtain a Swiss IP address, enabling access to region-specific content and services available only in Switzerland.

One of the significant aspects where AtlasVPN shines is in its performance. It offers robust speed and stable connections, essential for data-intensive activities such as streaming, gaming, and large file downloads. Consequently, whether you are planning to watch Swiss TV channels or access your Swiss bank account while abroad, AtlasVPN ensures a smooth and hassle-free online experience.

It prioritizes user privacy by strictly adhering to a no-logs policy. This means that your online activities are not monitored or saved. AtlasVPN also provides top-notch security measures, including robust AES-256 encryption, automatic kill switch, and IKEv2 and WireGuard protocols. With AtlasVPN, your online identity stays safe and private even when connected to a Swiss IP address.

AtlasVPN is user-friendly as it allows unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can safeguard multiple devices with just one subscription. Also, its customer support is readily available and responsive, so you can get quick solutions to any questions or concerns you may have.

Its apps are available on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it easy to use on almost any device. The interface is clean and intuitive, catering to VPN beginners and advanced users.

UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:AtlasVPN supports WireGuard, allows torrenting, and offers split tunneling as standard. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of AtlasVPN.

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VPNs for a Swiss IP: testing methodology

There are dozens of VPNs on the market, but they are not all suitable for gaining high levels of online privacy and accessibility. Our experts tested all the VPNs in this guide using a precise VPN testing methodology. Below, we have included all the important features we looked for when testing VPNs with a Swiss IP:

• Global server network – We check that each VPN has a reliable network of servers located globally. Including IPs in Switzerland. This ensures that you can use the VPN to gain access to a wide range of international services, including Swiss TV and Swiss banking services from abroad. We also check the VPN works with Netflix and other popular services.
• Apps for all platforms – For a VPN to be useful, it must have apps that you can install on all of your devices. Our recommendations have VPN apps for Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS. This ensures that you can get a Swiss IP address on any of your devices, no matter where you are.
• Robust no logs policy – What a VPN does with your data is highly important, which is why it is important to understand the privacy policy. We check each VPN’s policy to ensure the VPN never retains any records of what you do while connected to ensure that your online habits remain completely private, both now and in the future.
• Strong security features – We test each VPN for DNS leak protection to ensure the VPN is completely preventing our ISP from tracking your web visits. We also check for strong AES encryption, reliable VPN protocols such as OpenVPN and Wireguard, and a kill switch to prevent you from leaking data outside of the VPN tunnel.
• Advanced features – A versatile VPN has a wide choice of features to let you gain high levels of online privacy and freedom. We look for things like obfuscation, split tunneling, port forwarding, malware protection, ad blocking, Smart DNS, and SOCKS5 proxy and recommend services that offer as many useful features as possible.
• Value for money – The cost of a VPN does not always reflect the level of service it provides. In this guide, we have recommended services that provide high levels of reliability and a superb feature set at the best possible cost.
• Outstanding custom care – Whether you are a long-time VPN user or a beginner, it is useful to communicate with your VPN provider. We have recommended services that provide both email and live chat support to allow you to get help with installing and using the VPN at any time of day.

Using a free VPN to get a Swiss IP address

While free VPNs can be appealing at first glance, we advise against using one. These services tend to have fairly small server networks, yet more users than most paid VPNs. As a result, you’re likely to experience very slow speeds, long buffering times, frequent pauses, and perhaps even disconnection from the VPN. Further, streaming platforms regularly improve their geo-restriction measures, and whereas paid services usually have the resources to find a workaround shortly after, free VPNs typically don’t.

Like any other business, a free VPN is designed to make money, even though the user doesn’t pay upfront. Most of the time, you’ll notice ads have been inserted into the pages you visit, which is nothing new. The problem is that these ones are often very large, distracting, and obnoxious. Additionally, some services use tracking cookies to collect information about your internet activity. This can then be compiled into a consumer profile and sold to third parties later without your knowledge.

Unfortunately, hackers are tailoring their approaches to capitalize on your desire to stay safe. In fact, a 2016 survey of 283 free VPN apps showed that 37% contained malware. Equally troubling is the fact that 18% of the uninfected apps never used any encryption, essentially leaving you no better off than browsing unprotected. Even well-known free VPNs come with risks, as we found out when Hola was caught facilitating a botnet with idle user bandwidth.

We recommend using a reputable VPN with a proven record of protecting its users’ privacy instead.

See also: Best VPNs for Switzerland

Getting an IP address for Switzerland: FAQs