Best VPN Ireland

Online security is more vulnerable than you might think in today’s digital age. Every click, search, and streamed video are all potential entry points for unwanted intruders. But what if I told you there’s a formidable shield that protects your online footprint and empowers you to unlock a world of unrestricted content in Ireland?

Enter the best VPNs for Ireland – a powerful weapon for the modern Celtic web user. Through extensive research and rigorous testing, we’ve unearthed VPNs’ pivotal role. First and foremost, they cloak your internet traffic with encryption. This means hackers, curious network admins, and even your own ISP can’t spy on your activities. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Have you ever been frustrated by the message “content not available in your region” notification when trying to access Irish content while abroad? A VPN for Ireland is the solution. By masking your real IP address and replacing it with one from a chosen global location, you can access a world of content that was previously out of reach. Imagine accessing your favorite streaming platforms from any corner of the globe.

And for those on the go, we’ve distilled our exhaustive research into a concise list of the best VPNs for Ireland:

  1. NordVPN: Our #1 choice VPN for Ireland! A very fast VPN with an expansive network and strong unblocking capabilities. Premium features are designed to protect your online privacy, including apps for all major platforms and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
    TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Ireland.
  2. Surfshark: The best budget Ireland VPN. Decent speeds. Works with most major streaming sites, including Netflix US, RTE Player, and Amazon Prime. Unlimited bandwidth and unlimited devices supported.
  3. ExpressVPN: Blazing-fast speeds make this a great VPN for streaming content and unblocking websites in Ireland. Strong encryption and a no-logs policy make it easy to stay anonymous online.
  4. CyberGhost: Thousands of servers and the ability to unblock major streaming platforms or bypass censorship worldwide. Works with Irish platforms like RTE player and doesn’t keep connection logs.
  5. IPVanish: A speedy VPN that boasts a range of security features and allows ten simultaneous connections. Access your favorite content in Ireland or anywhere in the world.
  6. PrivateVPN: Fast, reliable, and able to access online services like Netflix Ireland abroad. A real focus on security makes this one of the safest VPNs on the market.
  7. AtlasVPN: Servers in 40+ locations, high speeds, robust security features, and the ability to unblock a wide range of region-locked services.

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 Ireland with no limits or restrictions for a monthperfect for anyone looking to stay up to date with TV from back home while on vacation.

There are no hidden termsjust contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't a good fit and you'll receive a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

The best VPNs for Ireland – Our hands-on review

We’ve tested 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 Ireland.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkExpressVPNCyberGhostIPVanishPrivateVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comIPVanish.comPrivateVPN.com
Ranking for Ireland:123456
Streaming ServicesNetflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
Sky Go
HBO Max
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
Sky Go
HBO Max
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
Sky Go
HBO Max
Netflix
BBC iPlayer
Sky Go
HBO Max
Netflix
HBO Max
Netflix
HBO Max
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps39 Mbps
Popular Sites Unblocked95%88%86%85%70%85%
Simultaneous Connections10Unlimited87Unlimited10
Best deal (per month)$3.09
Up to 69% off + 3 months FREE
$2.29
Save 85% on a 2 year Starter plan
$6.67
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free
$2.03
SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan
$2.75
SAVE 78% on the 2 yr plan
$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free

Best VPNs for Ireland

Choosing which VPN to use can be difficult as so many different services are vying for your attention. We researched services meeting the criteria below when finding the best VPNs for Ireland:

  • Provides high speeds and stable connections
  • Offers an expansive network and at least one server in Ireland
  • Uses powerful encryption and includes additional security features
  • Has apps for the most popular operating systems
  • Doesn’t log any information that could identify you

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for Ireland:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is fast enough to stream live HD content with no interruptions. It has more than 5,200 servers spanning 62 countries, with 30+ in Ireland alone, perfect for watching Irish TV. In addition to providing servers optimized for anonymity and P2P file-sharing, this VPN is capable of reliably accessing sites like Netflix, RTÉ Player, and Amazon Prime Video from anywhere in the world.

This service puts a major emphasis on your privacy. It uses 256-bit encryption and protection against DNS, WebRTC, port-forwarding, and IPv6 leaks by default. There are also more advanced features like dual VPN, Tor over VPN, ad-blocking, and malware-scanning functionality. With various cryptocurrencies accepted and no logs kept, this VPN enables you to register and browse almost completely anonymously.

NordVPN has apps for Linux, Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. It works with network routers but must be configured manually.

Pros:

  • Expansive server network
  • Fastest on the market
  • Great security features
  • 24/7 support over live chat
  • Excellent unblocking ability
  • No-logs policy

Cons:

  • Desktop app can take a while to connect

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST VPN FOR IRELAND:NordVPN is our #1 pick for Ireland. It’s ultrafast, security-conscious, and keeps no logs. Better still, it comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

NordVPN Coupon
Up to 69% off + 3 months FREE
Get Deal >
Discount applied automatically

2. Surfshark

Surfshark

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark has more than 1,000 servers in 60+ countries including Ireland. This service is known for its exceptional unblocking ability, and accordingly, you’ll be able to use platforms like BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video, regardless of where you are in the world. Better still, unlike most VPNs, Surfshark has no connection limit, which means you can secure every device you own with a single account.

This service’s security features include 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks, and a kill switch (in every version of the app). Ads and malware are blocked automatically, and if you visit a country with strict online censorship, the NoBorders feature will let you browse freely again. Surfshark doesn’t log any data that could identify you although you can pay in Bitcoin, Ripple, or Ethereum if you’d prefer another layer of privacy. Customer support is on hand 24/7 over live chat to address any issues you might have.

Surfshark has apps for Android, Windows, iOS, MacOS, and Linux. It can be manually installed on supported network routers.

Pros:

  • Fast enough for live-streaming
  • Wide range of security and privacy protections
  • Accepts three cryptocurrencies
  • Unblocks all kinds of geo-restricted services
  • Lets you secure all of your devices at once

Cons:

  • Fewer servers than some of its rivals
  • Some slow speeds

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is a cheap and versatile service that easily unblocks major geo-blocked services abroad. More importantly, it gives you the tools you need to do so safely. Boasts a no-logs policy, decent speeds, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

Surfshark Coupon
Save 85% on a 2 year Starter plan
Get Deal >
Discount applied automatically

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN currently offers access to more than 3,000 high-speed servers across 94 countries, including Ireland. It has excellent multi-platform support, and can even be installed on routers relatively easily. Additionally, this service is able to access some of the most popular streaming platforms, like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and ITV Hub.

ExpressVPN uses 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks to keep your traffic hidden at all times. This service doesn’t record any personally identifiable information and accepts Bitcoin, allowing for anonymous signup. Customer support is available 24/7 over live chat in case of any problems.

This VPN comes with apps for MacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android. It can be quickly and easily installed on some routers using ExpressVPN’s custom router firmware (or an alternative).

Pros:

  • High-speed connections
  • Great for streaming
  • Anonymous registration possible
  • Strong security features

Cons:

  • A little more expensive than some rivals
  • Doesn’t provide much control over advanced features

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

HIGHLY VERSATILE:ExpressVPN is a strong all-rounder. It’s fast, has a large server network, and unblocks a wide array of geo-blocked services. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN Coupon
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free
Get Deal >
Coupon applied automatically

4. CyberGhost

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost has 20+ Irish servers for an Irish IP address, and over 8,000 more throughout 89+ other countries. Users can choose not just which country they’d like to connect to, but also (in some locations) which city. There’s even a list of servers designed for accessing popular streaming services like Netflix, Sky Go, and BBC iPlayer, which makes watching your favorite shows abroad extremely simple.

CyberGhost includes a kill switch in both its mobile and desktop apps, ensuring you never have to browse unprotected. It uses 256-bit encryption by default, prevents WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks, and even offers automatic malware-scanning and ad-blocking features. This service does not log any personally identifiable information and accepts Bitcoin. If you need help, support can be reached over live chat, 24/7.

CyberGhost includes apps for Windows, Android, MacOS, Linux, and iOS devices. It can be manually installed on select internet routers.

Pros:

  • Fast enough for HD streaming
  • 7 connections permitted
  • One-click unblocking built-in
  • Easy for novices to use

Cons:

  • Few options for advanced users
  • Less reliable in places like the UAE

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

Beginners' choice:CyberGhost is fast, secure, and inexpensive. Best of all, it’s extremely easy to use, even if you’re not particularly experienced with computers. Includes a 45-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost Coupon
SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan
Get Deal >
Discount applied automatically

5. IPVanish

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish is perfect for people looking to protect their whole household: it allows any number of connections while most of its rivals permit between three and six. This VPN has more than 1,100 servers across over 60 countries, including several in Ireland, allowing users to gain a low-latency connection wherever they are. Further, IPVanish is fast enough to stream HD content with no noticeable buffering.

Considering its apps are so lightweight, there’s actually a good degree of security built in. There’s 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch, for instance, as well as local traffic blocking. You can even choose to obfuscate OpenVPN traffic or switch IP addresses at regular intervals. There’s no need to worry about being tracked either as IPVanish doesn’t log any personally identifiable information.

IPVanish apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Firestick. After manual configuration, it even works on Linux systems and some wireless routers.

Pros:

  • High speeds
  • Connect any number of devices
  • Apps for a wide range of systems
  • Offers 24/7 live chat

Cons:

  • Struggles to unblock some streaming platforms
  • Does not allow anonymous registration

Our score:

4 out of 5

PROTECT ALL OF YOUR DEVICES:IPVanish boasts high speeds, exceptional multi-platform support, and a few unique security features, making it ideal for those who use multiple devices to access the internet regularly. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

IPVanish Coupon
SAVE 78% on the 2 yr plan
Get Deal >
Discount applied automatically

6. PrivateVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN can reliably access major streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer abroad. It might not have the largest network (fewer than 90 servers in 57 countries), but it is faster than many of its competitors; you can stream live HD video with no stuttering or buffering whatsoever. As a bonus, PrivateVPN allows up to six simultaneous connections.

This VPN keeps you safe using 256-bit encryption as well as DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leak protection. It boasts a no-logs policy so you can rest assured your activities can’t be traced back to you. Bitcoin is accepted, though, so if you’re still not convinced, you can sign up anonymously using a disposable email address. The customer support team is particularly helpful, and can even remotely connect to your device (with your permission) to install the software for you.

PrivateVPN offers MacOS, iOS, Windows, and Android apps. It works with Linux systems and supported routers, although you’ll have to configure the service manually first.

Pros:

  • Faster than most similar VPNs
  • Able to unblock stubborn streaming services abroad
  • Keeps no logs

Cons:

  • Fewer servers than its rivals
  • No live chat available

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

STRONG GENERAL-PURPOSE VPN:PrivateVPN boasts better-than-average speeds and the ability to unblock some of the most popular streaming platforms. It’s highly secure, with a zero-logs policy for added peace of mind. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

PrivateVPN Coupon
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free
Get Deal >
Discount applied automatically

7. AtlasVPN

AtlasVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.AtlasVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

AtlasVPN is one of the newest and most secure VPNs for Ireland. It promises to keep your browsing activities safe using 256-bit encryption, DNS and IP leak protection, and an automatic kill switch. As its name suggests, AtlasVPN also makes sure you can easily access geo-locked content by connecting you to one of its servers in over 40 countries around the globe.

AtlasVPN is available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android devices, and Amazon Fire TV sticks. Unfortunately, it doesn’t support Linux, or the router was installed at the time of writing. You can connect unlimited devices simultaneously, letting you share the account with family and friends. While AtlasVPN only has around 750 servers worldwide, it produces some epic speeds and easily unlocks most of the major streaming platforms.

You can try AtlasVPN for 30 days risk-free with its money-back guarantee.

Pros:

  • Unlimited devices
  • Great at unblocking streaming providers
  • Lightning-fast speeds

Cons:

  • No Linux or router support
  • Small number of servers vs other providers

Our score:

4 out of 5

UNLIMITED DEVICES:AtlasVPN offers Wireguard support, 750+ servers worldwide, and an automatic kill switch. You can also connect an unlimited number of devices to one account.

Read our full review of AtlasVPN.

AtlasVPN Coupon
SAVE 86% on a 2 year plan + 6 months free
Get Deal >
Coupon applied automatically

Our methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Ireland

Comparing multiple VPNs can be tricky but is well worth doing since every service is slightly different from its rivals. For instance, some prioritize speed above all else while others focus on providing the strongest possible security. To ensure that we only recommend the best of the best, we came up with some characteristics that the best VPNs for Ireland must have:

  • Network size and scale: Generally, the larger a provider’s network, the more reliable an experience you’ll have. Additionally, having servers in more countries theoretically opens up the range of content you’ll be able to access. We’d like to see some Irish servers available since nearby servers almost always provide the best speeds.
  • Performance: You can have the most secure VPN in the world, but it’s useless if it’s too slow to browse. We run periodic speed tests to verify that the services we recommend are fast enough for tasks like gaming, streaming, and torrenting.
  • Unblocking capabilities: Some of your favorite services might not be available in Ireland. Don’t worry, though: we test each candidate on a wide range of platforms, including Hulu, Disney Plus, and HBO Max, to find out which services it can access abroad.
  • Security and privacy: This is a key consideration, regardless of where in the world you are. To make our list, VPNs must offer a no-logs policy, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, and 256-bit encryption. This is a minimum requirement, though; more sophisticated security tools (such as stealth modes) are always welcome.
  • Ease of use: We look for providers with user-friendly apps that anyone can use. If there’s no connection limit, 24/7 support, or anything else that lowers the barrier to entry even further, that’s even better.
  • Pricing: We’ll never recommend a service that charges more than it’s worth. As well as comparing price points to similarly-featured rivals, we highlight any available deals, discounts, or guarantees to ensure you never pay a cent more than you have to.

Believe it or not, this is only the first stage of our testing. If you’d like to learn more, we have a whole post dedicated to explaining how we test VPNs at Comparitech.

How to use a VPN for Ireland

Here’s how to use a VPN for Ireland:

  1. Start by choosing a suitable VPN provider for Ireland (we recommend NordVPN).
  2. Download and install the appropriate version of the app for your device.
  3. Connect to one of the VPN’s servers in your desired location. For instance, to unblock the RTÉ Player, you’d use an Irish server to get an Irish IP address.
  4. Try loading a video on your chosen site. It should load straight away, but if it doesn’t, clear your browser’s cookies and cache, then reload the page.
  5. If problems persist, contact your VPN provider’s customer support team for help.

Internet restrictions in Ireland

For the most part, users in Ireland can browse the internet without restriction. However, like in the UK, Irish ISPs block access to various file-sharing and streaming sites known for hosting unlicensed content. These include The Pirate Bay, Putlocker, RARBG, and EZTV. Further, while Eircom has had a three-strikes copyright violation policy since 2015, additional ISPs are poised to implement similar schemes in the near future. These policies will see users receive two warning letters if they’re discovered to be downloading copyrighted content, while a third violation will see their details given to the copyright holder.

There may be more restrictions on the horizon: The Times (paywall) reports that a bill set to block pro-anorexia and pro-suicide sites has cross-party support. While it’s hard to argue against blocking this kind of content, governments don’t seem to have realized that bypassing their often heavy-handed blanket restrictions is laughably simple with a VPN. In fact, one Pirate Bay proxy was (as of May 2018) the 115th most-visited site in the UK, despite the government having blocked the main site since 2012.

VPN for Ireland FAQs

Can I use an Ireland VPN for Kodi and torrenting?

Because of how P2P networks function, when you download a file, you’re essentially connecting to several other peoples’ computers. One unfortunate side effect of this is that it’s fairly easy to see the IP addresses of everyone you’re connected to. However, if you connect to a VPN server beforehand, only that server’s IP address will be visible to any snoopers. 

Let’s say you’re looking to stop an observer a little closer to home. For instance, you might want to prevent your ISP or employer from knowing that you’re watching TV on Kodi. VPNs also encrypt your web traffic, rendering it unreadable without the (impossible to crack) decryption key. 

Are VPNs legal in Ireland?

Yes, VPNs are completely legal in Ireland! Using a VPN is lawful under Irish law, with no restrictions or bans.

However, it’s important to remember that while VPNs are legal in Ireland, this legality does not grant users unlimited freedom. Certain laws may be applicable depending on the usage and circumstances of each user. For instance, if you use a VPN for copyright infringement or other illegal activities, you could face criminal penalties.

In general, however, using a VPN is acceptable and doesn’t require any licensing or formal authorization.

Why else should I use a VPN?

Bank of Ireland

If you regularly log into your Bank of Ireland, Allied Irish Banks, or Citibank account online from Ireland, then try accessing it from another country (for instance, if you’re on vacation), you run the risk of tripping automated fraud prevention systems. However, by connecting to one of your VPN’s Ireland servers beforehand, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of this happening.

VPNs also ensure that you can access your usual streaming services wherever you are in the world. In fact, staying up-to-date with the latest shows on platforms like RTÉ Player, TG4, and Virgin Player is trivially simple. When traveling, you’re also more likely to connect to public wifi, but with a VPN, you can browse freely without worrying about whether your activities will be tracked or not.

Can’t I just use a free VPN instead?

Free VPNs may appear tempting at first glance, but we don’t recommend using one. There are several reasons for this, chief among them their performance. These services’ networks are usually fairly limited, but there’s a constant influx of users. As such, you can expect very slow speeds. This makes high-definition streaming a frustrating experience, with low-resolution video, frequent stuttering, and lengthy pauses for buffering. Additionally, free VPNs are usually the first to be blocked by major platforms, meaning you may not be able to access your chosen service.

Very few services are completely free, and “free VPNs” are no different. Some use an ad-supported model, which in theory, isn’t anything unusual. In practice, however, these ads are often extremely large, eye-catching, and obtrusive. Some of these services even store tracking cookies on your device, enabling them to harvest information such as your favorite sites, how often you visit them, and the times at which you do so. This data can then be sold for profit to anonymous third parties, usually without your express permission.

The security aspect is also worth considering. In 2016, researchers tested 283 apps claiming to be free VPNs and found that more than one-third contained malware. Further, almost 20% allowed the user to browse without encrypting their traffic, and 84% were vulnerable to IPv6 leaks. Even larger services may not be safe: Hola infamously sold user bandwidth to help run a botnet. The best way to protect yourself online is to use a well-established VPN with a solid reputation and a customer-first privacy policy.

Can a VPN give me an Irish IP address?

Absolutely. If you choose a server in Ireland, all of your internet traffic will be routed there. This gives you an Irish IP address and makes it seem like you’re actually in Ireland, which is handy for securely accessing services like RTÉ Player or Virgin Media Player.

Will a VPN from Ireland keep my personal data?

Ireland’s data-retention legislation has previously been found excessive by the High Court, but as long as you choose your VPN wisely, there’s really no need to worry about this.

That’s because most major VPNs follow a no-logs policy, meaning personal information (such as your browsing habits and connection timestamps) isn’t stored and, as such, can’t be shared with anyone. Some even allow you to pay with prepaid cards or cryptocurrency so that users can’t be identified by their credit card details.

Do people in the Republic of Ireland receive the BBC or should I get a VPN to use iPlayer?

While BBC iPlayer is available in Northern Ireland, users in the Republic of Ireland won’t normally be able to watch anything. You could always connect to a VPN server in a supported country (such as England) to continue streaming your favorite shows while on vacation, though.

Should I use an Irish VPN if I live in Ireland?

Using an Irish VPN while living in Ireland can provide several benefits, even though it might not be necessary for accessing geo-restricted content. A VPN can enhance online security and privacy by encrypting your internet traffic, preventing hackers, network administrators, and even your ISP from spying on your activities. Additionally, a VPN can help bypass any local firewalls or website restrictions imposed by workplaces or education establishments.

Can I use a proxy in Ireland instead of a VPN?

Yes, you can use a proxy rather than a VPN to access the internet in Ireland. A proxy is an intermediary server that acts as both a client and server for requests from clients seeking resources from other servers. The proxy will store its cache of webpages and then forward them to the user without seeing any webpage content itself.

This sounds secure enough on paper, but in reality, it’s not really all that safe. Using a single point of entry leaves you vulnerable to data leakage or interception by third parties who may have access to your information through this shared node. Additionally, many proxies don’t encrypt connections at all, whereas, with a VPN connection, your data is always secure because it’s encrypted before transmission over the internet.