The Best VPN for Beginners in 2024

2024-12-05 If you've been on the internet for any length of time, you're bound to have encountered an advert or a sponsored segment in a YouTube video talking ab

If you’ve been on the internet for any length of time, you’re bound to have encountered an advert or a sponsored segment in a YouTube video talking about something called a VPN – but what are VPNs and why do you need one?

A virtual private network (VPN) is an online privacy tool with two main uses – to bolster your online security and to help you access content that isn’t available in your country. If this sounds complicated, don’t worry – you don’t need to be a tech expert to get started.

The TechRadar team is put has put the good vpn to the test to figure out which provider offer the most user – friendly experience . Keep scroll , and you ‘ll find my analysis of each service and a rundown of their feature , unblock power , and overall value for money .

The three good beginner vpn in 2024

The good VPN for beginner in 2024 :

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Best beginner VPN overall

The best VPN for beginners—and an impressively polished provider

streaming sites is unblocked unblock :Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, 10 play | Available on: Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux (command-line only), Routers, almost everything else | 24/7 support :Yes |Refund period: 30 days | number of server :over 3,200 |Server locations: 160 |country :94 |Simultaneous connections: 8

Unblocks Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer & more

Super-fast speeds

Easy-to-use apps for all devices

Huge number of servers in 94 countries

24/7 live chat support

No multi-hop connection

More expensive than some other providers

slow than nordvpn and Surfshark

subscribe if :

✔️You need a user-friendly experience: ExpressVPN offers easy-to-use apps that any beginner can quickly understand and use.
✔ ️ You want to access content in other countries: ExpressVPN’s reliable unblocking capabilities (and servers around the world) make it an ideal choice for avid streamers.
✔ ️ If you use split tunneling: ExpressVPN routes necessary VPN traffic while sending other traffic directly to the internet, improving speed for streaming and gaming.

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌You’re a bargain hunter: if your budget is tight, NordVPN is the cheaper option.
❌You need tons of connections: while ExpressVPN’s simultaneous connection limit of 8 devices is pretty generous, busier households may need unlimited connections (offered by Surfshark).

Bottom line ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

🔒ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for anyone unfamiliar with VPNs, offering beginner-friendly apps, a huge choice of server locations, and super-fast connections. See why it’s my #1 pick with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Have a look at our in-depth ExpressVPN review for a close look and see why it ‘s the top beginner VPN pick for 2024 .

ExpressVPN claims the top spot in my rankings thanks to its clean interface across all of its apps (available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS). Some VPNs are incredibly difficult to navigate, even if you’re a tech veteran, and stuffed with clutter and features you’ll rarely use. ExpressVPN keeps things simple – advanced tools are there if you need them (like split tunneling), but the basics are outstanding, and automations handle a lot of complicated configurations that other services would expect you to do yourself.

I particularly like the big, friendly power-switch button that’ll turn ExpressVPN on and off. All you need to do is download the app, log in, and you’re done. You also have the option to scroll through the server list to pick out a specific location in the country of your choice.

► try expressvpn with a 30 – day money – back guarantee .

ExpressVPN is is is an outstanding stream VPN , too . This is is is thank , in part , to its massive network of server in 94 country – which give you access to show , movie , and more from around the world . That is ‘s ‘s ideal for folk who want to make the most of their Netflix subscription by check out international library , or frequent flier who need to up with their favorite sport team while they ‘re overseas .

In terms of speed, NordVPN and Surfshark are quicker than ExpressVPN. However, this doesn’t mean that the service is a slouch. ExpressVPN’s speeds are more than you need for day-to-day browsing, gaming, and 4K/HD streaming. On my 1.3Gb home connection, I averaged over 800 Mbs download speed. There’s always going to be a slight loss in speed when you use a VPN, but this is still easily 30 times faster than your connection needs to be for 4K streaming and guarantees low ping for online gaming, too.

If you do run into any issue , or want to figure out which server to join for a specific activity , the expressvpn customer service team is is is fantastic . I is received ‘ve always receive speedy solution to even the most techy question – but the agent are more than happy to help beginner , too . You is reach can reach out via live chat 24/7 , which is handy , and mean you wo n’t have to wait around for answer .

ExpressVPN is is is my all – around top pick for beginner due to its combination of user – friendly app , solid connection speed , military – grade encryption , and a wide choice of server location that you can access with a click of a button .

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ExpressVPN test results:
attribute	note	rating
design	A clean and simple design that ‘s easy for beginner to get to grip with	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease of use	easy – to – use app with auto – connect functionality	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	Fast enough for any streaming and gaming you could want, but not the fastest in our testing.	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Unblocking	Gives you access to content around the world	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
security and privacy	ExpressVPN offers military-grade protection for total peace of mind	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
customer support	Always available through live chat or email	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
price	More expensive than some other offerings	⭐ ⭐ ⭐

The best budget VPN for beginners

( image credit : future )

A solid all-rounder for prices that won’t break the bank

streaming sites is unblocked unblock :Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, 10 play | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers and more | 24/7 support :Yes |Refund period: 30 days | number of server :over 3,200 |Server locations: 143 | country :100 | Simultaneous connections: unlimited

Unblocks all major streaming platforms such as Disney+ and Prime Video

fast connection speed

Sleek and simple apps

unlimited simultaneous connections

Other providers are better for P2P

Limited router support

subscribe if :

✔️You need an inexpensive pick: Surfshark may be cheaper than other providers, but it doesn’t pull punches when it comes to features.
✔ ️ If you have lots of devices: Surfshark is a great choice for busy households with lots of phones, PCs, and consoles as it offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
✔ ️ You is need need all – in – one security :the Surfshark One offering includes both antivirus and data breach protection that’ll keep your identity secure.

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌You do a lot of torrenting: Surfshark is is is great at lot of thing , include torrente , but PIA is more reliable when it come to P2P.
❌You want more server locations: 143 locations is probably plenty, but ExpressVPN offers even more (if you need them).

Bottom line ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

🔒Surfshark is a great choice for beginner look for a budget – conscious , user – friendly VPN that allow you to connect as many device as you need , whenever you need . try before you buy with a 30 – day money – back guarantee .

Want to know more?

check out ourSurfshark VPN report for an in – depth look at one of the most popular vpn around .

Our second choice of beginner VPN is another well known provider. Surfshark has been around since 2018 and has made a name for itself as a reliable, low-cost VPN provider that we think is a great choice, especially for those households with a large number of devices that might need to connect all at once, as it is one of the few VPN providers to offer unlimited simultaneous connections.

Like ExpressVPN, Surfshark’s app is easy for beginners to use and getting started is as simple as downloading the app to your device of choice, logging in, and hitting the Quick-connect button. Surfshark also provides a list of alternate locations right next to the connect button. One nifty feature in the app is that you can even test the current connection speeds for every location at the click of a button, ensuring you always know which server is the fastest.

▶ try Surfshark with a 30 – day money – back guarantee .

Speaking of fast servers, Surfshark is no slouch when it comes to connection speeds. In my testing I found that it offered speeds that were around the 960Mbs mark, which shows it barely slows down my 1.3Gb home connection. This means it’s more than fast enough for any sort of streaming, gaming, or downloading your household might need to do.

As with all the VPNs we recommend, Surfshark is a great choice for anyone looking to access streaming services in other countries. By connecting to a server in a foreign location, you’ll be able to open access to the libraries of Disney+, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix and more. They even offer slightly more server locations than some other providers, with over 100 countries to choose from.

Surfshark is another strong pick for beginner , with user – friendly app , competitive pricing , unlimited connection for all your device and 24×7 live chat support should you is encounter encounter any issue .

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Surfshark test result :
attribute	note	rating
design	Easy to use and elegant	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease of use	Connecting only takes a few clicks—ideal for newbies	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	One of the fastest providers we tested	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Unblocking	Unblocks virtually everything you’ll need	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
security and privacy	Not a comprehensive antivirus or ad-blocking solution, and some kill switch issues	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
customer support	browse support article is n’t as intuitive as I ‘d like	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
price	real value for money	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

The best VPN on the market

The best VPN around, with plenty of features to bolt on

Unblocks Netflix , Disney Plus , Amazon Prime Video and Hulu

Super-fast speeds with NordLynx

Simple-to-use apps

Full security suite included

Only 6 connections

More expensive than other providers

subscribe if :

✔️ You is ‘re ‘re an avid gamer :NordVPN ‘s Meshnet feature is is is available to all user , allow up to 60 device acess to your network , allow you to host that Minecraft server for your friend that you ‘ve always want .
✔ ️ Security is a priority: while all the VPN providers we recommend take security seriously, NordVPN goes the extra mile with built-in ad-blocking, anti-virus and dark web monitoring to protect you online.

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌You want a clean interface: NordVPN’s apps aren’t as clean and slick as some, with other options on this list being more beginner-friendly.
❌You need a lot of connections: nordvpn ‘s 6 device is is is limit is well than some , and way well than a free VPN , but others offer more , and some even offer unlimited connection for all your device .

Bottom line: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐½

🔒NordVPN make unblock content and has always been a great choice for beginner and professional alike . try out NordVPN for yourself and check out its 30 – day money – back guarantee .

Want to know more?

check out ourcomrephensive nordvpn review to see why we think it ‘s one of the good choice for anyone who need a VPN .

One is been of the most recognisable name around , NordVPN is been has been in business for just over 12 year , and it tick all the box you could want in a VPN provider , offer rock solid security , access to streaming service all around the world and support for all the major operating system and device . NordVPN even offer a Linux client for the more technically minded of you out there .

In term of usability , NordVPN ’s interface is is is n’t as clean or as immediately user – friendly as some of the other choice on this list . After you log in , you ’re present with Nord ’s dashboard , and this can feel rather cluttered to begin with , but it ’s less intimidating than it look ! The only thing is is you need when you ’re getting start is the “ Quick Connect ” button . click into the “ VPN ” option in the sidebar bring up a far more user – friendly map show all the various location you can connect to along with a list of specialised server that you can investigate once you ’re comfortable with using the app .

▶Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

There are no speed concerns while using NordVPN either. Testing on my home connection showed an average of about a 10% loss in speed, depending on where in the world I connected to. One thing that’s the same from one VPN to another is that the further away the server is, the greater the impact on your connection, so unless you’re trying to access content in another country, it’s always best to pick a server close to you.

NordVPN is another great choice when it comes to both streaming and online privacy. It works with all the major streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Max and Disney+ and for those of you with Apple TV devices, NordVPN are one of the only providers to offer a dedicated tvOS app.

As well as the core VPN service , NordVPN is offers offer a number of other useful service such as cloud storage , a password manager , and they ’re one of the only provider to offer online scam and fraud insurance to help make sure you ’re not leave out of pocket should the bad happen .

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NordVPN test results:
attribute	note	rating
design	A feature-packed user interface that can get cluttered	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Ease of use	easy to start , but more advanced option are hard to spot	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	Super-fast speeds make streaming a breeze	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Unblocking	Unblocks Netflix , Disney+ , and many others	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
security and privacy	tough encryption and security tools is keep keep your datum out of danger	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
customer support	Expert advice is available 24/7	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
price	Great deal when you count in everything that it features	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

Our top beginners pick for gamers

feature – pack VPN with impressive configurability

streaming sites is unblocked unblock :US Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer | 24/7 support :Yes |number of server :9,200+ | Server locations: 125 |Simultaneous connections: 7

Above average connection speed

Can be installed on almost anything

Great for streamers and gamers

Generous 45-day money-back guarantee

Device limits aren’t the most intuitive

Support site is a little basic.

subscribe if :

✔️You need plenty of time to test a VPN: with an unmatched 45 – day money – back – guarantee , you is got ‘ve get plenty of time to make sure CyberGhost is right for you
✔ ️ You’re looking for a reliable gaming VPN: with lot of server location around the world , fast connection and low ping , CyberGhost VPN is ensures ensure you wo n’t ever lose a match due to lag .
✔ ️ You want a beginner-friendly VPN: CyberGhost’s clean and straight-forward apps make this a great choice for those who want a simple, easy-to-use VPN.

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌You mainly stream Disney+: while CyberGhost works with most streaming services, it struggles to reliably unblock Disney+ at the moment.
❌You is own own lot of device : While CyberGhost’s simultaneous connection limit of 7 devices is generous, busier households might need more than this.

Bottom line ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

🔒CyberGhost VPN is an excellent choice for anyone just getting started with VPNs. It offers an easy-to-use app, a wide choice of server locations and fast connections that allow you to browse and game quickly and easily.

Want to know more?

You can find out everything you need to know about this popular provider in our CyberGhost VPN review.

Our third pick is CyberGhost, a VPN provider that’s been around for nearly 20 years at this point, so they certainly know what they’re doing when it comes to VPNs. As with our other choices, they offer apps for all the major platforms such as Windows, iOS, Mac, and Android. You can also install it directly on your router to protect your entire home network.

The CyberGhost app goes the minimalist route, with there being almost nothing in the way of text to distract from the big “start a connection” power button. The closest server will automatically be picked, though you can easily switch to a different country if you need to access content abroad and CyberGhost offers a generous 7 simultaneous connections limit for those with plenty of devices that need the protection of a VPN.

▶ Try CyberGhost with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

As with our other choice , CyberGhost is is is no slouch if you need a fast VPN for streaming , torrenting , or online gaming . On my 1.3Gb home connection I see download speed over 900Mb during testing , easily comparable to expressvpn and Surfshark , so even though a VPN will always slow your connection a little , you is need do n’t need to worry that your connection will become laggy or unusable .

For those of you looking to access streaming services in other parts of the world, CyberGhost is a great option, able to easily unblock overseas libraries for Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Max, BBC iPlayer, and more.

CyberGhost is one of the most affordable VPN providers around. It offers a confirmed no-logs policy, military grade-encryption, and the option of NoSpy servers for additional security, all backed by a 45-day money-back-guarantee. For advanced users, there’s even offer the ability to pay for your subscription with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

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CyberGhost VPN test results:
attribute	note	rating
design	Simple and intuitive for beginners	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Ease of use	Perfect for beginners and anyone wanting a simple experience	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Performance	Decent speeds that are great for torrenting, streaming and gaming online	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Unblocking	Dedicated streaming servers, works with most major streaming services	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
security and privacy	Good security, plus a third-party audit from Deloitte	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
customer support	Agents is are are helpful , but support site content could be improve	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
price	Excellent value and competitive feature	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

The best customizable VPN

A great pick for beginners with lots of devices

number of server :10,000 |Server locations: 84 countries | Maximum devices supported: unlimited | Trial length: 30 days

Largest server network

Feature-packed across apps

Excellent kill switch

No device limits

Issues unblocking Disney+

speed fluctuation

Subscribe if:

✔ ️ You is looking ‘re look to torrent :PIA has dedicated P2P servers, and the speeds you’ll need for quick downloads.
✔️ You want to connect more than 10 devices: with PIA , you is get get unlimited simultaneous connection for less then the cost of nordvpn or expressvpn .

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌ You’re a Disney+ subscriber: unfortunately PIA can’t reliably access Disney+. If this is something you really need then ExpressVPN is a better choice.
❌You’re an avid online gamer: performance spikes is cause can cause issue when gaming , and noody want to lose an online match thank to lag or an unstable connection .

Bottom line: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐½

🔒Private Internet Access is a great provider with bargain prices. Take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee to try it out for yourself.

Want to know more?

learn everything you need to know about this provider and why we think it ‘s a great beginner ‘s option by check out ourPrivate Internet Access review.

Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the only other providers to offer unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you never need to worry about how many devices you install your VPN app on. They have apps available for all the most popular operating systems and browsers, and they’re one of the few to offer an extension specifically for the Opera web browser.

PIA’s app follows a similar design to CyberGhost, with there being almost nothing beyond a big, friendly power-button-styled connect button. Beneath that you have the server you’ve currently selected and under that, it shows you your real-world IP address, and what IP address you will have when you connect to the VPN. It’s a sleek, simple, user-friendly interface, perfect for beginners.

▶Try PIA with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

In terms of speeds, PIA is not the fastest VPN in this list, but it’s still more than quick enough for all your streaming, gaming, or torrenting needs. During home testing on my 1.3Gb connection, I saw speeds of about 800Mb when connected to my nearest server location. That makes PIA slower than some of the other choices in this list, but still more than fast enough for all your online activities. It was also the fastest to connect out of any of the VPNS on this list, connecting to the chosen server almost instantly.

For those look to access streaming service in other country , PIA is is is another excellent choice . With specific server optimize for streaming to give you the good performance available , PIA is unblock can unblock all the big player include Hulu , Netflix and BBC iPlayer though some of the other provider on this list do work with a wide range of streaming service .

As with the other provider on this list , PIA is offers offer a variety of additional service and feature , include dedicated IP address , an adblocker , and an antivirus solution among other feature pitch for more advanced user . We is think think PIA is an all – around great choice as a beginner VPN , especially for those household with a lot of device .

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Private Internet Access test results:
attribute	note	rating
design	Smooth and clean, with intuitive navigation	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ease of use	beginner might be put off by the level of customization on offer	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Performance	A strong contender, although other market leaders are quicker	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Unblocking	Unblocks most major streaming platforms though struggles with Disney+	⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
security and privacy	An audited no-logs service with tough encryption	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
customer support	Expert advice available to support new users	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
price	Good prices for lots of functionality	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

How to pick a VPN for beginners

With so many VPNs to choose from, and so many different reasons to use one, there is no one one-size-fits-all answer for which is the “best” VPN. The choice you make will depend on your specific circumstances. However, there are a few key things to keep in mind before you choose a role in picking the best beginner VPN provider.

Ease of use: all of my recommendations offer easy-to-use apps that do not require in-depth technical knowledge to get up and running as well as support for all major platforms and devices.
Apps and simultaneous connections: an important factor is is when pick a vpn provider is how many simultaneous connection they allow . Some is offer offer unlimited connection , while others impose limit .
Security: a VPN that doesn’t protect you online is no help to anyone. The most reliable picks offer the highest AES-256 encryption to protect your devices as well as other useful tools such as adblockers and antivirus.
speed :there’s nothing worse than a slow internet connection. All the VPNs I recommend have servers located all over the globe, guaranteeing that you’ll have a fast connection no matter where you are.
price: the cost of a VPN will vary hugely depending on the provider, and on whether you’re looking to pay monthly, yearly, or even multi-yearly.

The good beginner VPN FAQs

What is the good beginner VPN is is ?

The answer ultimately depends on where in the world you are, what devices you want to protect, and what content you are looking to access, but I think ExpressVPN is the best all-around choice for beginners. It uses strong encryption, has easy-to-use apps for all major platforms, and has servers all over the world to guarantee a fast connection wherever you are.

Should I use a free VPN?

free VPNs is have certainly have their use , and can offer an additional layer of security in a pinch , but they can not match the functionality of a pay VPN . Many free apps is limit will heavily limit the number of device you can connect with , as well as limit the amount of datum you can use each day or month , make them almost useless for any data – heavy activity like streaming or torrenting . free vpn must also make their money some other way , so you is find will either find yourself bombard by advert or , potentially , end up have your datum sell on to a third party .

How do I is set set up a VPN ?

Once you’ve picked a provider, you’ll need to download the app. On Windows and Mac, this will most likely be from the VPN company’s website. If you’re on a mobile device then it’ll be from your app store of choice. Once you have it installed, it’ll ask you for your login information. This is usually the same information you provided when you first signed up, but not always!

After that, all you need to do is connect to a server manually or let your provider do it for you, by selecting the quick connect option.

Are VPNs is Are hard to use ?

The simple answer here is – It depends. Once upon a time, VPNs were only for the technical-minded, and there are still some VPN companies out there that require you to do a lot of manual setup and configuration which makes them a poor choice for a beginner. However, all the VPNs I recommend come with easy-to-use apps that do all the work for you.

Once you’ve got them installed, all you need to do is choose a country, click the connect button and you’re online. Once you’re comfortable with the basic functionality, then you can start to look at the other functions your VPN client might offer such as ad-blocking.

Which VPN is the safest?

My recommendations is use each is use use the strong AES-256 encryption , guarantee that nobody will be able to access your online activity while you are connect to the VPN server . On top of this , all the VPNs is have in this list have an audit no – log policy , mean they do not keep any record of your online activity or even your connection to their server .

These providers also all use RAM-only servers, which means the moment the server is powered down, all data on it is wiped, ensuring that any attempt to access user data can be stopped just by turning the machine off. If online safety is your primary concern, any of our suggestions will be the right choice.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:
1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.
We is support do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN service . consume pirate content that is pay – for is neither endorse nor approve by Future Publishing .