Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are essential for protecting your privacy and security online. In this article, we will recommend the best VPNs for Raspberry Pi in 2022. We will discuss what a VPN is, how it works, and which ones our team recommends.
The “raspberry pi vpn” is a type of VPN that allows users to connect their devices to a private network. The best raspberry pi vpn’s will keep your data safe and secure, and allow you to access blocked websites.
The Raspberry Pi Foundation, located in the UK, created a line of single-board computers called Raspberry Pi to support the instruction of fundamental computer science in classrooms and underdeveloped nations. A VPN is a crucial online security and privacy tool since these small gadgets’ internet capabilities make them a target for hackers and other online dangers.
Due to its ability to run a Debian-based operating system, the Raspberry Pi is simple to secure using software offered by several Virtual Private Network (VPN) providers.
I’ll concentrate on six trustworthy VPN services in this post that provide native app compatibility for Raspbian, the operating system that comes preinstalled on the Raspberry Pi mini-computer.
VPNs and the Raspberry Pi
These pocket-sized computers have gained popularity outside of the classroom as amateurs use them for a variety of applications including running emulators, robotics, home automation, and more.
The Raspberry Pi is capable of running a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Ubuntu (and other Linux distros), and a number of specialized ones. However, Raspbian, a Linux distribution built on the Debian operating system, is the standard operating system that the Raspberry Pi Foundation offers.
Much as a highway tunnel conceals traffic, a VPN encloses a user’s internet connection in a tunnel of encryption to keep online activities private. By doing this, you protect your online activity from hackers, your Internet service provider (ISP), and even the authorities of your nation.
A VPN is a great tool for increasing your available entertainment alternatives. By giving the impression that you are situated somewhere else in the globe, a VPN enables users to access material that is geographically restricted (such as that available on Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services). By forging your device’s IP address, a VPN does this.
Which VPN Provider Is Best for Raspberry Pi Use?
The six VPNs mentioned below have proved to provide the greatest safety and functionality for Raspberry Pi devices running Raspbian after I conducted research and testing on my favorite VPN services.
Here is a succinct overview for those who are in a rush:
- My top recommendation for Raspberry Pi is NordVPN. Despite being inexpensive, it provides a top-notch service. It moves at incredible rates. The program is strong and simple to use even if it doesn’t have a graphical user interface (GUI).
- This time, the low-cost champion is Surfshark, whose Linux program is simple to use despite without a graphical user interface (GUI). Users of the program may choose between UDP and TCP connections thanks to OpenVPN.
- ExpressVPN: The ExpressVPN Debian program is character-based, but it’s simple to use, offers superior security, and has fast download speeds.
- Raspberry Pi users will value CyberGhost’s robust applications and quick connection times. Despite being character-based, the CyberGhost Linux program for Raspberry Pi offers access to a remarkable worldextensive server network.
- Private Internet Access (PIA): As the only program in our top 5 list with a GUI, PIA’s app makes it simpler for Raspbian and VPN beginners to use. The company has a fair pricing, however its server network might need some improvements.
- PrivateVPN: This company has swiftly established a solid reputation as a trustworthy, content-unblocking VPN that offers excellent VPN security.
Numerous consumers like applications with a graphical user interface (GUI). With only a few mouse or finger touches, a GUI makes it simpler to safeguard your online activity.
Character-based programs need you to remember and enter obscure instructions in order to activate VPN protection, but GUI-based apps can secure your connection with only one click or touch.
When determining which VPN to use, keep this in mind. The only VPN with a GUI is Private Internet Access.
I also took into account the following other essential considerations while ranking the top 6 VPNs for Linux users:
- offers a Linux application compatible with Raspbian
- provides fast connection rates
- strong privacy and security safeguards
- access to geo-restricted material such as Netflix and gaming websites is provided.
- offers quality client service
- provides complete native app support.
Here are the top 6 VPNs for Raspberry Pi in my opinion:
NordVPN offers the greatest VPN security for your Raspberry Pi because to its thorough native app support, first-rate customer service, lightning-fast speeds, and dependable content-unblocking ability.
A command-line-driven program with auto-suggested commands is available from the cost-effective supplier. Because of this, the program is simpler to use than many command-line-driven tools, making it accessible to novice Linux users or VPN users.
NordVPN has native applications for the iOS, Android, Android TV, Windows, Amazon Fire, and macOS (with native M1 Mac compatibility) device platforms in addition to Raspberry Pi support. Other Linux distributions are also supported. Additionally, there are numerous router compatibility options and browser extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.
Users are permitted to connect up to 6 devices at once using a single account, according to the service.
Some of the fastest VPN speeds are provided by NordVPN. You won’t ever have to end your online sessions since there are no data limits or bandwidth restrictions. Government-grade 256-bit AES encryption and a kill button provide excellent security for its connections.
No server logs of any type are kept by NordVPN, guaranteeing that no information about your online activities is accessible to third parties. Bitcoin is a payment alternative that keeps your financial information private.
NordVPN offers access to geo-restricted material in most places, including Netflix and other streaming services, thanks to its extensive worldextensive server network of more than 5,400 servers spread over 60 countries.
Additionally, NordVPN’s server network provides two extra levels of protection and privacy that are unique among VPNs.
The service is first switching to a totally owned and managed server network, keeping third-party operators out of contact with the personal information of clients. Second, no data is ever written to a physical hard disk and all NordVPN servers function entirely from volatile RAM. This makes sure that if a server is restarted, all data is entirely deleted.
Through NordVPN’s 24/7 support chat, email assistance, and searchable help library, 24/7 support is offered.
Pros:
- Native Linux program that is compatible with Raspbian
- round-the-clock assistance
- excellent privacy and security safeguards
- Value-priced
- extensive server network
Cons:
- Linux application lacks a GUI
BEST VPN FOR RASPBERRY PI: NordVPN’s Raspbian-friendly service provides superior security and privacy as well as above-average worldwide server coverage. Amazing download speeds are available from the supplier for a very affordable fee. You are protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The Raspbian version of Surfshark’s service provides quick connections, an uncommon unlimited number of concurrent connections, and a rock-bottom fee.
For first-time VPN customers, the provider’s character-driven interface could be a little intimidating, but Surfshark makes things a little simpler by offering helpful tutorials on their website and built-in help capabilities in the program. Additionally, the service provider provides instructions for manually setting up their VPN on a Raspberry Pi gadget.
Offerings for iOS, Android, other Linux distributions, Windows, macOS (with native M1 compatibility), and Fire TV device platforms are among Surfshark’s other native app support options. There are browser extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox, and you can utilize the provider’s router compatibility to secure your whole network.
Users of Raspberry Pi who run big families, small businesses, or other connected gadgets would like the provider’s unlimited simultaneous connections policy.
In my most recent testing, the provider’s connection speeds were among the quickest, offering more than adequate speed for the majority of online activity. There are no data limits or bandwidth constraints.
The company offers top-notch security safeguards, such as military-grade 256-bit AES encryption and kill switch protection. Surfshark places a great priority on privacy, as seen by its no-logs policy and use of Bitcoin for membership payments.
Thanks to its extensive worldwide server network, which comprises of over 3,200 servers situated in 65 countries, Surfshark has a strong track record of delivering access to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other streaming services. That’s a significant increase from the last time I updated this page, when they only had 800+ servers spread throughout 50+ nations.
Surfshark’s customer assistance is well-represented by its searchable support library, support contact form, and round-the-clock live chat feature.
Pros:
- Offering native Raspbian software
- Budget-priced
- many connections at once
- superior privacy and security safeguards
BEST FOR BUDGET:Surfshark’s service can be yours at a bargain-basement price. The provider’s many connections at once allowance makes the provider an optimal solution for small businesses and large families. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Due to its extensive worldwide server coverage, which makes it possible to access international streaming and other material in many locations across the globe, ExpressVPN takes third position in our comparison.
Despite being character-based, the provider’s native software is simple to use and logical in its instructions. The Raspbian Linux distribution that powers the Raspberry Pi, which is based on Debian, is compatible with the app.
In addition to possibilities for other Linux distributions, Android, Android TV, Chromebooks, iOS, Windows, and macOS device platforms, native app support is also offered for additional well-known device platforms. For the platforms of Chrome, Edge, and Firefox, browser extensions are readily accessible.
On one account, the supplier permits 5 connections at once. Use the router help offered by the provider if you need more.
For all of your online activities, this service offers enough of capacity and A quick bond. No monthly data constraints or bandwidth restrictions are ever placed on your VPN use with ExpressVPN.
These quick connections are protected by 256-bit AES encryption, which is military-grade and keeps you safe online. Your internet connection is cut off by the provider’s kill switch if you lose contact with ExpressVPN’s servers, protecting your online activities from being discovered.
The British Islands-based business also does a good job of protecting your privacy because to its rule against maintaining any form of records of your internet actions. Your payment information is anonymous when you use a Bitcoin payment method.
Thanks to its 3,000+ servers spread across 94 nations, ExpressVPN excels in unblocking geo-restricted material like streaming services, gaming servers, and other applications and services.
None of those servers ever write data to a real hard drive; instead, they all run solely off volatile RAM. Every time an ExpressVPN server reboots, all of its data is completely erased.
If you require help with installing or operating the ExpressVPN app on your Raspberry Pi, you’ll have round-the-clock assistance available. The provider offers 24/7 live chat, email support, a searchable support library and a trouble ticket tracking system.
Pros:
- Linux program available that works with Raspbian
- Unblocks geo-blocked services with reliability
- world-class server coverage
- Excellent privacy and security safeguards
Cons:
- higher than many other VPNs in price
- just five connections at once
GREAT FOR STREAMING: ExpressVPN allows you access to streaming stuff from all around the globe while also securing your Raspberry Pi travels. With this company, fast speeds and great privacy and security safeguards are standard. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee offered.
CyberGhost can end up being the best VPN service for you if you’re a new Raspberry Pi or VPN user.
While missing the GUI that the provider provides on other platforms, its character-based Linux program is easy to use and support is constantly available. CyberGhost offers manual setup instructions for those that are comfortable with them.
Additional platforms supported by native apps from CyberGhost include Windows, Android, Android TV, macOS, iOS, other Linux versions, and the Amazon Fire TV. There are router support options as well as Chrome and Firefox browser addons.
When utilizing a single account, up to 7 devices may connect simultaneously.
For those who like playing online games, watching streaming videos, and sharing files, CyberGhost offers very fast download rates. Your connection is never throttled, and there are no daily or monthly bandwidth limits.
With 7,600+ servers spread over 90+ countries, the company has one of the most amazing worldwide server networks in the business. The service provides servers that are designed primarily for downloading and streaming.
CyberGhost uses the OpenVPN protocol, which offers banking-grade 256-bit AES encryption and other security measures, to keep connections very safe.
Because the service provider never keeps server logs and provides an ultra-private bitcoin subscription payment option, your privacy is never in jeopardy.
In addition to offering trustworthy VPN security, CyberGhost also provides a password manager and notifies you when a data breach exposes your personal information. You may take use of the provider’s antivirus and anti-malware protection (powered by Intego), as well as much more, if you also own a Windows device.
A issue ticket tracking system, a help library, and accessible support chat are all part of the round-the-clock customer service.
Pros:
- Global server coverage impressive
- No connection throttling or data caps
- A quick bond
Cons:
- lacking some cutting-edge choices
- Doesn’t operate in certain countries with excessive restrictions
EASY-TO-USE RASPBERRY PI VPN: Raspberry Pi users new to the VPN scene, or those who simply want an easy-to-use VPN, should investigate CyberGhost’s service offerings. A quick bond and a large server network with plenty of streaming- and file sharing-enhanced servers make this an excellent choice. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.
In the VPN sector, Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-known, moderately priced VPN. The provider is the only VPN in this group to provide a Raspbian/Linux GUI-based program.
On a single account, the provider permits up to 10 simultaneous connections.
The graphical user interface of the software makes choosing a server and connecting simple. The app’s GUI makes it a great choice for first-time VPN users who may not feel comfortable using the command-line interface seen in the programs from other providers. On your Raspberry Pi, you may manually configure the service provider by configuring OpenVPN.
The majority of other well-known platforms, such as Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS, and other Linux distributions, also have native support. There are also browser add-ons for Chrome, Opera, and Firefox, and the service supports a variety of router brands and types.
While not the fastest available, PIA’s connection speeds, the second fastest in our list, readily give more than enough power for streaming, gaming, and any other online activity.
Those A quick bond are also well protected with government-level encryption and a kill switch, protecting your online travels from prying eyes. The app also offers the ability to block domains used for ads, trackers and malware.
The provider’s no-logs policy and support of bitcoin for subscription payments ensure your anonymity is protected.
There are over 3,300 servers in over 80 different countries in the Private Internet Access worldwide server network.
A “contact us” issue ticket form, a searchable knowledge base, and searchable manuals are all offered by PIA in place of live help chat.
Pros:
- only Linux application in this range with a GUI
- Excellent privacy and security
- permits up to 10 devices to connect at once
Cons:
- Several well-known streaming services exclude this service.
- works poorly in China and some other conservative nations
Users of the Raspberry Pi, particularly those who want a GUI-based program, should give Private Internet Access a careful look. Although the company offers outstanding privacy and internet security safeguards, it doesn’t function properly in nations with excessive restrictions. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee offered.
PrivateVPN, a Swedish service, could fall short of its rivals’ expansive worldwide server networks. However, compared to other VPNs, its protection holds up adequately.
A native Linux program for usage on a Raspberry Pi device is not provided by the supplier. OpenVPN may be used to manually configure it, however. Although it’s not too difficult, novices may want to explore elsewhere.
Additionally, PrivateVPN provides native app compatibility for devices running Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. While router help is also offered, setting it up manually may not be intuitive for novices.
The same login credentials may be used to connect up to 6 devices to the VPN simultaneously.
The connection speeds of PrivateVPN are competitive. They don’t have the quickest connections, but they nevertheless provide a lot of no-throttle bandwidth for your preferred online activities. No need to worry about data limits here.
Your online excursions are shielded from prying eyes thanks to government-grade encryption on all of those connections.
Due to the provider’s no-server-logs policy and acceptance of Bitcoin for subscription payments, your privacy is properly safeguarded.
In the worldwide server network category, PrivateVPN falls short due to its sparse distribution of 200+ servers across more than 60 nations. Look elsewhere if you want the best possible access to geo-restricted material on the majority of the planet.
Live support chat, a problem ticket form, a searchable knowledge base, and non-searchable FAQs are all provided by PrivateVPN.
Pros:
- server logs are empty
- Live help that responds quickly
- proven ability to unblock streaming services
Cons:
- requires expanding the server network
- Better app support is possible.
RASPBERRY PI SOLID VPN PROTECTION: Private VPN provides trustworthy online safety and privacy for Raspberry Pi users who are not afraid to do a little bit of manual VPN setup, even if it doesn’t exactly “overperform” in the server network and app support sectors. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee offered.
My Approach to Evaluating VPNs for Raspberry Pi
Not all VPNs support the Raspberry Pi operating system. Fortunately, some trustworthy VPN companies do give help.
The following is a list of the VPN features I took into account while choosing the top VPN services for Raspberry Pi devices:
- App Support: A VPN provider’s versatility increases with the number of devices it supports. This is particularly true when looking at certain computer platforms, like the ones I’ve covered in this post. Every VPN service that I mentioned in this post supports Linux on Raspberry Pi.
- Streaming: For many VPN users, streaming is one of their favorite pleasures. On Raspberry Pi hardware, you can stream video in a variety of ways. Every VPN on my list provides dependable access to major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and others.
- Server Network: When evaluating a VPN, the scope of the provider’s worldwide server network is crucial. Access to geo-blocked material in other countries is increased thanks to a wider global server network. A nation with more servers will have less demand put on its VPN servers, which will result in better performance.
- Connection Speeds: If you’re streaming or gaming (two popular uses for Raspberry Pi devices), you’ll want A quick bond. Never consider any provider that throttles your connection or that imposes data caps on your usage, which none of the VPN providers on my list do.
- Worth: Any VPN provider’s actual value may be determined by contrasting its feature set with the cost of using its services. Any VPN with a high price but subpar services should not be taken into consideration. In my writings, I only endorse service providers that deliver excellent value.
- Easy of Use: For many users, ease of Use is a crucial factor. The VPNs I suggest have user-friendly applications.
- Look elsewhere if a VPN does not provide complete connection protection, including government-grade encryption, a kill switch, and other forms of online security and privacy protection. Consider awarding extra points for things like malware and virus prevention. Any VPN that doesn’t adhere to a stringent “no-server-logs-ever” policy shouldn’t even be given consideration.
Do not assume that my study is over. Actually, the aforementioned elements make only a minor portion of my thorough VPN testing technique. My data-driven methodology aids in my comprehension of VPN providers and their services.
What Else Can a VPN Do for Me?
A VPN offers other skills that may improve your online activities in addition to shielding your browsing from prying eyes.
A VPN might give the impression that you and your device are in a different country. By giving your device a fresh, temporary IP address, it does this. You may use this to access websites, internet services, and material that would otherwise be prohibited in your region of the globe.
When accessing an unsecured Wi-Fi hotspot, such as those found in cafes, restaurants, and hotels, a VPN is a great tool to provide protection for your internet connection. The lack of an encrypted connection offered by Wi-Fi hotspots makes user activities on the network a desirable target for hackers.
Additionally, a VPN may stop your ISP from slowing down your connection speeds when they see that you are connected to certain websites or services or that you are doing particular actions (like file sharing).
Can I Use My Raspberry Pi With a Free VPN?
Even while you can undoubtedly locate a free VPN service with a Raspbian-compatible program, I’m ready to bet that you won’t be satisfied with the service’s performance or security.
Many free VPNs limit the connection speeds of its customers. They sometimes impose bandwidth restrictions on connections and monthly or daily data constraints on use.
The greatest justification for utilizing a VPN is to prevent connection throttling. Why would you use a VPN that limits your activity?
Additionally, it takes a long for some free VPN services to connect. Before letting you connect to their servers, some providers will have you wait in line. Once you have the go-ahead, your server options are extremely limited or you’re automatically linked to a server at random.
Additionally, you are often the product that is being sold when it comes to “free” services on the internet, and “free” VPNs are no exception.
The way that many “free” VPN services operate is by monitoring their customers’ internet actions, storing that data, and then selling it to the highest bidder. Others add advertisements and monitoring cookies to the browser sessions of their users.
It’s true that “free” is always alluring, but bear in mind that a good VPN service may be less expensive than the Raspberry Pi configuration.
How Else Can My Raspberry Pi Device Be Secured?
Raspbian is a Linux distribution that is not entirely safe, just like any other operating system.
While a VPN does provide security from hackers and other snoopers, it shouldn’t be your only security tool.
Other security instruments consist of:
FAQs About Raspberry Pi VPN
How does a Raspberry Pi VPN work?
This is how a Raspberry Pi VPN is used:
- Choose a service that is appropriate for the Raspberry Pi.
- Your Raspberry Pi device needs to have the VPN program downloaded and installed.
- Launch the VPN client and sign in to the service provider’s network.
- To secure your online activity, choose a nearby server, or choose a server in the nation where you want to access geo-blocked material.
- Enjoy your improved and newly safeguarded online activities.
Which free VPN for Raspberry Pi 4 is the best?
No “best” free VPN exists for the Raspberry Pi 4. Unless you truly like having your internet activity tracked by advertising and other inquisitive third parties, having data limitations, and poor speeds.
Can I set up the top Raspberry Pi VPN server?
Your Raspberry Pi may be converted into a VPN server, enhancing your mobile security and granting access to your LAN at home or at work. Bypassing website limitations at school or work and connecting quickly to resources on your home or business LAN, such as file servers and printers, are both made possible by this. It is not possible to utilize it to access geo-restricted material in other parts of the globe, however.
Conclusion
You may enjoy your online activities without worrying about them being seen by others by using a VPN to secure your Raspberry Pi-related online trips.
A VPN, such as my top pick, NordVPN, offers the best possible online security, safeguards your privacy both online and offline, and gives you access to online resources that would otherwise be blocked in your region.
Visit the NordVPN website for further details or to buy a membership.
The “raspberry pi vpn router nordvpn” is a service that provides VPN services for the Raspberry Pi. The 6 best virtual private networks (VPNs) for Raspberry Pi in 2022 are NordVPN, ExpressVPN, VyprVPN, IPVanish, CyberGhost, and PureVPN.
