Most free VPNs aren’t safe to use.
Some log your browsing, inject ads, or leak your real IP address. Others don’t say who runs them - or why they’re free.
But a few services do offer genuinely free VPN access, with clear limits, no ads, and privacy-focused policies. Here’s a short list - with details on how each one is funded.
Proton VPN (Free Plan)
- Unlimited data
- No ads
- No‑logs policy
- Independently audited
Proton VPN is funded through its paid plans. The company offers a free tier as part of its mission to support internet privacy, but paying users cover the costs of free accounts. There are no ads, and the company has published multiple security audits.
You get access to servers in the United States, Netherlands, and Japan. One device per account. Speeds may slow during peak times.
Proton VPN is based in Switzerland.
Windscribe (Free Plan)
- 2 GB/month by default
- 10 GB/month with email confirmation
- Servers in 10+ countries
- Built-in ad/tracker blocker
Windscribe makes money through its paid plans, which offer more bandwidth and server options. The free plan is limited but functional, and ad-free. A verified email unlocks 10 GB/month instead of the default 2 GB.
They clearly explain what data is collected (minimal), and the app includes useful features like split tunneling and firewall rules.
Windscribe is based in Canada.
Riseup VPN
- No signup required
- Unlimited data
- Volunteer-run non-profit
- Minimal logging
Riseup VPN is funded entirely by user donations. They accept support through Liberapay, PayPal, crypto, and mail. Their suggested donation is around $60 USD/year per user, but the VPN remains free for anyone who needs it.
Riseup is not a commercial service - it’s part of a digital security toolkit for activists, journalists, and others in restricted environments. There are no ads or trackers, but performance and uptime can vary.
Riseup VPN is based in the United States.
Comparison Table
| VPN | Data Limit | Servers | Logs? | Audit? | How It’s Funded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proton | Unlimited | 3 countries | No | Yes | Paid plans |
| Windscribe | 2 GB → 10 GB with email | 10+ | Minimal | No | Paid plans |
| Riseup | Unlimited (donation-based) | Limited | Minimal | No | Donations |
What Does “Audit” Mean Here?
Some VPN providers hire independent security firms to review their infrastructure, source code, or privacy practices. These security audits help verify that the company actually follows its no-logs policy and doesn’t expose your data.
An audit doesn’t guarantee perfection - but it’s a good sign when the report is public and done by a trusted firm.
Only a few free VPNs have gone through this process.
Things to Keep in Mind
If a VPN offers unlimited free service but doesn’t explain who runs it or how it’s funded, that’s a red flag. Operating secure infrastructure costs money - if it’s not coming from paying users or donations, it might come from selling data.
Always check the funding model before trusting a VPN with your traffic.
Check If Your VPN Is Working
Visit the Show IP homepage. It automatically shows your:
- IP address
- Country
- WebRTC leak status
No setup needed.
Photo by Arthur Mazi on Unsplash