Tired of OpenVPN’s slow speeds and clunky interface? You’re not alone!
Many users find OpenVPN a bit dated. Luckily, many faster, more secure, and user-friendly VPNs are available.
In this post, we’ll explore the top 15 OpenVPN alternatives that can boost your online security and privacy without sacrificing speed.
Whether you’re a casual browser or a hardcore streamer, we’ve got you covered.
What is the Best OpenVPN Alternative?
It’s time to ditch the old and embrace the new. We’ve tested many VPNs to find the fastest, most secure, and most straightforward.
Ready to see which ones came out on top? Let’s dive into our list of the 15 best OpenVPN alternatives!
1. ExpressVPN
Ever heard of ExpressVPN? It’s super popular and known for being reliable and fast.
They have servers in many countries, so you can easily watch your favorite shows no matter where you are.
Plus, they’re great for security and privacy.
Unlock its potential with our ExpressVPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs ExpressVPN comparison!
Our Take
ExpressVPN is popular because it’s fast, reliable, and secure. It’s a great all-around VPN, but it’s a little expensive compared to some others.
Key Benefits
- Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading.
- Huge server network: Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries.
- Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and has a kill switch.
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free.
Pricing
- 2 years + 4 Months Free: $4.99/month.
- 12 Months + 3 Months Free: $6.67/month
- 1 Month: $12.95/month.
Pros
Cons
2. NordVPN
Ever heard of NordVPN? It’s a super popular VPN, and for good reason.
They’ve been around for a while and have a solid reputation.
NordVPN is known for its strong security and massive network of servers.
It’s an excellent all-arounder, perfect for beginners and experienced users alike.
Unlock its potential with our NordVPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs NordVPN comparison!
Our Take
Ready for a faster, more secure online experience? NordVPN offers blazing speeds, robust security features, and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. Try NordVPN today!
Key Benefits
- Massive server network: Boasts over 5,500 servers in 60 countries.
- Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and a variety of security protocols.
- Specialty servers: Offers dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and extra security.
- Strict no-logs policy: They don’t track your online activity.
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Plenty of time to try it risk-free.
Pricing
- Basic: $3.39/month – 1GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
- Plus: $4.39/month – 5GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
- Complete: $5.39/month – 10GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
Pros
Cons
3. Proton VPN
If privacy is your top priority, check out Proton VPN. It is based in Switzerland, which has strong privacy laws.
Proton VPN is known for its focus on security and even has a free version!
This makes it a great option to try a VPN before committing to a paid plan.
Unlock its potential with our Proton VPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs Proton VPN comparison!
Our Take
Proton VPN is popular because it’s a solid choice for privacy-focused users. The free version is a great perk, and the paid plans offer good value. However, it may not be the fastest VPN and is not ideal for streaming.
Key Benefits
- Strong focus on privacy: Based in Switzerland with a strict no-logs policy.
- Secure core servers: Adds an extra layer of protection.
- Free version available: Try it out before you buy.
- Open-source apps: Transparency and community-driven development.
Pricing
- 1-month plan: €9.99/month
- 1-year plan: €4.49/month
- 2-year plan: €4.99/month
Pros
Cons
4. Aura VPN
Aura VPN is a newer VPN that is quickly becoming popular.
It’s part of the Aura digital security suite, so you get antivirus and other security features along with the VPN.
This makes it a good option if you’re looking for an all-in-one security solution.
Unlock its potential with our Aura VPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs Aura VPN comparison!
Our Take
Aura VPN is popular because it offers a comprehensive security solution at a reasonable price. It’s a good choice for those who want more than just a VPN. However, it’s a newer provider with a smaller server network.
Key Benefits
- Part of a comprehensive security suite: Includes antivirus, malware protection, and more.
- Good speeds: Suitable for streaming and downloading.
- Growing server network: Expanding to more locations.
- User-friendly interface: Easy to set up and use.
Pricing
- Individual: $10/month
- Couple: $18/month
- Family: $29/month
Pros
Cons
5. Surfshark
Want a VPN that doesn’t break the bank? Surfshark VPN is a great option!
This one is known for its low price and unlimited simultaneous connections.
This means you can use it on all your devices simultaneously.
That’s pretty cool. It also has some powerful security features to keep you safe online.
Unlock its potential with our SurfsharkVPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs SurfsharkVPN comparison!
Our Take
Surfshark VPN is popular because it offers an outstanding balance of features, security, and price. It’s a fantastic choice for budget-conscious users or those who need to connect multiple devices. However, its speeds can be inconsistent and might not be the best choice for accessing geo-restricted content.
Key Benefits
- Unlimited simultaneous connections: Connect all your devices!
- Affordable price: Great value for your money.
- Strong security features: Includes AES-256 encryption and a kill switch.
- Fast speeds: Good for streaming and downloading.
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Plenty of time to try it out.
Pricing
- Surfshark Starter: $2.19/month + 3 Extra months
- Surfshark One: $2.69/month + 3 Extra months.
- Surfshark One+: $4.29/month + 3 Extra months.
Pros
Cons
6. PureVPN
PureVPN is another veteran in the VPN industry.
It has an extensive server network & offers a wide range of features.
The company has also been working hard to improve its reputation and has implemented a no-logs policy.
Unlock its potential with our PureVPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs PureVPN comparison!
Our Take
PureVPN is known for its many features and extensive server network. Its privacy policy has improved, but its speeds can be inconsistent, and its customer support has mixed reviews.
Key Benefits
- Extensive server network: Over 6,500 servers in 78 countries.
- Wide range of features: Includes split tunneling, port forwarding, and dedicated IPs.
- No-logs policy: Audited by independent firms.
- 31-day money-back guarantee: Gives you a little extra time to decide.
Pricing
- Standard: $2.16/month.
- Plus: $2.66/month.
- Max: $3.33/month.
Pros
Cons
7. Mysterium VPN
Mysterium VPN is different from other VPNs.
It’s a decentralized VPN that uses blockchain technology.
This means your traffic is routed through a network of users rather than a central server, which can provide increased privacy and security.
Unlock its potential with our Mysterium tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs Mysterium comparison!
Our Take
Mysterium VPN is popular because its decentralized network offers a unique approach to VPN technology. It’s a good option for privacy-conscious users, but it can be more complex and vary speeds.
Key Benefits
- Decentralized network: Increased privacy and security.
- No-logs policy: Doesn’t store your data.
- Open-source: Transparent and community-driven.
- Pay-as-you-go pricing: Only pay for what you use.
Pricing
- 2-Year Plan: $3.19/mo.
- 1-Year Plan: $5.14/mo.
- 6-Month Plan: $6.85/mo.
- 1-Month Plan: $9.99/mo.
Pros
Cons
8. Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is another privacy-focused VPN known for its strong security and anonymity.
Signing up doesn’t require an email address, making it an excellent option for those serious about protecting their privacy.
Unlock its potential with our Mullvad tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs Mullvad comparison!
Our Take
Mullvad VPN is known because it’s an excellent choice for privacy-conscious users. It’s secure, anonymous, and open-source. However, it can be more challenging and lacks some of the features other VPNs offer.
Key Benefits
- Strong focus on anonymity: No email address is required to sign up.
- Open-source: Transparent and trustworthy.
- Strong security: Uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.
- Accepts Bitcoin: For anonymous payments.
Pricing
- 1 Month: €5 per month..
- 1 Year: €5 per month.
- 1 decade: €5 per month.
Pros
Cons
9. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-established VPN known for its strong security and affordable price.
Its extensive server network offers a good balance of features and performance.
Unlock its potential with our Private Internet Access tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs Private Internet Access comparison!
Our Take
Private Internet Access is popular because it offers a good balance of security, features, and price. It’s a solid choice for general VPN use but can be slow and isn’t the best for streaming.
Key Benefits
- Extensive server network: Over 35,912 servers in 84 countries.
- Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and has a kill switch.
- Affordable price: Offers competitive plans.
- Ten simultaneous connections: Protect all your devices.
Pricing
- 2 Years + 2 Months Free: $2.19/month.
- 6 Months: $7.50/month.
Pros
Cons
10. Avast VPN
Avast VPN is a very good option if you know Avast antivirus products.
It’s a simple, easy-to-use VPN that is a good choice for basic VPN needs but doesn’t have as many features as other VPNs.
Unlock its potential with our Avast VPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs Avast VPN comparison!
Our Take
Avast VPN is known for its simple, easy-to-use VPN that meets basic needs. However, it lacks advanced features and has a smaller server network.
Key Benefits
- Simple and easy to use: Good for beginners.
- Decent speeds: Suitable for browsing and streaming.
- Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption.
- Reputable brand: From a well-known security company.
Pricing
- Basic: It’s free.
- Silver: $2.99/month.
- Gold: $6.99/month.
Pros
Cons
11. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN is a popular VPN known for its extensive server network and user-friendly interface.
It’s a good option for streaming and torrenting but can be expensive.
Unlock its potential with our CyberGhost tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs CyberGhost comparison!
Our Take
CyberGhost VPN is popular because it has an extensive server network and is suitable for streaming. However, it can be expensive, and there have been some privacy concerns.
Key Benefits
- Large server network: Over 9,700 servers in 91 countries.
- User-friendly interface: Easy to use, even for beginners.
- Good for streaming: Unblocks many popular streaming services.
- Dedicated servers for torrenting: Optimized for P2P traffic.
Pricing
- 2 Years + 2 Months Plan: $2.19/month
- 6-month Plan: $6.99/month
- 1 Month Plan: $12.99/month
Pros
Cons
12. Norton VPN
Norton Secure VPN is another VPN from a well-known security company.
It’s a decent option for basic security and privacy, but it’s not the best for streaming or torrenting.
Unlock its potential with our Norton VPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs Norton VPN comparison!
Our Take
Norton Secure VPN is popular because it’s a decent VPN from a trusted brand. However, it lacks features and isn’t the best performer.
Key Benefits
- Reputable brand: From a trusted security company.
- Suitable security: Uses AES-256 encryption.
- No-logs policy: Doesn’t track your activity.
- Easy to use: Simple interface.
Pricing
- Standard (VPN): $39.99/month, Protect up to 5 devices.
- Plus (VPN with security): $49.99/month, Protect up to 5 devices.
- Ultimate (VPN, security, family safety): $59.99/month, Protect up to 10 devices.
Pros
Cons
13. Bitdefender VPN
Bitdefender VPN is a simple and lightweight VPN that’s included with Bitdefender’s antivirus software.
It’s a good option for basic security and privacy, but it’s not the most feature-rich VPN on this list.
Unlock its potential with our Bitdefender tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs Bitdefender comparison!
Our Take
Bitdefender VPN is popular because it’s a decent VPN that comes with Bitdefender antivirus. However, it has limited features and a small server network.
Key Benefits
- Lightweight and easy to use: It doesn’t slow down your device.
- Suitable security: Uses AES-256 encryption.
- Included with Bitdefender antivirus: Good value if you already use Bitdefender.
- No-logs policy: Doesn’t track your activity.
Pricing
- 1 Year Plan: $2.92/for the first year.
- 1 Month Plan: $6.99/for the first year.
Pros
Cons
14. TorGuard
Ever heard of TorGuard? They’re like the security experts of the VPN world. Really focus on privacy.
They even offer some cool extra features like stealth VPN to bypass censorship.
Plus, they have a dedicated streaming bundle for those who love to binge-watch.
Unlock its potential with our TorGuard tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs TorGuard comparison!
Our Take
TorGuard gets a solid 8 because of its strong focus on security and privacy. The large server network is a big plus. However, it can be a bit expensive, and the apps aren’t as intuitive as some of the other VPNs on this list.
Key Benefits
- Strong encryption: Uses AES-256 encryption, the gold standard for security.
- Strict no-logs policy: They don’t keep any records of your online activity.
- Large server network: Over 3,000 servers in 50+ countries.
- Unlimited bandwidth: Stream and download as much as you want.
- 7-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free.
Pricing
- Anonymous Email: $3.29/month
- Anonymous VPN: $10.99/month
- Pro VPN: $14.29/month
- Business VPN: $32.99/month
Pros
Cons
15. VyprVPN
VyprVPN owns and operates its own servers, which is great for privacy.
They have strong security features and a no-logs policy. They’re a bit more expensive, but they offer a good service.
And they offer static IP addresses for an extra fee.
Unlock its potential with our VyprVPN tutorial.
Also, explore our McAfee VPN vs VyprVPN comparison!
Our Take
VyprVPN is a solid choice. It scores high on security and privacy. However, it’s a bit expensive compared to some competitors. The speeds are good but not the best. Overall, it is a reliable option, especially if you need a VPN for China.
Key Benefits
- Proprietary Chameleon protocol: bypass VPN blocking.
- Independently audited: Ensures your privacy.
- 700+ servers in 70+ locations: Plenty of choices.
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free.
Pricing
VyprVPN has a simple pricing structure:
- 24 Months Plan: $3.00/month
- 12 Months Plan: $5.00/month
- 1 Month Plan: $10.00/month
Pros
Cons
Buyers Guide
We examined various factors to find the best OpenVPN alternatives for secure remote access.
Here’s how we conducted our research:
- Feature Comparison: We compared each VPN’s features, looking for essential elements like strong encryption, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and a wide range of server locations. We also looked for advanced features like split tunneling, obfuscation, and dedicated IP addresses that enhance secure access.
- Speed Testing: We conducted speed tests to see how each VPN performed in real-world usage. We considered download and upload speeds, as well as latency. We tested speeds on different servers in various locations to get a comprehensive picture of performance, especially for those needing remote access.
- Security Assessment: We evaluated each VPN’s security protocols and encryption standards to ensure robust protection for secure network and internet access. We looked for support for OpenVPN, WireGuard, and other secure protocols essential for any traditional VPN service provider.
- Privacy Evaluation: We examined each VPN’s privacy policies, paying close attention to their logging practices and data retention policies. We looked for VPNs with strict no-logs policies that have been independently audited. This is crucial for maintaining secure user access and overall network security.
- Usability Testing: We tested the user interface and overall ease of use of each VPN app across different devices. We considered factors like app design, installation process, and connection stability. This is important for users transitioning from traditional network access boxes to a VPN solution.
- Pricing Analysis: We compared the pricing plans and value for money each VPN provider offers. We looked at monthly and yearly subscription costs and any discounts or free trials.
- Customer Support Review: We looked at the customer support options available, including live chat, email support, and knowledge bases. We also considered the responsiveness and helpfulness of the support teams.
- Reputation Check: We researched the reputation of each VPN provider, looking for reviews, user feedback, and independent audits. We considered factors like company history, transparency, and security track record. This is important for building trust network access and ensuring a reliable service.
By carefully considering these factors, we identified the top OpenVPN alternatives that offer the best security, privacy, speed, and usability for various use cases.
Including secure networking and bypassing restrictions with innovative DNS proxy services.
Wrapping Up
That’s a wrap on our exploration of the top OpenVPN alternatives!
We’ve covered a lot of ground, from secure VPN connections and access management to the importance of business network security.
Choosing the right VPN can significantly enhance your online security and privacy.
This is especially true given the rise of secure access service edge (SASE) and the need for safe cloud solutions.
You can find the perfect VPN by considering speed, security features, privacy policies, and ease of use.
And don’t forget the importance of leveraging secure DNS protocols for an extra layer of protection.
We’ve done the heavy lifting with our in-depth research and analysis, so you can confidently choose a VPN from our list and enjoy a safer, more private online experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is secure network access so important these days?
With the rise of remote work and online threats, secure network access is crucial for protecting sensitive data and maintaining privacy. VPNs and other security measures help ensure only authorized users can access your network.
How can I ensure secure internet access on public Wi-Fi?
Public Wi-Fi is often unsecured, making you vulnerable to hackers. Using a VPN creates a secure internet access point by encrypting your connection and masking your IP address.
What are smart DNS proxy services, and how do they differ from VPNs?
Smart DNS proxy services primarily focus on bypassing geo-restrictions for streaming content. They don’t encrypt your entire connection like VPNs, offering less security but potentially faster speeds for streaming.
How does a VPN leverage secure DNS protocols to enhance my online security?
VPNs that leverage secure DNS protocols prevent DNS leaks, which can expose your browsing history and online activity even when using a VPN. This adds an extra layer of privacy and security.
What is secure access cloud, and why is it important?
Secure access cloud refers to secure access solutions delivered through the cloud. This allows for flexible, scalable, and reliable access to company resources from anywhere, while maintaining strong security measures.
