The best* VPN for Linux: Download NordVPN for more online privacy

  • Keep your Linux security up to speed.

  • Enjoy an intuitive NordVPN GUI app.

  • Easily install on Ubuntu 20.04+, Debian 11+, Fedora 32+, Linux Mint 21+, and Raspberry Pi OS.

  • We offer an open-source Linux VPN option.

30-day money-back guarantee
A search bar in the NordVPN app with a list of Linux VPN country servers.

*Information related to “Best VPN” is supported by multiple sources (unless specific ones are mentioned), including, but not limited to, editorially independent evaluations and insights, as well as statements from media articles, some of which were published through paid partnerships.

What is a VPN for Linux?

A virtual private network, or VPN, for Linux is a sophisticated cybersecurity tool that encrypts internet traffic and hides IP addresses from prying eyes. A VPN for Linux stops others (including your internet service provider, or ISP) from monitoring the internet connections of Linux users, ensuring safer internet access and helping them defeat online censorship measures.

How to set up a VPN app on Linux

Whether you use Ubuntu, Debian, Mint, or an RPM-based system, setting up NordVPN on Linux is pretty simple. Follow the instructions below to get started.

NordVPN’s subscription plans for Linux.
1. Get a NordVPN subscription

Choose a VPN subscription that’s perfect for your needs.

A NordVPN app’s browser extension logo next to a download icon.
2. Install the NordVPN app

Download the NordVPN Snap package from the Snap Store or run the following command in your terminal:

sh <(wget -qO - https://downloads.nordcdn.com/apps/linux/install.sh) -p nordvpn-gui
A list of NordVPN’s country servers.
3. Connect to a VPN server

Log in, click “Secure my connection,” and enjoy seamless protection.

Why should you use a VPN with Linux?

Using a VPN on Linux makes your digital life safer, easier, and smoother. You can experience many benefits of using a VPN, but the main ones are:

Privacy online

Changing your IP address, hiding your virtual location, and encrypting your connection allow you to increase your privacy online.

Digital security

A VPN shields you from cyber threats, like man-in-the-middle attacks, third party snoopers, and dangerous Wi-Fi networks.

Open internet

With a VPN, you can avoid censorship and restrictions and enjoy the free and open internet.

Safe data sharing

Share files securely while at home or at work — a VPN encrypts your connection so that no snoopers can see what data you’re transferring.

What makes NordVPN one of the best VPNs for Linux?

Encryption

State-of-the-art encryption algorithms like AES-256 stop snoops from monitoring online activity you perform for their own purposes.

A man and a woman encrypting the internet connection on the man’s device.

IP protection

Change your IP address and browse the web by routing your internet traffic through remote server locations.

A woman checking if her IP address is hidden.

No tracking

We don’t track what platforms you visit or store information about your online activities.

A laptop with a snippet showcasing NordVPN’s no-logs policy.

No data leaks

NordVPN offers IP and DNS leak protection, so you can be sure that your internet traffic stays more private and secure at all times.

An illustration of a DNS leak test alert that notifies the user has suffered a data leak.

One account, 10 devices

Get one subscription to protect your entire family. Or connect NordVPN to your router and protect an unlimited number of devices.

A set of multiple devices that use a VPN router and have NordVPN app on their screens.

24/7 support

If you need help with VPN setup or another problem, visit our Help Center, drop us an email, or go to our website for a live chat with our staff.

An illustration of two chat bubbles that signify NordVPN’s help center’s 24/7 support.

Scam and phishing protection

Enable scam and phishing protection for a safer browsing experience — it helps block intrusive ads and malicious websites.

A laptop that has NordVPN’s scam and phishing protection, along with an adblocker and malware protection.

Money-back guarantee

Not sure if you’ll like NordVPN? Try it risk free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.

A person using their phone to set up a risk-free VPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Easy-to-use Linux VPN software with GUI

You can now manage your Linux privacy with a click. Install the new GUI version for simple protection without the need for commands.

Improved user experience

The new visual interface caters for those who prefer buttons over coding their way into VPN functionalities.

Dual control: GUI and CLI

We’ve added a GUI for convenience, but you can still run your VPN through the command line.

Light and dark modes

You can now switch between light and dark modes — choose your preferred look.

Post-quantum encryption

NordVPN for Linux now comes with post-quantum VPN encryption for future-proof cybersecurity.

A person setting up Linux distros with VPN protection on their laptop.

VPN protection for all major Linux distros

Want a slick, easy-to-use VPN app for your Linux distro? Look no further — NordVPN offers .deb and .rpm packages for Debian-based and RHEL-based Linux systems:

  • Ubuntu 20.04+

  • Debian 11+

  • Fedora 32+

  • Linux Mint 21+

  • Raspberry Pi OS

Free VPN options for Linux

Want to test the VPN waters on Linux before buying a paid plan? You don’t need a credit card to get started. You can try a free VPN first to be sure it’s what you need. Just look for one with solid encryption and reliable performance.

Avoiding a VPN subscription fee might sound tempting, but remember — using a free VPN can put your security and privacy at risk and affect speed, reliability, and service quality. Before you download a free VPN for Linux, consider these factors:

  • Data caps and slow speeds. Free VPNs compared to paid VPNs often limit how much data you can use, so you might run out quickly if you’re downloading or gaming.

  • Privacy and security gaps. Not all free VPNs are built with strong security. Plus, since they’re not making money from subscriptions, some may collect and sell your data to make a profit.

  • Intrusive ads and malware. Many free VPNs show a lot of ads, which can get annoying fast. In some cases, their software might even include hidden trackers or harmful files.

  • Limited locations. Free VPNs tend to have fewer servers, which means less choice and sometimes a weaker or less reliable connection.

Looking for a free VPN?

Existing users can refer friends and get free VPN subscription time — three months!

Try NordVPN for free with 100% money back guarantee

Enjoy a hassle-free online experience with NordVPN

Shield your virtual location, get a new IP, and access the internet without restrictions with a risk-free VPN. If you are not 100% satisfied, tell us within 30 days of the purchase date and get a full refund on the value of your VPN plan.

Frequently asked questions